Advancing Skills for Autonomous Train Operations

As part of ISA’s ongoing commitment to supporting Australia’s evolving transport technologies, Carly Grigg, Industry Engagement Manager, and Grant Power, Project Specialist, recently met with key stakeholders involved in the Autonomous Train Operations project.

This first phase of this project will focus on conducting a national skills gap analysis to benchmark current and emerging practices in autonomous rail operations. The insights gathered will inform future updates to vocational training products, ensuring the workforce is equipped for the next generation of rail technology.

A First-Hand Look at Sydney Metros Autonomous Operations

The day began bright and early at Alstom’s Maintenance Depot in Rouse Hill, a critical hub supporting the Metropolis fleet and the Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system for Sydney Metro.

ISA were given a behind‑the‑scenes demonstration of the daily process of “waking up” the trains, running through preliminary technical checks and safety processes before the fleet is formally handed over to Metro Trains Sydney (MTS) for network operations.

From there, the team visited the MTS Control Room, gaining valuable insight into how the driverless passenger network is monitored and managed in real time. The visit concluded with a ride on the automated metro system, providing a practical experience of the technology in action.

Preparing for the Western Sydney Airport Line

The final stop for the day was a meeting with the RATP Dev project team, who have been awarded the contract to operate and maintain the Western Sydney Airport line. Though still under construction, the team is already working to identify the workforce skills required to support a fully driverless rail environment.

These on‑site, face‑to‑face engagements have highlighted the real‑world challenges and emerging skills gaps associated with autonomous rail technology. The findings will guide Stage 2 of the project, which will involve deeper consultation with industry to develop recommendations that align with best practices and regulatory requirements.

This collaborative approach ensures ISA continues to play a key role in shaping a skilled workforce capable of supporting Australia’s rapidly advancing rail systems.

A huge thank you to Fiona Rattigan (Alstom), Adam Saab (Metro Trains Sydney), and Elissa Cattana (RATP Dev), and to all their teams, for their time, insights, and support throughout the visit.