Reducing training costs and improving skills mobility
Many entry-level rail credentials share the same nationally accredited competencies. However, competencies achieved on one network are not always accepted on another. This means workers are often retrained in the same skills as they move across jobs and jurisdictions.
We’re working with industry and the education sector to develop entry level training that is recognised by all jurisdictions.
This will:
- reduce training costs
- make it easier for workers to move across networks
- help skilled workers from different backgrounds find a job in rail.
National SARC training
Our combined work in this area includes supporting a national Safely Accessing the Rail Corridor (SARC) training program.
Right now, people working across jurisdictions have to complete SARC training on multiple networks. While some parts of the training are specific to a network, there are many shared components. A national SARC would mean workers’ accreditation could be recognised in these common areas.
The program builds on a pilot program being run by the Australian Railway Association (ARA) in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. Under this pilot workers moving across the region’s networks need to complete one SARC course instead of four.