Pakenham Station has been recognised for its functional and aesthetic spaces, receiving 7 prestigious honours at the 2026 Better Future Awards.
Delivered as part of the removal of 3 dangerous and congested level crossings, the elevated Pakenham Station and rail bridge have not only improved safety but also enhanced the way people move through the area.
The design prioritises better connections, with improved links for pedestrians, cyclists and commuters, as well as new public spaces, including a welcoming forecourt and linear park. It also embeds sustainability and inclusivity throughout the station precinct.
At the Better Future GOV Design Awards, the station received Gold for both the “Architecture and Public Realm” and “Architecture – Transport” categories, acknowledging its role as a transport gateway for Melbourne’s southeast.
The project was also celebrated at the Better Future Australian Design Awards, securing Gold in the “Architecture – Community Civic” category, and Silver in the Urban Design” category.
These honours led to the project being shortlisted in the World Design Awards, where it took home 2 Silvers for the “Architecture – Public Realm” and “Architecture – Transport” categories and a Gold for the “Architecture – Community Civic” category.
Judges highlighted the station’s bold architectural expression, integration of Indigenous storytelling and innovative sustainability features.
Pakenham Station opened in 2024 alongside the new East Pakenham Station, following the removal of the dangerous and congested level crossings at McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road. They were removed by building a 2.5km elevated rail line, creating 6 MCGs worth of new open space for locals to enjoy.
