The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement today that local manufacturing will be required as part of the Parramatta Light Rail stage two business case.

ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie said Australia had significant rail manufacturing capability and the decision would support local jobs in the industry.

“Australia has a $2.4 billion rail manufacturing and supply industry that employs more than 4000 people across the country,” Ms Wilkie said

“Today’s decision recognises the significant talent and innovation available in Australia and will support the growth and development of rail manufacturing in years to come.

“This will provide new opportunities for collaboration between the NSW Government and industry to support better outcomes for public transport users.”

The ARA welcomed consultation between Transport for NSW and the manufacturing sector to commence next week.

Ms Wilkie said almost half of the rollingstock manufacturing and repair jobs in Australia were located in Sydney and Melbourne, while additional employment hubs were located in regional centres including Newcastle, Dandenong, Maryborough and Lake Macquarie.

Ms Wilkie said a national approach to rail manufacturing procurement would make the best use of existing capability in Australia and support greater efficiency for projects such as Parramatta Light Rail.

“A nationally consistent approach to procurement allows the local industry to gain the economies of scale it needs to innovate and grow,” Ms Wilkie said.

ENDS