Editing Proposed Melbourne rail extensions

{{Short description|Extensions to the Melbourne rail network}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Use Australian English|date=January 2012}}
{{update article|date=July 2024}}
{{Melbourne railway lines}}
Proposals for expansion of the [[Railways in Melbourne|Melbourne rail network]] are commonly presented by political parties, government agencies, industry organisations and public transport advocacy groups. The extensions proposed take a variety of forms: [[Electrification (rail)|electrification]] of existing routes to incorporate them into the suburban rail system; reconstruction of [[List of closed railway stations in Melbourne|former passenger rail lines]] along pre-existing easements; entirely new routes intended to serve new areas with heavy rail or provide alternative routes in congested areas; or track amplification along existing routes to provide segregation of services. Other proposals are for the construction of new or relocated stations on existing lines, to provide improved access to public transport services.

Proposals which have been adopted as policy by the state government, and which are in the detailed planning or construction phases, are also listed in this article.

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== History ==

=== 1929 Metropolitan Town Planning Commission Plan ===
{{Main|Metropolitan Town Planning Commission}}

[[File:Plan of Proposed Melbourne Underground Railway c1930-50.jpg|thumb|451x451px|Map by the Metropolitan Town Planning Commission of a proposed underground railway c.1930-50. This plan eventually became the [[City Loop]], completed in 1981.]]
The Metropolitan Town Planning Commission, established in 1922 by the [[Government of Victoria|Victorian state government]], produced a report in 1929 that recommended a new underground railway in [[Melbourne central business district|central Melbourne]] running via [[Exhibition Street|Exhibition]] and [[Victoria Street, Melbourne|Victoria]] streets to reduce congestion at [[Flinders Street railway station|Flinders Street station]].<ref name="fouvy" /> The plan also proposed:

* A rail loop in [[Fishermans Bend]]
* A rail line to [[Doncaster, Victoria|Doncaster]] via tunnel beneath [[Kew, Victoria|Kew]] and [[Kew East]]
* A rail extension from [[Malvern East]] to [[Glen Waverley]]
* A bridge connecting [[Southern Cross railway station|Spencer Street station]] and the [[Port Melbourne railway line|Port Melbourne]] and [[St Kilda railway line|St Kilda]] lines<ref name="fouvy" />

=== 1940 Ashworth Improvement Plan ===
{{Main|Ashworth Improvement Plan}}
[[File:Ashworth report rail diagram.png|thumb|Proposed extensions to Melbourne's rail network, 1940.]]
A 1940 report by the Victorian Railways Chief Engineer for Ways and Works recommended a number of rail improvement works, including an underground city railway, a line to Doncaster via the [[Kew railway line|Kew spur]], and the connection of the [[Alamein railway line|Alamein line]] to the [[Glen Waverley railway line|Glen Waverley line]] at [[Malvern East]].<ref>{{Cite book|title=The Railways of Victoria 1854-2004|last=Robert|first=Lee|publisher=Melbourne University Publishing|year=2007|isbn=978-0-522-85134-2|pages=185}}</ref>

=== 1954 Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Scheme Report ===
A 1954 strategy released by the [[Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works]] recommended changes to Melbourne's [[land-use planning]], an extensive network of freeways and a park system.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/planning-for-melbourne/melbournes-strategic-planning-history/melbourne-metropolitan-planning-scheme-1954-report|title=Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Scheme 1954: Report|last=[[Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works]]|date=2019-05-17|website=Planning|pages=106–114|language=en|access-date=2019-08-11}}</ref> It also recommended some expansions to the rail network, including an underground CBD rail line with three stations beneath [[Lonsdale Street]].<ref name=":4" /> It also called for:<ref name=":4" />

* A new rail loop in the industrial [[Fishermans Bend]] precinct with seven new stations to transport workers
* A new north–south rail link and bridge connecting [[Southern Cross railway station|Spencer Street station]] (now named Southern Cross) with the [[Port Melbourne railway line|Port Melbourne line]], with a new station in [[Southbank, Victoria|Southbank]] 
* A branch of the [[Hurstbridge railway line|Hurstbridge line]] from [[Alphington, Victoria|Alphington]] to East [[Preston, Victoria|Preston]] to serve [[Northcote, Victoria|Northcote]], Preston and [[Heidelberg, Victoria|Heidelberg]], running alongside [[Darebin Creek]]
* A branch of the [[Frankston railway line|Frankston line]] between [[Moorabbin railway station|Moorabbin]] and [[Highett railway station|Highett]] stations to beachside suburb [[Beaumaris, Victoria|Beaumaris]]
* A new [[Mornington railway line]] from [[Frankston, Victoria|Frankston]] to [[Mornington, Victoria|Mornington]] via [[Mount Eliza, Victoria|Mount Eliza]]

The report recommended against a line to Doncaster due to the high cost of tunnelling.<ref name=":4" />

=== 1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan ===
{{Main|1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan}}
A major plan released by the Victorian state government of [[Henry Bolte]] called for the creation of 510 kilometres of freeways, and a number of new rail lines.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/version/33259763|title=Melbourne transportation study / prepared for the Metropolitan Transportation Committee by Wilbur Smith and associates and Len T. Frazer and associates. - Version details|website=Trove|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> The plan proposed:

* An underground rail loop in central Melbourne
* A line to [[Doncaster, Victoria|Doncaster]] connecting with the network at [[Victoria Park railway station, Melbourne|Victoria Park station]]
* A line to [[Monash University, Clayton campus|Monash University Clayton]]
* An extension from Altona to Westona
* An extension from Huntingdale to Ferntree Gully 
* A new line connecting [[Dandenong]] and [[Frankston, Victoria|Frankston]]
* Several extensions of suburban electric service along existing lines to [[Werribee railway station|Werribee]], [[Rockbank railway station|Rockbank]], [[Sunbury railway station, Melbourne|Sunbury]], [[Craigieburn railway station|Craigieburn]], [[Coldstream railway station|Coldstream]], [[Hastings railway station, Melbourne|Hastings]] and [[Mornington Railway|Mornington]]<ref name="fouvy" />

None of these proposed lines were ever built, except for the [[City Loop|underground rail loop]] which began construction in 1971 and progressively opened between 1981 and 1985.<ref name="fouvy" /> The lines to Werribee, Sunbury and Craigieburn were also eventually electrified.

