Crisafulli Government Showcases Progress on Brisbane’s First New CBD Station in 120 Years
The Crisafulli Government is highlighting a major construction milestone on Brisbane’s Cross River Rail, with the new Albert Street underground station now visibly taking shape in the CBD.
Key milestone in the CBD
Significant progress is underway at Albert Street station, where the 153-tonne station canopy is now clearly visible from street level and will provide shade over a new public plaza at the main entrance. Sections of the Albert Street “green spine” between Mary and Elizabeth streets, designed as a shady subtropical boulevard with outdoor dining, are already open to the public.
Below ground, Queensland’s longest escalator, measuring more than 37 metres at the station’s northern entrance near Queen Street, has been installed as part of a network of 29 escalators – the most of any underground Cross River Rail station. Major engineering works are continuing across the site, with productivity restored after earlier disruptions.
Government’s rail transformation plan
First Cross River Rail passenger services are now expected to commence in 2029, compared with the former Labor Government’s original promise to deliver the project for $5.4 billion by 2024. The Crisafulli Government has confirmed the final price tag at $19.041 billion and says it is “getting the project back on track” after what it describes as years of mismanagement and cost blowouts.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the milestone reflects the government’s commitment to a once-in-a-generation rail transformation and essential transport infrastructure. He noted more than 140 days were lost to protected industrial action under the former government and said new arrangements are in place to restore momentum.
Quotes from the Minister
“We’re getting on with the job of delivering Cross River Rail’s Albert Street station following a challenging period for the project under the former Labor Government, including more than 140 days lost to protected action,” Mr Mickelberg said. “The canopy is in place, the plaza is taking shape, and the station is moving closer to completion.”
“With projects like Cross River Rail, Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail, and The Wave on the Sunshine Coast, we’re building the public transport network Queenslanders need for 2032 and beyond,” he said, pointing to broader upgrades across the southeast.
Network works over holidays
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton said Albert Street station is set to become a prominent inner-city landmark in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. He explained that while the underground tunnels and stations are a major focus, teams are also carrying out essential works across the wider rail network during the quieter school holiday period.
Those works include installing new signalling infrastructure, improving drainage and forming new tracks, with passengers urged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time where closures or service changes are in place. Newton said scheduling these works during holidays helps minimise disruption while keeping the long-term rail upgrade program on track.
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