The call comes in response to the federal government’s $10 billion National Rail Program designed to help regional areas.

A report on the program from the federal government specifically listed the Wollongong to Sydney line as an example of rail routes that could perform better.

Mr Scully has written to NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance asking him to put forward the South Coast line for federal funding.

His letter quoted the report, which said “proposals could also involve replacing stretches of winding track which prevents trains running at high speeds”.

This description very much fits the section of track around Helensburgh.

“The funding available from the federal government is a once in a generation opportunity to improve the Wollongong-Sydney rail corridor, which is described as a strategic urban rail corridor,” Mr Scully said.

““This is a crucial opportunity to dramatically improve the Wollongong-Sydney rail corridor, deal with its current constraints and be able to deliver faster passenger travel to and from Sydney.”

A Transport for NSW spokesman said it planned to seek funding but the specifics of which rail lines would benefit was not known.

“The NSW government is working closely with the Australian government on its National Urban and Regional Rail Program,” the spokesman said.

“It is anticipated that NSW will seek funding under the program.”

The spokesman said earlier changes to the timetable meant commuters “experienced improved journey times from major stations”.