A major step has been taken toward delivering a direct rail link to Melbourne Airport, promising more frequent and reliable train services for the growing communities of Melbourne’s west.
Two consortia have been shortlisted to deliver the final package of works for Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1, moving the project closer to transforming one of Victoria’s busiest transport corridors.
The shortlisted bidders are CPB Contractors in partnership with SMEC Australia, and the consortium of FCC Construction, Martinus Rail, Arcadis, and BG&E.
Both teams will progress through a competitive tender process before the final contract is awarded next year.
Their task will be to undertake the most complex stage of the project, designed to pave the way for a dedicated airport rail line while boosting overall capacity across the network.
The final package of works includes widening the rail corridor to accommodate additional tracks and constructing two new regional platforms at Sunshine Station.
The station will see an extended concourse, enhanced access, and new open spaces as part of the Victorian government’s $143 million upgrade to the Sunshine Station precinct.
Pedestrian and cycling connections will be improved through a new crossing, along with a modernised bus interchange and new forecourts that will strengthen Sunshine’s position as a key transport hub.
Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 will run between West Footscray and Albion, unlocking capacity through one of the state’s busiest rail corridors.
The works will prepare the way for future improvements, including the electrification of the Melton Line.
Once completed, the upgrade will allow more than 1,000 trains a day to travel through Sunshine, delivering benefits for passengers on the Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo lines and supporting greater reliability across the network.
Early works are already underway, with crews relocating underground utilities between Albion and Sunshine and preparing the area for new rail infrastructure.
Activity is currently focused around the Albion Station car park, where teams are laying sections of pipeline ahead of tunnel boring scheduled to begin next month.
Completion of Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 is expected in 2030, and the project will mark a breakthrough in connecting Melbourne’s western suburbs directly to the airport and the broader metropolitan network.
Passengers will benefit from faster, more reliable journeys and seamless transfers through the Metro Tunnel, while new stations at Tottenham and Albion will provide additional travel options and strengthen local connections.
Beyond its transport impact, the project forms part of a wider investment in the Sunshine Precinct that aims to create jobs, improve business activity, and support families living, working, and travelling locally.
The upgraded rail corridor and station facilities are designed to enhance accessibility and encourage active transport through improved walking and cycling routes.
As preparations continue and tenders advance, Melbourne Airport Rail is shaping up to be one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Victoria’s transport future — bringing better connections, less travel time, and new opportunities for communities across Melbourne’s west.
