The Allan Labor Government is undertaking one final blitz of works to complete the Shepparton Line Upgrade with 45-days of construction planned later this year.
From Wednesday, 31 October until last service Sunday, 14 December, crews will undertake work to install, commission and test the new train control system.
Crews will carry out signalling works along the line, including cabling and installing trackside equipment between Seymour and Shepparton. These works are essential to complete the new system, which will enable more frequent services.
The blitz will also include safety testing of new infrastructure along the 87 kilometres stretch of line, driver training, and the complex commissioning needed to safely bring the system into operation.
Once complete, the Shepparton Line will have capacity for nine V/Line return services between Shepparton and Melbourne each day.
The Labor Government's investment in the first two stages of the upgrade has already delivered major improvements, including a stabling upgrade at Shepparton which enabled 10 additional services each week.
Stage 2 works upgraded Mooroopna, Murchison East and Nagambie stations, improved train detection at 59 level crossings, and delivered new stabling to allow modern VLocity trains to operate on the line for the first time.
The Government's regional fare cap has transformed the way people travel around the state, with more than 60 million train trips taken across the network and more than $156 million saved since it was introduced in 2023.
Stage 3 of the project has upgraded close to 40 kilometres of track, extended the Murchison East passing loop, allowing 1,200-metre freight trains and two six-car VLocity trains to pass each other. It has also increased capacity at the new Shepparton stabling facility to support more services.
The $414.2 million project is jointly funded with a $331.4 million Australian Government contribution and $82.8 million from the Victorian Government.
As stated by Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams
"The Shepparton Line Upgrade is nearing completion and we thank passengers for their patience as we get on with these important works for the community."
"This upgrade is a game-changer for Shepparton and the wider region - paving the way for more trains, more often, connecting locals to jobs, education and leisure opportunities."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"After years of work, we're close to delivering the biggest ever upgrade to the Shepparton Line - and that means better connections, and a stronger future for our growing communities."
