Queensland Rail’s track network consists of almost 7000 km of track across South East Queensland passenger systems and freight systems throughout Queensland.
Queensland Rail's Regional Freight Network
Queensland Rail’s regional freight network is market-focussed, and is responsible for performance in the Mount Isa, North Coast, Western, Maryborough area, South Western, Central West and Tablelands systems. Although non-coal freight is the main market of these systems, coal and passenger traffic is also present.
Rail operators and other access seekers interested in using the freight system of the rail network should negotiate most aspects of their proposed operations through Network Services. Every application is handled under a process set down in the 2008 QR Network Access Undertaking, which defines the regime for open access to our rail infrastructure. The process is approved by the competition regulator, the Queensland Competition Authority and includes requirements and timeframes. The Access and Regulation section provides an access seeker interested in operating train services with the necessary information in order to develop an accurate access request.
Network is responsive to the needs of its rail operator customers. We aim to work closely with these customers to develop strategies of programs and infrastructure enhancements to align with their long-term visions for the freight market. For example, the Mount Isa System Rail Infrastructure Plan outlines the various options for future planning in this rail system and is developed with extensive industry consultation.
Queensland Rail's South East Queensland Network
The South East Queensland network spans 740 kilometres of track, stretching from Varsity Lakes on the Gold Coast in the South to Nambour on the Sunshine Coast in the North, and from Moreton Bay in the East inland to Rosewood in the west.
Our network includes seven separate lines that transport passengers, freight and coal traffic throughout the major metropolitan area surrounding Brisbane.
Our business delivers a fit for purpose metropolitan rail network to the Queensland Government for use by passenger, freight and coal rail operators. In addition to access revenue, the South East Queensland network is supported through both the Transport Service Contract (Rail Infrastructure) and Transport Service Contract (Non-Rail, Non-Operational Corridor Land).
The vast majority of traffic on the South East Queensland rail network serves the passenger community. This market is serving record growth with more than 1,000 people moving to the state of Queensland each week. Providing our four million residents with reliable and efficient transport across the region is a priority for our business. In addition, our network is used to transport freight and coal and is used by Heritage Operators across the region.
Working with the Queensland Government, we are participating in a number of important studies to determine how to best expand and develop the rail network to meet the tremendous growth anticipated in this market over the next 20 years.
The Access and Regulation section provides an access seeker interested in operating train services with the necessary information in order to develop an accurate access request.
If you would like more information or would like to submit an access request please call our business representative Andrew Matthews on +61 7 3235 3609.