Several Sustainability Committee working groups and networks met this week to discuss achievements against the ARA’s 2024 Sustainability Strategy and identify priority areas for 2025. 

The Resilience Working Group met on Tuesday 8 October and heard a presentation from Aurizon on its recent climate modelling and mapping exercise, and how the outcomes of this work will inform ongoing resilience activities and initiatives across the network. The group also shared activities and resilience-building strategies underway and discussed the potential for a dedicated Resilience Framework created for the rail industry. 

The Rollingstock Decarbonisation Working Group met on 9 October, with Powering Australia presenting on their current engagement with the rail industry, and opportunities for collaboration and connection as the sector transitions towards net zero. The group also discussed the recommendations of the ARA’s recent report The critical path to decarbonise Australia’s rail rollingstock and shared updates on actions underway in support of the project. Key recommendations from the report will inform the 2025 priority areas for this working group. 

The Circular Economy Working Group met on Thursday 10 October. The group reviewed 2024 focus areas and discussed opportunities for greater engagement with the supply chain, with the aim of improving awareness of circular principles and the associated benefits and opportunities. The group also discussed the Productivity Commission’s recent request for submissions on the opportunities and barriers to the circular economy in Australia.  

The Modern Slavery Network also met on 10 October. The group reviewed their Terms of Reference and discussed opportunities for amendments to ensure the network is providing maximum value for participating members. The group also identified updates to priority areas for 2025.  

For more information or to get involved in any of the working groups, contact ARA Policy Manager Lauren Ascah