On 30 August 2018, Infrastructure Australia chose not to include the Waurn Ponds Duplication Stage 2 project on the Infrastructure Priority List.

The project involves the duplication of 13 kilometres of track between South Geelong and Waurn Ponds, bridge duplications at Barwon River and Waurn Ponds Creek, and grade separations and station precinct improvements along the line. While Infrastructure Australia recognises the importance of regional rail for the Greater Geelong region, the proponent’s business case, showed that the costs of the project are likely to exceed the benefits.