High-speed train ticket between Newcastle and Sydney to cost $31 for one-hour journey from 2039

Rail line projected to cost taxpayers $61.2bn, with further line to Western Sydney international airport to cost extra $32.4bn

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Australians would pay $31 for a 60-minute high-speed train between Newcastle and central Sydney from 2039, costing taxpayers $61.2bn, according to a business case provided to the government.

The next stage of the project, which would see the rail line go to Parramatta and Western Sydney international airport, would cost an extra $32.4bn and open by 2043.