Early designs for major new rail infrastructure linked to Melbourne Airport have been released, outlining a significant transformation of stations and tracks across the city’s west in the first stage of the Melbourne Airport Rail project.
The plans focus on the West Footscray to Albion Rail Upgrade, a 4.1 billion AUD programme intended to remove long-standing bottlenecks and pave the way for a dedicated rail link to Melbourne Airport.
Central to the proposal is the redevelopment of Sunshine Station into a major transport interchange, described by planners as a “superhub”.
Sunshine Station Superhub
Concept images show a revitalised station featuring an extended concourse alongside two additional platforms and tracks reserved for regional services. The redesign aims to provide direct access between regional rail lines and the future airport route, while also supporting the planned electrification of services to Melton.
Stage one of the Sunshine Station masterplan includes a pedestrian and cycling bridge spanning the rail corridor, an upgraded bus interchange and a newly landscaped forecourt with open space at each entrance. Officials say these improvements are intended to create a more accessible and integrated transport precinct.
Transport planners estimate that, once completed, the upgraded junction will support more than 1,000 train movements each day through Sunshine, reflecting the station’s expanded role in Melbourne’s network.
New Tottenham Station
As part of the wider scheme, a completely new Tottenham Station will be constructed along a realigned section of the Sunbury Line. Replacing the existing facility, the modern station will feature step-free access and a pedestrian underpass connecting both sides of the rail line and the northern car park.
Authorities say relocating the station will help reduce passenger disruption during construction works, allowing services to transition more quickly to the new site. Detailed designs are expected later this year, with building work scheduled to begin in 2027.
Track Realignment and Junction Overhaul
A core element of the project is the untangling of the complex rail junction between West Footscray and Albion. Plans include six kilometres of elevated track and two rail bridges that will separate six regional and metropolitan lines, removing a major constraint on service frequency.
The Sunbury Line between Sunshine and West Footscray will also be realigned to create space for the airport tracks and a future electrified line to Melton. Extensive signalling upgrades are planned to enable more frequent services across the corridor.
In addition, a rebuilt Albion Station is proposed, promising modern passenger facilities and improved accessibility.
Early Works Underway
Preliminary construction activity has already begun, focusing on the relocation of underground utilities and preparation of service corridors. An enabling works contract has been awarded to a consortium including McConnell Dowell, Arup, Metro Trains Melbourne, V/Line and VIDA Rail.
Local residents and passengers are being invited to comment on the emerging designs through the Engage Victoria consultation platform. Feedback will help shape features such as open spaces, walking and cycling links and the overall layout of the Sunshine precinct.
The first stage of the Melbourne Airport Rail scheme is seen as a crucial step towards delivering a long-awaited train connection to the airport while boosting capacity across Melbourne’s growing western suburbs. Further design updates and construction milestones are expected over the coming months.
