One Australian company may take on the biggest job of its history, with the call put out for tenders to build Victoria’s East West Rail Link.

Infrastructure Partnerships Australia (IPA) and motoring group RACV have hailed the project, saying the Government’s move to put the link out to tender marks the continuing transformation of Melbourne’s transport network.

IPA CEO Brendan Lyon says: “It’s easy for opponents of major road projects to get over-excited about individual aspects of major road construction, but every business, commuter and taxpayer knows that congestion on Melbourne’s transport networks won’t be solved by sitting idle... the East West Link is the biggest motorway in Victoria’s history and together with other transport investments marks solid progress in dealing with Melbourne’s massive congestion problem.”

The first stage of the project is an incredible undertaking in itself, expected to cost around $8 billion.

The Victorian Government says it will be looking for excellence in urban design and sustainability, and intends to deliver the project in partnership with the private sector, while initially retaining the toll and traffic risk.

Interested firms can respond to the call for tenders online.