Sydney to Melb train services disrupted

Interstate rail commuters are being warned of widespread disruptions to the Sydney to Melbourne service after a weekend derailment.

NSW TrainLink says XPT services have been affected by a derailment at Gunning, between Goulburn and Yass on Sunday, which caused extensive damage to the line.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation is working to repair about nine kilometres of the line, with about 7000 concrete sleepers needing to be replaced.

It will be "a number of days" before the work is complete, with freight and passenger services being restricted during that time.

Customers planning to travel in the next few days "should be aware their journey will be affected and may need to make alternative travel arrangements", NSW TrainLink says.

"XPT services between Sydney and Melbourne will be significantly disrupted, and customers should expect some delays and cancellations," it said on Thursday.

Buses will replace services between Sydney and Melbourne where possible, although NSW TrainLink warned services would be limited "due to the high demand following damage caused by recent widespread weather events".