Model Trains Australia: Build Your Railway with Hobbyco

Shop model trains by product type

The best place to begin depends on what you already own and how much planning you want to do. Complete sets simplify the first purchase, while individual components give you greater control over the railway you build.

Train sets are a practical starting point when you need a train, track and controller in one package, so check the listing because inclusions differ. Locomotives and rolling stock let you match powered models, carriages and wagons to your scale, couplings and theme. Track and accessories let you expand with straights, curves, points, crossings, sidings and underlay from a compatible track system. Controllers and power supplies need to match the electrical system and voltage requirements to your trains and track. Scenery and layout supplies add buildings, roads, figures, lighting and landscape materials once the railway runs reliably.

Current listings range from low-cost detail parts to starter sets and premium ready-to-run locomotives or multi-car packs. Check each product page for live pricing and availability.

Choose the right model railway scale

Scale describes the model size compared with the real train. Gauge is the distance between the rails. Your choice affects space, detail and product compatibility.

HO scale at about 1:87 balances detail and layout size. OO scale at about 1:76 is widely used for British railways. Both commonly run on 16.5 mm track, but the models differ in size. N scale uses 9 mm gauge track and suits compact spaces or longer trains. Selected TT and other railway models may also be available.

If you are still comparing options, the Model Trains 101 beginner guide explains scale, track and power in more depth. The guide to starting a model railway from scratch covers planning and layout building step by step.

Train sets or separate components?

A model train set is often the clearest entry point because its main components are selected to work together. Check for track, a controller, a power supply and instructions. Some products described as sets contain rolling stock only.

Separate components suit modellers who know their scale, track system and control method. They also allow a layout to centre on a specific prototype or operating theme.

DC and DCC model train control

DC analogue systems control trains by changing power through the rails and suit simple layouts. DCC sends digital commands so compatible decoder-fitted locomotives can be controlled independently on the same powered section.

A DCC-ready model normally needs a suitable decoder before digital operation. DCC-fitted and DCC sound-fitted models include different equipment. Check the product page for included controllers, decoders and sound functions.

Model railway brands and popular prototypes

Brands represented across the live range include Hornby, Bachmann, Peco, TOMIX, Kato, Auscision Models, Busch and other specialist makers. Availability changes, so confirm scale, gauge, control type, couplings and inclusions on each listing.

The range covers steam, diesel and electric prototypes, passenger and freight operations, Australian subjects, British favourites, Japanese trains and character sets. Match the technical specifications before choosing by appearance.

Complete your layout with model railway supplies

Once the train runs smoothly, develop the layout with passenger carriages, freight rolling stock, extra track, buildings, scenery and lighting. Keep suitable tools and maintenance supplies nearby for track cleaning, small adjustments and layout work. Build in stages so you can test each section before adding more detail.

Frequently asked questions

What scale should a beginner choose?

HO and OO are practical choices when you want models that are easy to handle and a broad selection of trains and accessories. N scale is often better where space is limited. Measure the available layout area first, then compare the minimum curves and track footprint required by the trains you prefer.

Are HO and OO compatible?

HO and OO models commonly use the same 16.5 mm track gauge, so some products can operate on the same track. However, the scales are different, and couplings, clearances, wheel standards and electrical requirements can vary. Check the specifications for every locomotive, carriage, wagon and track system before combining them.

What is needed for a first model railway?

At minimum, you need a compatible train, track, controller and power supply. A complete starter set often packages these essentials together. A stable baseboard, extra track, cleaning supplies, buildings and scenery can be added as the layout develops.

Find model trains in Australia at Hobbyco

Hobbyco brings together model train sets, locomotives, rolling stock, track, control systems and model railway supplies in one collection. Compare the live range by scale, product type, brand and availability, or use the Model Trains hub to explore popular layout categories before choosing the next part of your railway.