Melbourne train operations and maintenance contract (MR5): shortlist named

Three bidder groups have been shortlisted to submit a Request for Proposal for the Melbourne train operations and maintenance contract (MR5), covering Melbourne’s train network, according to the Victorian Government.

Shortlisted bidders for MR5

Separately, as reported by Rail Express, the shortlisted bidders for MR5 are:

▪ Go Places Melbourne, a consortium of Go-Ahead Australia, Acciona Rail and Tokyo Metro

▪ RATP Dev JH Downer, comprising RATP Dev, John Holland and Downer

▪ Melbourne Grow, a consortium of MTR Corporation Australia, CRRC and DT Infrastructure

What the Melbourne train network contract covers from late 2027?

Meanwhile, from late 2027, the successful bidder will be responsible for running more than 2,000 daily services across 1,000 kilometres of track. This Melbourne train network operations and maintenance contract also covers the growing train fleet, seven maintenance depots, more than 227 stations and nearly 7,000 employees.

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Proposals, passenger priorities, and contract term

In addition, over the next six months, the shortlisted bidders will develop proposals on how they can provide the best value to Victoria. At the same time, the state government said it will be looking for information on how the bidders will deliver an uplifted customer experience, stronger network performance, and an “even better experience for passengers with a focus on punctuality, improved accessibility and innovation”.

Also, the contract is expected to be long-term and run for up to 15 years, as previously covered by Railway Supply.

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