Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the progress of recent years after more than two decades of inaction was a tribute to the local government and community’s success in keeping the vision alive.

The project involves laying 35km of standard gauge track connecting Port Kembla directly to the main North-South line via Dombarton.

It will also include two passing loops, bridges over the Nepean and Cordeaux rivers and one of Australia’s longest tunnels.

The rail line will support the rapidly expanding resources sector in NSW by giving the mining sector more direct access to Port Kembla.

It is also expected to free up capacity along the existing Illawarra line for additional passenger services.

All preconstruction activities will be undertaken by Transport for NSW and are expected to be completed within the next two years.

Part of the $25.5 million will go towards finalising the construction timetable and cost estimate for the project.

Once preconstruction works are completed, the project will be considered for inclusion in the next nation building program.

This article first appeared in ILN's sister publication ConstructionIndustryNews.net.