Government seeks agency to sell its $55bn high-speed rail vision

The federal government is looking for a full-service agency to start promoting Australia’s high-speed rail program before the first tracks are even laid.

The government has kicked off a pitch for an agency to provide high-level communications, digital and creative services starting next month, as it seeks approvals and public buy-in for the program. The first phase of the flagship project, which is being spearheaded by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is estimated to cost $55bn.

Envisioned to eventually link Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, construction on the 320 km/h railway is not expected to begin for at least two years.