The long-awaited vision for a rail link to Melbourne Airport is officially moving from the drawing board to the ground. In a series of major announcements this week, the State and Federal Governments revealed that construction has commenced, signalling a multi-billion dollar transformation for Melbourne’s western suburbs.
At the heart of this evolution are three key anchors: a massive redevelopment of Sunshine Station, a brand-new Tottenham Station, and a fully funded upgrade for Albion Station.
At the centre of the project is the $4.1 billion joint investment to untangle the rail junction at Sunshine. This work will transform Sunshine Station into a “Superhub,” comparable in scale and importance to Southern Cross Station in the CBD.
The upgrades include:
An expanded station concourse and two new regional platforms.
Six kilometers of new track and two rail bridges to remove bottlenecks.
$143 million dedicated to the surrounding precinct for better cycling/walking links and a modern bus interchange.
A New CBD for the West
Brimbank City Council has long advocated for this investment, viewing it as the catalyst needed to turn Sunshine into a world-class destination. While welcoming the news, the Council is eager to ensure the project delivers on its full potential for the community.
“We’re delighted to see the State and Federal governments confirm their investment into Sunshine and the west… We’re hopeful that it includes the full delivery of the Sunshine Station Precinct Masterplan which is critical to transforming Sunshine into the ‘CBD of the west’.”
— Brimbank Mayor, Cr Virginia Tachos
Better Connectivity for Maribyrnong
The benefits of the project extend eastward toward the city. The Allan Labor Government confirmed that a brand-new, fully accessible Tottenham Station will be built as part of the Sunbury Line realignment.
For Maribyrnong City Council, this represents a significant victory for local advocacy. The new station will feature a pedestrian underpass and upgraded lighting, addressing long-standing safety and accessibility concerns in the area.
“The investment in a new Tottenham Station is an important step to reduce congestion, improve access and mobility, create safer streets, and promote greater equity within Maribyrnong.”
— Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra
What’s Next?
While early works are starting between West Footscray and Albion, the government has released early designs for the Sunshine interchange to the public.
The project isn’t just about getting to the airport; it’s about “untangling” the west. By realigning tracks and upgrading signaling, the project paves the way for future electrified services to Melton and increased capacity for regional commuters from Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong.
Key Timelines:
Sunshine Station: Construction is now underway.
Tottenham Station: Early designs to be released in the coming months, with construction starting in 2025.
Community Feedback: Locals are encouraged to help shape the designs for the open spaces around Sunshine by visiting the Engage Victoria website.
As construction ramps up, both Councils have signaled they will work closely with the government to manage the impact on local residents while ensuring the “intergenerational change” promised by these projects becomes a reality.
