Train performance hits new high

Train service reliability has jumped, with Queensland Rail recording its best on-time running result in eight years.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said passengers were starting to experience the improvements in service reliability they deserved.

“From October to December 2012 more than 94.58 per cent of the 245 peak trains services were within the on-time running benchmarks,” Mr Emerson said.

“On average, that’s 20 more trains a day, or an extra 10,000 passengers, getting to work or home on time compared to the final months under Labor when reliability fell to almost three year lows.

“Queensland Rail is refocusing their business on getting the trains on time and the hard work of the team led by chair Glen Dawe is starting to show through.

“Improving reliability, frequency and affordability are the Newman Government’s key planks to encourage people back onto public transport after four years of declining patronage under Labor.”

Queensland Rail is currently implementing 26 recommendations identified as part of an independent audit to address major disruptions that occurred on February 28 and March 14 last year, impacting 297 services, including 124 cancellations. All recommendations are due to be implemented by late 2013.

“This report and its recommendations highlighted Labor’s failure to address one of the most basic requirements of any public transport system – reliable services,” Mr Emerson said.

“Now we are seeing a steady improvement and for the first time train passengers can monitor the performance of their line each day.”

Actual data recognises the full customer impact and does not include force majeure. Daily figures are available at www.queenslandrail.com.au/RailServices/City/Pages/PeakOn-TimeResults.aspx.

Benchmark in Queensland is within 3.59 mins of the timetable (5.59mins for Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast services). 

Media contact: Andrew Berkman 0429 128 637