The case studies were prepared by economics, policy and management consultants Meyrick and Associates and focus on Australia’s coal, grain and intermodal supply chains.

Issues identified in the coal case study include delays in the approval of the Dalrymple Bay coal terminal’s proposed access undertaking, and reluctance by the terminal operator to invest in additional capacity.

The report said these problems had led to the creation of the Exports and Infrastructure Task Force and focused attention on the importance of ensuring regulatory delays did not hinder infrastructure delivery.

“Investment is needed not only to increase capacity but also to reduce supply chain costs,” the report said.

“The provision of adequate maritime access to ports is an important part of this. At the port of Newcastle in particular, current limitations on channel depth constrain the size of vessel used to load coal in the port and increase freight costs.”

The report found the rail system serving the coal industry in Queensland was generally efficient and adequate but network enhancements were needed to maximise supply chain flexibility and minimise costs.