The next major works contract for Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East between Cheltenham to Box Hill in Melbourne is now out to market – with Expressions of Interest open for the high-tech trains, signalling and rail systems, and a 15-year term to operate and maintain the new network.
The state-of-the-art trains will provide a reliable and frequent turn-up-and-go service using the latest in modern, smart rail technology from the world’s best companies.
The SRL contract will create hundreds of new upskilled jobs – helping secure a pipeline of opportunity for our highly skilled rail industry through long-term certainty and support for manufacturers, and more jobs and training for local workers and apprentices.
The four-carriage trains will work seamlessly with the platforms and signalling systems, delivering a world-class metro experience from the moment passengers enter the station. The trains will include the latest safety features and passenger information systems, as well as improved wheelchair access with level boarding and platform screen doors at each station.
The contract for the trains, signalling and network operation and maintenance has already generated strong international interest and Expressions of Interest are now open.
Construction of SRL East will create up to 8000 jobs and delivery is powering ahead, with works underway in Box Hill, Burwood and Heatherton, and starting soon in Monash, to pave the way for tunnel boring machines and construction of the six new underground stations.
Trains will be taking passengers by 2035, slashing congestion and getting people where they need to go – opening up access to jobs, health services and education across Melbourne’s east and south-east.
The new carbon-neutral network will also set new benchmarks for sustainability, with the trains powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, and each station to have at least a 5-Star Green Star rating.
