ISA Visits RISSB in Brisbane

Following the Brisbane roundtables, Carly Grigg, Industry Engagement Manager for Rail, visited the new Brisbane CBD office of the Rail Industry Safety and Standards Board (RISSB). She met with Sharon Tang, General Manager, and Matthew Garratt, Head of Learning and Development, to continue discussions on key industry priorities raised during the roundtables, including the value of national systems and standards.

A major topic of discussion was the August 2025 agreement by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers to unify Australia’s national rail system under a single digital signalling technology, the European Train Control System (ETCS). This landmark decision is expected to improve safety, boost productivity, and enable more seamless freight and passenger connections across the country.

As part of this transition, RISSB will be recast as the industry-led technical standards setting body, playing a central role in shaping the future of rail safety and operations.

This visit also highlighted the ongoing work by ISA and the National Transport Commission as part of the National Rail Action Plan, to progress the development of a Rail Mutual Recognition framework for entry-level rail skills training, outlining five steps to streamline recognition and reduce duplication. The aim is to co-ordinate efforts between government and industry to enhance efficiency, safety and interoperability of Australia’s rail systems.

RISSB is a key partner in co-regulation for the rail industry, focusing on:
💠 Development of Standards, Codes of Practice, Guidelines and Rules
💠Safety data and risk analysis models
💠Training and advisory services
💠Events and industry programs
💠Stakeholder coordination

With over 200 accredited publications, RISSB supports both Australian and New Zealand rail organisations in improving safety, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. It also fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing through forums, committees, and working groups.

As the industry moves toward harmonisation, stakeholder engagement remains critical to ensuring a skilled and adaptable workforce that meets the evolving needs of the transport supply chain.

View our latest projects for more info: Projects