The European Train Control System (ETCS) is a digital signalling system that is being rolled out to key parts of the South East Queensland network.
ETCS makes our network smarter. It works with the new Traffic Management System to manage and monitor train movements. It sends near real-time information between trains and our Rail Management Centre, showing each train's position, direction and speed. By using this data, trains can travel closer together safely and reliably. That means more trains can run more often. It also updates train schedules automatically, giving customers more timely and accurate information.
Installing ETCS will:
The Queensland Government is funding the delivery of the ETCS Program.
We're rolling out ETCS in stages along the future Sector One corridor in South East Queensland. This aligns with the South East Queensland Rail Connect plan, which shows our new three-sector network.
The Sector One rail network will act as the 'north-south spine.' It will link the northern and southern regions and help provide faster rail services. We’ve prioritised this sector for the rollout. This is due to the expected population growth in and around this corridor.
How we stage the roll out ETCS also depends on available funding and integration with major projects such as Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail and The Wave.
The map further down the page shows the current status of each stage in the ETCS rollout for Sector One.
As part of Cross River Rail, ETCS has been installed and is currently undergoing testing on the Shorncliffe line. Once testing is complete, ETCS will be progressively installed in other project areas and in the Cross River Rail tunnels which rely on its technology to safely operate. The project also includes the integration of ETCS and the Traffic Management System into existing control rooms and control operations
These aspects of ETCS are being delivered by the Sequence Signalling and Systems Alliance (Sequence Alliance) which brings together Hitachi Rail, Queensland Rail and the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority under an alliance style contract, working closely with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Procurement is in progress to choose a second ETCS supplier. This supplier will design and install ETCS between Elimbah and Caloundra, including a potential test line between Elimbah and Beerburrum. It will also be the signalling solution for two major projects: Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade (Stage 1) and Stage 1 of The Wave.
We’ve begun early design work with Queensland Rail and two shortlisted suppliers as part of the Early Contractor Involvement process. We expect to award the contract to the successful supplier in early 2026.
In September 2024, we awarded a contract to the Sequence Alliance to install ETCS between Beenleigh to Varsity Lakes. Construction began in February 2025, with completion expected in late 2026.
We’re also planning further installations on the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines between Kuraby and Beenleigh, and Moorooka and Kuraby (subject to funding).
The below map outlines the current status of each stage of ETCS rollout on Sector One.
| Project locations | Delivery status |
|---|---|
| Beerwah station to Caloundra* station (to be delivered in conjunction with stage one of The Wave) |
Fully funded – procurement activities in progress |
| Caloundra* station to Birtinya* station (expected to be delivered in conjunction with stage two of The Wave) |
Planning in progress |
| Elimbah station to Beerwah station Including a potential pilot line for testing ETCS software between Elimbah and Beerburrum (to be partially delivered in conjunction with Beerburrum to Nambour Rail Upgrade Stage 1 project) |
Planning in progress |
| Petrie station to Kippa Ring station | Planning in progress |
| Northgate station to Elimbah station | Planning in progress |
| Cross River Rail (Tunnel Portal North) to Northgate station | Planning in progress |
*Future station
| Project locations | Delivery status |
|---|---|
| Cross River Rail tunnels The Cross River Rail project is managing the installation of ETCS technology through the twin tunnels and extending south to Moorooka. System testing is already underway on the Shorncliffe Pilot Line. |
Fully funded – design and construction in progress |
| Project locations | Delivery status |
|---|---|
| Moorooka station to Kuraby station | Planning in progress |
| Kuraby station to Beenleigh station (to be delivered in conjunction with the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail project) |
Fully funded – procurement activities in progress |
| Beenleigh station to Varsity Lakes station (ETCS is being installed here first to support the delivery of the new Ormeau rail facility and Gold Coast stations at Pimpama, Hope Island and Merrimac.) |
Fully funded – design and construction in progress |
We are also planning several initiatives to support ETCS' implementation.
These include:
As we roll out ETCS, you may experience some temporary rail service changes and disruptions. We appreciate your patience during its implementation.
To stay up to date with the service changes, please visit the Translink website.
The European Train Control System (ETCS) is a digital signalling system being progressively installed to key parts of the South East Queensland (SEQ) rail network.
ETCS plays an important part in the future of our rail network, delivering increased safety, capacity, efficiency, and reliability for a sustainable transport network.
ETCS will soon be installed on the Gold Coast line between Beenleigh and Varsity Lakes stations.
Last updated: 16 October 2025
