This major opportunity has attracted strong international interest, and three world leading bidders have been shortlisted to submit a Request for Proposal.
- Go Places Melbourne (a consortium of Go-Ahead Australia, Acciona Rail and Tokyo Metro)
- RATP Dev JH Downer (comprising RATP Dev, John Holland and Downer); and
- Melbourne Grow (a consortium of MTR Corporation Australia, CRRC and DT Infrastructure)
Each shortlisted bidder will provide a detailed proposal outlining how they would operate and maintain Melbourne’s metropolitan rail franchise.
About the MR5 Train Franchise
The successful MR5 operator will be responsible for running more than 2,000 daily services across 1,000 kilometres of track. The network includes:
- An expanding train fleet
- Seven maintenance depots
- More than 220 stations
- Nearly 7,000 employees
The future franchisee will deliver a world class customer experience, seamlessly connecting passengers with the world’s largest tram network, regional rail, buses and airport links.
The MR5 Train refranchising is an opportunity to raise the bar and deliver better outcomes for customers.
Over the next six months, the three shortlisted bidders will develop proposals on how they can provide best value to the state, with uplifted customer experience and stronger network performance.
This includes how they'll deliver an even better experience for passengers with a focus on punctuality, improved accessibility and innovation.
The competitive tender process will ensure we choose an operator who can deliver the best outcome for all Victorians.
The new contract is due to commence in late 2027.
For more information on the refranchising of Melbourne’s train contract please email MR5@transport.vic.gov.au.
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