Australia’s Trans-Australian Railway is set to test the introduction of new technology across a 1,280km section of track between Tarcoola in South Australia (SA) and West Kalgoorlie in Western Australia (WA).

The Government of Australia has agreed to an investment of A$50m ($38m) in support of the project.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The new technology is known as the Advanced Train Management System (ATMS) and uses GPS and wireless technology to provide real-time train information and location data, eliminating the need for on-track signals.

"The ARTC and technology partner, Lockheed Martin, expect to have ATMS in live operations as the accredited safe-working system between Port Augusta and Whyalla by late 2018."

Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said: “ATMS has been undergoing rigorous development and testing on the Australian Rail Track Corporation’s (ARTC) rail network in South Australia for the past eight years, and the Tarcoola to Kalgoorlie section will soon be ready for the next phase of the trial.”

The introduction of the new in-cab technology and installation of modern telecommunications solutions is expected to enable the authority to run more trains at a higher frequency on the line, while increasing safety and efficiency.

ARTC CEO John Fullerton said: “The ARTC and technology partner, Lockheed Martin, expect to have ATMS in live operations as the accredited safe-working system between Port Augusta and Whyalla by late 2018.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“Advanced trials of the system have been successfully taking place between Port Augusta and Whyalla since 2015, and additional on-track tests using locomotives and an ATMS fitted road-rail vehicle are planned for later this year.

“These on-track trials provide the opportunity for users of the system, network controllers and train drivers, to provide feedback on how it is working and exposes ATMS to real-world operations.”

Railway Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Railway Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact across the defence sector.

Excellence in Action
Winning the Innovation Award in the Reservation Systems category, EAO’s advanced seat reservation system tackles urbanisation and rising mobility demands head on. Explore how its adaptable HMI, modular design and energy saving display technology help operators boost capacity utilisation and improve the passenger experience.

Discover the Impact