High-speed rail factory could bring hundreds of tech jobs to Hunter region
A new manufacturing factory near Newcastle would build train parts and create hundreds of skilled jobs.
An advanced manufacturing facility near Newcastle could transform the Hunter by building components for the $90 billion high-speed rail project. The facility would create hundreds of skilled jobs.
The High Speed Rail Authority is calling for bids on Wednesday to develop the facility. The facility would make most construction elements needed for the 191-kilometre rail link.
The factory would use robots, 3D printing, and digital design to make parts in one place, then move them to where they're needed. This cuts waste and costs.
HSRA chief Tim Parker said this approach builds on Sydney Metro's success. Tunnel sections were made in a factory and installed underground.
The facility could also strengthen supply chains and develop skills for other Australian infrastructure projects. Lake Macquarie City Council has pitched the disused Macquarie Coal site in Teralba as a potential hub.
- $90 billion
- Project cost
- 191 kilometres
- Rail distance
- Newcastle to Sydney
- Route
- Tim Parker
- HSRA chief
Why it mattersA manufacturing facility brings permanent skilled jobs and shows Australia can build major infrastructure parts at home instead of importing them.
AustraliaThe Hunter region could gain hundreds of high-tech manufacturing jobs and become a centre for building rail, infrastructure and other precision components for Australia's future projects.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
