How to become a Railway Network Controller

Oversees the safe operation of a railway network using a computerised train control signalling system.

Main tasks

• Assesses and approves the movement of trains to ensure the safe operation of a rail network, based on the status of railway signals
• Authorises and controls any activity taking place on railway tracks, including maintenance work
• Communicates with Railway Signal Operators to carry out alterations to signals as required
• Records movements of trains
• Minimises delays caused by rail network disruptions
• Recommends suitable alternative services during disruptions
• Liaises with emergency services in response to accidents or disruptions

Ways in

• Apprenticeship: Certificate IV in Rail Network Control. Trade occupations are usually entered through an apprenticeship: paid work plus this qualification, typically 3 to 4 years.
• TAFE and VET: Certificate IV in Rail Network Control (TLI40921)

Pay · Outlook · AI and this job

• Typical full-time pay: $104,988 a year
• About 25,500 people work in this job group now, and about 27,200 are projected by 2035. (+6.9%)
• AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

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Questions people ask

How do I become a Railway Network Controller?

Ways in include: Certificate IV in Rail Network Control; Certificate IV in Rail Network Control.

How much does a Railway Network Controller earn in Australia?

Median full-time pay is $104,988 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Is a Railway Network Controller a growing career in Australia?

Yes. Employment is projected to grow 7% by 2035, from about 25,500 to about 27,200 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Do you need a degree to become a Railway Network Controller?

Usually not. Only 16% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Certificate IV in Rail Network Control; Certificate IV in Rail Network Control.

Will AI change the work of a Railway Network Controller?

AI is more likely to help with parts of this job than to do it. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as low.

Sources

• Jobs and Skills Australia: Occupation data (ANZSCO), from ABS Labour Force and Census (February 2026), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Generative AI Capacity Study, interactive table data (September 2025), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Jobs and Skills Australia: Employment Projections (Victoria University) (May 2025 to May 2035), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
• Australian Taxation Office: Taxation Statistics, Individuals Table 15A (2023-24), CC BY 2.5 AU, retrieved 2026-10-04

Updated 2026-10-04