Network Rail Consulting’s Growing Rail Operations Capability in Australia

Network Rail Consulting (NRC) is continuing to build a wide-ranging Railway Operational advisory capability across the Australian region in addition to its existing unique set of rail sector skills that support client needs in Government, Rail Operators, and private organisations.

Our Railway Operations team has been formed with a combination of local and international experts, experienced in all aspects of operations, and covering transport modes of tram, light rail, metro, freight, regional and high-speed railways. The unique diversity of the team’s knowledge and experience provides our customers with capability that deliver innovative advice across operations, network strategic planning, operational safety, infrastructure, and the introduction of digital signalling including automated rail operations.

Unlike many traditional consultants our people have hands-on railway experience, therefore our analysis and recommendations are based on practice. We offer realistic advice on modern operating techniques and efficient practices without compromising on Safety.

Adam Boughton, Network Rail Consulting’s Victoria State Manager, said “Our operations teams are currently involved in early stage works in major projects including the introduction of digital signalling and associated automation, with a greater emphasis on managing the risks in design and providing a safe, and high performing railway for the operator. This is critical to provide a fit for purpose approach in developing requirements.”

The skills shortage in many specialised areas is an increasing problem within an industry which is already significantly stretched by multiple major projects. This shortfall is compounded even more by traditional methods in managing competence that prevents interstate or oversees competency being utilised. At Network Rail Consulting, we recognise these issues and have the railway operations capability to support the development of Competency Management Systems using modern methods to assist in developing technical and non-technical skills. This development of the workforce is critical to underpin the sustainable growth required for the introduction of new technology and the on-going operability/maintenance of a modern digital railway.

Paul Owen, Network Rail Consulting’s Associate Director of Rail Operations, said “I joined NRC in early 2022 after 35 years of working in Rail Operations and Safety teams in Train Operating Companies, Rail Transport Operators and major rail projects. The culture and working ethics in NRC are something I’m proud to be a part of and I’m really enjoying working alongside some exceptional Operations and Technical experts who also have all had hands on experience. The transformation we are bringing to projects is quite unique, especially with the added ability to connect and consult with the Network Rail SME’s, who operate and maintain the UK rail network.”

Our operational capabilities cover all areas of shadow operations including, but not limited to:

• Operational integration;
• Developing project scope & technical requirements to meet operational requirements;
• Stakeholder management;
• Developing operations & maintenance concepts;
• Reviewing operability and safety compliance in designs;
• Operational readiness;
• Development and management of standards, procedures and processes;
• Strategic network planning;
• Operational modelling; and
• Developing competency management and associated training.

To find out more about Network Rail Consulting’s full list of capabilities and services, click here.

Paul Owen
Associate Director, Rail Operations
Network Rail Consulting