Sharing Knowledge, Not Just Popcorn: Our Wrap-up of the 2025 RISSB Rail Safety Conference
Last week, the Alium Works team packed up the popcorn machine and headed to Sydney for the 2025 RISSB Rail Safety Conference, hosted by RISSB and expertly delivered by Informa Australia. It was our first year attending as exhibitors, and we couldn’t have asked for a more meaningful or memorable experience.
The conference brought together hundreds of leaders from across the rail sector, all with a shared commitment to advancing rail safety. Across two dynamic days, we heard from some of the industry’s most respected voices on critical topics like interoperability, SFAIRP, and the ever-evolving regulatory landscape.
Day One: Interoperability Takes the Stage
The opening day honed in on interoperability – a theme that’s clearly gaining momentum. One of the highlights was hearing from Peter Doggett, CEO of ONRSR, who shared insights into the ongoing industry consultation on a proposed Interoperability Management Plan.
While the exact structure of this new requirement is still unfolding, there’s early indication it could be incorporated into Schedule 1 of the Rail Safety National Law (RSNL) – potentially as its own element or as an extension of existing sections like risk management or interface agreements. A tentative implementation timeframe of November 2025 was floated, though it’s fair to say many in the room raised eyebrows at the ambitious pace.
Day Two: SFAIRP, Simplicity, and… Coin Tossing?
The second day focused on SFAIRP (So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable) – a fundamental concept in safety management that still generates plenty of debate. A standout moment was a brilliant “coin-flipping masterclass” – a light-hearted yet effective way to unpack decision-making under uncertainty. It was a great reminder that even the most complex topics can be made accessible with the right approach.
Alium Works: More Than a Training Provider
We were proud to be there not just as attendees, but as contributors to the conversation. Yes, we were serving popcorn (freshly popped, no less!), but we were also showcasing what truly matters to us – giving back to the industry.
Instead of handing out branded merchandise destined for landfill, we launched a free downloadable Rail Safety Self-Assessment tool. It’s designed to help rail organisations review their existing safety management systems or guide the development of a new one. It’s practical, easy to use, and aligned with regulatory expectations.
But here’s the best bit: for every download made, we pledged to donate a day’s worth of education to a child in need — made possible through our partnership with B1G1, a global giving initiative that helps businesses make measurable impact.
Because we believe business should be a force for good. Alium Works is proudly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and our work in rail is just one part of a broader mission to create lasting impact.
What’s Next?
We originally launched the Rail Safety Self-Assessment Tool at the RISSB Rail Safety Conference, but it’s now available to everyone.
Whether you’re reviewing your current safety management system or starting from scratch, this free tool is designed to support compliance, spark conversations, and guide practical improvements aligned with the ONRSR guideline.
And we’re continuing our impact pledge: for every download, we’re donating a day of education to a child in need — through our giving partner, B1G1.
Click here to access the free Rail Safety Self-Assessment Tool
Because safety isn’t a one-time checkbox. It’s a culture. A commitment. And at Alium Works, it’s our passion.