Melbourne, 12 May 2005
Siemens, in collaboration with the Industry Capability Network (ICN), held a local industry forum on Wednesday 27th April, to identify capable Australian & New Zealand suppliers to join its global procurement network and to take part in the Aurora Rail Partnership consortium for the RailCorp single-deck rolling stock bid.
Over 60 people participated in the forum, representing 41 companies across various competencies from manufacturers of air conditioning systems, doors, braking systems, bogie components and wheel sets to communication systems and components for trains. Siemens Transportation Systems Executive General Manager, Paul Bennett, said: “The level of interest and quality of local suppliers received during the industry forum was outstanding. Siemens is committed to maximising opportunities for local Australian manufacturers, and we have been working very closely with ICN to achieve this”.
Trevor Toivonen from the Industry Capability Network said: “This is an excellent opportunity for our local industry as it not only opens the door to many Australian and New Zealand suppliers to participate in the RailCorp rolling stock bid project, but also introduces these suppliers to other opportunities globally as part of Siemens’ global procurement network”.
The local industry forum gave suppliers an insight into the Siemens business within Australia and worldwide, an overview of the RailCorp PPP project, an overview of the Siemens global procurement network and processes, and discussion about potential opportunities for local supplier participation.
“The industry forum is a great way for Siemens to learn about the capabilities of local manufacturers here in Australia and New Zealand, as well as for suppliers to learn about the opportunities within the Siemens business.
“The RailCorp rolling stock opportunity is one of the largest rail transportation projects in NSW, and is significant for both the NSW Government and its people. Siemens is committed to bringing local manufacturing expertise to this project.
“We are now reviewing the profiles and capabilities of the suppliers who attended the local industry forum together with the ICN as part of the qualification process, and will engage in further discussions with suppliers to discuss local manufacturing opportunities for the upcoming tendering process”, said Mr. Bennett.
Mr. Toivonen said: “I believe there is a lot of talent in the Australian & New Zealand industries. It is opportunities like these that provide the vehicle for our local industry to expand their businesses not only within Australia but globally”.
“When dealing with global companies, our local industry must understand the processes involved in pre-qualification and be competitive. As we build up our understanding and experience in this, we will certainly improve the capability of our local industry to expand and grow offshore,” said Mr. Toivonen.
About the Industry Capability Network (ICN)
ICN is a national network of independent industry consultancies, which are managed by industry and sponsored by state governments, to achieve beneficial outcomes for local industry (Australian and NZ) and the local economy. ICN provides a unique range of services to project proponents and local suppliers, from 24 offices throughout Australia, and from one office in New Zealand. For further information, please visit the ICN website at www.icnnsw.org.au.
About the Aurora Rail Partnership