ARA Rail Signalling Course: September/October 2026
Enrol in the 2026 ARA Rail Signalling course to explore mechanical, electrical, and digital signalling, with a strong focus on digital transformation.
The ARA Rail Signalling Course is back online in 2026, with internationally recognised signalling engineer, Jane Copperthwaite again leading the course and providing learners with insights and knowledge about signalling across the mechanical, electrical, and digital ways of signalling in Australia and New Zealand.
There is a strong focus on the new ways digital signalling is transforming both work in the signalling area of rail, and customer experience. The impact of digitisation is most impactful in the area of signalling and the subsequent transformation is changing the way the wider eco-system that is the rail industry has to operate.
The course is available to you when and where you want to complete the modules. Each week involves access to a self-directed, on-demand module as well as a webinar led by Jane. If you can’t attend the webinar, it is always recorded and available for you when it suits your diary.
Course modules
- What is railway signalling and why do we need it?
- Signalling system as part of a Safeworking system
- Design and integration of signalling systems
- Whole of Life Management of signalling systems
- Transition to Future Systems
Learning outcomes
- How to adopt key signalling terminology and use it in your work environment
- Rail signalling principles and the core elements of the signalling system
- The critical role the signalling systems play in the context of a safe working system
- The importance of systems integration in the context of lineside and digital signalling systems within a single network
- The evolution of signalling including future trends and modern signalling systems
- The complexities of assuring the safe operation of both lineside and digital signalling assets
- The principles of digital signalling design
- Learn about Future Railway Mobile Communication Systems (FRMCS) and its role in rail safety-related communications and enabling new signalling systems
- How to read a signalling plan
- Understanding maintenance aspects of the signalling system
- Pathways to signalling
Who should attend?
Whether you are new to the rail industry or have joined as a graduate, an apprentice or are an experienced signalling person this course will give you a unique insight into the role of signalling in the rail industry.
Course dates 2026
- Registrations Close: Thursday 24 September 2026
- Course commences: Monday 28 September 2026
- Course closes: Friday 23 October 2026
Successful completion will result in you receiving a Certificate of Completion as well as a Credly Badge for your LinkedIn account.
For more information on this course please contact the ARA Workforce Development Team via [email protected].
If you have any issues booking this event, please email [email protected] for assistanc