Regional train replacement program accelerated

Passengers that travel through regional NSW will be able to do so with more comfort and in a more efficient manner starting in 2017 after the NSW Government announced $50 million in extra funding to replace the old trains currently in service.

The extra $50 million will enable the new XPT trains to be purchased in 2017- two years earlier than expected.

The current trains that service regional and country areas are up to 35 years old, and in need of replacing.

Every year up to one million commuters travel on the existing XPT fleet, which travels 3.5 million kilometres a year. The new trains will replace 60 of the existing passenger cars.

The new fleet of trains will ensure that passengers will be able to travel in increased comfort, with less delays and servicing required compared to the old fleet.

The trains will take customers between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Dubbo via regional towns including Bathurst, Orange, Taree, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Casino, Goulburn and Albury.

Deputy Premier Troy Grant spoke of the process that will see the new trains purchased in 2017

“We’ve already committed to starting planning for a faster, modern, comfortable country train fleet by 2019, but we’re not going to wait. We’re getting the ball rolling now so we can get contracts signed in this term of Government and new trains on our tracks earlier,’’ Mr Grant said.

“This is a real commitment to rail passengers in the bush and we expect it to also generate regional maintenance jobs.’’

The 2016-17 Budget initially provided $35 million over four years to continue planning for replacement of the XPT rail fleet.

View All »