Complicated and repetitive approval processes mean it can take longer to get a train approved to run across the country than it does to build it.
This is costly for operators and a major deterrent to investment in newer, safer rolling stock that produce less emissions.
As part of the National Rail Action Plan, the National Transport Commission (NTC) is working with industry to streamline the rolling stock approval process by:
1. Developing guidance on rollingstock safety assurance processes.
2. Piloting a single national application approach to register rolling stock operating on the national network of interoperability (NNI).
3. Investigating ways to harmonise testing requirements and locations for rolling stock.
To support the development of this program, the NTC has released a consultation paper seeking feedback on potential initiatives for developing safety assurance guidance.
This aims to provide clarity on the roles and responsibilities of rail infrastructure managers (RIMs) and rolling stock operators (RSOs) in the certification and registration of rolling stock.
To read the consultation paper and have your say, visit the NTC website.
