The Australian federal government has indefinitely shelved the final northern stages of the 1,700-kilometre Inland Rail project following a staggering cost forecast of $45 billion. This figure represents a threefold increase from the original $14.5 billion budget and significantly exceeds the initial $8.4 billion estimate provided by the Turnbull government in 2017. Transport Minister Catherine King announced that efforts will now focus on completing the section between Beveridge and Parkes by late 2027. To address management failures identified in a 2023 review by Kerry Schott, Sean Sweeney has been appointed as the new chief executive. Consequently, funds will be redirected toward upgrading existing freight networks, while the corridor to Queensland remains preserved for potential future development by subsequent governments.