NZ Rail is heading toward a workforce crisis as over 25% of employees are expected to retire within ten years, putting future infrastructure delivery and operations at risk. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

NZ Rail is heading toward a workforce crisis as over 25% of employees are expected to retire within ten years, putting future infrastructure delivery and operations at risk
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A new report from the Australasian Railway Association and Hanga-Aro-Rau urges coordinated action to avoid long-term disruptions. Developed by PwC, it highlights major risks and provides a strategic roadmap.

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NZ Rail Needs Immediate Skills Investment and Better Career Pathways

The report finds NZ Rail lacks local expertise in high-demand roles like traction, signalling, and digital systems. These gaps create obstacles for modernizing infrastructure and expanding service delivery.

Although vocational training exists, there are no dedicated university programs in rail engineering. This limits workforce development and deters skilled professionals from entering the industry.

Attracting new talent remains difficult due to outdated perceptions and unclear career progression. Flexible work options and improved diversity policies could help the sector stay competitive.

Strategic Reforms Required to Build a Sustainable NZ Rail Workforce

To close the talent gap, the report recommends investing in digital skills, such as cybersecurity, automation, and data analytics. These competencies are essential as the industry shifts toward smart rail systems.

The sector also needs deeper partnerships with education providers and international collaborators. Without this, workforce mobility and technical advancement will remain out of reach.

Funding instability continues to impact planning. The report calls for a long-term bipartisan investment strategy to ensure stability and attract new workers.

To secure future talent, the report outlines three core strategies: strengthen workforce foundations through consistent infrastructure planning, rebrand rail careers for wider appeal, and establish better training pipelines.

Source: www.railexpress.com.au

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