Two multinational construction groups have been shortlisted for the final major works package of the Melbourne Airport Rail Stage 1 project, marking a further step in the development of the West Footscray to Albion rail upgrade.
The project is intended to simplify the rail junction between West Footscray and Albion while redeveloping Sunshine Station into a higher-capacity interchange. The upgraded corridor is expected to accommodate more than 1,000 train movements each day and support future airport rail services as well as planned electrification to Melton.
The overall programme has been divided into five works packages. Four of these are being delivered through existing Level Crossing Removal Project alliances. The fifth package, which has now entered the final stage of procurement, has attracted strong interest from the construction sector, with four submissions received during the expression of interest phase.
The shortlisted consortia include a group led by CPB Contractors Pty Ltd in partnership with SMEC Australia, and a second group comprising FCC Construction, Martinus Rail, Arcadis and BG&E.
The selected contractor will be responsible for widening the rail corridor to accommodate additional tracks, constructing two new regional platforms at Sunshine Station, and extending the station concourse. The scope also includes upgrades to the surrounding rail network.
In addition, works will support the Sunshine Station Masterplan, with planned improvements to the precinct including a new pedestrian and cycling connection across the rail line, an upgraded bus interchange, and revised public spaces with landscaping and forecourts.
Earlier in the year, a separate contract was awarded to a consortium including McConnell Dowell, Arup, Metro Trains Melbourne, V/Line and VIDA Rail. That package involves relocating underground utilities, including a jet fuel pipeline between Albion and Sunshine, to enable construction of new rail infrastructure.
Current works are being carried out from the Albion Station car park, which has been temporarily closed. Crews are preparing large steel pipes in sections of up to 250 metres ahead of planned tunnel boring for the pipeline relocation.
The two shortlisted bidders will now proceed through a competitive tender process, with a contract expected to be awarded next year. Completion of the Stage 1 upgrade is scheduled for 2030.
