Cross River Rail Delivery Authority Bill 2016

Overview

This bill sets up the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, a new independent statutory body to build the Cross River Rail project connecting Brisbane across the river by underground rail. The Authority will operate commercially, with power to compulsorily acquire land and to drive economic development around new stations, and will be wound up once the project is complete.

Who it affects

South East Queensland commuters stand to benefit from the new rail line, while landowners near the route may face compulsory acquisition of their property. Construction, engineering and property companies will compete for major contracts delivering the project.

Key changes

• Creates the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority as an independent body to plan, procure and deliver the project
• Gives the Authority power to compulsorily acquire land, including underground easements, for the rail project and related transport projects
• Sets up a governing board of four departmental heads plus up to six independent experts appointed by the Governor in Council
• Establishes the Cross River Rail Delivery Fund outside the consolidated fund to collect commercial revenue, borrowings and special rates
• Exempts the Authority's commercial activities from Right to Information laws, while leaving community service obligations open to scrutiny