A number of the rail operators have signed up for a system called the "Rail Industry Worker Card". This system is administered by the Australian Railway Association (ARA). Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM), Country Regional Network (CRN), Aurizon and Queenlsand Rail all require contractors to hold the Rail Industry Worker (RIW) card.
The Rail Industry Worker (RIW) Card is not a qualification. It is an identification card, with a photograph and a unique number. The RIW card holder's information is stored in an online database, where relevant competency information has been uploaded by your company administrator.
Each person must be assigned a role in the system. One person can hold many roles. Each role has a set of requirements, which are outlined in 'matrices'. Each rail operator has a different set of matrices.
Although this is advertised as a 'National' system, the majority of rail operators within Australia do not require the RIW card and have not signed up for the system. Please check with the relevant rail operator to determine their requirements.
Rail operator requirements change regularly, please check the relevant websites for updated information (links below).
More information can be found on the Rail Industry Worker Website
