The federal government recently established the Office of National Rail Industry Coordination (ONRIC) to lead a national approach addressing challenges in the rail manufacturing sector.
Part of the federal government’s A Future Made in Australia commitment, the new office will execute the $14.2 million National Rail Manufacturing Plan, creating skilled manufacturing jobs by building more trains in Australia.
ONRIC will work closely with state and territory governments, manufacturers, industry peak bodies, unions, and research organisations to implement the manufacturing strategy.
Among its proposed initiatives, ONRIC will create a Rail Industry Innovation Council to bolster research and development, skills, and capabilities.
It would also have a designated rail supplier advocate to help small and medium-sized enterprises gain access to export and government supply opportunities.
A National Rail Procurement and Manufacturing Strategy will also be established to boost productivity and foster opportunities for Australian manufacturers, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources said in a statement.
