High Capacity Signalling

The High Capacity Signalling (HCS) Project will upgrade the existing signalling and control systems to an integrated communications-based train control system, making better use of the existing rail network by allowing more trains to run more often.

The main goal of the HCS project is to upgrade Perth's passenger rail network's signalling and train control systems to accommodate the expected increase in train frequency and capacity.  

The upgraded system will allow for real-time train monitoring and better network management.

A new state-of-the-art METRONET public transport operation centre will be built to deliver the project.

 

The Public Transport Operations Control Centre (PTOCC) will be fitted out to include a centralised signalling equipment room, network control floors and office space in East Perth. It will house the infrastructure and personnel needed to manage the day-to-day operations of Perth’s public transport network, which will expand by more than 72km in coming years as various METRONET projects become operational.

The upgraded systems will benefit current passengers while meeting future growth demands.

In preparation for the future growth of the rail network, a new Public Transport Operations Control Centre has been built 100m north of the Public Transport Centre.

This state-of-the-art facility will house the infrastructure and personnel needed to manage the day-to-day operations of Perth’s expanding public transport network.

It will include a centralised signalling equipment room, network control space and additional office accommodation.

The building shell was completed late-2023, with the fit-out a three-year project that will manage migration of staff and infrastructure related to High Capacity Signalling.

The Noongar place name for East Perth (where the Public Transport Operations Control Centre is located) is Boodjamiyalup and the narrative is ‘Place where we come to see each other’.

Read more on the Public Transport Operations Control Centre fact sheet.

As part of the High Capacity Signalling (HCS) project the B-series and C-series trains require a dedicated facility for equipment fitout. The HCS requirement is for continuous fitout of Automatic Train Control equipment to the B-series and C-series trains from 2025. HCS fitout requires access to the railcar, underframe and roof.

The location for this facility will be within the existing Nowergup Depot site which is located approximately 40km north of the Perth CBD.

Construction of the facility will start in late-2024 and is expected to be completed in late-2025.

Once the HCS project is complete, the shed will be used as a maintenance facility for rollingstock. 

The Public Transport Authority is investing in Perth’s future rail transport needs with a major upgrade of its radio system.

Unlike the analogue system, which only allows audio (i.e. voice) transmissions, the new digital system will also allow for the transmission of data, which is becoming increasingly important for train operations. It will also provide increased reliability and flexibility, allowing for a more efficient rail network and supporting plans for future expansion.

The new digital radio system will consist of fixed infrastructure (radio masts) at various locations across the rail network. All radio devices in trains, security vehicles and handheld radios for mobile staff will also be replaced with new digital-friendly equipment. Radio consoles used by control centre personnel will be replaced.

A contract has been awarded to Nokia Solutions and Networks Australia to be the technology provider for the new digital radio system. The new digital radio system is expected to enter service in phases from 2025.