Wednesday, 18 June 2025

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (09:42): The Allan Labor government has always had a very strong record when it comes to investing in transport infrastructure in Melbourne’s growing west, and we are not slowing down. The 2025–26 budget will make a massive investment of almost $5 billion in our rail network to run more trains more often for passengers across the network, including more frequent services on the Werribee line. This investment will also operationalise the Metro Tunnel, opening later this year and delivering turn-up-and-go services for the busy Sunbury line. I cannot wait for this to open. It is amazing. It will reduce waiting times and improve safety and accessibility. Backed by a $2 billion investment from our re-elected partners in Canberra, the Albanese Labor government, we are getting on with delivering the Melbourne airport rail with works to start on the Sunshine station redevelopment. This project will include signalling upgrades, new and upgraded tracks, new regional platforms and a combination of flyovers and underpasses to untangle what is a very complex rail junction. The Allan Labor government is focused on what matters. That is why we are cutting congestion for families and workers in our growing western suburbs. I cannot wait to see these projects realised.