Work will soon begin on the long-awaited upgrade to the North East rail line after Australian Rail Track Corporation awarded the multi-million dollar contract to Australian company John Holland Group.
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The company is one of four that is also doing construction on Melbourne's metro tunnel project.
Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Transport and Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said the federal government's $235 million investment would result in a smoother, more reliable train journey and fewer delays once major upgrades were completed.
"Hard-working Australians in Victoria's North East rely on the regional train services to get them to their destination sooner and safer," he said.
"Our regional communities deserve the same opportunities to grow and thrive as those in our cities, which is why this government is investing in a fast, efficient and reliable regional rail network."
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The upgrades include ballast depth improvements along the rail corridor, mudhole removal and track resurfacing, drainage upgrades and enhancements to about 100 level crossing and rail bridges.
Victorian Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said she was delighted work would begin on the critical upgrade.
"Our regions are home to about one quarter of Victoria's population and play a vital role in our prosperity. As Victoria's regional centres grow and offer more incentives for families to take up residence outside the city, our rail network must keep up with the changing travel needs of a shifting population," she said.
"The upgrade to the North East Rail Line means the people of regional Victoria can look forward to better, more reliable trains to move people between city and country to support stronger, more vibrant regional communities."
The project is due to be completed in 2021.
