Next generation of rail workers on track for successful future

• Queensland Rail has welcomed 86 new apprentices and graduates, after receiving more than 3000 applications.
• This is one of the largest intakes in recent years, following last year’s intake of 75, with roles based across the state from Brisbane to Cairns and Cloncurry.

LINK TO VISION

Queensland Rail has welcomed 86 fresh faces with new apprentices and graduates embarking on their careers with one of the largest employers in the state.

With unprecedented growth on the horizon, electricians, mechanics, engineers, and more are needed to bolster the forces behind Queensland’s booming rail industry.

The successful recruits were selected from the more than 3000 people who applied for in-demand roles located in South East Queensland, Toowoomba, Maryborough, Emerald, Cairns, Townsville and Cloncurry.

For those considering a career in rail, applications for the 2025 intake of graduates and apprentices will also open soon. Visit the Queensland Rail careers website to sign up for alerts.

Quotes attributable to the Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish:

“This is the job opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to launch a career with one of the biggest employers in Queensland responsible for connecting communities across our great state.

“Whether it’s maintaining powerlines, keeping the rollingstock ship-shape or helping move thousands of people safely around our state every single day – you’ll be on track for success with Queensland Rail.

“This is an exciting time for students and trainees, and the rail industry more broadly.

“Projects like Cross River Rail and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are going to transform transportation in Queensland.

“And these new starters will play a crucial role in delivering transport revolution.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton:

“We’re thrilled to welcome our new team members to Queensland Rail. This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the rail industry, on Queensland, and their futures. 

“We were also recently named as one of Australia’s Top 25 Graduate Employers, as ranked by graduates, in the medium program category.

“At Queensland Rail, we aim to set ourselves apart from the rest of the industry with this exceptional apprenticeship and graduate program which fosters true talent.

“With continued support and personal development opportunities across our business, our graduates and apprentices will have the skills to build extremely successful careers.

“Our entire state will continue to prosper with a highly skilled workforce and so by attracting, training and retaining recruits we are also securing a legacy for Queensland.”

Quotes attributable to Apprentice Sub Station Electrician Lauren Corbett:

“After working in corrections for a number of years, it was time for a change, and the opportunity to learn new skills.

“I’m a mum, and I wanted to show my kids that it doesn’t matter where life leads, you can do anything.

“I wanted to join Queensland Rail because there is constant learning opportunities and different career paths to take within the business.

“Everyone has been so welcoming and I’m already learning so much from my mentors who have years of experience.”

Quotes attributable to Apprentice Rail Traction Linesperson Lleyton Taylor:

“I was drawn to Queensland Rail because it has a great reputation for stability and opportunity.

“I like that every day the work is different and I’m getting hands-on experience and learning from my co-workers.

“I enjoy knowing that what I am doing, whether that is maintaining the lines or doing emergency isolations, ensures the smooth running of the network.”

ENDS

Media contact:  Lesley Major – 0419 288 284