Southwest Metro Testing: Sydney Rail’s High-Speed Future (M1 Line)

Introduction

Testing for Sydney’s Southwest Metro project has entered a new phase, with approval for trains to operate at speeds up to 100 km/h on the converted line between Sydenham and Bankstown. This development is a key step toward the opening of the extended M1 Line in 2026.

Testing Phase and Scope

High-speed testing will commence on Monday, 10 November 2025, increasing from the previous limit of 25 km/h. Since testing began in April, a single train has completed over 700 hours of testing and traveled 3,000 kilometers on the new metro section.

Expanding the Test Fleet

To expedite the program, a second train will join the test fleet, undertaking a minimum of 9,000 hours of trials across 70 key integration tests, followed by a sequence of safety, operational, and performance scenarios. This testing and commissioning program is essential to ensure the conversion of the former T3 Bankstown Line meets safety and performance standards before passenger service commences.

Operational Testing and Integration

During this next phase, engineers will closely monitor ride comfort, braking, systems performance, and communications. Tests will also simulate full passenger loads using water-filled containers to assess performance under real-world conditions. As part of the final conversion works, crews will integrate the Southwest Metro with the existing metro system, necessitating up to six full or partial line closures on the M1 Line through the end of 2025.

Planned Line Closures

The closures are essential to allow work within the rail corridor. Metro passengers will be informed via transport apps, alerts, and station announcements. Full line closures are scheduled for 22–23 November and 27–30 December. Partial line closures are scheduled for 15–16 November and 6–7 December. Night closures (from 10 pm) are scheduled for 8–10 December and 15–17 December. During full line closures, replacement buses will operate between Tallawong and Chatswood, with Sydney Trains services available between Chatswood and Sydenham. During partial line closures and night closures, Metro services will operate between Tallawong and Central or Chatswood only.

Conclusion

The Southwest Metro, once complete, will offer services every four minutes, fully accessible stations, and reduced journey times. Travel times will include 28 minutes from Bankstown to Central, 36 minutes from Marrickville to Macquarie University, and 21 minutes from Dulwich Hill to Victoria Cross. When the extension opens in 2026, the M1 Line will span 66 kilometers from Sydney’s northwest through the CBD to Bankstown, serving 31 stations.

Company Summary

Sydney Trains: Sydney Trains is a railway operator that provides rail services in Sydney, Australia.