=== 1999 Linking Victoria ===
{{Main|Linking Victoria}}
A strategy launched in 1999 by the state government of [[Steve Bracks]] called for an [[Melbourne Airport rail link|airport rail link]] to [[Melbourne Airport]] and the reopening of several regional railway lines.

=== 2008 Victorian Transport Plan ===
{{Main|Victorian Transport Plan}}
The government of [[John Brumby]] responded to a major increase in rail patronage by releasing a plan in 2008 that called for a number of rail extensions, including the [[Regional Rail Link]] from west of [[Werribee]] to [[Southern Cross railway station|Southern Cross station]], a new inner-city rail tunnel called the [[Metro Tunnel|Melbourne Metro Rail Project]], and electrification of the rail network to [[South Morang railway station|South Morang]] (completed [[Mernda railway line|in 2011]]), [[Sunbury, Victoria|Sunbury]] (completed [[Sunbury railway line|in 2012]]), [[Melton, Victoria|Melton]] and [[Cranbourne East]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://transport.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0013/31342/vtp.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325004350/https://transport.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0013/31342/vtp.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=2012-03-25|title=Victorian Transport Plan|last=State Government of Victoria|date=2008|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref>

=== 2013 Network Development Plan: Metropolitan Rail (NDPMR) ===
{{Main|Network Development Plan Metropolitan Rail}}
New government agency [[Public Transport Victoria]] (PTV) released a detailed 20-year rail development plan in 2013 under the government of [[Denis Napthine]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/major-rail-projects-expected-in-20-years-20130327-2gt8r.html|title=Major rail projects expected in 20 years|last=Gough|first=Deborah|date=2013-03-26|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref> The report outlined a major expansion of the metropolitan rail network in Melbourne over a number of stages, with the goals of introducing a 'metro-style system' and extending the reach of the network.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://blogs.crikey.com.au/theurbanist/2013/03/28/whats-the-long-term-rail-plan-for-melbourne/|title=What's the long-term rail plan for Melbourne?|date=2013-03-28|website=The Urbanist|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref> Significant projects identified for construction included the Metro Tunnel, the Airport rail link, a line to Doncaster, a line to [[Rowville, Victoria|Rowville]], a second underground inner-city rail tunnel, and many rail electrification and duplication projects.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://static.ptv.vic.gov.au/siteassets/PTV/PTV%20docs/Metro-rail-network-development-plan/PTV_Network-Development-Plan_Metropolitan-Rail_Overview_2016update.pdf|title=Network Development Plan - Metropolitan Rail|last=Public Transport Victoria|date=2012|website=PTV}}</ref>

=== 2025 Infrastructure Victoria Plan ===
Infrastructure Victoria released a 30-year plan for improvements to Victoria's existing infrastructure. The plan called for electrification of the [[Ballarat line]] as far as Melton, and the building of new stations at [[Altona North]], [[Thornhill Park]] and [[Mount Atkinson, Victoria|Mount Atkinson]].<ref name=":7">{{Cite news |last=Ashton |first=Kate |last2=Payne |first2=Sacha |date=4 Mar 2025 |title=Better public transport, slower local streets and more social housing called for in new Infrastructure Victoria plan |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-04/infrastructure-victoria-plan-public-transport-social-housing/105004250 |access-date=2025-05-06 |work=[[Australian Broadcasting Corporation]]}}</ref>

== Extensions under construction ==
[[File:Melbourne rail map with former lines and planned extensions.svg|thumb|320x320px|Diagram showing Melbourne's rail network, including former lines and lines currently in planning or construction.]]

=== Metro Tunnel ===
{{Main|Metro Tunnel}}
There have been numerous proposals for a north–south tunnel in inner-city Melbourne, to relieve capacity on Melbourne's City Loop and to provide new underground stations. In 2015 the State Government established the [[Melbourne Metro Rail Authority]] to oversee planning for new twin 9-kilometre rail tunnels through the central city between [[South Kensington railway station|South Kensington station]] and [[South Yarra, Victoria|South Yarra]]. The new Metro Tunnel will have five new underground stations and connect the [[Pakenham railway line|Pakenham]] and [[Cranbourne railway line|Cranbourne]] lines with the [[Sunbury railway line|Sunbury]] line, creating a new route through the CBD as an alternative to the [[City Loop]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://metrotunnel.vic.gov.au/about-the-project/faq#|title=Frequently asked questions|website=metrotunnel.vic.gov.au|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> New underground stations will be created at [[Arden railway station, Melbourne|Arden]], [[Parkville railway station|Parkville]], [[Anzac railway station|Domain]] and two new CBD stations, [[State Library railway station|State Library]] and [[Town Hall railway station, Melbourne|Town Hall]]. Enabling works were underway by 2016 and major construction work on the tunnel and stations began in 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/cbd-roads-to-be-closed-for-years-as-melbourne-metro-tunnel-construction-begins-20170116-gts2cp.html|title=CBD roads to be closed for years as Melbourne Metro Tunnel construction begins|last=Lucas|first=Aisha Dow, Clay|date=2017-01-16|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> The project has an estimated cost of $11 billion and is scheduled to be complete by 2025.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-metro-a-year-ahead-of-schedule-premier-says-20180221-p4z12d.html|title=Melbourne Metro a year ahead of schedule, Premier says|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-02-20|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref>

