Image: Transport NSW
The federal, New South Wales and ACT governments will jointly invest $100 million to upgrade the Sydney to Canberra rail corridor, with the aim of cutting travel times to under four hours.
The funding package, announced ahead of the federal budget, includes $50 million from the Commonwealth, $30 million from the NSW Government and $20 million from the ACT Government. The works are expected to begin later this year and continue over the next five years.
The 321-kilometre rail line currently takes more than four hours to travel between the two capitals, making it slower than driving or flying on many trips. Planned upgrades include improvements to signalling, track layouts and rail infrastructure designed to allow trains to travel at higher speeds and reduce delays.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the investment would improve reliability and connectivity between the cities.
“This funding will improve the reliability and resilience of the corridor while reducing travel times and encouraging more people to choose rail,” she said.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the project would support economic links between Canberra and Sydney.
“Fast, frequent rail between Canberra and Sydney is critical to the future growth of our city and region,” he said.
NSW Regional Transport Minister Jenny Aitchison said the funding would help modernise the rail corridor and improve passenger experience.
According to the governments, the upgrades are intended as an initial step towards future improvements on the route, which has long been the subject of proposals for faster rail connections between Sydney and Canberra.
Independent ACT Senator David Pocock welcomed the funding announcement but described it as insufficient for long-term rail reform.
“This investment is welcome, but we need a genuine long-term commitment to fast rail between Canberra and Sydney,” he said.
The governments said detailed planning and design work would continue alongside the upgrade program.
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