High speed rail: Faster journeys, connected communities

High speed rail will change the way Australians live, work, and connect. It is more than a transport project – it’s a significant step toward faster travel, improved regional access, and stronger economic growth.

Unlocking the future of Australian transport

High speed rail will change the way Australians live, work, and connect. It is more than a transport project, it’s a significant step toward faster travel, improved regional access, and stronger economic growth.

The proposed first stage, linking Newcastle to Sydney, will reduce travel time to about one hour, making journeys safer, quicker, and more reliable for commuters and visitors. By improving connectivity and creating smarter ways to move between regions, high speed rail will support more connected and liveable communities across Australia.

Why high speed rail is important

Enhanced connectivity: links cities and regions in a faster and more convenient way.
Economic growth: connects people and places, encouraging investment, job creation and regional development.
Sustainability: helps reduce congestion and emissions, supporting Australia’s climate goals.
Community liveability: improves access to jobs, education and services, strengthening communities along the corridor.
Future focused: supports a network that allows for population growth, addresses climate change and meets future mobility needs.

Why now? The opportunity in Australia

Australia’s economic productivity and predicted population growth is calling for the delivery of smarter and more efficient transport solutions. High speed rail offers an opportune response to this need. The proposed first corridor to be delivered – linking Newcastle to Sydney in under an hour – is set to reshape regional accessibility and productivity.

The current climate presents a unique opportunity for innovative private and public investment approaches to create sustainable infrastructure, with government support and industry momentum at an all-time high.

CROSSROADS study

GHD’s CROSSROADS study provides important insights into how future generations value public transport, highlighting that accessibility, sustainability and community connection are top priorities when it comes to shaping the transport networks of tomorrow.

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98 years solving complex challenges

For nearly a century, we have delivered complex infrastructure projects across Australia. Our multidisciplinary expertise, local networks and global reach enable us to solve the toughest challenges and create lasting social value.

Our teams can bring relevant local and international expertise across the whole project lifecycle, including:

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)

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Comprehensive environmental studies and approvals, balancing project delivery with biodiversity, heritage and sustainability goals to protect and enhance natural environment.

Geotechnical engineering

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Specialist knowledge in ground investigations, interpretation and risk management to support robust, resilient rail infrastructure, including decades of experience in the NSW region.

Tunneling

Advanced solutions for complex underground environments, supporting safety, efficiency and minimal disruption.

Built environment and placemaking

Design and delivery of stations, in regional and city contexts, maintenance depots and supporting facilities that enhance passenger experience and operational performance.

Rail systems

Integration of cutting-edge signalling, communications and electrification systems for safe, reliable and future-ready networks.

Digital engineering

Leveraging BIM, digital twins and data analytics to optimise design, construction and asset management.

Safety

Embedding safety by design and operational best practices to protect people, assets and communities.

Project management

End-to-end delivery oversight, risk management and stakeholder coordination helping projects to be completed on time, within budget and to the highest standards.

Community and Indigenous engagement

Collaborative partnerships with communities and Traditional Owners so that local voices shape project outcomes, foster social value and deliver culturally respectful solutions.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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Applying AI and advanced analytics to improve planning, predictive maintenance and passenger services.

Why GHD?

Trusted advisor and multidisciplinary expertise
We bring together diverse teams to deliver the best outcomes in complex situations.
Deliver productivity and value through collaboration
Our integrated approach accelerates delivery and reduces risk.
Local capability, global strength
Deep community connections and access to global innovations.
Proven experience in creating lasting social value
Inclusive, sustainable solutions that leave a positive legacy.