=== Airport rail link ===
{{Main|Melbourne Airport rail link}}
A rail link to [[Melbourne Airport]] has been proposed repeatedly since the airport's construction, with a variety of routes and service models suggested, but construction has never commenced. In July 2018, the Federal and State Governments each pledged A$5 billion (for a total of A$10 billion) to construct a rail link. The Federal Government proposed four preferred routes for the link, with one proposal running via a direct tunnel to [[Highpoint Shopping Centre]] and the others linking to existing stations in Broadmeadows, Flemington or Sunshine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-11/melbourne-airport-rail-link-gets-$5bn-from-federal-government/9643054|title=Turnbull announces $5b funding for Melbourne Airport-CBD rail link|last1=Dziedzic|first1=political reporter Stephen|last2=Willingham|first2=state political reporter Richard|date=2018-04-11|website=ABC News|language=en-AU|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> An assessment of the four preferred routes conducted by [[Rail Projects Victoria]] culminated in the route via Sunshine station being selected, with a detailed business case expected by 2020. Construction began in 2022, but paused in May 2023 due to a Federal government review of major infrastructure projects. 

On the 8th of July 2024, Melbourne Airport completed longstanding negotiations with the Victorian Government over the station's location following the appointment of a mediator. Melbourne Airport have agreed to have the station above ground, with a hope to resume discussions to finalise the station's design, the construction timeline and redress for the land required for the above-ground option, with a new targeted opening date of 2033.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-07 |title='Victorians have waited long enough': Melbourne Airport backs down in rail link standoff |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-08/vic-melbourne-airport-rail-line-station-compromise/104069626 |access-date=2024-07-10 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}}</ref>

=== Suburban Rail Loop ===
{{Main|Suburban Rail Loop|SRL East}}
In August 2018, in the run-up to the [[2018 Victorian state election]], the State Government pledged $300 million to complete a business case and secure funding to construct a new railway through suburban Melbourne.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/aug/28/massive-melbourne-suburban-train-loop-pledged-by-victorian-government|title=Massive Melbourne suburban train loop pledged by Victorian government|last=Henriques-Gomes|first=Luke|date=2018-08-28|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-07-02|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref> The project is designed to link major activity centres and amenities such as hospitals, shopping centres, universities, and Melbourne Airport. The proposal would connect most existing railway lines through middle suburbs and enable easier intra-suburban travel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-08-28/melbourne-suburban-train-loop-promised-by-labor/10172184|title=Melbourne's $50b rail loop the 'biggest public transport project in history'|last1=Willingham|first1=state political reporter Richard|last2=Oaten|first2=James|date=2018-08-28|website=ABC News|language=en-AU|access-date=2019-07-02|last3=staff}}</ref>

The Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) would connect the existing station at [[Southland railway station|Cheltenham]]<ref group=Note name=Note01 /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/859590/SRL-Cheltenham-Structure-Planning-Boundary-map.pdf|author=Suburban Rail Loop Authority|title=Cheltenham Structure Planning Boundary Map|website=Victoria's Big Build|language=en-AU|access-date=2025-03-27}}</ref> with other existing stations at [[Clayton railway station, Melbourne|Clayton]], [[Glen Waverley railway station|Glen Waverley]], [[Box Hill railway station, Melbourne|Box Hill]], [[Heidelberg railway station|Heidelberg]], [[Reservoir railway station|Reservoir]], [[Fawkner railway station|Fawkner]], [[Broadmeadows railway station, Melbourne|Broadmeadows]], [[Sunshine railway station, Melbourne|Sunshine]] and [[Werribee railway station|Werribee]]. It will also link to new stations to be built in areas that have long been promised rail connections, including [[Monash University, Clayton campus|Monash University]], [[Burwood, Victoria|Burwood]], [[Doncaster, Victoria|Doncaster]], [[Bundoora, Victoria|Bundoora]] and Melbourne Airport. Construction on the first stage, SRL East, began in 2022 and is set to open by 2035.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-suburban-rail-loop-what-readers-think-20180828-p5006z.html|title=Melbourne suburban rail loop: What readers think|last=Koob|first=Simone Fox|date=2018-08-28|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-08-29/victorian-rail-suburban-loop-plan-divides-experts/10179340|title='A mega project on steroids': Experts divided on Melbourne rail loop plan|last1=Willingham|first1=state political reporters Richard|last2=Stephanie|date=2018-08-29|website=ABC News|language=en-AU|access-date=2019-07-02|last3=erson}}</ref>

== Currently planned extensions ==

=== Electrification to Melton and Wyndham Vale ===
{{Main|Western Rail Plan}}
Electrification of the [[Deer Park - West Werribee railway line|Deer Park – West Werribee line]] to [[Wyndham Vale railway station|Wyndham Vale]] was included in the 2013 [[Network Development Plan – Metropolitan Rail]] (NDPMR) by the government agency [[Public Transport Victoria]], along with quadruplication to provide express tracks for [[Geelong V/Line rail service|Geelong services]]. The plan also called for the electrification of the [[Ballarat railway line|Ballarat line]] as far as [[Melton railway station, Melbourne|Melton]]. Several additional stations have been proposed for an electrified Wyndham Vale line, at locations including Truganina, Sayers Road, Davis Road and Black Forest Road.<ref name="Star 25 Sep 2018">{{cite news|url=http://www.starweekly.com.au/news/wish-list-for-rail-future/|title=Wish list for rail future|last1=Macaulay|first1=Charlene|date=25 September 2018|work=Star Weekly|access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref>

