Stories

Rail projects aren’t just about tracks and trains, they’re about connecting communities and shaping opportunities. Rail can transform how communities connect, work, and thrive. As population growth continues to expand beyond urban centres, well-planned rail projects can improve liveability by reducing congestion, unlocking housing opportunities, and connecting people to jobs, healthcare and education.

But Australia’s rail sector is at a crossroads. Ageing infrastructure and outdated technologies, combined with the increased frequency of climate events and demand for decarbonisation, are creating a significant challenge for governments and rail operators. With numerous infrastructure upgrades on the cards, the right decisions must be made over the coming years to ensure a thriving, resilient and sustainable rail network for years to come. And KBR is poised to lead the way.  

This week at AusRAIL – Australia’s largest rail industry conference where KBR is a key sponsor – rail industry leaders will be discussing why connected, resilient rail systems that have a positive impact on communities are the key to keeping Australia moving.

Ageing infrastructure and climate resilience  

In the face of a changing climate, more frequent and extreme weather events pose ongoing threats, with flooding and heatwaves repeatedly impacting train services and exposing the fragility of our aging infrastructure. These disruptions ripple across supply chains, leaving communities without supplies, costing millions, and undermining confidence in rail as a reliable freight mode.  

To combat this, rail infrastructure managers must develop a deep understanding of their assets and networks and proactively address both current and future vulnerabilities. Comprehensive hydrological assessments, for example, can predict locations most at risk of flooding, allowing operators to focus on proactive measures such as culvert upgrades, improved capacity and alternative pathways. Similarly, live temperature mapping can help identify extreme heat induced track buckling and extreme cold induced rail breaks, enabling preventative measures to be implemented in track sections most at risk. Projects such as Inland Rail and ARTC’s Network Investment Program (NIP) show what’s possible when resilience is embedded from the outset, designing networks that anticipate climate extremes and operational pressures.  

Decarbonising rail networks  

Rail is well understood to be one of the most sustainable forms of transport – in fact, travelling by rail can be up to ten times less carbon intensive than travelling by road or air. But it’s not just the mode of transport which helps to create safer, more sustainable cities and regions – building more sustainable rail infrastructure can also help improve emissions reductions.  

This can be achieved through sustainability initiatives such low carbon concrete and responsibly sourced steel; as well as redesigning station precincts to include more green space and native flora. Decarbonisation may also include the addition of electrified freight trains, alternative fuel sources like biofuels and hydrogen, and renewable powered depots. Projects such as Victoria’s Level Crossing Removal Project are leading the way forward on decarbonisation, with the North Western Program Alliance completing numerous sustainability initiatives, delivering lasting environmental benefits and vibrant community spaces across the state.

Future-proofing through collaboration

With billions in investment earmarked for Australia’s rail upgrades over the next decade, future-proofing Australia’s rail network will require collaboration between government, industry, and design partners. A collaborative approach brings designers, contractors and owners together as one team – fostering transparency, accelerating decision-making and incentivising innovation.  

Programs like Inland Rail, Sydney Metro expansions, and the Suburban Rail Loop will demand cutting-edge solutions: digital engineering, sustainability innovations, and smarter design approaches to deliver better outcomes for people and places. This also means embracing technologies such as predictive maintenance, AI-driven asset management, and automation to optimise performance and extend asset life. Delivered by collaborative teams working together to achieve a shared vision, these projects will redefine how Australians move and live, shaping not only our rail networks – but our environment and our communities – for many years to come.

What we do in rail

KBR designs and delivers safe, efficient rail systems. From modern metro networks and multi-use stations, we’re transforming urban environments by removing level crossings and creating vibrant, multi-purpose community spaces. Our work not only improves safety and efficiency for rail networks but also creates integrated public areas that enhance connectivity and liveability – shaping cities, connecting regions, and helping to create a more sustainable, resilient Australia. By working as one team with our clients and partners, we embrace transparency, adapt quickly, and leverage innovation and digital tools to remove barriers and deliver smarter, more sustainable solutions. From concept to complete, we’re your trusted partner in rail.