Council welcomes $2 million investment to boost Upfield Rail expansion

Published on 27 March 2025

The City of Whittlesea welcomes the Federal Coalition’s announcement of $2 million in funding to advance critical improvements to the Upfield rail line. This investment lays the groundwork for a more connected and accessible future for Melbourne’s north.

This funding will support a scoping report that will plan for the duplication, electrification, and extension of the Upfield Line, ensuring much-needed enhancements to public transport services for our rapidly growing communities.

The City of Whittlesea expressed strong support for this announcement, acknowledging the years of advocacy by the Northern Councils Alliance (NCA), member councils, and the broader community in championing transport solutions for Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

This investment is a fantastic step forward in delivering the transport infrastructure our region urgently needs. The City of Whittlesea has long advocated for better public transport services to support our fast-growing population. Council is pleased to see this funding commitment to planning improvements that will increase train frequency, reduce congestion and provide greater access to education, employment and essential services.

Further north, many residents in the City of Whittlesea and beyond are reliant on diesel V/Line services that are already nearing capacity. Extending and electrifying the Upfield Line and linking it with the Craigieburn Line will transform the rail network, allowing full utilisation of existing infrastructure and providing a vital suburban connection to Donnybrook and beyond, reducing the need for car travel in the Northern Growth Corridor.

The funding also paves the way for the construction of new stations at Beveridge and the future city of Cloverton - both key growth areas set to become major residential, commercial and employment hubs.

Our region is expected to grow to over 1.5 million people by 2036, and we need transport infrastructure that keeps pace with this growth. This commitment from the Federal Coalition is a critical first step toward ensuring our residents have access to efficient and sustainable public transport.

The scoping report will outline the project timeline, objectives, technical feasibility, economic and social impacts, environmental considerations and future patronage forecasts. It will also provide recommendations and identify the next steps for implementation.

With the Northern Growth Corridor set to accommodate 30 percent of Melbourne’s future expansion, the City of Whittlesea continues to call for significant rail investments to unlock the region’s full potential and deliver long-term benefits for residents and businesses.

Quotes attributable to the City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Aidan McLindon

“The City of Whittlesea welcomes this investment in vital transport infrastructure, which will lay the foundation for improved train services and greater connectivity for our growing community. Reliable and efficient public transport is essential for our residents to access jobs, education and essential services, and this funding is a crucial step in making that a reality. As one of the fastest-growing regions in Melbourne, we need long-term transport solutions that match the scale of our population growth. The extension and electrification of the Upfield Line will not only reduce congestion but also support sustainable travel options for our residents. We look forward to seeing this project progress and will continue to advocate for further investment in our transport network.”