Five state-of-the-art trams have arrived on the Gold Coast, signalling progress on the ongoing $1.2 billion Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 expansion.
The arrival coincides with G:link reaching a significant patronage milestone of 73 million paid-for journeys. As the only mode of public transport in the state to surpass pre-COVID patronage levels, the Light Rail is demonstrating robust demand from both Gold Coast residents and visitors.
The addition of these five new trams brings the G:link fleet to a total of 23 trams, a key step in advancing the expansion project to provide high frequency tram services when completed. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk welcomed the new trams and highlighted their role in extending the light rail line to Burleigh Heads.
Since its launch in 2014, the Gold Coast Light Rail has consistently surpassed pre-COVID ridership levels, positioning it as a model for post-pandemic recovery when compared to public transport in Sydney and Melbourne.
The Light Rail has transformed public transport on the Gold Coast, helping to create an integrated network that improves connectivity in one of Australia's fastest growing cities.
The journey of the new trams included a sea voyage to the Port of Brisbane, followed by transport along the M1 on a 76-wheel trailer. After testing at the Southport depot, these trams will join the operational fleet.
The new trams have been designed with improved accessibility features, including double-access spaces, Braille signage, 20 priority seats on each tram and widened aisles to accommodate wheelchairs, prams, walkers and other mobility aids.
Major construction activities for Stage 3 are underway on the Gold Coast Highway, with John Holland upgrading and relocating key underground services. Track laying is expected to commence in 2024 with completion expected in 2025. More than 760 local jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase.
The $1.2 billion project is a collaboration between the Palaszczuk Government, the Federal Albanian Government and the City of Gold Coast.