The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is gearing up for AusRAIL 2026, the Southern Hemisphere's largest rail conference, which promises to be a pivotal event in the industry's evolution. With a theme of 'On track for tomorrow', the conference will take place in Queensland, a state at the forefront of rail growth, particularly in anticipation of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This event is not just about looking back at the industry's achievements but also about looking forward to the future of rail in Australia and New Zealand.
The ARA's report, 'The value of rail 2025', highlights the industry's significant contribution to the Australian economy, with a value of $38.8 billion annually. This growth is a testament to rail's enduring role as a key driver of economic development. As the industry continues to evolve, AusRAIL 2026 will focus on the challenges and opportunities of network transformation, particularly in the context of digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).
One of the standout features of AusRAIL 2026 will be the keynote address by Stephanie Wiggins, CEO of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transport Authority. Wiggins will discuss the challenges and opportunities of network transformation, particularly in the context of creating more connected cities. Her insights will be particularly relevant as Queensland prepares for the 2032 Olympics, a project that will require significant investment in public transport infrastructure.
The conference program will be structured around plenary sessions on the first day, followed by concurrent sessions on the second day. This new structure aims to enhance the delegate experience by providing more opportunities to delve into the big issues facing the rail industry. The focus will be on uncovering insights from successful project delivery and identifying opportunities to improve interoperability and harmonisation, particularly as the industry continues its digital transformation.
To support the comprehensive program, AusRAIL 2026 will also introduce a new delegate lounge to enhance the networking experience for attendees. Additionally, a Women in Rail Forum will be held the day before the conference kicks off, building on the success of previous Women in Rail breakfasts. These new initiatives, combined with a wide range of social events and a packed exhibition, provide many opportunities for participants to extend their conference experience further in 2026.
AusRAIL 2026 will be held from November 23-25 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC). The event promises to be a pivotal moment for the rail industry, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the challenges shaping the future of rail in Australia and New Zealand. As the industry looks to the future, AusRAIL 2026 will be a key platform for sharing insights, identifying opportunities, and driving innovation in the rail sector.
