The National Network for Interoperability (NNI) identifies key interstate freight and passenger rail corridors to support harmonisation of operations across Australia’s rail system – Inland Rail is recognised as a key component of this national system. The NSW Inland Rail interface improvements proposal aims to maximise the productivity and efficiency of rail freight movements across regional NSW. This aligns with Australian Government objectives for high productivity freight networks, as outlined in the Infrastructure Policy Statement and the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, and is important for strengthening national connectivity, resilience, and competitiveness in domestic and international markets. 

PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION  

The NSW Inland Rail interface improvements proposal involves potential upgrades to six key Country Regional Network (CRN) branch lines and junctions in regional NSW, aiming to improve direct rail connectivity with Inland Rail. These interface improvements would enable efficient, high-capacity freight movements between regional catchments and domestic/export markets.  

INVESTMENT RECOMMENDATION   

The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 year pipeline. This aligns with timing for the delivery of Inland Rail from Beveridge to Parkes by the end of 2027.  

OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES  

This proposal has the potential to: 

• Increase rail freight productivity and efficiency – upgrading CRN branch lines and improving junction designs would allow higher loads, faster transit times and more direct freight movements. 
• Support regional economic growth – improved access to domestic and export markets would strengthen supply chains for agriculture and other regional industries, supporting regional connectivity and sustainability.
• Enable modal shift – greater utilisation of Inland Rail would allow a higher proportion of interstate freight to move by rail rather than road.
• Improve safety and environmental outcomes – shifting freight away from road would support reduced crash risks, emissions and noise impacts for local communities.
• Strengthen national supply chain resilience – more reliable freight corridors and connections would reduce vulnerability to disruptions and improve resilience across the national freight network.  

NEXT STEPS  

Proponent to develop potential investment options (Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework) that: 

• considers sustainability and resilience benefits to regional communities for drought and climate adaptation, safety improvements (truck removal), and emissions reduction
• includes demand analysis for different freight types, origins and destinations 
• considers the approach to digital signalling to ensure compliance with European Train Control System (ETCS) standards where the proposal aligns with, interfaces with, or provides access to, the NNI
• considers a broad range of potential solutions for each project within the program, how the response may be scaled to align with the expected demand, and opportunities to learn lessons between projects.