Victoria Unveils Extensive Rail ‘Blitz’
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The Victorian Government has revealed a $5 billion "public transport blitz" in its 2025-26 Budget, aiming to enhance the state's rail network.
The comprehensive plan encompasses investments to activate the much-anticipated Melbourne Metro Tunnel, boost train frequencies across various lines, and transform Sunshine Station into a pivotal "superhub" in preparation for the Melbourne Airport Rail project.
A significant portion of the budget, amounting to $727 million, has been earmarked for the launch of the Metro Tunnel, a 9-kilometre dual-tunnel system beneath Melbourne's CBD that will connect the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines. This infrastructure is anticipated to alleviate congestion in the City Loop and facilitate frequent services for the three lines.
Additionally, $98.7 million will be allocated to enhance train frequencies on seven metropolitan and regional lines. Notable improvements include two additional trains during peak hours on the Werribee line and a 10-minute service interval on the Sandringham line outside of peak times. The Craigieburn and Upfield lines will have trains at least every 20 minutes, including late nights and weekends. The Gippsland line’s Traralgon route will gain interpeak services every 40 minutes once the line upgrade is complete. The Bendigo line will feature longer trains on more weekend services, while the Seymour line will add a peak service each morning and afternoon.
A key aspect of the investment is the $4 billion redevelopment of Sunshine Station into a dynamic "superhub," integral to the Melbourne Airport Rail project. This redevelopment, which includes the reallocation of $2 billion from the previously stalled Airport Rail project, aims to transform Sunshine Station into a bustling interchange accommodating over 40 trains per hour, catering to metropolitan, regional, and future airport services.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams has positioned the initiative as a strategy to alleviate congestion, while Premier Jacinta Allan has touted it as a victory for commuters.
However, the timing of the announcement, just a week before the Budget, and the repurposing of Airport Rail funding have raised concerns, underscoring the government's challenge in balancing ambitious rail enhancements with financial prudence.
The Metro Tunnel is scheduled to open later this year, with services being incrementally introduced. Some enhancements will be implemented before the tunnel's inauguration, while others will coincide with its opening.
Source: Infrastructure Magazine
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