The government of Victoria has awarded the Suburban Connect consortium with the first major tunnelling contract for the Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop East project. The A$3.6bn Tunnels South contract includes the construction of the Cheltenham to Glen Waverley section, spanning 16 km of the total 26 km twin tunnel requirement. This package also entails the construction of two underground station boxes, 55 cross-passages, and portals at the Southern Stabling Yard.
Tunnel boring machines are scheduled to commence major tunnelling works in 2026. To prioritize skill development, the contract mandates that at least 12% of working hours be performed by trainees, apprentices, and cadets.
Marco Fontana, the Australian Managing Director of Ghella, expressed the significance of the contract award as it marks the company’s inaugural venture in the state of Victoria. He stated, This project promises to bring a profound and positive impact to the residents of Melbourne through critical transport connections.
Another contract is expected to be awarded for the Glen Waverley to Box Hill section of the route.
The Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop tunnelling contract marks a significant milestone in the development of this crucial infrastructure project. The contract, awarded to the Suburban Connect consortium, comprising Acciona, CPB Contractors, and Ghella, covers the construction of the Cheltenham to Glen Waverley section, a vital part of the 26 km twin tunnel network needed for the Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop East project.
Valued at A$3.6bn, the Tunnels South contract not only includes the construction of the 16 km tunnel but also encompasses the development of two underground station boxes, as well as 55 cross-passages and portals at the Southern Stabling Yard. These critical components will contribute to the seamless functioning of the rail loop.
To ensure the project prioritizes skill development and creates employment opportunities, the contract stipulates that at least 12% of working hours be allocated to trainees, apprentices, and cadets. This initiative aims to provide valuable experience and growth opportunities for emerging talents within the industry.
Tunnel boring machines, scheduled to commence major tunnelling works in 2026, will play a pivotal role in the project’s execution. With their immense power and precision, these machines will facilitate the construction process, allowing for efficient progress and adherence to project timelines.
The significance of this contract award extends beyond the development of infrastructure. Marco Fontana, the Australian Managing Director of Ghella, expressed the importance of this venture for the company’s expansion. As he stated, This project promises to bring a profound and positive impact to the residents of Melbourne through critical transport connections. The Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop East project will not only enhance transportation accessibility but also benefit the community by providing improved connectivity and convenience.
Moving forward, an additional contract for the Glen Waverley to Box Hill section of the route is expected to be awarded. This will further solidify the progress of the Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop, establishing it as a transformative rail infrastructure project in Victoria.
The Melbourne Suburban Rail Loop tunnelling contract marks a significant step towards enhancing Victoria’s transportation network. As this critical project progresses, it is poised to bring about transformative changes, improving connectivity, and providing efficient transportation solutions for the residents of Melbourne.
