The NSW government has launched a new Freight Transport Advisory Council, replacing the Freight and Logistics Advisory Council and the Road Freight Industry Council.

Regional transport minister Sam Farraway says the new body will represent the entire freight chain across different transport modes as a single council.

He said the move to a single unified body made more sense than segregating freight into different transport modes.

The FTAC will provide advice to the minister on the coordination and multi-modal planning, regulation, development and operation of freight transport, infrastructure and network services across NSW.

“This Council will be a place where members can exchange views and engage in frank and robust discussions directly with the government,” Mr Farraway said in a statement.

 “The new body will not only discuss freight and supply chain issues, but provide input into other Government strategies, policies and projects.”

The new Council will be comprised of 15 members selected through an open EOI process and will meet four times a year. Council members will sit for two years

The government is seeking “engaged leaders across the transport industry” to be part of the new council, with representation sough from key supply chain participants including rail, road, port, freight shippers and receivers, industry associations, freight customers and experts.

Former members of the disbanded FLAC and RFIC are encouraged to apply, Mr Farraway said.

Expressions of interest are open until March 28.