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Rail Industry Worker (RIW) Card

The Rail Industry Worker (RIW) Card is your official credential for working in Australia’s rail industry. It’s more than just an ID, your card links directly to your RIW profile, which stores essential information such as:

  • Medical assessments and fitness-for-duty records
  • Qualifications and competencies
  • Job roles and authorisations

Each time you swipe onto a rail worksite, your RIW profile is checked in real time against that site’s safety and competency requirements ensuring you are qualified and compliant before starting work.

The RIW Program is a nationally recognised competency management system, governed by the rail industry and designed to enhance:

Safety

Ensuring all workers are medically fit and suitably qualified

Mobility

Allowing rail workers to move seamlessly across projects and networks

Compliance

Meeting the legal and operational standards set by rail operators

Important for Queensland students: You must hold a valid RIW card before enrolling into any Queensland Rail (QR) training course.

Why You Need an RIW Card

Mobility & Portability

Move between projects, sites, or employers without needing to requalify each time.

Real-Time Compliance

On-site checks validate you meet the required competencies and health standards.

Access To Sites

Many network operators and contractors require a valid RIW card for rail corridor access.

Better Workforce Management

Better Workforce Management: Employers can track expiry, gaps, health, and training via the system.

Standardised Credentials

Your qualifications, medicals, and competencies are centralised in your profile.

How To Get an RIW Card

      • If your employer is RIW-registered, they can submit your application and manage your profile.
      • If you don’t have an employer arranged, you can apply directly (as an individual) under “RIW + Job Ready” categories.
      • You’ll undergo mandatory identity verification.
      • Application fees apply (card issue, subscription, etc.).
      • Your completed training, medical assessments, and related competencies must be uploaded to your RIW profile.
      • If certain competencies or medicals are missing, you’ll need to complete those before full job-role activation.

      • A physical card is posted to your nominated address.

      • A virtual version (via app) can also be issued so you can access worksites while awaiting your physical card.

      • Your RIW card has a validity period (usually 5 years), after which it must be replaced.

        Ensure your competencies, medicals, and job roles stay current to avoid being blocked or suspended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find an Authorised Health Professional

It typically takes up to 14 business days from the date of issue. You can use the virtual card in the meantime.

You or your employer can request the virtual card link be reissued. If the physical card is lost, your employer can request a replacement through the RIW system (with associated cost).

Yes. Your RIW profile is portable, your credentials stay with you even if you change employers or networks.

You may be blocked or suspended from accessing some networks or performing your job roles until you meet the requirements again.

Not always. Even with an RIW card, you still need all required competencies and medicals for your specific role on that network.