Perth-to-Bunbury Train Service Resumes After Three-Year Hiatus Amidst Timetable Concerns

After a three-year hiatus, the train service connecting Perth and Bunbury has finally resumed, marking a significant moment for regional travel in Western Australia. The aging Australind train, which was taken out of service in November 2023 due to persistent breakdowns, has been replaced by a new service.

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This doesn't really make it plausible for people to catch the train for the day trips that most people were hoping for. I think that's frustrating for people because they still feel a little isolated and left out.

However, the reopening comes with a caveat: an initially limited timetable. Bunbury residents, while pleased the service is back, are expressing frustration that only four return services will operate per week. This restricted schedule is seen as a setback for those hoping for day trips or more flexible travel options.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti unveiled the new three-car train, with passenger services set to begin shortly. The plan is to gradually roll out three more trains in the coming months and ramp up services to two return trips per day by early August. This increase aims to address the current limitations and improve accessibility.

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We should be able to get to a point where we have double the services we had previously, so that will be four return services a day.

Retiree Jenny Hebbard, who lives in Brunswick, highlighted the challenges posed by the replacement road coach for individuals with severe arthritis and disabilities. She noted that the current limited service "doesn't really make it plausible for people to catch the train for the day trips that most people were hoping for." Bunbury MP Don Punch acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the ongoing efforts to increase services and reduce the 2.5-hour journey time, with potential improvements to the rail line itself being explored.

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The next stage is to look at how we can make the trip quicker. That again is something we are working with the rail line operator [on], in terms of what might need to happen with rail loops and straightening out parts of the line.