Central Coast commuters fed up with transport woes

EDITORIAL

Another chaotic day on the Sydney rail network occurred on Friday, March 14, leaving tens of thousands of commuters delayed or stranded, exposing the fragility of the system and the disproportionate impact on Central Coast residents.

A seemingly simple signal failure at Ashfield and an untimely hazard reduction burn have once again highlighted how vulnerable the network is, particularly for long-distance travellers who have no viable alternative.

For months, Central Coast commuters have endured an endless cycle of delays and cancellations due to the protracted industrial dispute between rail unions and management.

Despite a Fair Work order halting further industrial action until at least June, there appears to be no resolution in sight.

The question must be asked: is this unresolved dispute contributing to the ongoing technical failures plaguing the network?

Transparency around the issue remains a key concern.

The rail data agency must bring forward real-time data and improve its transparency, providing the media and the public with factual reporting on train cancellations and lateness.

Commuters deserve clear answers on the true state of the network.

Equally, NSW’s new Transport Minister, John Graham, must take responsibility and offer a public assessment of the network’s health and plans for improvement.  

The lack of alternative public transport options at Sydney Airport exacerbates the situation when train services are disrupted.

Historically, the airport and state government devised a plan that limited reasonable bus services to and from the airport, effectively compelling travellers to use the train services subject to additional levies.

These levies, initially intended to expire after a decade, persist over two and a half decades later.

Consequently, when train services fail, Central Coast travellers face exorbitant Uber or taxi fares to return home.

Sydney Metro

Meanwhile, the stark contrast between the struggling Sydney Trains network and the new Sydney Metro system is hard to ignore.

Since its launch, the driverless metro service has operated with remarkable efficiency—showing what a fit-for-purpose rail system should look like.

The comparison is not lost on commuters, nor should it be lost on the state government, which bears full responsibility for Sydney’s outdated and unreliable rail network.

Locally based state MPs on the Central Coast must step up pressure for real change.

Four government MPs represent this region—yet commuters still suffer daily disruption, often with little explanation or accountability.

Back to the office

At the same time, there are calls for workers to “get back in the office”. 

Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s push to force federal public servants back into offices five days a week fails to acknowledge the transport nightmare many workers face.

Hybrid and work-from-home arrangements have been a boon for Central Coast workers and their families, improving work-life balance and productivity while reducing unnecessary travel.

Until Sydney’s train system is operating reliably and efficiently, any demand for a five-day return to the office should be put on hold.

Commuters and workers deserve better. 

If you wish to contribute to the debate please comment below or send an email to our editorial team editorial@centralcoastnews.net

David Abrahams – Managing Editor