After years of community campaigning, one of Macquarie Fields’ biggest transport barriers has finally come down with the long-awaited accessibility upgrade of Macquarie Fields Station now complete.
For decades, locals with disability, older residents and parents with prams faced up to 92 stairs to reach the platforms, forcing some passengers to travel to Ingleburn or Glenfield simply to catch a train.
Member for Macquarie Fields and NSW Minister Anoulack Chanthivong, who has strongly advocated for the upgrade alongside the community, described its completion as a major local victory.
“It is a major win for our community, and I thank the community for its advocacy over many years to make the station accessible for all,” he said.
The station, originally built in 1888 and last significantly upgraded in the 1970s, now has two lifts and a new 23-metre passenger footbridge, transforming access for more than 10,000 commuters who use it each week.
“The upgrade removes long-standing accessibility barriers for the Macquarie Fields community. It improves safety and convenience, and better integrates the station into the local transport network,” Chanthivong said.
The changes are particularly significant for residents such as Macquarie Fields local Donna Palmer, who regularly uses a mobility scooter and wheelchair.
“I used to have no choice but to travel to Ingleburn or Glenfield Stations to catch a train to access lifts,” Palmer said.
“The station upgrade is a game changer for me and so many others in Macquarie Fields. Our community is grateful to Anoulack and the Minns Government for delivering on its commitment.”
Transport Minister John Graham said the project was about modernising the rail network and making it work for everyone.
“These improvements reflect the needs of this diverse community – including young families, carers, people with disability, older residents, and those travelling with luggage,” he said.
The upgrade forms part of the NSW Government’s major investment in accessible public transport, with an additional $200 million allocated to the Safe Accessible Transport program in the 2026–27 NSW Budget, taking the Government’s total investment in the program to more than $1 billion since the 2023–24 Budget.
Delivered ahead of schedule, the Macquarie Fields project also includes improved platform canopy coverage and boarding assistance zones, an upgraded station forecourt, accessible parking and community transport spaces, a new pedestrian crossing, relocated bus stop, bicycle parking and safety improvements.
Chanthivong said the transformation would leave a lasting legacy for the suburb.
“This upgrade represents a significant investment in the local Macquarie Fields area and will provide lasting benefits for the community for years to come,” he said.
