I'm afraid HSR and intercapital aviation are connected - inversely, and politically. Perhaps I did not make this clear - underestimation of the influence on and reach into federal and state governments by Qantas et al. creates a bit of a blind spot for HSR advocates.
Does anyone really think that Qantas would just stand back graciously and allow HSR Syd-Mel to be built? Syd-Newcastle even? No, thin end of the wedge from Qantas et al's point of view.