Autonomous Train Operations Project

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Autonomous Train Operations Project

This project conducted a skills gap analysis to support autonomous train operations. The insights gained will guide the review of existing training products and support the development of new products within the Transport and Logistics Training Package.

Anticipated completion 26 June 2026
About the project

Project completion

This project examined the workforce skills and training requirements needed to support the growing use of autonomous train operations across Australia. As autonomous rail technology expands in both freight and passenger networks, the project assessed whether existing training products within the Transport and Logistics Training Package adequately reflect current industry needs. 

The review included desktop research, stakeholder consultation with approximately 35 industry representatives, and site visits to operational rail environments. The findings provide recommendations for ensuring Australia’s rail workforce is equipped to safely operate, monitor and maintain increasingly automated rail systems.

Final Report

The Autonomous Train Operations Final Report identified significant gaps between existing nationally recognised training products and the skills required in modern autonomous rail operations. While autonomous technologies are rapidly evolving, current training frameworks remain largely focused on traditional rail operations and freight environments. 

The analysis highlighted the need for updated training products, stronger qualification pathways and specialised learning options to support emerging roles in both freight and passenger rail operations. 

Key Findings

  • Existing autonomous rail training products do not adequately align with current industry requirements, particularly in passenger rail operations. 
  • Autonomous rail units of competency introduced in 2019 have recorded little or no uptake, suggesting limited relevance or accessibility. 
  • Rail operators are increasingly relying on customised training solutions developed in partnership with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). 
  • Current training arrangements provide limited pathways to nationally recognised qualifications, restricting workforce development and mobility. 
  • Passenger rail requirements, including customer service, safety and operational responsibilities, are underrepresented in existing training products. 
  • Industry capability requirements are shifting from manual train operation towards system monitoring, remote operations, data interpretation, incident response and coordinated operational decision-making. 
Why it matters

What it means for industry

The findings highlight an urgent need to align training frameworks with the realities of modern autonomous rail operations. Without action, gaps in workforce capability may affect safety, operational performance and the sector’s ability to meet future workforce demands. 

Modernised training products and clearer qualification pathways will help organisations build the specialised skills needed for increasingly automated rail environments while supporting workforce mobility, operational reliability and public confidence in autonomous rail services.

Next steps

The findings and recommendations will inform future reviews and development of training products within the Transport and Logistics Training Package. Ongoing collaboration with rail operators, training providers and industry stakeholders will support the modernisation of qualifications, units of competency and specialised Skill Sets to ensure the workforce remains prepared for the continued growth of autonomous rail operations across Australia.