Next Stop, More Good Jobs in Rail Manufacturing

16 November 2023

 

The Albanese Labor Government has today released the National Rail Procurement and Manufacturing Strategy, outlining the steps it is taking to help grow a sustainable rail manufacturing sector, increase productivity, international competitiveness and industry participation.

 

Delivering the Strategy in partnership with the States and Territories will support good jobs in our outer suburbs and regions by helping to ensure high-quality, low-emissions passenger and freight trains are made here.

 

The Strategy has six pillars:

 

  1. Develop a nationally coordinated approach to rolling stock procurement
  2. Harmonise standards for manufacturing rolling stock
  3. Adopt a national local content approach
  4. Maximise opportunities for freight and heavy haul rail manufacturing
  5. Improve research and innovation outcomes in the rail sector
  6. Establish the foundation for good jobs and rewarding careers in rail manufacturing

 

The Strategy is part of the National Rail Manufacturing Plan – an election commitment to lift productivity, improve social and environmental outcomes and create economic value.

 

The Government has already delivered on earlier commitments in the Plan including establishing the Office of National Rail Industry Coordination (ONRIC), and the appointment of a National Rail Manufacturing Advocate and Rail Industry Innovation Council.

 

ONRIC has been working closely with industry, state and territory governments, unions and the research community to develop the Strategy. This important collaboration will continue throughout implementation.