THE Border Rail Action Group will look seriously at class action against V/Line to present to the public in February.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The group is expected to convene on Wednesday to discuss its options on how to improve the Southern Cross to Albury train service.
It comes after Victorian public transport minister Jacinta Allan announced there would be compensation in the form of free travel for all V/Line passengers from Saturday until Sunday January 31.
The free rides were offered after a week of disruptions surrounding the Metro area.
Border rail group convenor Bill Traill said he planned to seek legal advice on the possibility of presenting class action as an option to North East commuters.
“We are seriously looking at the prospect of class action, but there are other actions as well which can be taken in the political arena,” he said.
“We will also be pushing for the immediate contribution of new rolling stock.
“Our rolling stock is based on a 17-year life cycle.
“It was introduce in early 80s and has had twice its lifespan.
“How can we expect critical equipment like this to still perform on the tracks after its life span has been exceeded by 200 per cent?”
“And it is scheduled to still be on the tracks in 10 years time.
“This is a non-sustainable situation regarding the fleet.”
In addition to applying pressure for updated trains on the Albury line, Mr Traill said the bias toward the metropolitan areas needed to be addressed.
The group planned to host a public meeting early in February, however a date had not yet been set.
“It could be an important way of considering our decision moving ahead,” Mr Traill said.