Digital Systems Program

The Digital Systems Program consists of:

• Replacing traditional trackside signalling equipment with the latest ‘in cab’ train control technology (European Train Control System Level 2)
• Introducing a Traffic Management System to help the railway recover from any disruption quickly and manage the overall network as effectively as possible.

Digital Systems will help achieve the vision of Future Transport Strategy, enabling an increase in capacity across the railway network to meet future demand, and improving customer experience by delivering more reliable services, reduced journey times and enhanced real-time information.

Scope, status and key milestones

In 2018, the NSW Government allocated over $800 million towards the first stage of the Program, which involves developing, testing and validating Digital Systems on parts of the T4 Line, from Sutherland to Cronulla and from Bondi Junction to Erskineville.

The next stage of the Program will be implemented across the Central Sydney area including the City Circle Line as well as the T1 North Shore Line.

A major works contract has been signed with Siemens Mobility Pty Ltd (Siemens) to deliver digital signalling into the first area of Sydney’s rail network between Sutherland and Cronulla on the T4 line.

Known as the “Trackside” project, the new system changes the way train drivers receive signalling information, so instead of relying on fixed traffic light signals outside the train, the driver responds to digital information received within the train cab.

Construction between Sutherland and Cronulla has commenced, with the new system due to be ready for operations in the mid-2020s.

Project updates for Trackside - Sutherland to Cronulla

• Community notification upcoming works Sutherland to Cronulla, October 2023 (PDF, 255.17 KB)

Siemens will also introduce and maintain the Traffic Management System (TMS).

Due to be available for operation in 2023, the TMS will work alongside other systems used by Sydney Trains to control train operations. It continually monitors the position of all trains, helping to keep services running as planned and assists with responses to incidents.

A major works contract has also been signed with Alstom to deliver digital signalling on the T4 Eastern Suburbs line between Erskineville and Bondi Junction.

Construction between Erskineville and Bondi Junction has commenced, with the new system due to be ready for operations in the mid-2020s.

Project updates for Trackside – Erskineville to Bondi Junction

• Community notification upcoming works Bondi Junction to Erskineville, October - December 2023 (PDF, 2.69 MB)
• Community notification upcoming works Bondi Junction to Erskineville, July - September 2023 (PDF, 269.99 KB)

Control Centres Project

Control Centres are being constructed to support the various Digital Systems Program sub-systems. The sites will centralise the management of real time information on the Sydney Trains network, with operators monitoring train movements and quickly responding to incidents when required. 

A major works contract has been signed with Abergeldie to implement this important project. 

Map of First Deployment Area