Project Overview

TAG Advisory serves as the Independent Estimator for the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia’s (PTA) Rail Revitalisation Programme, a transformational 10-year infrastructure renewal initiative, addressing critical asset lifecycle requirements across Perth's metropolitan rail network. This comprehensive programme encompasses systematic renewal of ageing rail infrastructure including track, signalling, overhead lines and associated systems. TAG Advisory's role spans independent cost estimation for budget and programming purposes across Work Packages One to Ten, with additional contract administration responsibilities for Work Pack One during the Armadale and Thornlie Line shutdown period.

Key Challenges

The Rail Revitalisation Programme presents unprecedented complexity in coordinating infrastructure renewal across an operational railway network over a decade-long timeline. The programme requires careful sequencing of work packages to minimise service disruptions whilst addressing critical asset conditions. Cost estimation complexity is heightened by the need to forecast market conditions, resource availability and technology changes over the extended delivery period.

Work Pack One's shutdown of the Armadale and Thornlie Lines created unique challenges requiring intensive works within constrained timeframes. Coordinating multiple contractors, managing interfaces between work packages and maintaining cost certainty during accelerated delivery demanded sophisticated cost management and contract administration capabilities. The programme's scale and duration required robust escalation modelling, risk quantification, and contingency management across multiple funding cycles.

Methodology and Approach

TAG Advisory implemented a comprehensive independent estimation framework tailored to the programme's scale and complexity. Initial engagement focused on developing baseline cost estimates for the entire 10-year programme, establishing budget foundations for Treasury approval and funding allocation. The methodology incorporated detailed bottom-up estimation for near-term work packages whilst applying parametric techniques for later phases.
For Work Packages One to Ten, independent cost estimation services include:

• Assessment of packaging strategies and delivery methodologies
• Benchmarking against comparable rail renewal projects
• Development of detailed cost estimates for annual work programmes
• Escalation modelling over the programme duration
• Regular estimate updates reflecting scope refinement and market conditions
• Risk quantification and contingency allocation

Work Pack One required additional contract administration services during the critical Armadale and Thornlie Line shutdown. TAG Advisory provided hands-on support managing commercial aspects including progress claims assessment, variation management, contractor coordination and cost reporting. This intensive involvement during the shutdown period ensured successful delivery within budget constraints whilst maintaining quality and safety standards.

Outcomes and Value

TAG Advisory's independent estimation has established robust budget parameters supporting successful funding approval for this critical infrastructure programme. Clear cost visibility across the 10-year programme enables informed decision-making regarding work packaging, delivery timing and resource allocation. Regular estimate updates maintain budget currency and support adaptive programme management responding to emerging priorities and constraints.

Contract administration support for Work Pack One, including independent validation of direct costs incurred under the guaranteed maximum price procurement model resulted in the package ultimately being delivered within budget.

The Independent Estimator role provides Treasury and PTA executives with confidence in programme cost management, supporting sustained funding commitment across political and economic cycles. Objective cost assessment enables value-for-money demonstration and supports strategic decisions regarding renewal priorities and delivery methodologies.

Conclusion

The Rail Revitalisation Programme engagement demonstrates TAG Advisory's capability to provide independent cost assurance for complex, long-term infrastructure programmes. By combining strategic programme-level estimation with detailed contract administration support, TAG Advisory enables PTA to deliver this transformational renewal programme with confidence in cost parameters and delivery outcomes. This ongoing engagement reinforces TAG Advisory's role as a trusted independent advisor supporting the sustainable renewal of Western Australia's critical rail infrastructure over the coming decade.