Victorian regional groups push for restoration of passenger rail ahead of election

Across western and north-west Victoria, residents and advocacy groups are campaigning for the reinstatement of passenger train services, saying the absence of rail links—particularly between Geelong and Ballarat and from Mildura—forces reliance on cars, lengthy bus trips or expensive flights. Greens deputy leader Sarah Mansfield said the region’s population growth creates strong demand for a Geelong-Ballarat line, while the Rail Revival Alliance and Mildura Rural City Council stress that many need affordable transport for medical appointments and family visits.

Experts such as RMIT lecturer Liam Davies note that a shuttle connecting existing standard-gauge tracks to the V/Line network could be built at modest expense, with a 2022 Parliamentary Budget Office estimate of $47 million for a thrice-weekly Mildura service. Political figures, including Greens candidate Jeff Moran and One Nation’s Rikki-Lee Tyrell, have voiced support, and the opposition plans to announce proposals before the state election. The government says it will continue expanding coach services while reviewing rail options.