3. Project governance, assurance and lessons learnt
The department and RPV have governance structures to oversee the project, monitor its progress and address risks.
They have also set up assurance processes and can demonstrate that the project is meeting its design and safety requirements.
RPV has applied lessons learnt from other rail projects to reduce some foreseeable risks.
2. Project timeline and budget
The project will not meet its contracted completion date of 17 September 2024 and the state will need to spend more than the revised budget to complete it.
It may still be on track to open to take passengers by the end of 2025, which accords with the government's public commitment.
RPV has advised the government of the additional contingency funds it will likely need to address risks related to delays and electromagnetic interference.
1. Audit context
The Metro Tunnel is central to the Victorian Government's plans to upgrade Melbourne's rail infrastructure.
The new tunnel crosses the CBD and bypasses the City Loop to create a continuous line from Sunbury in the north-west to Cranbourne and Pakenham in the south-east.
The project is now in its most complex phase, which involves integrating, testing and commissioning technology systems such as train signals, platform screen doors and CCTV.
What we found
This section summarises our key findings. The numbered sections detail our complete findings, including supporting evidence.
When reaching our conclusions, we consulted with the audited entities and considered their views. The entities' full responses are in Appendix A.
Our recommendations
We made 3 recommendations to address 2 issues. The relevant agencies have accepted the recommendations in full.