Inland Rail program delivery manager Olivia Newman said the final route was still at least 12 months away, with the study corridor (generally two kilometres wide) to be narrowed down to a final, 40 to 60 metre wide corridor.

It will include a grade separation (bridge) over the Mitchell Highway, and a diamond south-east of the town to connect other lines. 

Field and geotechnical investigations and environmental studies will be carried out, with community consultation to help inform the most suitable rail corridor and identify the best possible design solutions to minimise impacts on property and communities.

Inland Rail will have to submit an application to the New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment for the project to be declared State Significant Infrastructure, and also prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).