During the 2018 Victorian state election, the State Government announced its [[Western Rail Plan]], which would quadruplicate and electrify the rail lines to Melton and Wyndham Vale, allowing Metro services.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/western-rail-plan|title=Western Rail Plan|last=Build|first=Victoria's Big|date=2018-11-01|website=bigbuild.vic.gov.au|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> Under this plan, Metro and [[V/Line|V/Line regional services]] would be separated, allowing for higher speed trains to be introduced to [[Geelong V/Line rail service|Geelong]] and [[Ballarat V/Line rail service|Ballarat]]. The plan would electrify the track to Wyndham Vale opened in 2015 as part of the [[Regional Rail Link]]. New tracks between Sunshine and Southern Cross Station to be built as part of the [[Melbourne Airport rail link|Airport rail link]] could add extra capacity for metro and regional trains.<ref name=":1" /> Planning for faster regional rail and electrification of the lines to Melton and Wyndham Vale will occur alongside planning for the Airport rail link, with construction set to start by 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/geelong-to-melbourne-in-45-minutes-under-labor-s-regional-rail-plan-20181016-p509uu.html|title=Geelong to Melbourne in 45 minutes under Labor's regional rail plan|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-10-15|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref>

Under the 2025 Infrastructure Victoria plan, the electrification of the [[Melton railway line|Melton line]] would involve two new stations at Paynes Road in [[Thornhill Park]] and Hopkins Road in [[Mount Atkinson, Victoria|Mount Atkinson]] being built.<ref name=":7" />

=== Extension to Clyde ===
Various proposals have been made to extend the [[Cranbourne railway line|Cranbourne line]] to the growth suburb of [[Clyde railway station, Victoria|Clyde]] by rebuilding part of the closed [[South Gippsland railway line|South Gippsland line]]. Construction on a project to duplicate the Cranbourne line between [[Dandenong railway station|Dandenong]] and [[Cranbourne railway station|Cranbourne]] began in 2020, with an extension to Clyde to follow on its completion.<ref name="ABC 26 Aug 2018">{{cite news|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-08-26/services-set-to-double-on-cranbourne-rail-line-under-labor/10166022|title=Cranbourne line train services set to double under Labor election promise|date=26 August 2018|work=ABC News|access-date=22 January 2019|language=en-AU}}</ref> In September 2019 the State Government announced the timeline for duplication as part of a $1bn package named the "Cranbourne Line Upgrade".<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/upgrading-the-cranbourne-line-to-run-more-services/|title=Upgrading The Cranbourne Line To Run More Services|date=2019-09-02|website=Premier of Victoria|language=en-US|access-date=2019-10-28}}</ref> The package includes the removal of the four remaining level crossing on the line, the duplication of 8&nbsp;km of track, and the rebuilding of [[Merinda Park railway station|Merinda Park Station]].<ref name=":5" /> The project began in 2020, with duplication completed in 2022 and the level crossing removals planned to be completed by 2024, allowing a ten minutes service frequency to Cranbourne and facilitating an eventual extension to Clyde.<ref name=":5" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=Hui|first=Jin|date=2020-07-13|title=Works ramp up on rail duplication|url=https://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2020-07-13/works-ramp-up-on-rail-duplication/|access-date=2021-08-27|website=Cranbourne Star News|language=en-US}}</ref>

== Other proposals ==

=== Melbourne Metro 2 ===
{{Main|Melbourne Metro 2}}
There have been various proposals for a successor to the Metro Tunnel, with the main proposal linking the [[Mernda railway line|Mernda]] and [[Werribee railway line|Werribee]] lines via a new tunnel between [[Clifton Hill railway station|Clifton Hill]] and [[Newport railway station, Melbourne|Newport]]. This proposal was first identified by PTV in the 2013 NDPMR. The new [[Parkville railway station|Parkville station]] to be built as part of the Metro Tunnel has been designed with provision for future expansion to an interchange with the second Metro Tunnel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/what-will-happen-to-melbourne-metro-2-the-other-planned-underground-rail-line-20180902-p5019k.html|title=What will happen to Melbourne Metro 2, the other planned underground rail line?|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-09-02|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref> [[City of Melbourne|Melbourne City Council]] has advocated for the tunnel, which could include stations at [[Fitzroy, Victoria|Fitzroy]], Parkville, [[Flagstaff railway station|Flagstaff]], [[Southern Cross railway station|Southern Cross]] and multiple stations at the urban renewal precinct [[Fishermans Bend]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-needs-two-new-rail-tunnels-by-2035-council-says-20180419-p4zalf.html|title=Melbourne needs two new rail tunnels by 2035, council says|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-04-19|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-05-07}}</ref> The tunnel was included in 2018 as part of the State Government's 30-year strategy for Fisherman's Bend, with two stations in the precinct, and has been backed by the independent planning agency [[Infrastructure Victoria]] in its 30-year infrastructure plan for the state released in 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fishermansbend.vic.gov.au/framework|title=Fishermans Bend Framework|last=Bend|first=Fishermans|date=2018-10-30|website=Fishermans Bend|language=en|access-date=2019-05-07}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/interactive/2018/peak-hour-project/bespoke-features/melbourne-3.html?resizable=true&amp;v=7&amp;promotion=true&amp;promotionTitle=Melbourne%E2%80%99s%20weekend%20congestion%20rivals%20weekday%20peak-hour&amp;promotionSubtitle=Once%20%20leisurely%20weekend%20drives%20are%20starting%20to%20feel%20like%20more%20time%20in%20the%20rat%20race%20as%20Melbourne%E2%80%99s%20gridlock%20spreads%20over%20seven%20days.&amp;promotionLink=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-s-weekend-traffic-begins-to-rival-weekday-peak-hour-20180626-p4znw9.html&amp;promotionImageUrl=https://www.theage.com.au/interactive/2018/peak-hour-proofs/src/img/feature-image/melbourne-story2-pointer.jpg&amp;promotionButtonText=read%20more|title=How to tackle Melbourne's tide of traffic|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|access-date=2019-07-02}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=2021-08-19|title=Final price tag for Melbourne's suburban rail loop remains a mystery as delayed business case revealed|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-08-19/infrastructure-victoria-plan-melbourne/100389102|access-date=2021-10-22}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2020-12-08|title=Government told to dig deep to pave way for 30 more years of growth|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/government-told-to-dig-deep-to-pave-way-for-30-more-years-of-growth-20201208-p56lmv.html|access-date=2021-10-22|website=The Age|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Infrastructure Victoria: Preparing for Melbourne Metro 2|url=https://www.infrastructurevictoria.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Fact-sheet-Melbourne-Metro-2-preparation.pdf}}</ref>

