Long-distance passenger rail business case
We are looking into ways to improve services and replace the trains used for the long-distance passenger network connecting many destinations across Queensland.
In October 2020, the Queensland Government committed $1 million towards a business case to replace carriages on the iconic Westlander, Inlander and Spirit of the Outback long distance passenger rail services.
Partnering with Queensland Rail, the business case will explore ways to:
- enhance customer experience
- support regional tourism development
- improve regional network connectivity
- support rail manufacturing in Queensland.
We are taking a network approach to reviewing these service lines:
- Inlander: Townsville to Mount Isa
- Spirit of the Outback: Brisbane to Longreach
- Westlander: Brisbane to Charleville.
The future design process will be guided by the recommendations from the New Generation Rollingstock Commission of Inquiry and consultation with the disability sector.
Benefits
- Improves network efficiency
- Contributes to economy
- Contributes to regional growth
Current status
The business case is progressing with supplementary assessments currently being undertaken to refine and finalise the Long Distance Passenger Rail business case, with an investment decision anticipated in 2025.
Long-distance network map
Map description
A map of Queensland showing the routes and stations for all long-distance rail service.
The business case is looking at the following (from bottom to top on map):
- Westlander: train line route from Brisbane to Charleville (777km west of Brisbane)
- Spirit of the Outback: train line route from Brisbane to Rockhampton and then west to Longreach (686km west of Rockhampton)
- Inlander: train line route from Townsville to Mount Isa (977km west of Townsville).