Harmonisation

The ARA advocates for a national approach to harmonising standards and greater interoperability to support an efficient, safe and productive industry. Our rail system is made up of 29 separate networks, each with their own unique standards, operating rules, processes, infrastructure and approaches to workforce training. Greater consistency reduces supply chain risk, promotes innovation, research and the adoption of technologies that will provide sustainable opportunities for Australian businesses to participate in rail investment. The harmonisation of standards is a key aspect to support interoperability of our national network, and the ARA is actively working with the National Transport Commission, Office of National Rail Industry Coordination and state and federal governments to identify opportunities for reform.

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National local content

Many rail projects have to meet local content policies within a single state or territory, making it harder to share skills and expertise across the country. Nationally focused local content policies would give businesses the scale and certainty they need to innovate and grow. Supporting local manufacturers, suppliers and contractors increases job opportunities and creates a more competitive supply chain. Local content requirements also help build a skilled workforce by ensuring companies invest in local training, contributing to long-term sustainability.

Towards a National Local Content Policy Report
Benefits of a National Local Content Policy
Fast tracking rail innovation

Better procurement

The future of Australia’s rail construction sector hinges upon driving down the high costs of tendering, more consistent project planning on behalf of governments and greater industry collaboration. Getting projects off to the right start begins with good procurement processes. A consistent national approach to rail construction will help drive project investment further, benefiting both government and industry. In addition, a national approach to rollingstock and signalling tenders would encourage competitiveness and enable businesses to recommend new approaches to drive innovation.

Best Practice Principles for Rail Construction Procurement
Tendering Framework – A Best Practice Guide to Rolling Stock and Signalling Tendering in the Australian Rail Industry
Tendering Framework

Type approval

The current type approvals process requires a single product to be approved each time it is used by a different operator or different jurisdiction, creating significant inefficiencies costing industry $230 million per year. A national approach to type approvals would allow existing products to be more easily used across locations, while providing more time for new and innovative products to be assessed and approved. A National Type Approval Framework has been developed by Transport for NSW in conjunction with other jurisdictions and is now being trialled.

Estimating the economic cost of Type Approval processes in the Australian rail industry
New research calls for streamlined rail industry type approvals

Our latest research

Key contacts

Natalie Currey

General Manager – Supply Chain, Constructors and Diversity
[email protected] +61 499 993 021

The Australasian Railway Association acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of Australia, and their continuing connections to the land, waters and communities. We pay our respects to them and to their elders past, present and emerging.