About the strategy

This strategy outlines how the Australian Government will work with stakeholders to:

  • develop a more collaborative approach to procuring rolling stock – locomotives, carriages, wagons, trams, light rail vehicles and their associated components and systems
  • help grow a more globally competitive rail manufacturing sector.

It will simplify procurement, harmonise standards across states and territories, increase innovation, and improve skills and capabilities in the rail manufacturing sector.

The strategy is part of­ the National Rail Manufacturing Plan. It was developed through consultation with:

  • state and territory governments 
  • rail manufacturing companies of all sizes
  • unions 
  • industry bodies such as the Australasian Railway Association
  • researchers and universities.

Explore the digital publication

  • Acknowledgement of Country

    In delivering Australia’s National Rail Procurement and Manufacturing Strategy, we pay our respects to our First Nations people, their Elders past and present, and their ancestors, who have always cared and continue...
  • Ministers’ foreword

    The Australian Government is committed to building a Future Made in Australia.

Our rail manufacturing sector

  • The case for action: why now?

    In 2019, the Australian rail industry contributed around $30 billion (1.5%) to the national economy and employed over 165,000 full-time equivalent people in ‘above and below’ rail design, manufacturing, construction...
  • Challenges and opportunities: stakeholder views

    The Office of National Rail Industry Coordination (ONRIC) and the National Rail Manufacturing Advocate met with more than 50 stakeholders across Australia to better understand the key issues affecting the Australian...

What we will do: 6 pillars to drive action

Glossary and references

  • Glossary

    Definitions of special terms used in this strategy
  • References

    Publications referenced in this strategy.