Aligning train control technology

Across Australia, networks are modernising rail systems with new digital signalling and communications technologies. These monitor the location and speed of each train, and can instantly send the information between trains, tracks and control rooms. 

Digital signalling will allow for more train services to run safely on the same track and carry more people and freight between Australia’s cities, regions and ports.
 

To get the full benefits of these new technologies, the different systems need to be able to communicate using a common language, allowing freight and passenger trains to move seamlessly between networks as they travel across the country.

Right now, each state is at a different stage of their digital journey. Networks are making decisions independently, considering systems that are best suited to their individual infrastructure and environment. 

If the systems they choose are incompatible, or customised in a way that doesn’t connect with neighbouring networks, many opportunities will be lost, and new interoperability challenges will be introduced.
A lack of interoperability between the systems would mean that:

• trains need to be fitted with multiple sets of onboard equipment
• complex and expensive track-side equipment is duplicated
• extra costs are incurred in management, maintenance and training of the new systems
• productivity will decrease as fewer trains could run on shared tracks
• safety risks rise as workers swap between systems.

Through the National Rail Action Plan (NRAP), the NTC is working with governments, industry and unions to ensure the new systems are interoperable. And Australia’s networks operate as one integrated rail system.

To make this happen Australia's transport and infrastructure ministers asked the NTC to prepare a Strategic Business case for a train control and signalling interoperability pathway across Australia’s major freight and passenger rail lines, starting with the eastern seaboard.

We’re also establishing a set of common principles to guide consistent system rollouts. And developing a cost sharing framework, to ensure that interoperability costs and benefits are shared fairly.
Other changes include:
 

• the development of new mandatory standards to lock in interoperability of digital systems for the future
• implementing recommended amendments to the National Rail Safety Law (RSNL) which will  require operators on the NNI to develop an Interoperability Management Plan. And to show that they have identified and considered national interoperability impacts when making changes to their network.

A coordinated rollout of digital train control systems will:
 

• improve freight reliability and transit times
• increase punctuality and reliability of passenger services
• reduce training costs and improve worker mobility
• improve safety 
• lower carbon emissions through more efficient train operations
• improve supply chain competition, increasing opportunity for local manufacturers
• avoid conventional lineside signalling costs
• help future proof networks for fast rail.

If you'd like to express interest in the National Rail Action Plan and program, or ask us a question about our work, send us an email as we'd like to hear from you.