More than 200 representatives from the rail industry and state and federal transport agencies have attended briefing session in Melbourne to discuss the current state of opportunities in the rail industry for local rail suppliers.

The session was the result of collaboration between the Australasian Railway Association (ARA), the Industry Capability Network (ICN) and the National Passenger Rail Alliance (NPRA). It was intended to and provides a platform for rail industry suppliers to learn about new projects, opportunities, programs and initiatives in the Australian rail sector.

Acting Chief Operating Officer of the ARA, Phil Allan, said the session provided an ideal opportunity for key representatives to have a say in the future direction of the rail industry. “This sell out session shows just how eager the industry is to work with government, through bodies like the ICN and NPRA, to ensure the future prosperity and growth of rail manufacturing in this country,” he said.

The session provided attendees with an update from Victorian Minister for Industry Lily D’Ambrosio, as well as presentations from government departments and transport authorities, industry associations and support organisations on specific industry strategies, project alliance opportunities and government assistance programs.

Briefings are also being scheduled later this year for Sydney and Perth. More information at the NPRA’s website.