Allawah station’s $25 million accessibility upgrade is entering its final stages, with new lifts and accessible pathways expected to open to the public next month.

The upgrade, part of Transport for NSW’s Transport Access Program, will finally provide step-free access to a station that has served the St George community for over a century but left wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges unable to use it.

“This has been a long time coming,” said local resident Maria Kowalski, who uses a wheelchair and has had to travel to Hurstville or Carlton stations to catch trains. “Allawah is my local station—five minutes from home. But I haven’t been able to use it for the 12 years I’ve lived here.”

What’s Included

The accessibility upgrade comprises:

Lifts

• Two new lifts connecting street level to platforms
• Capacity for wheelchairs, prams, and luggage
• Braille and audio announcements
• Emergency intercoms in each lift

Pathways and Access

• Accessible pathways throughout the station
• Tactile ground surface indicators
• Improved lighting and wayfinding signage
• Hearing loops at ticket windows

Platform Improvements

• Raised platform sections for level boarding
• New seating with armrests for easier access
• Additional sheltered waiting areas
• Upgraded CCTV for passenger safety

Street Level

• New accessible parking spaces
• Kiss-and-ride improvements
• Better pedestrian connections to Railway Parade
• Bicycle parking facilities

Construction Journey

The project has faced several delays since construction began in 2023. Supply chain issues, utility relocations, and unexpected heritage discoveries extended the timeline.

“Underground work on old stations always throws up surprises,” acknowledged project director Sarah Chen. “We found infrastructure that wasn’t on any plans. Safely working around it took longer than expected.”

Local businesses expressed relief that the end is in sight. “The construction has been tough—noise, dust, customers struggling to reach us,” said café owner Tony Mellis. “But we understand it’s worth it. Access for everyone should be a basic right.”

Community Impact

The upgrade will benefit more than just wheelchair users. Parents with prams, elderly residents, travellers with luggage, and anyone temporarily injured will find the station significantly easier to navigate.

Georges River Council Mayor Nick Katris welcomed the completion of works. “Accessible public transport isn’t optional infrastructure—it’s essential. This upgrade brings Allawah into the 21st century.”

The council has coordinated with Transport for NSW to improve surrounding footpaths and pedestrian crossings, ensuring accessible routes to the station from surrounding streets.

Testing and Opening

The lifts and new facilities will undergo extensive testing before public opening:

• Mechanical and safety testing (current)
• Integration with station operations (mid-April)
• Staff training on new equipment (late April)
• Public opening (early May, date to be confirmed)

Transport for NSW will host community open days before the official opening, allowing residents to tour the new facilities and provide feedback.

Remaining Work

After the lifts open, some minor works will continue:

• Final landscaping and plantings
• Removal of temporary construction barriers
• Restoration of disrupted footpath sections
• Installation of permanent signage

These works will be completed by June with minimal disruption to station operations.

Residents seeking updates on the project can sign up for notifications through the Transport for NSW website or contact Georges River Council’s transport team.