Passenger Rail

Interstate XPT services to return as NSW and Victoria border re-opens

XPT

The first XPT to run from Sydney Central to Melbourne Southern Cross will depart on Wednesday, November 25.

The service will be the first since the border closed four months ago. The first XPT service from Melbourne to Sydney will depart Southern Cross on Thursday, November 26.

Minister for Regional Transport Paul Toole said that returning NSW TrainLink services would enable people to travel throughout both states.

“NSW is very much open for business – we’re here to help people get to where they want to go with affordable transport options to visit family and friends across the border, all as well as providing the opportunity to explore all that regional NSW has to offer.”

Passengers wishing to cross the NSW/Victorian border on a V/Line service will have to wait a little longer, when works on the North East Line wrap up and allow services to return from December 1.

Toole said that social distancing norms would be followed on regional services with extra cleaning and other measures continuing.

“Customer safety is our top priority so please plan ahead and book tickets early as services are still running at about 50 per cent capacity to help maintain physical distancing,” he said.

Toole said that regional communities would benefit from having more transport options.

“It’s been a challenging time for our regional communities, especially border towns, and we know people are eager to venture beyond state borders,” he said.

“I want to thank our border towns for working with us during the pandemic and want you to know we are doing all we can to get you moving again.”