Airport Rail Finally Underway

Work is underway on the long-promised Melbourne Airport Rail Link — a project that will finally connect one of the world’s major cities to its main airport by train.

Construction has begun on the first stage between West Footscray and Albion, focused on untangling the complex rail junction at Sunshine.

The $4.1 billion overhaul will lay the groundwork for airport services and future electrified Melton trains, both set to run through the Metro Tunnel.

Six kilometres of new track, two new rail bridges and the realignment of passenger and freight lines aim to remove long-standing bottlenecks in Melbourne’s west.

More capacity means more trains, more often — including, eventually, airport services.

Sunshine Station will be expanded with a longer concourse and two new regional platforms, positioning it as a major interchange linking regional services, the Metro Tunnel and future airport trains. Lighting and CCTV upgrades are included.

For Wyndham commuters, the implications are indirect but significant. The works create the pathway for electrified Melton services and better integration with the Metro Tunnel — long seen as critical to unlocking broader network improvements across Melbourne’s west.

A new, fully accessible Tottenham Station will also be built on the realigned Sunbury Line, with construction expected to start next year.

A new Albion Station, funded separately, will deliver upgraded facilities for local passengers.

Around Sunshine Station, $143 million has been allocated to upgrade the surrounding precinct, including improved walking and cycling links, a rebuilt bus interchange and new public spaces.

Despite decades of discussion, Melbourne remains one of the few major global cities without a rail link to its primary airport.

This first stage focuses on fixing the rail spine through the west — a prerequisite before trains can run directly to Tullamarine.

Community consultation on designs around Sunshine Station is open via engage.vic.gov.au/airportrail-stage1.