EVALUATION COMPLETE
The proposal will deliver additional platforms at Melton Station and lengthen platforms at four other stations. The proposal also includes construction of a new stabling facility at Cobblebank.
Rapid population growth in Melbourne’s western growth corridor is driving increasing demand for rail services, with patronage doubling over the past decade. The Melton Line is already experiencing crowding and without intervention, peak services are forecast to reach crush capacity by 2031, reducing passenger amenity and reliability. These constraints are expected to drive mode shift to private vehicles, increasing road congestion and reducing the efficiency of the broader transport network.
Strategic Fit
The proposal aligns with Commonwealth and Victorian Government objectives to reduce congestion, increase the role of mass transit in growing cities and support long-term urban development. While the proposed solution is appropriate for addressing short-term capacity constraints, the project relies on future investments (such as electrification and signalling upgrades) to meet long-term demand.
The proposal would improve quality of life by reducing crowding, improving reliability and supporting a shift from car to rail. The project is also expected to deliver productivity benefits through improved travel times and reliability for road users as some trips shift to rail. Environmental benefits from reduced road use are relatively modest and broader sustainability considerations, including construction emissions, are not fully addressed in the business case.
Deliverability
The project is already underway, with approvals completed, contracts awarded and delivery progressing under the established Level Crossing Removal Project framework. There are risks regarding cost and schedule certainty, particularly given the accelerated delivery timeframe and limited updated information on program and costs. While key risks are identified, the project-specific risk management plan and delivery assurance information are limited.
- We recommend the Australian Government works with the Victorian Government to coordinate planning across the Melton Line Upgrade (MLU) and other rail and road proposals in Melbourne’s west to clarify interfaces, futureproof corridors and reduce rework.
- We recommend the Victorian Government provides the latest program schedule and capital cost estimate to the Australian Government to confirm the project can be delivered within the funding commitment.
