The number of independently managed rail networks in Australia has significantly increased, with differences between networks and jurisdictions making it harder to operate rail freight services efficiently. This puts a drain on efficiency and leads to increased costs, reduced service standards and stifled innovation. 

Addressing the issues that constrain the rail freight sector could significantly improve rail freight efficiency. However, the rail industry cannot address this complexity alone. Read more

The solution  

• Establish a nationally consistent regulatory and governance framework to harmonise operational standards and processes, and improve safety, productivity, environmental and access regulation 
• Create a dedicated body with the power to mandate harmonised principles, standards and processes