The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed this week’s announcement of a $1 billion investment in additional train services across the Sydney network.
ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie said the new funding as part of the NSW Government’s More Trains, More Services program would give travellers more choice and convenience.
“This is great news for people that use the train for their daily commute and is welcome recognition of the importance of rail services to support Sydney’s development,” Ms Wilkie said.
“As more people return to the rail network in 2021, this commitment will ensure people have convenience and choice when they catch the train.
“This week’s announcement recognises the increasing importance of encouraging more people to choose rail as city populations grow.”
The new services would include an 80 per cent increase in services during the morning peak for key stations on the T8 Airport Line, as well as additional services on the Illawarra, Inner West and South Coast lines.
Ms Wilkie said continued investment in infrastructure upgrades and additional fleet were also crucial to ensuring rail services were as efficient as possible.
“Upgrades to the existing network can deliver tangible improvements to the speed, reliability and frequency of rail services,” she said.
“These upgrades are an essential part of future proofing the network and delivering more services over time.”
ENDS