Melbourne Airport Rail Steering Chair Appointed
The Melbourne Airport Rail Link (MARL) project has taken an important step forward, with the appointment of Ms Merren McArthur as the independent Chair of the MARL Steering Committee.
This follows the agreement of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached between the Australian Government, Victorian Government and Melbourne Airport earlier this year.
As part of the MoU, all three parties committed to establishing a Steering Committee led by senior officials from each organisation to progress this project.
In her role, Ms McArthur will foster a collaborative and constructive environment, enabling the parties to work together to develop a clear and effective pathway for the successful delivery of the MARL.
Ms McArthur is a Non-Executive Director and CEO with significant governance experience in the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors, including:
Ms McArthur’s wealth of experience makes her well placed to Chair the Steering Committee that will navigate the complexities of this major urban infrastructure project.
All parties recognise the importance of the Steering Committee having strong leadership and the experience and capability to effectively and responsibly agree to the pathway for the delivery of MARL. The appointment of Ms McArthur is an important step towards reaching that goal.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“Ms McArthur brings the critical experience in leadership, governance and risk management required to guide the Melbourne Airport Rail Link through its next critical phase.
“Her extensive knowledge of the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors will be a valuable asset to the Steering Committee.
“I look forward to working with Ms McArthur alongside the Victorian Government and the Melbourne Airport to end the years of waiting and finally deliver the airport rail-link all Victorians deserve.”
As stated by Acting Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Sonya Kilkenny:
“Rebuilding Sunshine Station is the first stage of delivering Melbourne Airport Rail and it will help pave the way for more services across Melbourne’s west.
“The appointment of Ms McArthur as Chair of the Steering Committee is another step forward in delivering this vital project.”
As stated by Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus:
“Airport rail will provide a much needed transport solution for our passengers as well as for staff in our local communities, and we are pleased to work with the Australian and Victorian governments to progress this project for Melbourne.
“With the Steering Committee now in place, we’re forging ahead with the planning and coordination needed to help airport rail become a reality.”
As stated by the independent Chair of the MARL Steering Committee Ms McArthur:
“Melbourne Airport is a vital transport gateway for all Victorians. I am delighted to be appointed as the independent Chair for the MARL Steering Committee. I look forward to working with all parties to support them reach agreement on the timeline and pathway for the delivery of MARL”.
https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2025-06/250629-Appointment-Of-The-Melbourne-Airport-Rail-Steering-Committee-Chair.pdf