High Speed Rail : On track?

Newcastle Institute presents:

High Speed Rail : On track?

High speed rail between Sydney and Newcastle has been on the agenda for decades. Since the 1980’s there have been many investigations and proposals, with persistent financial and engineering challenges combined with lack of government commitment, stalling any progress.

The current Australian government has a vision for a high-speed rail network from Melbourne to Brisbane across the east coast. The first stage is proposed to connect Newcastle to Sydney in an hour. But will it become reality?

At our August event (August 13th, 2025) Tim Parker, the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Government’s High Speed Rail Authority will present the plans for the high speed rail and progress to date. With more than 30 years of experience delivering complex infrastructure projects in Asia and Australia including our biggest public transport project — Sydney Metro, NorthConnex and Hong Kong International Airport, he is ideally placed to achieve this vision.

With the establishment of the High Speed Rail Authority Office in Newcastle and a business case submitted to government, could this finally be happening? There may be many sceptics, but this is an opportunity to hear about the progress to date and the opportunities and challenges to deliver on this significant project.

When: Wednesday, 13 Aug 2025 6.00pm - 7.30pm 
Where: Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, Hannell Street, Wickham
Members entry is complimentary - we request a $10 donation from casual attendees. 

Live streaming on Newcastle Institute Facebook page