The Andrews Labor Government is delivering the infrastructure that will give Shepparton passengers the modern, reliable public transport services they deserve – with more services than ever before on faster, more reliable trains.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan today visited Shepparton to announce the Victorian Budget 2020/21 will confirm $400 million for Stage 3 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade, which will allow trains to travel up to 130km/h and enable nine return services to and from Melbourne every weekday.

While the important planning and design works are underway for this upgrade, early construction has begun on the next stage of the Labor Government’s $356 million investment along the line, which will be delivered by Coleman Rail and KBR as part of an alliance with Rail Projects Victoria and V/Line.

Crews along the line have started early works – undertaking non-destructive digging, feature surveys, geotechnical drilling and excavating test pits for soil and groundwater samples.

The project will upgrade train detection technology at 59 level crossings between Donnybrook and Shepparton. The upgrade also includes a new stabling facility north of Shepparton Station and platform extensions at Mooroopna, Murchison East and Nagambie stations to make room for the longer VLocity trains, as well as a crossing loop extension at Murchison East – giving trains more room to pass each other and reduce unexpected delays.

Construction on the project will focus on engaging as many local suppliers as possible, and the alliance is partnering with the Industry Capability Network, giving local contractors and suppliers opportunities to work on the project.

Stage 2 of the Shepparton Line Upgrade is set to be complete in late 2022, with interested businesses encouraged to register at www.gateway.icn.org.au to get involved in upcoming industry engagement sessions.

The Shepparton Line Upgrade is being delivered as a staged program of works to deliver benefits for passengers as quickly as possible while minimising disruption to passenger services – with Stage 1 already complete, having delivered 10 extra weekly services along the line.

The project is part of the Government’s Regional Rail Revival program, which is upgrading every regional passenger rail line in Victoria, creating vital local jobs and supplier opportunities.