“The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) welcomes the announcement of a new $7.1 million Manufacturing Centre of Excellence for Maryborough as a huge step forward in boosting the future skills required to support a thriving local rail manufacturing industry and growing a more globally competitive industry.  

“It is critical we support the development of a modern rail skills workforce which is able to cope with the rapid advances in technology that enables an industry that is fit for future. 

“Rail brings enormous benefits to the Australian economy, contributing $30 billion each year. A strong local manufacturing industry means more trains will be built here, delivering more skilled jobs in the regions and less resources being sent overseas.” 

“It will also provide local businesses with more export opportunities, building a more sustainable, safe and productive rail industry.” 

Further background: 

The ARA is working closely with the Office of National Rail Industry Coordination towards a national approach to deliver the Australian Government’s $14.2 million National Rail Manufacturing Plan. 

The ARA looks forward to the delivery of the National Rail Manufacturing Plan to support industry productivity and facilitate opportunities for Australian manufacturers. 

The rail rollingstock manufacturing and repair industry has a revenue of just over $2.4 billion and a direct value-added of $515 million. 

ARA-funded research showed that a coordinated national approach to rail procurement and manufacturing would have saved $1.85 billion over the past 10 years.