High-Capacity Signalling system for Perth's rail network one step closer

• Two proponents shortlisted for High-Capacity Signalling project
• Existing signalling and control systems on Perth's urban rail network will be upgraded
• New system will increase network capacity to meet future demands

Two proponents have now been shortlisted to design, supply, build and maintain a High-Capacity Signalling (HCS) system for the Public Transport Authority.

The two proponents shortlisted are:

• Alstom Transport Australia Pty Ltd & Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd (ADJV); and
• Siemens Mobility Pty Ltd, Siemens Mobility GmbH and Wabtec Control Systems (SafePerth)

The two proponents were shortlisted after submitting EOI applications in September last year. They will now progress to the second stage of a Competitive Early Contractor Involvement process, where they will prepare more detailed submissions.

Funded by the State and Commonwealth governments, the HCS project will replace Perth's ageing urban rail network control systems with a more modern, integrated, communications-based train control system, allowing more trains to run more often.

The new system will be critical to supporting the significant expansion in passenger rail services being delivered through the State Government's METRONET program.

The new system will continuously send real-time train data to the Public Transport Operations Control Centre (PTOCC) – currently under construction in East Perth – to monitor the speed and location of every train on the railway network.

The PTOCC will include a network control centre, a central monitoring room and office space to house the infrastructure and personnel needed to manage day-to-day operations of Perth's public transport rail network.

The HCS project will be delivered in stages to minimise disruption to train operations, with the rollout expected to be carried out over the next 10 years.

The HCS contract is expected to be awarded in 2024.

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"This announcement brings us one step closer to upgrading our rail network's signalling and control systems, which will improve the reliability and safety of our network, and allow more trains to run more often.

"With some of our existing systems at the end of their functional life and a major expansion to our passenger rail network on the horizon thanks to METRONET, delivering a new High-Capacity Signalling system will ensure we can continue to service a modern suburban rail system."