Media release: RTBU calls for better rail connections for the South Coast to Sydney

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union NSW will put forward a resolution at this weekend’s ALP State Conference, calling on Labor to complete duplication and electrification of the rail line between Kiama and Bomaderry.

The electrification of the South Coast line to Kiama was completed in 2001, enabling commuters to travel directly and regularly between Kiama and Sydney on metropolitan rail services.

New RTBU NSW Secretary, Toby Warnes said it’s more difficult for passengers travelling to and from Nowra/ Bomaderry due to less frequent services and commuters needing to change at Kiama to be able to continue to Sydney.

“Extending Sydney Train services and duplication of lines to Bomaderry would represent a significant improvement in access to intercity public transport for people on the South Coast,” Mr Warnes said.

“It’s time we gave residents on the South Coast better connectivity to Sydney, without having to change trains at Kiama.”

The RTBU said the NSW Government should be focused on looking for opportunities to re-open closed rail lines as well as open new rail links for better connections to and from Sydney to the regions.

The Union will also urge NSW Labor to commit to developing regional rail, during the weekend conference.

“Regional and rural communities are crying out for improved rail links. Since the pandemic, we’ve seen an uptake in regional rail travel as fuel prices increase and people have realised it’s a really viable way to move around our state.

“It is time to shift thinking on regional rail and identify both previously closed rail lines for refurbishment, as well as opportunities for new regions to be serviced by this transport vital infrastructure.”