WA considers reviving Perth-Albany passenger rail shut since 1978
A 450km rail line was scrapped in 1978. It may return if the WA government approves a feasibility study.
The WA government says buying back the state's freight network opens the door to new passenger rail. The Great Southern Railway once connected Perth to Albany.
The Great Southern Railway ran through six towns: Narrogin, Wagin, Katanning and Mount Barker. Passenger services ended in 1978.
Several attempts to revive them have failed. Communities say rail would help people access health and education services.
It could also boost tourism. Rail advocacy group Countrynet Rail Alliance says now is the time to investigate.
Costs are lower right now. The government has shown support in principle.
But passenger rail needs major capital investment and ongoing costs.
- 450 kilometres
- Rail line length
- 1900s
- Line built
- 1978
- Passenger services ended
- Simon Lyas, Countrynet Rail Alliance
- Spokesperson
Why it mattersRegional towns are losing access to essential services. Rail could reconnect isolated communities and support struggling local economies.
AustraliaIf approved, Western Australian towns from Narrogin to Albany would gain passenger rail for the first time in almost five decades.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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