Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 narrows shortlist to two

Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 has narrowed the field to two bidding teams. They are shortlisted for the final package of works.

The project will expand capacity through one of Victoria’s busiest rail corridors. The works are intended to “untangle” the corridor. They will make way for a dedicated airport line. They will also boost capacity across the wider network.

Final package of works for Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1

The shortlisted consortia are CPB Contractors Pty Ltd with SMEC Australia. The other team is FCC Construction with Martinus Rail, Arcadis and BG&E, as Victoria’s Big Build announced.

The final package will widen the rail corridor with additional tracks. It also includes two new regional platforms at Sunshine Station. The station concourse will also be extended.

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Sunshine Station upgrade and corridor capacity works

The package forms part of the Victorian Government’s $143 million Sunshine Station precinct upgrade. It also includes a new walking and cycling connection across the rail line. An upgraded bus interchange, open space and new forecourts are also included.

Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 covers the section between West Footscray and Albion. The project is designed to increase capacity through the corridor. It will also support later upgrades, including electrification of the Melton Line.

The government said the works would allow more than 1000 trains a day through Sunshine. This would enable “more trains, more often” for passengers on the Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo lines.

Early works and 2030 completion date

Early works are already under way to relocate underground utilities between Albion and Sunshine. The works are intended to prepare the corridor for new rail infrastructure.

Crews are currently working from the Albion Station car park. They are laying large sections of pipeline before tunnel boring begins next month.

Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 is targeting completion in 2030.

State Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing said: “We’re investing in the growing Sunshine Precinct – better services, more jobs, stronger business investment and the transport connections that help families live, work and play locally.”

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