SA - Port Augusta - East-West Rail Corridor Closure Due to Flooding - February 12, 2026

Please be advised that the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has closed the East-West rail corridor following heavy rainfall and flooding north of Port Augusta, South Australia.

Initial reports confirm track washaways of up to 100 metres in some locations, resulting in a full suspension of rail services along this corridor.

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Update

March 3 2026

Further to our previous advisory regarding the East-West rail corridor closure, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has provided an updated status as of 10:45am AEDT, Tuesday 3 March 2026.

Heavy rainfall and flooding associated with a tropical low continue to impact key rail infrastructure across South Australia, western Victoria, and southern New South Wales.

Current Status

Melbourne – Perth Corridor

• Restoration works and re-inspections are progressing on schedule
• Expected to reopen at 5:00pm AEDT today (3 March 2026)

Broken Hill & Whyalla Sections (Sydney – Perth Corridor)

• Sustained more significant damage
• Remain closed while detailed engineering and track inspections are conducted
• Expected to remain closed until at least Sunday, 8 March 2026, subject to inspection outcomes

Operational Impact

• Ongoing rail freight delays, particularly on the Sydney–Perth routing
• Potential congestion once services resume
• Some freight may require re-routing or schedule adjustment

ARTC is working with rail freight operators to explore additional services between Melbourne and Adelaide, where capacity permits.

Customers with cargo moving via the East-West rail corridor should continue to factor in potential delays and monitor shipment status closely.

Current Status

• East-West rail line closed
• ARTC crews conducting damage inspections
• Estimated reopening: Not expected for at least 7 days, subject to repair progress and weather conditions

Expected Impact

• Significant delays to interstate rail freight
• Containers and cargo transiting via rail between Western Australia and the Eastern States may be held
• Potential flow-on congestion once services resume

Customers with cargo currently moving via rail are advised to:

• Review shipment timelines
• Allow additional buffer time
• Contact KLN if alternative routing options are required

We are monitoring updates from ARTC and will provide further advisories as more information becomes available.

You can view the full media release here: