In 2026 ONRSR will host a series of forums with various rail safety stakeholders.

The forums are part of ONRSR’s Engagement and Education Strategy, and our renewed commitment to proactive stakeholder engagement, collaboration and transparency in the interests of achieving better rail safety outcomes across the country.

The format and agendas for these events are informed by feedback gathered through audience surveys to ensure they deliver the greatest value to attendees.

ONRSR Chief Executive’s Forum

The Chief Executive’s Forum is a gathering of leaders of national rail operators, advocacy and stakeholder groups to be held in June and November 2026.

Chaired by Dr Natalie Pelham, ONRSR Chief Executive, along with Peter Doggett, Chief Operating Officer, the CE Forum will meet to discuss:

  • Strategic industry direction and planning
  • Issues/improvements required
  • Input into ONRSR's strategic direction and overall effectiveness in relation to rail safety operations.

Invitees comprise Chief Executives or a direct report from:

  • Australasian Railway Association (ARA)
  • Australian Rail Industry Standards Organisation (ARISO)
  • Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU), Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Employees (AFULE), Electrical Trade Union NSW (ETU) and the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU).
  • Association of Tourist and Heritage Rail Australia (ATHRA).

Representatives from other rail industry stakeholders include:

  • Passenger operators
  • Light rail
  • Freight operators
  • Network managers
  • Manufacturers
  • Contractors.

Local Engaugement Forums

At a local level, ONRSR Engaugement Forums are designed to provide rail transport operators and rail infrastructure managers with operations in a specific state the opportunity to hear about and discuss oversight of the local safety issues and information.

At these events ONRSR will also provide a broader overview of current and emerging national issues and initiatives it is leading and/or participating in.

These forums are split between commercial operators and those from the tourist & heritage sector.

Commercial Sector Dates

  • Brisbane – Friday 17 July
  • Adelaide – Friday 14 August
  • Sydney – Friday 18 September
  • Perth – Thursday 1 October
  • Melbourne – Friday 23 October

Tourist & Heritage Sector Dates

  • Brisbane – Saturday 18 July
  • Adelaide – Saturday 15 August
  • Launceston – Saturday 5 September
  • Sydney – Saturday 19 September
  • Perth – Thursday 1 October
  • Melbourne – Saturday 24 October

Details of all events will be communicated to the relevant operators as they are confirmed. If you have questions, email ONRSR’s Stakeholder Engagement and Influence team at contact@onrsr.com.au

Last updated: Mar 24, 2026, 8:43:03 AM