Getting the NSW Future Fleet program right starts with listening early and building the supply chain relationships that will carry the work for decades to come.

That’s why Downer joined the NSW Government’s Meet the Supplier event in Newcastle in mid-March, alongside businesses from across the state who want to play a role in the future of passenger rail and in the long‑term employment opportunities the program will unlock.

Hearing directly from the NSW Government on the Future Fleet program was a strong reminder of the importance of revitalising manufacturing in NSW: a long‑term pipeline that strengthens sovereign manufacturing, grows skills and creates lasting opportunity across the state.

For Downer, the day was also about connection. Conversations with suppliers across NSW reinforced what we already know. Capability is here. Capacity is here. And there is real momentum across the Hunter and beyond.

Dave Rees, EGM Corporate Development and Origination for Rail & Transit Systems said the event reinforced the importance of early, genuine engagement with industry.

“Future Fleet is a generational opportunity for New South Wales. Suppliers aren’t an add‑on for Downer, they’re part of delivery from day one. That means real work across the supply chain, and real opportunities for local businesses and workers. In FY25 alone, we spent $1.5 billion with suppliers across NSW, and that scale and capability is exactly what Future Fleet needs to succeed.

“Meeting suppliers face to face and hearing directly from government helps build alignment early. It means we can plan properly, build capability together and deliver a program that creates local jobs, grows skills and keeps passengers moving for decades to come.”

Downer will continue engagement with industry throughout 2026 as the Future Fleet program progresses.

Learn more about our plans for Future Fleet and register your interest in becoming a supplier here.