National hub tackles skills shortage

A new national approach to tackling skills and labour shortages in the rail industry has taken a step forward with the launch of the National Rail Skills Hub at AusRAIL 2022.

The joint initiative brings governments and industry in the transport and education sectors together to help significantly increase the number and diversity of people working in rail.

Developed by the National Transport critical shortage of rail workers by showcasing the wide range of jobs available in the industry while also fostering broader skills recognition and job portability. It’s an interactive digital platform showcasing rail as a career with diverse and inclusive jobs.

NTC chief executive Gillian Miles said the Hub profiles the many interesting roles available, including first person stories, with a focus on women and young people.

“It provides insights on training in critical rail job areas, for career starters or those looking to advance their career,” he said.

The pathways described on the new National Rail Skills Hub will enable Australians to more easily enter and progress a career in rail, at any career stage.

“From ICT technicians, trackworkers, civil engineers, battery chemists and cybersecurity experts, the rail industry needs more people with a range of skills – now and into the future,” Miles said.

“Through the Hub, we are developing new career pathways for high demand roles and hosting industry forums on priority issues, to accelerate access to transportable skills across the economy to meet the shortage of rail workers.”

The interactive platform will share firsthand experiences and news about Australia’s rail industry. It will also act as a tool for those looking to enter the industry or further their skills but are unsure of the opportunities in rail.

Features include:

• Profiles showcasing rail as a career of choice with diverse and inclusive job roles

• New career pathways and entry points into some of the sector’s most in-demand jobs

• Case studies of industry initiatives that are helping to address specific skills challenges

• National maps of rail education and training facilities in critical skill areas

The hub is a key component of the National Rail Action Plan, endorsed by Australia’s infrastructure and transport ministers.