Alstom has reinforced its presence in Australia after securing the first €69M tranche of a €214M contract awarded by the Queensland Government for Stage 1 of the Wave project in Queensland, Australia. Under the agreement, the company will undertake the design, supply, testing and commissioning of its ONVIA Control ETCS Level 2 trackside signalling system for Sector 1 North on the new Sunshine Coast line. The contract represents a key component of a wider rail network enhancement initiative and marks a significant milestone for the Wave project as Queensland advances its long-term transport infrastructure plans.
The contract sits within Queensland’s broader ETCS Program, which is intended to create a safer, more efficient and higher-capacity rail network. The initiative is also a foundational element of the State’s sectorisation strategy and is considered an important step in preparing transport infrastructure for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games.
Commenting on the development, Guillaume Tritter, Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand, said, “This project brings together Alstom’s globally proven ETCS technology with our strong local presence in Queensland to support a safer, more efficient and future-ready transport system.”
Alstom highlighted that its ETCS Level 2 technology has been deployed extensively around the world and serves as a proven interoperable platform. Speaking about the contract, Ling Fang, Asia-Pacific Region President said, “Alstom’s ETCS Level 2 system is a globally proven, interoperable platform deployed across thousands of kilometres of railway in more than 35 countries, enabling operators to maximise capacity, safety and network efficiency through continuous digital train control. Advanced versions of this technology are being delivered by Alstom across the region including in the Philippines and India.”
The Wave project will see the technology introduced across both brownfield and greenfield sections, as well as along the North Coast Line to the Sunshine Coast. The scope requires complex integration activities while ensuring uninterrupted passenger services throughout delivery.
The Sector 1 North project is regarded as a major investment in the future of rail transport across South East Queensland, supporting increased network capacity and improved service reliability in one of the region’s busiest corridors. Delivery of the Wave project will involve close collaboration between Alstom as the ETCS contractor, Queensland Rail as the network operator, and multiple civil contractors responsible for infrastructure works. Strong coordination and interface management across civil and digital radio system partners will be central to successful execution. Beyond the transport benefits, Alstom’s local footprint will contribute to the establishment of the Queensland Mobility Supply Chain Centre of Excellence, which is expected to generate economic, social, education and environmental outcomes. The Wave project will also support local job creation through apprenticeships, traineeships, cadetships and partnerships with Queensland schools and universities, helping develop future rail capability skills and career pathways across the State.
