The ARA has partnered with the Rail Industry Safety and Standards Board (RISSB), National Transport Commission (NTC) and Office of National Rail Industry Coordination (ONRIC) to undertake research into the benefits of harmonised standards (including manufacturing, safety and interoperability) to enable a more efficient rail industry.  

Harmonisation of standards plays a significant role in achieving rail interoperability, however limited research has been undertaken to date on determining the best approach for implementation of harmonised standards within the current co-regulatory governance framework in Australia.  

The research will also provide insights into the current barriers to adopting harmonised standards as well as options for practically resolving those barriers; and identify in what situations it would be justified to continue to adopt local standards that meet bespoke network needs that do not impact on the productivity or safety of the national rail system.  

This research will assist industry in gaining deeper insights into what is preventing the adoption of existing Australian and international standards by transport agencies and operators, as well as inform development of a national standards framework through prioritisation of standards with the greatest potential impact.  

This includes aspects such as rollingstock manufacturing, interoperability, safe working, and the transition to a net-zero environment.  

The research will also highlight the changes in standards development as a result, the impact on innovation, manufacturing and the cost of transitioning the industry to national interoperability.  

The outcomes of this research will assist in advising on broader industry and government objectives and build on the work undertaken to date. 

For more information, contact ARA General Manager Supply Chain and Diversity Natalie Currey or ARA Policy Officer Mikaela Stewart.