Digital Systems to transform Sydney's rail network

The transformation of Sydney’s rail network through Digital Systems is a step closer with the NSW Government signing a $16 million contract to ensure new technology is properly integrated into the Sydney Trains network.

Network Rail Consulting has been awarded the System Integrator contract and will play a key role in defining and delivering the Digital Systems program. The System Integrator brings experience from deployment of comparable systems delivered on Thameslink and on the Madrid suburban network, as well as many other projects through Europe and globally.

In June 2018, the NSW Government announced an $880 million investment in technology improvements to modernise the Sydney Trains network, including the development of Digital Systems.

The Digital Systems Program is the next phase of More Trains, More Services, and contains three main elements: 

• Replacing trackside signalling equipment with the latest European Train Control System Level 2 technology
• Implementing Automatic Train Operation, which will be used to assist drivers – who will still remain in control – and provide faster and more consistent journey times
• Introducing a Traffic Management System for more effective incident management and service regulation across the network.

These elements will transform Sydney’s rail network, creating improved services  for our customers.

The System Integrator will lead collaboration with key partners in delivering Digital Systems. They will also assist with procurement of major supplier packages, which will continue in 2019.

Digital Systems will be delivered in stages with services coming online progressively from the early 2020s.

About Transport for NSW

Transport for NSW lead the development of safe, integrated and efficient transport systems for the people of NSW. Our customers are at the centre of everything that we do, including transport planning, strategy, policy, procurement and other non-service delivery functions across all modes of transport - roads, rail, ferries, light rail and point to point.