Advancing interoperability through regulatory reform

Last year, we consulted with industry on the requirement to have an Interoperability Management Plan for operations on the National Network for Interoperability (NNI). 

Your feedback outlined the importance of a concise, clear and easily understood definition of the NNI, which needs to be gazetted prior to the requirement coming into effect. We also heard that the Hunter Valley Rail Network should be included within the NNI due to its strategic importance to the nation’s freight network.

We sought feedback on the updated NNI map and associated definition, found in this consultation paper.

Australia’s rail system is made up of 18 separate rail networks, 11 different signalling systems, and countless different rules.  

With $155 Billion being spent modernising our rail networks and introducing digital train control systems, now is the time to ensure we have technologies that work together, more common operating rules and a simpler way to get trains on tracks.    

Creating an interoperable rail system is a priority for all Australian governments.  

Right now, under the Rail Safety National Law (RSNL) rail transport operators do not need to consider the national interoperability impacts of their individual network decisions.  

A lack of interoperability across rail networks is a challenge to creating a safer and more efficient railway system.  

Last year, we consulted with industry on the requirement to have an Interoperability Management Plan for operations on the National Network for Interoperability (NNI). Your feedback outlined the importance of a concise, clear and easily understood definition of the NNI, which needs to be gazetted prior to the requirement coming into effect.

We sought feedback on the proposed definition and map of the NNI, which can be found in this consultation paper.

To improve interoperability, the NTC is developing a new regulatory requirement in the RSNL National Regulations.  

This will require rail transport operators on the National Network for Interoperability (NNI) to consider national interoperability and have an Interoperability Management Plan (IMP) as part of their Safety Management System (SMS) when planning changes to their railway operations.

The NTC is working with the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) to develop guidance material that will help industry develop their IMP well ahead of implementation.