SRL East trains are set to commence operations in 2035.
At the Clarinda site, preparations are underway for tunnelling to start in 2026. Four TBMs will be deployed, with two excavating toward Glen Waverley and two toward Cheltenham. These machines, set to arrive later in 2025, will use innovative “flying launches” to begin tunnelling while still being assembled, optimizing space and efficiency. Each TBM requires approximately three months for assembly and can advance up to 90 meters per week, according to the state government.
The SRL East section, spanning from Cheltenham to Box Hill, includes 16 kilometers of twin tunnels. Consortium Suburban Connect is responsible for constructing the tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley, while Terra Verde will manage the section from Glen Waverley to Box Hill. Additionally, excavation for a second TBM launch site in Burwood is advancing, with tunnelling from this location also planned for 2026.
The SRL East project is expected to generate up to 8,000 direct jobs, with over 3,000 workers already involved. Construction at all six station sites for SRL East began in February 2024, marking a significant milestone. The government anticipates that train services for this section will commence in 2035, improving connectivity across the region.
A Victorian Government spokesperson stated: “The Suburban Rail Loop is a transformative project that will create thousands of jobs and deliver a modern, efficient transport network for Melbourne’s growing population.” The initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable urban development and enhanced public transit infrastructure.
The SRL East project is part of a broader vision to support Melbourne’s expanding population and economic growth. By connecting key suburban hubs, the rail loop aims to reduce travel times and improve access to employment, education, and services, fostering long-term regional development.
