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The Victorian and federal governments have named their preferred bidder for the first stage of Melbourne Airport’s rail link.
The Network Integration Program Alliance, comprising CPB Contractors and SMEC, will carry out the works to turn Sunshine Station into a “transport superhub” that will link the airport line into the rest of Melbourne’s suburban train network.
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“We’re getting on with Melbourne Airport Rail, with a preferred bidder chosen to transform Sunshine into a transport superhub. Untangling the tracks will create capacity for 1,000 trains a day, including future airport services,” said Victorian Minister for Public Transport Vicki Ward.
In a joint press release, the Carroll and Albanese governments said the works will include two new platforms for regional trains at Sunshine, as well as an extended concourse, new forecourts on both sides, and an upgraded bus interchange.
“Due for completion in 2030, Stage 1 will enable more trains, more often on the Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo lines, and pave the way for future electrification of the Melton and Wyndham Vale Lines,” they said.
“Work is already rolling, with three of five Stage 1 packages already awarded for works to relocate underground utilities, reconfigure tracks, build new rail bridges, and build the new Tottenham Station.
“The fifth and final works package for construction of the new Albion Station will be awarded in 2027.”
The news comes a month after site investigations, procurement and development works were announced for the second stage of the line, including the link to the new Keilor East station.
“The line will connect directly to the Metro Tunnel and feature the same high-capacity signalling to enable frequent services,” the governments said.
The federal and state governments in February released early designs for the Sunshine superhub, with a $4.1 billion investment earmarked to “untangle the complex rail junction” and create space for the new airport rail link, which will join the Melbourne train network at the station.
The project will include six kilometres of new track, two rail bridges and realigned passenger and freight lines, with Sunshine to receive a longer concourse and two new platforms to link the airport rail with the Metro Tunnel and regional services.
Additionally, the Sunbury Line will be realigned to make room for the airport rail, with a new station to be built at Albion.
The airport rail link will have three stations – the interchange at Sunshine, a new station serving Keilor East and the Airport West precinct, and the airport itself. Passengers will be able to travel straight through from the airport to the city.
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