Victoria has appointed a new rail advocate to support the local train, tram and bus manufacturing industry.

In her new role as Victorian Rail Advocate, Tamara Culembourg, who was previously head of business transformation for Yarra Trams, will be responsible for promoting the state’s rail manufacturing supply chain and workforce and developing initiatives to grow industry and boost jobs.

She’ll also chair the Government’s Rail Industry Development Advisory Committee (RIDAC) and promote collaboration between industry, transport operators, and government. 

The Victorian Government has invested over $8 billion to boost Victorian-built rolling stock, and Ms Culembourg will work to support local rail suppliers to innovate and win contracts.

Ms Culembourg brings almost 20 years of local and international experience to the role, holding key positions in rail manufacturing and transport operations.

In 2022, in partnership with the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, she established and launched the Mobility Supply Chain Centre of Excellence (MSCCE).

Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams thanked outgoing Rail Advocate Jill Walsh and said she looked forward to working with Ms Culembourg over the next three years.

Ms Culembourg said she was excited an honoured to have been appointed to the job.

“Victoria has a proud rail manufacturing history supporting thousands of jobs and leads the nation in locally built trains and trams,” she said in a statement.

“I look forward to supporting innovation and helping manufacturers and suppliers secure new opportunities in this high value, highly skilled industry.”