EVALUATION COMPLETE
The South East Queensland rail network is experiencing increasing demand and operational complexity, while relying on older signalling and train control systems that limit capacity, reliability and the efficient use of existing infrastructure. Without targeted upgrades to modern digital signalling, the network’s ability to optimise service frequency, manage disruptions and support future growth will be limited. This proposal seeks to enable higher capacity and more reliable operation of the existing rail network, which supports the Queensland Government’s hosting of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games by increasing network capacity and resilience during periods of peak demand.
The proposal aligns with the Infrastructure Policy Statement, Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap and Action Plan and the National Urban Policy, which emphasise the importance of improving the efficiency, reliability and utilisation of existing public transport networks to connect people with jobs and education, manage urban growth and reduce emissions. The proposal aligns with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Intergovernmental Agreement between the Australian and Queensland governments which includes transport as a partnership focus. Rollout of new digital train control technology is also included in the 2032 Delivery Plan, which is guiding infrastructure delivery in the lead up to the games.
The National Network for Interoperability (NNI) identifies Australia’s key interstate freight and passenger rail corridors to support harmonisation of operations across jurisdictions. Infrastructure and Transport Ministers have agreed that the European Train Control System (ETCS) is the future technology pathway for the NNI, and that any future digital signalling and train control system introduced on the NNI must comply with mandatory ETCS standards. This requirement applies to all digital signalling upgrades delivered directly on NNI corridors, including upgrades to urban passenger networks where they interface with, or provide access to, the NNI, to ensure interoperability across jurisdictions and support efficient freight and passenger movements.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
The proposal involves upgrading current signalling and train control technology on the South East Queensland network with modern, digital signalling and train control technology, allowing more efficient operation of the rail network. The proposal would support integration with major rail projects that incorporate ETCS, including Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail and The Wave (Sunshine Coast mass transit).
INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 pipeline.
OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES
This proposal has the potential to:
- Increase the capacity and resilience of the existing rail network – new signalling and control systems would enable more efficient use of infrastructure across the rail network to meet growing passenger demand.
- Improve productivity and network performance – more efficient and reliable rail journeys would support delivery of more train services and provide travel time savings for passengers.
- Support liveability, employment and housing growth – efficient and reliable rail travel would strengthen access to jobs, education and services across South East Queensland, supporting housing development in areas well served by public transport.
- Support sustainability outcomes – signalling upgrades supporting more efficient rail journeys and higher patronage would ease road congestion pressures and contribute to lower transport emissions.
NEXT STEPS
Proponent to progress planning activities (in line with Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework) for digital train control and signalling upgrades across the South East Queensland rail network, demonstrating how upgrades would be staged and delivered to optimise the rail network and ensuring compliance with mandatory ETCS standards for interfaces with the NNI.