=== Melbourne Metro 3 ===
In 2018, a paper released by Melbourne City Council as part of its Transport Strategy refresh called for a third cross-city rail tunnel to be built by 2035.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-needs-two-new-rail-tunnels-by-2035-council-says-20180419-p4zalf.html|title=Melbourne needs two new rail tunnels by 2035, council says|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-04-19|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-05-07}}</ref> The council called for a stand-alone metro line running from Melbourne Airport to [[Maribyrnong, Victoria|Maribyrnong]], Arden Macaulay, Southern Cross, [[Parliament railway station|Parliament]] then east of the CBD to [[Richmond, Victoria|Richmond]], [[Kew, Victoria|Kew]], [[Doncaster, Victoria|Doncaster]] and [[Ringwood, Victoria|Ringwood]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-needs-two-new-rail-tunnels-by-2035-council-says-20180419-p4zalf.html|title=Melbourne needs two new rail tunnels by 2035, council says|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2018-04-19|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-05-07}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://participate.melbourne.vic.gov.au/transportstrategy/public-transport-network|title=Public Transport Network :: Transport Strategy refresh|website=Participate Melbourne|language=en|access-date=2019-05-07}}</ref>

=== Western suburbs ===
==== Werribee line ====

*Extension of the [[Werribee railway line|Werribee line]] to meet the [[Deer Park - West Werribee railway line|Deer Park – West Werribee line]] at [[Wyndham Vale railway station|Wyndham Vale]] was proposed in the 2013 NDPMR.<ref name=":2" /> The concept was later included in plans for the Suburban Rail Loop.
*Additional stations have been proposed for the Werribee line at Derrimut Road and Werribee South.<ref name="Star 25 Sep 2018"/>

==== Avalon Airport ====
* Prior to the [[2010 Victorian state election]], then-Opposition Leader Ted Baillieu promised to begin construction in his first term on an extension of the passenger rail line to [[Avalon Airport]] in Melbourne's South-West.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/baillieu-pledges-rail-link-to-avalon-20101117-17xoc.html|title=Baillieu pledges rail link to Avalon|last=Willingham|first=Richard|date=2010-11-17|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref> The plan would have seen a single-line track branch off from the [[Geelong V/Line rail service|Melbourne-Geelong rail line]].<ref name=":3" /> Despite the [[Denis Napthine|Napthine]] Government revealing a preferred option for the link in 2014, the proposal never progressed to construction.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/preferred-route-revealed-for-avalon-airport-rail-link-but-no-start-date-in-sight-20140919-10j748.html|title=Preferred route revealed for Avalon Airport rail link, but no start date in sight|last=Willingham|first=Richard|date=2014-09-19|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref> In 2018, [[City of Greater Geelong|Geelong Council]] called for a link to Avalon Airport as part of a future high-speed rail line to Geelong.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.railpage.com.au/news/s/highspeed-rail-line-would-link-avalon-airport-to-melbourne-cbd|title=High-speed rail line would link Avalon Airport to Melbourne CBD|website=Railpage|access-date=2019-07-03}}</ref>
* Avalon Airport management acknowledge that current patronage cannot justify a rail branch to the airport. Their preference now is for an "Avalon Airport" station to be provided on the existing Melbourne to Geelong rail line, from which passengers would be transported, using an unspecified type of people mover, on the four-kilometre journey to the airport terminal. This would be using the corridor set aside for the airport rail branch.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Taylor |first1=James |title=Avalon CEO hopes rail solution takes off |url=https://timesnewsgroup.com.au/surfcoasttimes/news/avalon-ceo-hopes-rail-solution-takes-off/ |access-date=2019-12-04 |work=Surf Coast Times |date=2018-04-18}}</ref> The project was likened to London [[Luton DART]] which is an automated people mover that connects the closest station (Luton Airport Parkway) over a 2.1km distance to the airport.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exclusive: 'Luton-style' Avalon Airport rail could run within 2 years |url=https://australianaviation.com.au/2024/05/exclusive-luton-style-avalon-airport-rail-could-run-within-2-years/ |access-date=2024-05-09 |website=Australian Aviation |language=en-AU}}</ref>

