Metro exceeds targets for third month in a row.

Metro's performance results for August have been released confirming it has exceeded the punctuality and service delivery targets for the third month in a row.

In August, 90.2 per cent of trains ran on time and 99 per cent of all services were delivered.

Metro's average on-time performance over the past three months is now its best result in five years with 90.1 per cent of trains running on time.

The last time this was achieved was in August 2006 when an average of 91 per cent of trains ran on time over the same three month period.

The new figures also show the number od trains services delivered on time in August has reached its highest levels since 2004.

Metro now runs a record 14,000 services a week following the introduction of the new timetable in May.

Metro Corporate Relations general manager Leah Waymark says the results are the culmination of careful long term planning.

"We've made significant investments in infrastructure, but it has taken time for everything to fall into place", Ms Waymark says.

"Those investments mean the network isn't as vulnerable as it used to be. There are fewer faults and the network is much better streamlined to ensure that a fault on one train doesn't necessarily lead to a chain reaction down the line.

"We're certain the groundwork has been laid for us to move into the next phase, but there's plenty more to do as we continue making the network more efficient and reliable. "

About Metro's performance targets

Metro's performance thresholds are to run at least 98 per cent of trains each month and for more than 88 per cent of these services to be punctual.

The government has applied a tougher measurement system under Metro's contract for delivery and punctuality. For example, a train that bypasses the city loop or doesn't reach its final destination now contributes to the cancellation rate, whereas under the previous contract it was counted as a full service.

The definition of an on-time train has also changed, reducing from the previous threshold of five minutes and 59 seconds to the current, shorter threshold of four minutes and 59 seconds.

A 28-day rolling average of Metro's service delivery and punctuality figures can be viewed online at metrotrains.com.au