Australian Government clears Narrabri to North Star Phase 2

Narrabri to North Star Phase 2 has received Australian Government approval after assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, according to Inland Rail. Also, the decision allows the next stage of work to move ahead.

Narrabri to North Star Phase 2 scope and works

With primary regulatory approvals now in place, all New South Wales sections of the Inland Rail project have formally been given the green light. The N2NS Phase 2 package includes an upgrade of about 12 kilometres of existing rail track and formation across the Gwydir Valley floodplain, north of Moree.

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Meanwhile, the proposal also covers construction of approximately 1.6 kilometres of greenfield rail track to bypass the existing Camurra Hairpin. In addition, it includes a new 1.3-kilometre spur to maintain connection to the Weemelah line.

Key elements of the rail upgrade include new and upgraded rail alignments, upgraded rail bridges, extra culverts across floodplains and waterways, upgraded level crossings and earthworks.

Inland Rail to progress design work with Arcadis BG&E

With the core approvals secured, Inland Rail will progress design work for Narrabri to North Star Phase 2 in partnership with Arcadis BG&E, as previously covered by Railway Supply.

Inland Rail corridor context and next decisions

Separately, sections between Narrabri and North Star have already been upgraded under the Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 works, completed in 2023. Trains can now travel faster on upgraded parts of the rail line.

Inland Rail is a 1600-kilometre freight rail artery that will link Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Still, future decisions on Inland Rail north of Narromine are currently under consideration by the Australian Government, with the project listed on the EPBC Act Public Portal.

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