The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed major rail investments announced in the NSW Budget, including $2.4 billion for Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 and $2.1 billion to improve reliability across the Sydney Trains network.

The Budget also includes $4.5 billion for ongoing Sydney Metro expansion works during 2026-27, $100 million in joint funding with the Federal Government for rail planning in Sydney’s south west, and $30.9 million for upgrades at Woollahra Station.

ARA Chief Executive Officer, Caroline Wilkie, said the funding recognised the importance of investing in both new rail infrastructure and the existing network.

“The ARA welcomes this recognition of the importance of ongoing maintenance funding, complemented by investment in new projects, to support the productivity and efficiency of the NSW network,” Wilkie said.

She said the investment in Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 would support urban renewal and improve transport connections between the Parramatta CBD and Sydney Olympic Park.

“Light rail projects like this do not just improve access and liveability, but are significant drivers of housing and commercial development to support the growth of the community,” Wilkie said.

The $2.1 billion Rail Reliability Plan includes additional funding for network maintenance, improvements to the Rail Operations Centre, more train drivers and guards for intercity services, and upgrades to track, signalling, power and other critical rail assets.

“Continued investment in the existing network is absolutely vital to ensure rail operations are as productive and efficient as possible,” Wilkie said.

“We welcome this commitment to ongoing maintenance and asset renewal to ensure the rail network continues to meet growing demand over time.”

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