=== Northern suburbs ===
==== Albion–Jacana line ====

*In 2008, the Greens proposed standalone electrification of the [[Albion-Jacana railway line]], with new [[passenger station]]s at [[Sunshine North]], [[Keilor East]], Westfield Shoppingtown, [[Airport West]] and [[Gowanbrae]].<ref name="greenstpp">{{cite web|url=http://www.thepeopleplan.org.au/Support%20Docs/The%20People%20Plan%20Discussion%20Paper.pdf|title=The People Plan Discussion Paper|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090521043056/http://www.thepeopleplan.org.au/Support%20Docs/The%20People%20Plan%20Discussion%20Paper.pdf|archive-date=21 May 2009|url-status=dead|access-date=11 December 2008}}</ref>

==== Craigieburn line ====

*The 2013 PTV NDPMR proposed electrification of the [[Craigieburn railway line|Craigieburn line]] as far as [[Wallan railway station|Wallan]].<ref name=":2" />

==== Upfield line ====

*The construction of a [[branch line]] was proposed between [[Flemington Bridge railway station|Flemington Bridge Station]] and [[Pascoe Vale railway station|Pascoe Vale Station]] in the early 1890s as a means of reducing Melbourne's rising [[unemployment rate]]. Three [[train station|stations]] were planned, tentatively named Bent Town, Munroville and La Rose.<ref>Coburg Historical Society Newsletter, No 49, June 1997</ref>
*A spur line branching from the [[Upfield railway line|Upfield line]] along the former [[Inner Circle railway line|Inner Circle]] rail easement to [[Princes Park, Carlton|Princes Park]], was proposed by the [[Public Transport Users Association]] in 1991, primarily as a means of transporting sports fans to [[Princes Park (stadium)|the football ground]].<ref>Greening Melbourne with Public Transport, Public Transport Users Association, 1991</ref>
*The PTV NDPMR proposed re-activating the former connection between Upfield and the Craigieburn line at [[Roxburgh Park railway station|Somerton]].<ref name=":2" /> Such a project, in conjunction with duplication of the Upfield line, would enable diversion of Seymour and Shepparton services away from the at-capacity Craigieburn line, and provide additional capacity for electrification to Wallan. A business case is expected to be complete in 2019.<ref name="Age 6 Nov 2018">{{cite news |last1=Jacks |first1=Timna |date=6 November 2018 |title=Sluggish Upfield's service boost still seven years away |work=The Age|url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/sluggish-upfield-s-service-boost-still-seven-years-away-20181106-p50e8u.html|access-date=22 January 2019}}</ref>

=== North-eastern suburbs ===
==== Doncaster line ====
{{main|Doncaster railway line}}
*A variety of proposals for railway lines to the suburb of [[Doncaster, Victoria|Doncaster]] have been made since the mid-20th century, although none have commenced construction. The [[City of Manningham]] is the only metropolitan Melbourne council area not served by a heavy rail line, and most proposals have envisaged a junction with the Hurstbridge and Mernda lines near Clifton Hill. Public transport advocates have claimed that the most frequently proposed route, along the median of the [[Eastern Freeway (Melbourne)|Eastern Freeway]], will be jeopardised by construction of the [[North East Link]], permanently precluding construction of the rail line. However, construction authorities have stated that the reservation will continue to be suitable.<ref name="Age 26 Apr 2018">{{cite news |last1=Lucas |first1=Clay |last2=Jacks |first2=Timna |title=Toll road to kill off future Doncaster rail: public transport group |work=The Age |date=26 April 2018 |url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/toll-road-to-kill-off-future-doncaster-rail-public-transport-group-20180426-p4zbqs.html|access-date=22 January 2019}}</ref>

==== Hurstbridge line ====

*An extension of the [[Hurstbridge railway line|Hurstbridge line]] to East Reservoir, was proposed in the 1950s as a means of opening up the area east of High Street towards Darebin Creek for residential development. The proposed route was a branch line from Alphington station to East Reservoir. The proposed line consisted of five stations and several bridges which meant that the line would not interfere with any road traffic. The proposed cost was approximately £250,000.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
*A new Eltham North station, between the existing [[Eltham railway station, Melbourne|Eltham]] and [[Diamond Creek railway station|Diamond Creek]] stations, has been proposed to provide improved access for local residents. However, the proposal has been criticised due to its potential to encourage [[urban sprawl]] in undeveloped areas.<ref name="Diamond Valley 11 Jul 2017">{{cite news |last1=Shanahan |first1=Brittney |title=New station mooted for Eltham North |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north/should-a-new-train-station-be-built-at-eltham-north/news-story/f63ea2d58d2591a6bad3d0fe773a9070 |access-date=22 January 2019 |work=Diamond Valley Leader |date=11 July 2017 |language=en}}</ref>

