The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed the announcement that Australia’s high speed rail project will move into the detailed planning phase.

ARA Chief Executive Officer, Caroline Wilkie, said the project represented a major opportunity for the national rail sector and the broader economy.

“High speed rail has been discussed for decades, and this milestone brings Australia closer to making it a reality,” Wilkie said.

“This is a transformational project that has the potential to deliver long-term economic growth, jobs, and urban renewal.”

Wilkie said development funding over the next two years would allow industry to demonstrate how high speed rail could be delivered efficiently and sustainably.

“Global experience shows that high speed rail can drive urban renewal, housing, and development outcomes that are difficult to achieve through other infrastructure investments,” she said.

“The next two years will be critical in charting the path toward delivery and ensuring Australians benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

She said the rail sector had the capability to deliver a project of this scale and would be prepared to begin construction activity later in the decade.

“We have the industry expertise to deliver a project of this calibre and will be ready to support implementation when required,” Wilkie said.

According to the ARA, high speed rail has the potential to reduce travel times, expand housing opportunities, support net zero operations, and strengthen manufacturing and supply chains.

Wilkie said it was important that the planning phase identified opportunities to integrate transport investment with housing and regional development.

“The proposed Newcastle-Sydney corridor is just the beginning, and planning must consider long-term network expansion,” she said.

“We must ensure that development, land use, and infrastructure planning are aligned from the outset.”

The ARA said it would continue working with governments and industry stakeholders to support the delivery of a high speed rail network that benefits metropolitan and regional communities.

The association has long advocated for high speed rail as a means of improving sustainable transport, boosting urban renewal, and generating economic opportunities across Australia.