GHD welcomes Federal Government funding to advance High Speed Rail business case

Global professional services company GHD welcomes today’s announcement by Hon Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, of funding to develop the next stages of the High Speed Rail Newcastle to Sydney business case.

High speed rail is a transformative project for Australia. Today’s funding announcement marks a significant step forward in addressing some of our most pressing challenges: improving connectivity, supporting population growth and housing, unlocking productivity, tourism and jobs, and contributing to net zero.

Rebecca Want, GHD’s Transport Market Leader in Sydney, said, “Delivering high speed rail is a nation-building opportunity. By prioritising productivity and collaboration from the outset, we can facilitate lasting benefits for communities, industry, and the economy. Realising this vision will rely on a coordinated effort across the supply chain and a shared commitment to productivity and innovation.

As a dedicated passenger rail line, high speed rail will deliver faster, more reliable journeys that enable safe, sustainable and connected communities.

As Australia’s cities and growth corridors continue to expand, long‑term, integrated infrastructure planning is critical to enable communities to remain connected, liveable and economically resilient. In Newcastle, travel to Sydney would be cut to around one hour, transforming daily life for commuters, families, and tourists. For Newcastle, the Central Coast, and communities along the corridor, high speed rail will mean faster travel, new job opportunities, and increased access to housing, education, and healthcare. The development phase will also explore opportunities to connect Nancy Bird Walton Airport with Sydney, the Central Coast, and Newcastle, making regional connection even easier.”

GHD has a long history of supporting projects that improve connectivity and enhance liveability through major transport and infrastructure initiatives across Australia and around the world. With a strong local presence in Newcastle, New South Wales and 12,000 employees globally, GHD looks forward to supporting the vision for high speed rail, and collaborating with partners and stakeholders to enable faster connection and stronger communities.

About GHD

GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 12,000+ professionals is connected across 165 offices located on five continents.