$2.8b intercity train fleet for NSW

NSW's transport minister has started the process of buying an intercity train fleet set to be delivered between 2019 and 2024.

The NSW government will spend $2.8 billion on more trains for travellers from the central coast, Newcastle, the Blue Mountains and south coast.

Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian has called for expressions of interest from local and overseas manufacturers for the new fleet of 65 trains, totalling 520 carriages.

She said there was a lot of enthusiasm for the project at an industry briefing in May.

The government expects the first trains to be delivered by 2019 and the rest by 2024.

The fleet will be part of NSW TrainLink.

"Our customers deserve a world-class service every day," Ms Berejiklian said in a statement.

"There's still a way to go, but I am pleased we have already made significant improvements for customers."

Expressions of interest close on September 15 and requests for tender are expected later in the year.