163 local residents employed, of whom 28 are First Nations, 56 women employed, 39 tradespeople employed, 102 local businesses engaged and $9.58 million spent with local businesses
Newly released figures from Inland Rail show that more than 550 people have worked on the Stockinbingal to Parkes (S2P) section of the project.
With the aim of finishing the Beveridge to Parkes section by the end of 2027, Inland Rail’s ongoing construction of S2P is creating jobs and driving economic growth in regional NSW communities.
Statistics dating to October 2024 show a total of 560 people have been working on S2P, including 56 women.
This figure looks set to rise thanks to the Rail Readiness Course for young women, a partnership between Inland Rail and the Stars Foundation.
Delivered through First Nations training provider Yakka Training, the Rail Readiness course highlights the requirements for a career in rail and construction, offering young women a route towards employment in the industry.
Stars Foundation, whose goal is to provide mentorship and support for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls and young women, stage the one-day courses at NSW schools, mirroring the activities undertaken by the Clontarf Foundation.
The Inland Rail Skills Academy has been creating pathways into the rail industry in partnership with recognised training providers, graduates of which have been working on S2P. Completing a Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure course through the Inland Rail Skills Academy gave graduates the skills to gain work with contractor Martinus Rail and start working.
Regional NSW communities will benefit further from Inland Rail construction in 2025 as construction begins in the Alburyto-Illabo and Illabo to Stockinbingal sections of the project.
Stephen Jones, Inland Rail Executive Director Program Health, Safety, Environment & Sustainability, said “This once-in-ageneration project not only brings benefits Australia-wide, it is also providing ongoing opportunities and benefits at a local level.”