The long-awaited Cross River Rail project is marginally closer to reality, with the introduction of new legislation in Parliament this week.
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On Tuesday, Deputy Premier Jackie Trad introduced a bill to create a Cross River Rail Delivery Authority.
If passed, the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority Bill 2016 would establish an independent statutory body which would effectively act as a government-owned corporation.
The opposition recently criticised the government for tardiness, as the authority had not been created, despite being announced in April, and due to be delivered in October.
Ms Trad said predicted population growth meant south-east Queensland's rail system would need to account for an extra 45,000 passengers in the morning two-hour peak period by 2026.
"By 2036, this will expand to an additional 83,000 passengers or 185 full train loads," Ms Trad said.
"This drives the need for south-east Queensland to be better designed, better connected with better integration of land use, infrastructure and transport."
Ms Trad said the project would also provide the catalyst for "major urban renewal opportunities around new station precincts".
The $5.4 billion project would link Bowen Hills to Dutton Park across 10.2 kilometres and provide a much-needed new rail crossing for the Brisbane River.
The authority will be responsible for finalising the project's funding model, leading procurement and managing delivery.
"The authority will ensure that Cross River Rail stays on track and is not derailed by politics," Ms Trad said.
The bill was referred to the Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources committee.
It is understood it is the only new bill set to be introduced in Queensland's Parliament this sitting week.
The government will also debate legislation on domestic and family violence, medicinal cannabis and gene technology.
