Greens push fast rail

AN environment group has called for $32 billion to be spent to link all eastern capitals with a 360km/h train.

It claims a high-speed rail network powered by 100 per cent renewable energy would eliminate greenhouse gas emissions produced by long distance air travel.

Beyond Zero Emissions said Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane could be linked in a visionary, nation-building project.

"At speeds up to 360km/h, a super-fast train would complete the Melbourne to Sydney route in under three hours," spokesman Matthew Wright said.

"This is comparable with air travel when you include check-in times, security checks and delays in luggage handling."

The group said the Federal Government's proposed Auslink II program would cost $22 billion, with most money going into road upgrades.

Mr Wright said the success of the French TGV was proof their alternative plan would work.