The Federal Government has outlined an additional $25.5 million to advance the Maldon to Dombarton rail link in the Illawarra region in New South Wales.

 

The announcement comes after a feasibility study found that a new rail line in the region’s rapidity expanding resources sector would facilitate productivity and export gains by expanding access to Port Kembla.

 

The study found the railway line would also free up capacity along the existing line for additional passenger services.

 

The final project will involve laying 35 kilometres of gauge track, connecting the Main North South Line directly to Port Kembla via Dombarton.

 

Commencing this financial year, the pre-construction activities will include:

  • preparation of detailed design work for civil, structural, geotechnical and track work necessary for the future construction of the project
  • finalisation of a realistic construction timetable and cost estimate for the project.

 

Once the pre-construction activities are completed, the project will then be considered for inclusion in the next Nation Building Program.