Federal Budget Boosts Canberra-Sydney Rail with $100 Million Upgrade

The federal budget includes $50 million for priority upgrades to the Canberra-Sydney rail link, matched by $25 million each from the ACT and New South Wales governments.

The total $100 million investment aims to reduce passenger train travel time to under four hours, down from the current 4 to 4.5 hours.

Key Details

• Initial focus: The upgrades will concentrate on the Goulburn to Canberra section.
• Quick fixes include: New boom gates, lights at level crossings, track alignment and turnout improvements, and station/stabling upgrades.
• Future planning: A business case for further, more expensive improvements will also be funded.
• Project management: The NSW government will manage the project in cooperation with the ACT government and three rail operators: Sydney Trains, Australian Rail Track Corporation, and UGL Regional Linx.
• Additional time savings: Faster trains scheduled by the NSW government from 2028 will contribute to further reductions in journey time.

Background

The 321-kilometre corridor has long been criticized for slow travel times compared to car, bus, or plane. Despite this, patronage is high, with trains often sold out.

Upgrades are expected to begin this year and span up to five years.

Statements

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said commuters would see progressive improvements over five years and that the investment should bring journey time below four hours. He noted the upgrades would support economic development, tourism, and better travel.

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King stated the funding starts the work with quick fixes for daily users.

NSW Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison expressed hope that changes would reduce the Sydney-Canberra time to under four hours.