The Australian Government has announced the appointment of Ms Jacqui Walters as the National Rail Manufacturing Advocate.
The advocate will support and drive genuine change in the rail manufacturing industry by:
- working with the Office of National Rail Industry Coordination (ONRIC) to develop and implement the National Rail Procurement and Manufacturing Strategy
- advocating for a coordinated approach across governments
- developing industry capability and ensuring passenger rolling stock is built locally.
Ms Walters has extensive leadership and advocacy experience. This includes chairing the Citytrain Response Unit within the Queensland Government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads. She brings a strong understanding of challenges and opportunities for the rail industry.
A new Rail Industry Innovation Council with 8 members will work with Ms Walters. She will serve as ex-officio Chair of the council to ensure alignment of activities.
The Rail Industry Innovation Council supports sustainable rail manufacturing industry growth by identifying opportunities for innovation and technology adoption. This includes opportunities to reduce emissions across the broader transport sector.
The advocate and council will work closely with ONRIC to develop and implement the strategy.