AirRail Melbourne has announced a detailed plan for Melbourne’s long-awaited Super Train, promising the fastest travel times, a premium around-the-clock service and enhanced access for regional Victorians.
AirRail Melbourne, comprising IFM Investors, Melbourne Airport, Metro Trains Australia and Southern Cross Station, today unveiled its blueprint for the development of the rail link with the Victorian and Australian Governments.
Under the $15 billion plan, AirRail Melbourne is proposing to match the $5 billion funding announced by both the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments to build the project.
The ‘Super Train’ would connect the entire Victorian rail network with the airport, cut road congestion in Melbourne’s west and north and complement the Metro Tunnel and proposed Suburban Rail Loop projects. AirRail Melbourne will submit its plan to government this week.
Melbourne Airport chief executive officer Lyell Strambi said as Melbourne marches toward becoming Australia’s largest city the infrastructure needs to keep pace.
“Key to this is the development of the airport and all its elements to cope with a near doubling of passengers over the next 20 years. As we expand our runways and terminal facilities we also need world-class linkages between the airport, city and regional Victoria. Our vision is for a seamless passenger experience at the airport, properly integrated between the train carriage and the terminal.”
Metro Trains Australia managing director (acting) Leah Waymark said Victorians and visitors alike will benefit from the delivery of a world-class service with the frequency, comfort, safety and reliability to be able to plan their journey with precision.
“The Melbourne Airport Rail Link is an essential part of an interconnected public transport service for our growing international city.”
‘Super Train’ key features
- 20-minute travel time to the city, using a redeveloped Sunshine Station super-hub to provide greater access for regional passengers;
- Construction-ready in late 2020, two years earlier than currently planned;
- 24/7 trains, departing every 10 minutes during peak periods, with passengers fast-tracked at Southern Cross Station and Melbourne Airport to cut interchange times;
- One-way tickets at less than $20 in today’s prices;
- Reduction of 10 minutes from travel times for regional services into the city via new dedicated tracks;
- Supporting 12,000 jobs each year during construction and stimulating 13,000 jobs in Melbourne’s west and Victoria’s regions; and
- 27 kilometres of new track and twin rail tunnels to deliver a premium airport rail service and open up additional capacity for rail services to Melbourne’s booming west.