The Northern Territory Government has introduced the Rail Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Bill 2012 before Territory Parliament, which, if passed, will allow for the creation of a single regulatory body to preside over rail safety.

 

Territory Transport Minister, Adam Giles, said that when the Bill passes, the National Rail Regulator will start operations as of 20 January next year.

 

 

“By having a single National Regulator operators will no longer have to apply for accreditation in each jurisdiction in which they operate,” Mr Giles said.

 

“This means rail operators will not need to abide by several different laws or pay multiple fees for what is essentially the same activity.

 

“This is great news for Territory rail operators as they move to a national regulator. It will deliver savings both in terms of time and money, through improved productivity.

 

“It also opens the door to providing incentives for interstate rail operators to service the NT through an open access regime.”