ALL ABOARD! XPT revamp puts passengers first while driving jobs and skills in Western Sydney
Friday, 18 July 2025
The Minns Labor Government is full steam ahead on delivering high-quality jobs and building a skilled workforce in Western Sydney, with a quarter of the state’s XPT power cars now upgraded through one of NSW’s most significant rail maintenance projects.
And it’s not just the workers who are benefiting – passengers across regional NSW are getting a sneak peek at the future of regional rail, with refurbished XPT cars to make journeys more reliable, comfortable, and enjoyable.
The $40.3 million fast-tracked XPT Life Extension Project is delivering for both the economy and commuters – supporting 40 full-time rail maintenance jobs, training 16 apprentices, and giving the iconic XPT fleet a much-needed makeover.
The work is taking place at the newly upgraded Auburn Heavy Maintenance Centre and is part of Labor’s commitment to putting Western Sydney manufacturing and regional connectivity back on track.
This transformation is more than just mechanical. It’s a comprehensive refresh of the fleet inside and out, aimed at improving passenger experience while upskilling a new generation of rail workers.
Better Trains, Better Travel
From more comfortable seats and new carpets to clearer windows and fresh paint, the upgrades are making a noticeable difference for the thousands of people who rely on XPT services every week.
The mechanical overhaul is improving reliability, while aesthetic and comfort-focused upgrades are ensuring that long-distance regional travel is more pleasant, accessible, and modern.
The first financial year of the program wrapped on 30 June 2025 with 25% of power cars completed right on schedule. Thanks to smart facility upgrades and concurrent work methods, the program is now on track to complete around 50% of power cars by the end of the year.
One key efficiency gain has come from the upgraded spray booth, which now includes two heating systems, cutting painting time from four weeks to just two per power car.
Over the life of the five-year program, the XPT overhaul will include:
- 2,750 square metres of carpet laid
- 590 windows replaced
- 4,000 litres of paint used
- 2,600 seats refurbished
- 275,000 hours worked
So far, in just the first year:
- Over 250 square metres of carpet and 50 square metres of vinyl laid
- More than 50 windows replaced
- Over 250 seats upgraded for comfort
- 500 litres of paint applied
Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
“The Minns Labor Government’s fast-tracking of this $40.3 million project is keeping regional NSW on track on multiple fronts – better, more reliable transport services and high-quality jobs chugging along in Western Sydney.
“This is about more than maintenance, it’s about giving passengers the comfort, reliability and quality they deserve, while building the skilled rail workforce we need for the future.
“This project shows Labor’s commitment to regional connectivity isn’t just hot air, we’re ensuring communities across NSW stay connected while we build the skilled workforce needed to keep our rail industry on the right track.”
Minister for Skills Steve Whan said:
“Skills are the engine driving this project, with 16 apprentices gaining invaluable experience in advanced rail engineering and manufacturing techniques they wouldn’t get anywhere else.
“They’re developing advanced capabilities, creating in-house solutions, and building a strong foundation for the next chapter of NSW’s rail manufacturing future.
“This Labor Government isn’t just maintaining trains, it’s training the next generation of skilled rail workers who will drive innovation across NSW.”
