NSW Labor has endorsed a call to investigate the restoration of passenger train services to Cessnock.
It follows a successful Rail Tram and Bus Union motion at this month's party conference, which called for the 30-kilometre line to be used as part of the transport solution to the region's booming population.
The South Maitland Rail Corridor was built in 1893 and passes through rapidly growing communities, including Gillieston Heights, Kurri Kurri, Weston, Abermain, Neath, Kearsley and Bellbird.
Passenger trains operated on the line until 1972.
The privately-owned line was used by coal trains until 2020.
The RTBU is among a growing number of community and business groups and unions from across the Lower Hunter that have called for a feasibility study into reinstating passenger services on the line.
A study undertaken by the Train to Cessnock community campaign estimated that a regular Coalfields passenger service would serve more than 65,000 people and form the spine of an integrated regional transport network.
The Cessnock local government area, one of NSW's fastest-growing areas, has severe transport challenges. Ninety seven per cent of trips to and from the Coalfields are made by private car.
It is estimated that it would take 49 minutes to travel from Cessnock to Newcastle on the train, a figure comparable to driving in off-peak traffic.
RTBU NSW Secretary Toby Warnes said the adoption of the motion to investigate reopening the line to passenger services was a significant milestone for the Hunter and recognition that extending the rail network must be part of the region's future.
"Restoring the Cessnock rail line is exactly the sort of practical, forward-thinking project the Hunter needs," Mr Warnes said.
"It would reconnect communities, support future growth and make use of infrastructure that's already there, all at a fraction of the cost of many major Sydney transport projects.
"Restoring the rail connection between Maitland and Cessnock would strengthen links across the Hunter, improve access to jobs, education and services, and create new opportunities for both passenger and freight transport."
Mr Warnes said investing in regional rail would not only improve transport options for commuters, but it would also support new housing, attract investment, reduce congestion and give people more choice about where they live and work.
"For too long we've watched transport in the Hunter go backwards," he said.
"Rail lines have closed, bus services have been privatised and communities have been left with fewer public transport options. It's time to start rebuilding our regional transport network.
"The decision at state conference is an important first step. Now we need to see that commitment reflected in the NSW government's long-term planning for the Hunter."
NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed in May he had spoken to local MPs about plans to return passenger train services to the Coalfields.
He hinted that an announcement on the issue may be made during the upcoming state election campaign.
