Project Profile: Sydney Metro West

The Sydney Metro West project is a transformative, 24-kilometre underground railway connecting Greater Parramatta to the Sydney CBD. This fully automated metro system is engineered to double the rail capacity of this critical corridor, supporting significant urban growth and providing a high-speed, high-frequency public transport spine for Western Sydney. It represents one of Australia’s largest public transport infrastructure undertakings.

Technical Specifications

The core of the Sydney Metro West project involves the excavation of 24-kilometre twin-bore tunnels using multiple Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). The line will feature nine new underground stations, including key interchange hubs at Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park. The system will operate with fully automated, driverless rolling stock, managed by a state-of-the-art Operations Control Centre (OCC). Signalling will be handled by a high-capacity Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, allowing for service frequencies of a train every four minutes in the peak. All stations will be equipped with platform screen doors (PSDs) to enhance safety, climate control, and operational efficiency by standardising dwell times.

Key Takeaways

• Economic Catalyst: The project is a primary driver for economic growth, creating over 10,000 direct construction jobs and unlocking development potential around new station precincts, particularly in Parramatta, designated as Sydney’s second CBD.
• Transport Decongestion: By doubling rail capacity between Parramatta and the Sydney CBD, Metro West will significantly alleviate pressure on the existing T1 Western Line, reducing road congestion and providing a more reliable commute for hundreds of thousands of daily passengers.
• Future-Proofing Sydney: The high-frequency, high-capacity service is a strategic investment in the long-term liveability and sustainability of the Western Sydney region, connecting communities to jobs, education, and healthcare more efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Sydney Metro West open?
The Sydney Metro West project is scheduled to open for passenger services in 2030. The construction is being delivered in stages, including tunneling, station excavation, and systems integration, all progressing towards the 2030 completion target.

Who is building the Sydney Metro West?
The project is being delivered by the Sydney Metro agency, part of Transport for NSW. Major construction contracts have been awarded to several international and domestic consortia, including Acciona Construction Australia, Ferrovial Construction, Gamuda Australia, Laing O’Rourke, and a joint venture between John Holland, CPB Contractors, and Ghella (JCG).