The ARA Accessibility Committee met this week to discuss the progress of the Commonwealth’s update to the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.  

The group also discussed several key issues of operational importance such as organisational/jurisdictional policies on assistance animals, and gaps in existing policies. The group also discussed the need to ensure that examples of best practice wayfinding be shared among rail companies.  

The ARA’s Telecommunications Committee met to discuss how best to support the National Transport Commission’s National Rail Action Plan, which seeks to address railway skills development, harmonisation of standards, and ensuring interoperability in train control systems and telecommunications.  

The group also discussed the need to increase engagement with the High Speed Rail Authority as its plans develop. This is to ensure that the fundamental telecommunications, controls system and traffic management system are thoroughly considered during the early planning stages of the project. 

The Revenue Protection Network also met to discuss fare caps in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia, and free zones for light rail in Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra (which is temporary as the ticketing system is upgraded). This week’s meeting also included discussion on trials for body worn cameras, how revenue protection is linked to antisocial behaviour, and the relationship between our communities and our industry’s revenue protection staff. Rail companies and transport departments shared the outcomes of recent fare compliance surveys and, while generally very positive, they reveal certain problems areas for our industry to work on.  

The Revenue Protection Network provides a consultative forum for passenger rail operators to discuss revenue protection matters, including best practice on issues such as infrastructure design, ticketing, signage and fare structures. 

It is a valuable opportunity for rail companies to learn from each other and support this vital function within our industry. 

The ARA Telecommunications Committee facilitates cooperation in relation to telecommunications activities to achieve interoperability, improved functionality and increased delivery efficiency of railway communications systems, including a focus on spectrum issues.  

The Accessibility Committee shares information and provides advice on current and future accessibility issues in the passenger rail sector, with a focus on greater coordination and collaboration across Australia and New Zealand.