ALL ABOARD! XPT revamp puts passengers first while | Australian Markets

The Minns Labor Government is full steam forward on delivering high-quality jobs and building a expert workforce in Western Sydney, with a quarter of the state’s XPT energy vehicles now upgraded via one of NSW’s most important rail upkeep tasks.

And it’s not simply the employees who’re benefiting – passengers throughout regional NSW are getting a sneak peek on the future of regional rail, with refurbished XPT vehicles to make journeys more dependable, comfy, and pleasant.

The $40.3 million fast-tracked XPT Life Extension Project is delivering for each the economic system and commuters – supporting 40 full-time rail upkeep jobs, coaching 16 apprentices, and giving the long-lasting XPT fleet a much-needed makeover.

The work is happening on the newly upgraded Auburn Heavy Maintenance Centre and is an element of Labor’s dedication to placing Western Sydney manufacturing and regional connectivity back on observe.

This transformation is more than simply mechanical. It’s a complete refresh of the fleet inside and out, aimed toward enhancing passenger expertise while upskilling a new era of rail staff.

Better Trains, Better Travel

From more comfy seats and new carpets to clearer home windows and recent paint, the upgrades are making a noticeable distinction for the hundreds of people who depend on XPT providers each week.

The mechanical overhaul is enhancing reliability, while aesthetic and comfort-focused upgrades are making certain that long-distance regional journey is more nice, accessible, and fashionable.

The first financial 12 months of this system wrapped on 30 June 2025 with 25% of energy vehicles accomplished proper on schedule. Thanks to good facility upgrades and concurrent work strategies, this system is now on observe to finish round 50% of energy vehicles by the top of the 12 months.

One key effectivity gain has come from the upgraded spray sales space, which now contains two heating systems, chopping portray time from 4 weeks to simply two per energy car.

Over the life of the five-year program, the XPT overhaul will embody:

•2,750 sq. metres of carpet laid
•590 home windows changed
•4,000 litres of paint used
•2,600 seats refurbished

•275,000 hours labored

So far, in simply the first 12 months:
•Over 250 sq. metres of carpet and 50 sq. metres of vinyl laid
•More than 50 home windows changed
•Over 250 seats upgraded for consolation
•500 litres of paint utilized

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison mentioned:

“The Minns Labor Government’s fast-tracking of this $40.3 million project is preserving regional NSW on observe on a number of fronts – higher, more dependable transport providers and high-quality jobs chugging alongside in Western Sydney.

“This is about more than upkeep, it’s about giving passengers the consolation, reliability and high quality they deserve, while building the expert rail workforce we need for the long run.

“This project shows Labor’s commitment to regional connectivity isn’t just hot air, we’re ensuring communities across NSW stay connected while we build the skilled workforce needed to keep our rail industry on the right track.”

Minister for Skills Steve Whan mentioned:

“Skills are the engine driving this project, with 16 apprentices gaining invaluable expertise in superior rail engineering and manufacturing techniques they wouldn’t get wherever else.

“They’re developing superior capabilities, creating in-house options, and building a sturdy basis for the following chapter of NSW’s rail manufacturing future.

“This Labor Government isn’t just maintaining trains, it’s training the next generation of skilled rail workers who will drive innovation across NSW.”

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