=== Eastern suburbs ===
==== Lilydale line ====

*Extension of the [[Lilydale railway line|Lilydale line]] to [[Coldstream railway station, Melbourne|Coldstream station]] by re-electrifying part of the closed [[Healesville railway line|Healesville line]] was first proposed in the [[1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan]].<ref name=fouvy>{{cite web |url=http://rtsa.com.au/assets/2008/03/rapid-transit-by-l-fouvy.pdf |title=The Melbourne region's opportunity and need for rapid transit |publisher=Railway Technical Society of Australasia |author=C L Fouvy |access-date=18 July 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080721025337/http://rtsa.com.au/assets/2008/03/rapid-transit-by-l-fouvy.pdf |archive-date=21 July 2008 }}</ref> [[Yarra Ranges Council]] provided for a new station and stabling yard in Coldstream with its 2015 precinct structure plan, but cited advice from PTV that the extension was unlikely to occur.<ref name="Yarra Ranges 2015">{{cite book |title=Coldstream Structure Plan Draft |date=October 2015 |publisher=Yarra Ranges Council |page=39 |url=https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/webdocuments/planning-building-health/strategic-planning/public-notices-and-consultation-strategic-planning/coldstream_sp_structure_plan_draft-web2.pdf |access-date=22 January 2019}}</ref> The reservation has now been used for the Yarra Valley trail, which connects Lilydale to Yering Station along the old rail corridor.<ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |title=Yarra Valley Trail |url=https://www.rideyarraranges.com.au/yarra-valley-trail/ |access-date=2024-01-23 |website=Ride Yarra Ranges |language=en-AU}}</ref>
*An additional station at Cave Hill, between [[Mooroolbark railway station|Mooroolbark]] and [[Lilydale railway station|Lilydale]], has been proposed by Yarra Ranges Council to support residential development in the area.<ref name="Leader 24 Aug 2017">{{cite news |last1=Egging |first1=Kiel |title=Lilydale project to give township a new look |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/outer-east/major-works-part-of-a-new-vision-for-lilydale/news-story/52baacaafe19e77d6107fbd410476a4d |access-date=22 January 2019 |work=Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader |date=24 August 2017 |language=en}}</ref>

==== Rowville ====
{{main|Rowville railway line}}
*A railway line to the suburb of [[Rowville, Victoria|Rowville]] has been proposed repeatedly since its appearance in the 1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan, and was included in the PTV Network Development Plan.<ref name=":2" /> A 2012 feasibility study and a 2016 Infrastructure Victoria report rejected the project as a poor use of funds, but public transport advocates continue to favour a heavy rail line, particularly to serve the nearby [[Monash University]] campus. In 2018 the State Government instead proposed a light rail service along the route. It was expected to have a business case complete by 2019,<ref name="Age 7 May 2018">{{cite news |last1=Carey |first1=Adam |last2=Preiss |first2=Benjamin |title=Trains or trams? Debate begins over transport mode from Caulfield to Rowville |url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/trains-or-trams-debate-begins-over-transport-mode-from-caulfield-to-rowville-20180507-p4zdvk.html |access-date=22 January 2019 |work=The Age |date=7 May 2018 |language=en}}</ref> though that year local councils expressed concern the project had stalled.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/fears-caulfield-to-rowville-tram-link-on-ice-20190528-p51rz6.html|title=Fears Caulfield to Rowville tram link on ice|last=Jacks|first=Timna|date=2019-05-29|website=The Age|language=en|access-date=2020-02-23}}</ref>

==== Knox ====

* In their 2018 Melbourne Rail Plan, the Rail Futures Institute proposed an underground extension of the [[Glen Waverley railway line|Glen Waverley line]] to Knox City in [[Wantirna South, Victoria|Wantirna South]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.railfutures.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/MRP2050brochure.pdf|title=Melbourne Rail Plan 2019-2050|last=Rail Futures Institute|date=September 2018}}</ref>

==== Alamein line ====

*The 1940 [[Ashworth Improvement Plan]] identified future works to extend the [[Alamein railway line|Alamein line]] to [[East Malvern railway station|East Malvern]].
*Extending the [[Alamein railway line|Alamein line]] to [[Oakleigh railway station|Oakleigh]], along the old [[Outer Circle railway line|Outer Circle line]] reservation, primarily to serve Chadstone Shopping Centre.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/chaddy-about-to-get-a-whole-lot-bigger/2005/12/21/1135032080207.html |title=Chaddy about to get a whole lot bigger |date=22 December 2005 |work=The Age |access-date=30 July 2007 |location=Melbourne |first=Royce |last=Millar}}</ref>

=== South-eastern suburbs ===

==== South-East Fast Line ====

* In their 2018 Melbourne Rail Plan, the Rail Futures Institute proposed that by 2035 a new express line should be built from Southern Cross to Caulfield, Chadstone, Monash, Dandenong and Pakenham, with new stations at Chadstone and Monash.<ref name=":0" />

==== Frankston and Stony Point line ====

*Beaumaris railway line, a 1954 report by the [[Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works]] proposed a branch line from [[Moorabbin railway station|Moorabbin]] to Beaumaris, which included four stations, including stations at Bay Road and Cheltenham Road.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://localhistory.kingston.vic.gov.au/htm/article/372.htm |title=City of Kingston Historical Website - 'Beaumaris Railway Spur' |access-date=15 September 2008}}</ref>
*Extending the [[Frankston railway line|Frankston line]] to [[Hastings railway station, Melbourne|Hastings]] or [[Baxter railway station|Baxter]] by electrifying part of the [[Stony Point railway line|Stony Point line]] has been proposed to different extents at different times.<ref name=fouvy /><ref>Grady, New Jersey (1985). "Electrification - Overhead Line Equipment for the Year 2050". Conference on Railway Engineering 1985</ref> A business case for electrification to Baxter is due for completion in 2019.<ref name="9 News 23 Apr 2018">{{cite news |last1=Lund |first1=Andrew |title=Frankston line extension plans a step closer |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/2018/04/23/18/15/frankston-railway-line-melbourne-a-step-closer |access-date=22 January 2019 |work=9 News |date=23 April 2018}}</ref>

