Project Background
Reliable communication between train drivers and controllers is fundamental to safe and efficient regional rail operations. Across Victoria’s geographically dispersed network, communications renewal needed to address ageing equipment, operational reliability, interoperability and the requirements of an expanding passenger fleet.
The challenge extended beyond replacing train radios. The solution needed to connect rolling stock, telecommunications services and control-room systems, while accommodating existing railway interfaces and the practical requirements of drivers, controllers and maintainers.
The RRCN provided an integrated approach to modernising these communications, supporting V/Line’s operating environment and its interfaces with the broader rail network.
How Innova Helped
Innova resources contributed State-side expertise from investment planning through to design and delivery, connecting the business justification for renewal with the engineering and operational requirements needed to implement it.
Our contribution included:
- Business case development: supporting the investment rationale for renewal, informed by operational needs, technology constraints and the implications of retaining ageing communications systems.
- Design and delivery support: contributing engineering, safety management and program delivery expertise across the communications solution.
- Onboard integration: supporting the deployment of In-Cabin Equipment (ICE) radios on V/Line rolling stock and their integration with onboard systems.
- Core infrastructure: supporting backend communications infrastructure across two data centres.
- Control-centre communications: supporting voice communications consoles at V/Line’s primary train control centre, Centrol, and its disaster-recovery control centre.
- Metropolitan network interfaces: developing GSM-R radio specifications and integration requirements to support regional trains operating on Melbourne’s Digital Train Radio System.
Archived Outcomes
The program delivered integrated communications capability spanning trains, backend infrastructure and primary and disaster-recovery control centres.
Innova’s involvement helped connect investment planning with practical implementation, bringing fleet integration, network interfaces and control-room requirements into a coordinated delivery approach
This experience demonstrates our ability to work across organisational and technical boundaries—where successful railway communications depend on the interaction of people, operating procedures, rolling stock and infrastructure.
Client Value
Operational understanding that strengthens investment and delivery decisions. We connect the reasons for investing with the requirements that engineers, suppliers and operators must deliver.
Integration expertise across the railway. Our experience spans onboard equipment, communications networks and control centres, helping clients identify dependencies and address interface risks early.
Resilience considered across the complete service. Our understanding of primary and disaster-recovery communications helps clients plan for continuity of operational control.
Practical support throughout the lifecycle. From business case development to implementation, Innova brings engineering judgement grounded in the realities of operating railways.
Planning a regional rail communications renewal? Innova can help translate your operating needs into a clear investment strategy, integrated requirements and a practical delivery pathway.