Port Rail Transformation Project in full swing

PRTP phase 2 map — From November 2022, there will be a permanent switch to the new Intermodal Way. Image: Port of Melbourne.

The $125 million Port Rail Transformation Project (PRTP) is transforming the rail network at the Port of Melbourne, with the next stage of works now underway.

The project aims to make freight rail transport more competitive, take thousands of trucks off roads in Melbourne’s inner-west, and reduce truck congestion at the port gate.

Expanded rail facilities will include a new Coode Road on-dock rail terminal connecting with the Swanson Dock East International Container Terminal. The new terminal will include two new rail sidings, each able to accommodate 600-metre-long freight trains.

Improvements to the Swanson common user rail sidings will also allow for the longer trains, and a new rail connection linking the Swanson and Appleton lead tracks will allow more flexibility for trains to move within the port.

A new road – Intermodal Way – will also be constructed to allow better movement of shipping containers and provide an east-west link within the Swanson Dock Precinct, reducing the reliance on the Footscray Road exit.

Construction crews have already prepared underground services and drainage, as well as foundation works for the new rail tracks and associated infrastructure.

Melissa Horne, Minister for Ports and Freight, said: “This project will deliver massive supply-chain efficiencies for our producers and exporters – and take more trucks off local roads – so it’s great to see the next stage of works now underway.”

Saul Cannon, Port of Melbourne Chief Executive Officer, said the port is investing in infrastructure to help move more freight by rail.

“Our $125 million PRTP will provide the port side infrastructure to welcome future freight trains through the Victorian Government’s Port Rail Shuttle Network,” he said.

On-dock rail is key element of the Victorian and Federal governments’ $58 million Port Rail Shuttle Network (PRSN) which will provide direct rail connections from the Port of Melbourne to major freight hubs in Melbourne’s north, west and south-east.

The Port Rail Transformation Project is being delivered by Seymour Whyte, and is scheduled for completion by mid-2023.

For more information, visit: www.portofmelbourne.com