Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 approved, built in two phases

The New South Wales Government has approved Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 for main construction, but the project will now be delivered in two phases rather than as a single package, as reported by Rail Express.

Main works on Stage 2a are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027. Enabling works are already underway, including construction of a new bridge over the Parramatta River, as outlined in an NSW Government ministerial release.

When both phases of Stage 2 are complete, the full 10-kilometre route will connect Stage 1 and the Parramatta CBD to Sydney Olympic Park via Camellia, Rydalmere, Ermington, Melrose Park and Wentworth Point, with 14 light rail stops planned along the corridor.

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Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2a scope and timeline

In the coming weeks, the state will begin procurement for the next stage of construction works. Stage 2a will deliver 4.5 kilometres of track, a new bridge linking Camellia and Rydalmere, and nine new stops.

The package also includes an expanded stabling and maintenance facility and an extra 13 light rail vehicles.

The government expects the Stage 2a program to create more than 2,000 jobs in Western Sydney. Alongside procurement of the Main Works contract, the project will move through early works, site investigations, detailed utility designs, and property acquisitions.

Procurement, early works and project context

Transport Minister John Graham said the Minns Labor Government is focused on delivering transport infrastructure that keeps pace with Sydney’s housing development and provides people—particularly those who have moved into Western Sydney—with a viable alternative to sitting in a car in traffic.

Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said the decision to green-light Stage 2a Main Works will support new housing hubs at Melrose Park, Wentworth Point, Sydney Olympic Park and the Carter Street precinct, while boosting the Western Sydney economy.

She said expanding the light rail to Sydney Olympic Park would be a “game-changer” for jobs and leisure and would deliver public transport to areas that have not had it before. Davis also pointed to Parramatta Light Rail’s first year of operation, saying it has improved local connectivity by offering residents and visitors another travel option, as previously covered by Railway Supply.

What’s next for Stage 2b?

The government has not yet said when construction will begin on Stage 2b. The full 10 kilometres of Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 was originally expected to be completed by 2032.

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