Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, ARTC
Joint Media Statement
21 April 2015
The first tranche of Australian Government funding of $15.5 million towards the implementation of the Advanced Train Management System (ATMS) project has been approved. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Regional Development Warren Truss said the system will become the accredited standard for train management across the national rail network managed by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC).
“ATMS uses GPS navigation, broadband communications and state-of-the-art computer technology to locate and route trains in real time, allowing trains to operate more safely and closer together,” Mr Truss said.
“ATMS will further improve the reliability of our national rail network, increasing on-time performance and safety. It will also increase capacity for the movement of freight across the nation, boosting the productivity of our industries.
“The Australian Government has committed $50 million to start the roll out of ATMS across Australia and trains operating between Whyalla and Port Augusta in South Australia will be the first to implement ATMS as part of Stage 1, with the technology later able to be extended across Australia.”
ARTC Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director John Fullerton said ATMS will transform Australia’s rail industry by increasing the cost effectiveness of the network and reducing reliance on expensive signalling and other physical trackside infrastructure.
“ATMS will be gradually scaled up in a live but safe operational environment so the system’s full capabilities can be tested,” Mr Fullerton said.
“Initial trials commenced in January 2015 and so far two locomotives that travel between Port Augusta and Whyalla have been fitted with in-cab ATMS equipment.
“Planning is already underway for the next set of trials which will involve further consultation with the end users of the system, rail operators. These trials are expected to commence later this year.
“The system is custom-engineered technology and will transform the way freight rail infrastructure is managed and monitored across the country.”
This stage of ATMS implementation is being jointly delivered by ARTC and Lockheed Martin Australia.
In addition to the Australian Government’s commitment, the ARTC is contributing funding to the estimated $65 million project.
ENDS