Public opinion is starting to believe we may finally see high speed rail in Australia in the next decade if we start building the Sydney–Newcastle line.
"Australia could finally get high speed rail in the next few years if we start building the Sydney–Newcastle line." This is the opinion of Phillip Laird, a high profile advocate for better rail services in Australia.
His recent article in The Conversation provides an excellent short overview of what high speed rail is, what the High Speed Rail Authority (HSRA) is doing, and what questions remain.
In June 2023, when the High Speed Rail Authority started, Philip famously observed that Australia holds the world record for studies into high-speed rail with no construction. Now, after a history of failed proposals dating back to 1984, he says the new plans by the HSRA provide some cause for optimism that Australia could have some high-speed rail by 2037.
He cites that we need bi-partisan support to get a clear commitment to high-speed rail and whether it will be privately-operated as in previous proposals. And most importantly, we must get the project right to avoid the problems incurred for the Inland Rail project.
But the big question is when work will start on a Sydney–Melbourne high-speed rail service? This line is woefully inadequate by world standards. He cites our implementation plan as a way to build the line to high speed standards in stages that will ultimately allow services to operate between Sydney and Melbourne in about 4 hours.
So let's hope he's right - that high speed rail is on its way.
Comments