Sydney's New Rail Corridor Promises Property Growth And Accessibility

The federal government has made headlines with its substantial commitment of $1 billion to secure a rail corridor linking Sydney’s southwest to the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport, which is slated to open its doors to travelers by 2026. This ambitious rail line, previously shelved under the Coalition government back in 2014, aims to facilitate easy access for residents and workers to what is expected to be one of the region's major travel hubs.

The rail corridor is viewed as pivotal since it is currently the missing link on Sydney's rail network. According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, "We don't want residents of Sydney's southwest to have to rely on buses to get to the airport. We want them to have fast, frequent rail access, and our investment today will help deliverthat." This new infrastructure is part of broader plans to connect areas like Leppington and Bradfield, which is situated about 13 kilometers away from the aerotropolis precinct. Currently, residents must either drive or rely on indirect bus routes, which may take up to two hours.

It’s estimated the southwest region of Sydney will account for 16% of New South Wales' population growth between 2021 and 2046, swelling from around 300,000 to 430,000 residents, according to independent forecasters. This rapid population increase is transforming formerly rural paddocks to vibrant communities filled with contemporary housing. The increase of job opportunities and improved amenities are drawing new residents to these areas, making it one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia.

REA Group's Senior Economist, Eleanor Creagh, emphasized the potential economic benefits ensuing from this federal pledge. "The federal government's commitment may have positive impacts on property values in the surrounding areas," she said. Historically, regions experiencing transport upgrades have seen property values appreciate significantly, presenting lucrative opportunities for both homeowners and investors. Creagh indicated this infrastructure development could attract not just more buyers, but also renters, creating heightened rental demand and enabling landlords to charge higher rents as the area gains appeal.

Currently, several properties are available for purchase, reflecting the area's transition. For example, at 14A Holden Drive, Oran Park, there is a four-bedroom duplex available, set to just five minutes away from the proposed Oran Park train station. Previously sold for $930,000, the median sold price for homes nearby is around $1,115,000. Priced between $1 million and $1.25 million, this property boasts notable features such as two walk-in robes, an ensuite master bedroom, and covered terrace overlooking the lawn.

Another offer includes a former display home located at 29 Saturn Street, Leppington, on the market for $1.3 million to $1.375 million. This property not only includes four bedrooms but also features open-plan living and dining areas, media lounges, and terraces, all within close proximity to Leppington rail station.

Those interested in new builds can find options such as Lot 3595 Webber Loop, Oran Park, available for $1.28 million. This property, which will be completed by the end of 2025, includes five bedrooms and upscale amenities like landscaped gardens and double-storey windows. Alternatively, the original 1970s four-bedroom home at 11 Doncaster Avenue, Narellan, is listed at $1.15 million. It's noteworthy because it allows for developing plans for two-storey homes due to its substantial land size of 714 square meters.

All these offerings significantly reflect the shifting dynamics as the region gears up for anticipated developments. The area was once synonymous with rural landscapes and paddocks. Now, it consists of contemporary family homes under price points significantly lower than one would pay for similar accommodations within Sydney's inner suburbs.

Creagh notes: "This can attract businesses and lead to job creation, economic growth, and an overall uplift in the desirability of the area. This transition often results in higher-end property developments and an uplift in the suburb’s appeal." By improving connectivity to employment hubs and lifestyle amenities, this project not only enhances local access but sets the stage for significant urban gentrification over time, positioning Sydney's southwest as the next real estate blockbuster.

The plan to introduce these new rail connections around the airport aims to bind these currently underserved communities with more direct routes to the urban core, including Sydney’s CBD. By fostering this integration, the federal government aims to initiate not just economic uplift for homebuyers but also overall improvements for the standard of living for future residents.