Lifts at Epping station have become a major headache for commuters and residents, with frequent breakdowns and band-aid solutions undermining accessibility at one of Sydney’s busiest transport hubs.
Between April 2023 and early 2025, records show that the two lifts on the Beecroft Road pedestrian bridge experienced a combined 74 breakdowns, with Lift 4 on the western side accounting for 63. In 2024, Epping station recorded almost 8 million passenger movements, ranking it among the top 20 busiest stations on the network.
In addition to an average of 22,000 commuter movements each day, local residents also frequently use the lifts to access either side of the railway line.
These ongoing faults have left passengers and residents — especially the elderly, parents with prams, and people with mobility challenges — either taking a long, circuitous route across Epping Bridge or risking their safety by climbing the long flight of stairs.
City of Parramatta Councillor for Epping Ward and former Deputy Lord Mayor, Cameron Maclean, has received numerous inquiries from residents about the Epping lifts. Mr Maclean said that, while this is a state issue and not a council asset, “because it affects people’s everyday lives, I am more than happy to advocate on their behalf”.
Over the past year, state Member for Epping and newly appointed Shadow Minister for Finance and Western Sydney, Monica Tudehope, has raised concerns about the Epping station lifts. Ms Tudehope said that, “I have been fighting alongside residents to get the lifts repaired but ultimately want to see them replaced”.
As a temporary measure, Transport for NSW has arranged baggage handlers to assist during breakdowns. At the time of writing, while the lifts are functioning, baggage handlers remain deployed.
Although numerous repairs have been undertaken over the past three years – with the recent November-December breakdown requiring spare parts to be shipped from overseas – the lifts have surpassed their end of life.
While lifts commonly have a service life of around 20-25 years, high usage and exposure to the elements can reduce their lifespan.
These two lifts were first registered in 2005. It is time for a replacement.
Key Takeaways: Epping Station Lifts
- Frequent Failures: Between April 2023 and early 2025, the two pedestrian bridge lifts suffered 74 combined breakdowns, with Lift 4 failing 63 times.
- High Impact: With 8 million annual passenger movements, these failures severely affect the elderly, parents with prams, and those with limited mobility.
- Temporary Band-Aids: Transport for NSW has deployed baggage handlers as a stop-gap measure, but spare parts often need to be shipped from overseas.
- Political Pressure: Local Councillor Cameron Maclean and State Member Monica Tudehope are advocating for a permanent solution.
- The Verdict: Originally registered in 2005, the lifts have likely surpassed their service life due to high usage and weather exposure, necessitating full replacement.
