The NSW Government announced that new double deck intercity trains would be rolled out from 2019.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance signed a $2.3 billion contract for the manufacture and maintenance of more than 500 new carriages last week. 

Mr Constance said the new trains would “transform” intercity travel for customers in Newcastle, the Central Coast, South Coast and the Blue Mountains. 

“For customers travelling more lengthy trips, these trains will be more spacious, more comfortable and have features never before seen on our long distance services,” Mr Constance said.

The new intercity trains will be equipped with mobile device charging stations on each seat, two by two seating on both upper and lower levels, and cup holders and tray tables.

Also, the new trains feature wider fabric-covered seats with armrests, storage spaces for luggage, prams, bicycles, and wheelchairs, and accessible toilets.

Further, a modern CCTV surveillance technology, help points and digital screens will be implemented in order to enhance the safety of customers.

“We want to encourage people out of cars and that’s why we want these trains to offer the next level of comfort and convenience for those commuting a long way,” Mr Constance said.

According to the Government, feedbacks from customers were considered during the train’s early design process, and will continue to inform decisions as the design of the new trains is finalised.  The new intercity trains will begin to operate in 2019.