Public-private partnership mooted for west Melbourne train stations

Melton City Council has proposed exploring a public-private partnership with the state government to build two new train stations, Thornhill Park and Mt Atkinson, in Melbourne's rapidly growing outer west. The council will discuss the possibility with the government during a meeting last week, aiming to build the stations while potentially generating revenue for the council through measures like charging parking fees.

Residents in Melton, which is among Australia's fastest-growing areas, have been advocating for the new stations for years, citing overcrowded trains and limited car parks as major concerns. The proposed stations would help alleviate pressure on nearby stations and reduce traffic congestion, potentially lowering car usage by 12,000 daily by 2041 and increasing commuter numbers.

The Melton area is part of Labor's "red wall" of ALP-held seats, and the party is facing challenges in the upcoming state election. Meanwhile, the Victorian Transport Minister has announced plans for the Sunshine Superhub project, which includes electrifying the Melton line, but the Coalition's election promises could impact the project if they win the election.