Alstom has secured a contract to install advanced digital signalling on the Sunshine Coast line in Brisbane, Australia.

The contract, worth €69m, is the first tranche of a €214m framework contract that will improve capacity, safety, and reliability on the line, and accelerate the move to a digital rail network in Queensland.

The system to be installed is the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 digital signalling, and will incorporate a 5G digital radio system, which a third party will provide, but with integration carried out by Alstom.

Alstom’s ETCS Level 2 system is already in use on thousands of kilometres of railway in over 35 countries, and is a radio-based platform, which provides continuous train control to ensure trains operate safely, and makes the most efficient use of the railway network. It is part of a broader ETCS Program for Queensland’s railways in preparation for the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games to be held in Brisbane.

A benefit of the contract is the creation of local jobs, with a new Centre of Excellence investing in Queensland’s rail workforce through providing apprenticeships and traineeships.

In delivering the project, Alstom, as the ETCS contractor, will design, supply, test, and commission its ONVIA Control ETCS Level 2 trackside signalling system. It will also work in partnership with Queensland Rail as the network operator, whilst multiple civil contractors will deliver the necessary infrastructure works.

Elsewhere in Australia, Alstom is building a new railway line in Melbourne, Victoria, and installing high-capacity signalling technology in Perth, Western Australia.

“As Queensland prepares to host the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic games, Alstom is proud to bring its global digital signalling leadership to support the transformation of the State’s rail network. This project brings together Alstom’s globally proven ETCS technology with our strong local presence in Queensland to support a safer, more efficient and future-ready transport system.”

Guillaume Tritter, Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand.

“Alstom’s ETCS Level 2 system is a globally proven, interoperable platform deployed across thousands of kilometres of railway in more than 35 countries, enabling operators to maximise capacity, safety and network efficiency through continuous digital train control. Advanced versions of this technology are being delivered by Alstom across the region, including in the Philippines and India. “

Ling Fang, Asia-Pacific Region President, Alstom