en.Wedoany.com Reported - The latest budget released by New South Wales this week includes multiple railway funding commitments, which the Australasian Railway Association (ARA) welcomes.
Funding includes A$2.4 billion allocated for the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2, and A$2.1 billion to improve the reliability and incident response capability of the Sydney Trains network.
Other investments include A$30.9 million for Woollahra train station, A$100 million jointly with the federal government for railway planning and future business cases in southwestern Sydney, and A$4.5 billion for the ongoing Sydney Metro expansion in 2026-27. As part of the Transport Affordability Package, public transport Opal fares will remain at 2025 price levels for the next year.
ARA Chief Executive Caroline Wilkie said the association has consistently advocated for increased investment in the existing rail network and new infrastructure in Sydney's fastest-growing regions. Wilkie noted that the budget recognizes the importance of ongoing maintenance funding, supplemented by new project investments to support the productivity and efficiency of the New South Wales rail network.
Wilkie stated that the budget's funding for Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will bring significant opportunities for urban renewal and growth, extending the line from the Parramatta CBD to Sydney Olympic Park. Light rail projects not only improve accessibility and livability but also serve as a key driver for housing and commercial development to support community growth. Continued investment in the Parramatta Light Rail will have a lasting positive impact on Western Sydney.
The ARA also welcomes the new A$2.1 billion Rail Reliability Plan, which includes: an additional A$200 million for network maintenance compared to last year; A$150 million over four years to improve rail operations centers, including enhanced incident response and passenger support; more train drivers and crew for intercity services to improve reliability for passengers traveling to and from Sydney, Illawarra, Central Coast, Newcastle, Blue Mountains, and other areas; as well as track, power supply, and signaling system improvements.
The plan also includes the previously announced A$425 million four-year asset renewal program targeting tracks, signals, overhead wiring, and drainage systems in key areas, along with a A$35 million reliability program to accelerate repairs in priority zones.
Wilkie said that ongoing investment in the existing network is crucial to ensuring rail operations are as efficient and productive as possible.
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