UPDATE: Train delays continue as the highly anticipated rollout of the new XPT fleet remains uncertain. Despite the arrival of additional trains, regional rail commuters in New South Wales are still left without a confirmed timeline for when these state-of-the-art trains will be operational.
The new fleet, comprising 29 modern trains, was originally announced by the NSW Government in February 2019 to replace the aging fleet of XPT, XPLORER, and Endeavour trains, many of which have been in service for nearly 40 years. The latest developments reveal that only six of these trains are currently in the country, with the sixth train recently transported to the Mindyarra Maintenance Centre in Dubbo for further preparations.
“Each train will undergo fit-out, preparation, static and dynamic testing before entering service,” a spokesperson from Transport for NSW stated. The first train is currently undergoing dynamic testing on the NSW rail network, while the remaining trains continue their static testing and completion works. However, a definitive timeline for their entry into service will only be established once testing and verification processes are complete.
The testing phase was officially initiated in August 2024. During a visit to the Mindyarra Maintenance Centre, regional transport minister Jenny Aitchison expressed optimism about the new fleet, stating, “We’re now standing in front of a train that has arrived in Australia and is ready to start its testing journey.”
However, not everyone shares her enthusiasm. In June 2025, Bathurst MP Paul Toole criticized the delays, labeling the situation as “disappointing” and accusing the NSW Labor Government of a “go-slow policy” impacting regional transport.
Transport Minister John Graham responded, claiming the current government is working to “rescue the program” after the previous Coalition Government’s decisions led to significant budget overruns. “Under them, this project was already three years late and $826 million over budget,” Graham stated.
The delays are not only frustrating commuters but also impacting regional development. Dr. Peter Bilenkij of the Orange Rail Action Group believes that when the trains finally do enter service, they will significantly improve connectivity for towns like Orange. “We’d be looking at two services for Orange, running the same route as the Bathurst Bullet in the morning, on top of one at 4 PM,” he explained.
These new trains promise increased capacity, quieter operation, and modern amenities, which are crucial for regional residents who have been awaiting improvements in their rail services. However, Dr. Bilenkij cautions that the new services will not be operational until adequate stabling facilities are built and ready to support the fleet.
As commuters await updates, the urgency of this situation continues to grow. The NSW Government must clarify the timeline for the new XPT fleet to relieve the frustrations of regional passengers who rely on these services for their daily commutes.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
