Project

Melbourne Train Refranchising

PROJECT STATUS
Under Procurement
Melbourne Train Refranchising

Melbourne’s train refranchising covers the long-term operations and maintenance the train network.

The network comprises:

  • 16 lines

  • 227 stations

  • 429 trains

  • 17 depots

The franchise terms is expected to go up to 15 years, with options for extension. The franchise will support integration with major projects such as the Metro Tunnel, new rolling stock, and network upgrades.

Procurement

Procuring Agency: Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP)

PROJECT HISTORY

Nov 2017 The MR4 Melbourne Train Franchise was awarded in November 2017 to Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) – a consortium of UGL Rail, John Holland and MTR Corporation – for an initial seven-year term, with options to extend up to three years.
Mar 2023 The Victorian Government announced an 18-month extension of the contract from November 2024 to May 2026. This was to ensure operational readiness during the opening phase of the Melbourne Metro Tunnel – due to open in 2025. The Government then exercised the option to further extend the contract to November 2027. The Metro Tunnel was originally expected to open in September 2024.
Estimated Total Cost
(2025)
Sector
Rail
Procurement approach
Traditional Procurement |
Location
Victoria |
Resources
Government resources
MR4 Franchise Agreements
Major Contract

Melbourne Train Refranchising 5 - MR5

PROJECT STATUS
Under Procurement
Melbourne Train Refranchising 5 - MR5

The MR5 Train franchise will cover operations and maintenance of Melbourne’s metropolitan train network, including rolling stock, track, signalling, communications, and traction power systems under a contract of up to 15 years. The network comprises:

  • 16 lines

  • 227 stations

  • 429 trains

  • 17 depots

Key Dates

Sep 2025 ROIs Open
Oct 2025 ROIs Close
Oct 2025 EOIs Open
Dec 2025 EOIs Close
Nov 2027 Operations/Service Commencement

Procurement

Procuring Agency: Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP)

PROJECT HISTORY

Sep 2025 The Victorian Government commenced procurement for the next franchise of Melbourne’s metropolitan train franchise – MR5, through the opening of a Registration of Experience (ROE).
Sector
Rail
Procurement approach
Service Contract |
Location
Victoria |
Resources
Government resources
Registration of Experience