• Funding program Investment Road and Rail Program
  • Status In planning
  • Transport mode Rail
  • Expected start/finish Late 2024 - Early 2028
  • Estimated project cost $687,770,000
  • Australian Government contribution $343,885,000
  • State ACT

Project description

This project will extend the Canberra Light Rail network from Canberra City to Commonwealth Park. It will deliver 1.7 kilometres of new light rail track and three new stations at City West, City South and Commonwealth Park. It will also involve associated utilities preparation, expansion of the Mitchell depot and a technological upgrade of the existing light rail vehicle fleet. 

The Light Rail network is designed to reduce future congestion and improve transport accessibility by providing more convenient, reliable and high-quality transport services that better connect Canberrans – with Stage 2 to create a north-south public transport spine for Canberra. 

The Stage 2A extension will facilitate access to educational institutions, retail and entertainment precincts, major events and employment hubs. It will help reduce congestion along its route by reducing road traffic at peak times, moving an extra 2,500 to 3,000 people a day. It will also operate on 100 per cent renewable energy when constructed. 

This project is complementary to the Parkes Way Upgrade planning and Commonwealth Avenue Bridge upgrade projects.

Benefits

  • Improved passenger rail services
  • Reduced congestion and improved travel times
  • Improved connectivity between people with jobs and services, and goods with markets
  • Supporting a more integrated and effective transport system 

Funding

The Australian Government has committed $343.9 million. 

Timetable

Construction is expected to commence in late 2024, and be completed in late 2026. Testing will then be undertaken throughout 2027, with the line to be open to the public in early 2028.

Project last updated:

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