Metro Trains punctuality again exceeds 90 per cent

For the first time in nearly six years, Melbourne’s trains have run on schedule for 90 per cent of the time over two consecutive months.

Metro’s audited performance results for May show 90.67 per cent of trains ran on time and 98.59 per cent of timetabled services were delivered.

Metro Corporate Relations general manager Leah Waymark says Metro’s weekend performance figures are particularly pleasing following the introduction of a new timetable which added an extra 283 weekend services on Saturdays and Sundays.

“For the past four weekends, our Sunday performance figures have exceeded the single day record for on-time performance in the history of this train network,” Ms Waymark says.

“That’s despite patronage being nearly double what it was in 2004, the last time the network ran so efficiently.

“We’re consistently running more than 98 per cent of weekend trains on-time and that’s good for those heading to the footy or for a day out.

“On our busiest lines customers can now turn up at the station knowing they’ll only wait an average of five minutes for a train.”

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