Major $5B Investment to Transform Melbourne’s Transport Network

The Australian Government is investing $5.3 billion in infrastructure to improve Melbourne’s transport system. This project will enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and provide better travel options for commuters and businesses. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Melbourne’s Rail Upgrades: A Game Changer for Commuters

Over $3.3 billion will fund new road and rail projects, including the Melbourne Airport Rail expansion. This development will introduce efficient transport options, significantly benefiting commuters and regional travelers.

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An additional $2 billion will transform Sunshine Station, reinforcing its role as a central transport hub. This upgrade is a key step in the Suburban Rail Loop, improving accessibility and reducing travel times.

The total federal investment in Melbourne Airport Rail now stands at $7 billion. The Victorian Government will also accelerate its funding, ensuring the project progresses without delays and benefits the entire region.

Sunshine Station will receive extra platforms, a dedicated spur line, and upgraded infrastructure. These improvements will make it a major regional rail hub, streamlining connections between the airport and surrounding suburbs.

More than six kilometers of rail upgrades will take place between West Footscray and Albion. The project includes new bridges, tracks, advanced signaling technology, and realigned rail lines to enhance efficiency.

Design and planning are already in progress, with construction scheduled to start in early 2026. The entire project is expected to be completed by 2030, significantly improving Melbourne’s transport capacity.

How Melbourne Will Benefit from These Infrastructure Projects?

The Victorian Government considers this upgrade essential for linking Melbourne Airport with metropolitan and regional rail networks. More train services will support growing communities in Melton and Wyndham Vale.

This investment will not only improve airport access but also enhance daily commuting options. Residents in Melbourne’s west will enjoy a direct connection via Sunshine Station, eliminating unnecessary train transfers.

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Travelers from the south-east will also experience improved convenience through the Metro Tunnel. These investments will ensure smoother, faster, and more efficient transport options for all commuters.

The Federal and Victorian governments are collaborating on essential projects to support Melbourne’s growing population. Investments include Melbourne Airport Rail, North East Link, and the Suburban Rail Loop.

A joint $1.2 billion Suburban Road Blitz will further expand road capacity and efficiency in Melbourne’s fastest-growing areas. The first stage of these upgrades will begin later this year.

The initial projects include a $45 million upgrade for Old Sydney Road in Wallan. The Evans Road upgrade in Cranbourne West will receive $30 million, improving accessibility and reducing congestion.

A $3 million upgrade will enhance the McLeod Road and Station Street intersection in Carrum. These projects will make suburban roads safer, more efficient, and better suited for increasing traffic demands.

The Federal Government considers these developments transformative for Melbourne’s north and south-east. Additional projects will be determined in consultation with the Victorian Government to maximize regional benefits.

The Suburban Road Blitz will receive $1 billion from the Federal Government, with the Victorian Government contributing $200 million. These investments will improve connectivity and road capacity in key growth areas.

Further transport improvements include a $325 million investment in the Melton rail line, boosting capacity by 50%. Another $20.5 million will go toward planning Melbourne’s Western Suburbs Rail upgrades.

A $7.05 million investment will support planning for Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs rail expansion. These initiatives align with long-term strategies to enhance Victoria’s overall transport infrastructure.

A $44.7 million joint investment will upgrade the Princes Highway Corridor, with equal funding from state and federal governments. Construction is set to begin in late 2025, improving road safety and efficiency.

Another $10 million will fund a feasibility study for upgrading key freight routes. The Victorian Government will match this funding, ensuring strategic improvements to essential transport corridors.

Government Leaders on Melbourne’s Future

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of federal investments in Melbourne’s transport future. Strengthening Victoria’s infrastructure is a priority for economic growth and urban development.

“We are committed to delivering the infrastructure Victorians need now and in the future,” he stated. He emphasized collaboration with the state government to ensure effective project implementation.

“We’re upgrading rail and road networks to provide immediate congestion relief,” he added. These projects will create jobs, support local businesses, and improve daily commutes across Melbourne.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan welcomed the federal government’s partnership in delivering essential infrastructure. She highlighted the importance of these investments for Melbourne’s expanding communities.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King reinforced the government’s commitment to reducing congestion. Upgrading Sunshine Station and suburban roads will improve transport accessibility and efficiency.

“These projects will enhance reliability and better connect people to workplaces, homes, and leisure areas,” she stated. Improved transportation will support Melbourne’s economic growth and livability.

Victorian Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams said Sunshine Station’s reconfiguration will create additional rail capacity. This marks a major step toward electrifying the Melton Line in future upgrades.

Federal Member for Fraser Daniel Mulino highlighted Melbourne’s rapid growth and the need for infrastructure expansion. Transforming Sunshine Station will accommodate increasing commuter demand and future urban development.

“The Federal Government is delivering world-class transport solutions for Melbourne’s west,” he stated. These projects will modernize the region’s transport system, benefiting residents and businesses alike.

Source: infrastructuremagazine.com.au

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