19 Dec 2025

A national approach to harmonised standards

Work is underway to significantly improve how national standards are prioritised in future and developed in a way that will deliver more national benefits.

ARISO is leading the development of the prioritisation methodology, working with the National Transport Commission to ensure it will be a step-up in driving harmonisation to support a more productive and safe rail sector.

With Infrastructure and Transport Ministers approving a three-tiered national standards model with a limited number of ‘must do’ standards to support consistent adoption of digital train control technology and streamlined rolling stock, ARISO is now focused on a methodology for driving best practice in the ‘should do’ tier of national standards.

Harmonised standards occupy an essential middle ground: industry-led, flexible and innovative, but developed within a national structure that drives greater consistency across the national network for interoperability.

The reference group for the development of the prioritisation methodology reflects its national importance – with representatives from the Federal Department of Infrastructure, NTC, ONRIC, ARA, TMR Qld, DTP Vic and TfNSW providing valuable contribution and guidance.

ARISO Standing Committee members have also provided their input as part of broader consultation with key industry stakeholders on the prioritisation methodology.

Anchored to the national harmonisation priorities endorsed by the Infrastructure and Transport Ministers, the focus is firmly on lifting Australian manufacturing capability, streamlining the infrastructure supply chain, enhancing safety outcomes, improving procedural efficiency, and strengthening training and skills accreditation for repeatable tasks.

This methodology evaluates potential harmonised standards through three lenses, strategic value, implementation feasibility, and stakeholder commitment and adoption, ensuring that early effort is directed toward the areas most capable of delivering measurable national benefit. This structured approach also provides transparency for industry, regulators, and suppliers on how priorities are set and why certain standards are advanced.

In a co-regulatory environment, these standards will be developed collaboratively with operators, governments, suppliers, and technical experts. When standards are designed by those that use them, they are far more likely to be adopted and embedded in everyday practice.

Engagement remains ongoing as ARISO works to refine and finalise the methodology. Further updates will be shared as this important piece of national reform continues to progress.