==== Electrification to Baxter ====
In 2019, the State Government completed a business case for electrification and extension of the [[Frankston railway line|Frankston line]] to [[Baxter railway station|Baxter station]] in Melbourne's south, due for completion in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Department of Economic Development |first=Jobs |title=Baxter electrification business case |url=https://transport.vic.gov.au:443/getting-around/public-transport/baxter-electrification-business-case |access-date=2019-07-02 |website=transport.vic.gov.au |language=en-au}}</ref> In November 2019 the business case was delivered to the Federal Government.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |date=2019-11-04 |title=Rail extension business case complete {{!}} Bayside News |url=https://baysidenews.com.au/2019/11/04/rail-extension-business-case-complete/ |access-date=2020-02-03 |website=Bayside News |language=en-AU}}</ref> The plan included electrification of the line with two stations, Baxter and [[Leawarra railway station|Leawarra station]] near [[Monash University, Peninsula campus|Monash University Peninsula Campus]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Department of Economic Development |first=Jobs |title=Baxter electrification business case |url=https://transport.vic.gov.au:443/getting-around/public-transport/baxter-electrification-business-case |access-date=2020-02-03 |website=transport.vic.gov.au |language=en-au}}</ref> The business case included other enhancements, such as track duplication, level crossing removals, station upgrades, car parking and train stabling.<ref name=":6" /> The Federal Government committed $225 million towards the project in its 2017-2018 budget.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Towell |first=Noel |date=2018-07-16 |title=Guy, Turnbull all aboard the $450 million Baxter rail link |url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/guy-turnbull-all-aboard-the-450-million-baxter-rail-link-20180716-p4zrsw.html |access-date=2019-07-02 |website=The Age |language=en}}</ref> However due to the federal government review regarding spending on major infrastructure projects, in November 2023 it was announced that project funding was subsequently axed.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-16 |title=List: the 50 projects to lose funding under Australian government's infrastructure spending review |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/nov/16/list-every-infrastructure-project-lose-funding-cuts-government-review-australia |access-date=2023-11-22 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

==== Pakenham and Cranbourne line ====

*The Public Transport Users' Association has proposed re-opening the [[General Motors railway station]] which closed in July 2002. Both platforms and the footbridge above the station remain but would require repairs and resurfacing or replacement, while the building and other fixtures would have to be demolished and new facilities built. PTV instead argues that land use in the area does not demand construction of a passenger station.<ref name="Leader 19 Apr 2015">{{cite news |last1=Townsend |first1=Melissa |title=General Motors "ghost station" to stay |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/south-east/no-plans-for-run-down-general-motors-train-station-at-dandenong-south/news-story/325b90d8ea84268edd32abd45d47ecfa |access-date=22 January 2019 |work=Dandenong Leader |date=19 April 2015 |language=en}}</ref>

=== Southern suburbs ===

==== St Kilda line ====
Although the [[St Kilda railway line|St Kilda Line]] has been converted to light rail operation and is now part of Melbourne's tram network, several proposals for rail extensions existed throughout its working life.
* Various proposals have existed to extend the St Kilda line to [[Elwood, Victoria|Elwood]].
**In 1857, a proposal was brought forward to bring the [[South Gippsland railway line|Gippsland Railway]] into Melbourne via Elsternwick, Elwood and St Kilda.<ref name=rosstown>D.F. Jowett & I.G. Weickhardt (1978). Return To Rosstown – Railways, Land Sales and Sugar Beet Ventures in Caulfield. Rosstown Historical Research Group, Chapter 9.</ref>
** In 1882, an Albert Park to Elwood Railway was listed on that year's Railway Construction Bill. Despite public support, the Elwood line was later deleted as it was felt that the area was already well served by public transport.<ref name=rosstown/>
** During 1884, William Ross developed plans to extend the St Kilda line to his [[Rosstown Railway]] via Elwood.  Two routes, a Sea Beach and inland Melbourne Extension were proposed.<ref name=rosstown/>
** The 1940 [[Ashworth Improvement Plan]] identified future works to extend the [[St Kilda railway line|St Kilda]] south easterly to [[Elwood, Victoria|Elwood]].  These included a tunnel under Fitzroy Street and 3 stations.
* In 1954 the [[Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works]] released their Planning Scheme for Melbourne which contained a new station on [[Southbank, Victoria|Southbank]] and a direct route to [[Southern Cross railway station|Spencer Street station]].<ref>1954 Planning Scheme, Melbourne Board of Works</ref>
* In 1970, the Tewksbury Symposium, a group of [[Melbourne University]] academics, proposed a "by-pass" line from the Glen Waverley railway via Caulfield and Elsternwick, to link up with the St Kilda line. The proposal was framed as part of an alternative scheme to the [[City Loop|Melbourne Underground Loop]].<ref>D.F. Jowett & I.G. Weickhardt (1978). Return To Rosstown – Railways, Land Sales and Sugar Beet Ventures in Caulfield. Rosstown Historical Research Group, Chapter 13.</ref>

== Notes ==
{{reflist|group=Note|refs=
<ref name=Note01>Although SRL East is consistently advertised as running from Cheltenham to Box Hill, the line will actually run from [[Southland railway station|Southland station]], located in the [[Cheltenham, Victoria|suburb of Cheltenham]].</ref>
}}
== See also ==
*[[Proposed Melbourne tram extensions]]
*[[Rail Projects Victoria]]

== References ==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://transport.vic.gov.au/our-transport-future/our-projects Current Department of Transport projects]
*[https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au Victoria's Big Build – current Major Transport Infrastructure Authority projects]
*[https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/footer/about-ptv/improvements-and-projects/train-and-rail/ Current Public Transport Victoria projects]

{{Melbourne public transport}}

[[Category:Railway stations in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Public transport in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Proposed railway lines in Melbourne]]
[[Category:Lists of proposals|Melbourne rail extensions]]
[[Category:Infrastructure-related lists]]