South Australia’s infrastructure boom is powering ahead, with the first of three massive Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) now on its way to Adelaide — marking a major milestone in delivering a non-stop South Road.
Following successful factory testing in China, the TBM has been cleared for shipping to South Australia. Manufactured across Germany and China, every component — from cutterhead to thrust cylinders — has been put through rigorous testing to meet technical and operational standards.
Once it arrives, the TBM will be assembled at the Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project’s Southern Precinct in Clovelly Park. It’s one of two machines that will carve out the 4.5km Southern Tunnels between Darlington and just south of Anzac Highway, while a third TBM will be launched from Richmond to build the twin 2.2km Northern Tunnels. Excavation on the Southern Tunnels is expected to begin in the second half of 2026.
Meanwhile, the $870 million Tram Grade Separation Project continues to reshape Adelaide’s transport landscape, with major works underway to install the rebuilt South Road Tram Overpass — a 95-metre steel arch bridge requiring 1,200 tonnes of steel and 520 cubic metres of concrete. With beams now being lifted across Cross and Morphett Roads, the project is well on track, removing congestion and improving safety at former level crossings in Plympton and Morphettville.
The partial tram line closure between South Terrace and Moseley Square is allowing crews to fast-track works, with full services set to resume in early 2026.
More than 1,000 jobs are being supported across these major projects, with construction activity in SA now at record highs — the Master Builders Association forecasting a staggering $21.08 billion worth of work in 2025-26, up 28 per cent year-on-year for transport infrastructure alone.
Emily Bourke MLC, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, said, “We can’t wait to welcome our first Tunnel Boring Machine to South Australia. Stretching around 100 metres in length and 15 metres in diameter, these enormous machines are the biggest pieces of construction equipment ever used in our state — a pivotal step in delivering a non-stop South Road.”
Louise Miller-Frost, Federal Member for Boothby, added, “It’s fantastic to see such major infrastructure projects reaching these milestones. The difference the boom gate removals have already made to congestion is remarkable.”
Toby Priest, Labor candidate for Morphett, thanked tram users for their patience, noting, “The removal of the level crossings is already improving traffic flow and safety.”
Will Frogley, CEO of Master Builders SA, said, “This will be the biggest year ever for construction in South Australia. With over 93,000 people employed across more than 26,000 businesses, our industry is driving the state’s economy and helping build its future.”
More News
