Australia’s railway industry is undergoing a major digital transformation as operators transition from legacy 2G GSM-R systems to 5G-based networks, paving the way for the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). This infrastructure modernisation will not only enhance safety, connectivity, and passenger experience but also create significant career opportunities for telecommunications professionals.

For more than two decades, Australian railways have relied on GSM-R, a 2G standard designed for train operations. While once state-of-the-art, GSM-R cannot support the bandwidth demands of modern networks, such as real-time CCTV, predictive maintenance, or driverless train operations. The sector is now leapfrogging directly to FRMCS – a 5G-based, radio-agnostic platform being developed under the leadership of the International Union of Railways (UIC).

Transforming Operations with FRMCS
FRMCS, built on 5G standards, will deliver:

• Driverless train capability and real-time operational control

• Mission-critical communications for voice, data, and video

• Stronger connectivity to eliminate current network blackspots

• Enhanced passenger experience, with seamless onboard connectivity

• Greater efficiency and sustainability, enabling smarter, lower-carbon transport

In August 2025, Nokia launched the first commercial 5G solution for the FRMCS band (1900 MHz), highlighting growing momentum for deployment.

Projects Already Underway
Australia’s transition is advancing through landmark projects such as Perth’s METRONET and Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel, both integrating new 5G communications infrastructure in preparation for FRMCS. In July 2025, the Australasian Railway Association (ARA) hosted a national workshop with government, operators, and suppliers to align on rollout strategies, marking a unified approach to the technology shift.

New Career Opportunities
The scale of these multi-year programs is driving demand for skilled professionals across disciplines, including RF engineers, systems designers, project managers, health and safety specialists, supervisors, and field technicians.

“If you’ve worked on 3G, 4G, or 5G networks, your expertise transfers directly into rail,” said Andy Mansoori, Telco Portfolio Account Director – National at Launch Group. “What matters is adapting those skills to industry frameworks and safety standards to help deliver the next generation of railway communications.”

Positioning for Success
Telecommunications professionals can prepare for roles in rail by highlighting mobile network expertise, demonstrating project delivery experience, gaining familiarity with rail-specific frameworks, and engaging with industry bodies such as the ARA.

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