Japan’s Shinkansen Technology: A Report of High Speed Rail World Australia 2011

After the Hon. Anthony Albanese, federal Minister for Transport, released the first phase of the study into the feasibility of a high speed rail system in Australia in early August, the possibility of such a project becoming a reality is now higher than ever before. Japan, with the ultra-dependable Shinkansen (bullet-train) technology, is looking to contribute to the development of the Australian rail system. The Japanese government, and JR Central who operates the world’s first high-speed rail, exhibited and presented at the High Speed Rail World Australia event. Also exhibiting was Hitachi, who supply the total railway systems; Mitsubishi, who deal with the transformer, converter-inverter systems, as well as traction motors for the Shinkansen fleet; and Toshiba, who provide the system integration, rolling stock, power supply system, signaling and traffic control system, communication system, and maintenance management system.

High Speed Rail World Australia 2011 was Australia’s most important forum for the discussion of all aspects of HSR. The conference featured two well respected speakers from Japan, and also international case studies from Spain, Portugal and England, as well as local expert analysis. The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Sydney joined this event as Gold Sponsor.
Event Outline for High Speed Rail World 2011
When: Tuesday, August 30th – Wednesday, August 31st, 2011
Where: Hilton Hotel, Sydney
Organisers: Terrapinn Holdings

On the first day, Senator Bob Brown, leader of Greens gave a keynote speech. He took this opportunity to introduce high speed railway in Australia from an environmental perpective. He praised Japanese high speed rail technology and referred to his own personal experiences riding Japan's Shinkansen. In addition, he visited the Japan booth and exchanged opinions with the hosts and visitors on Japan side.

From Japan, Mr. Toshihiro Yamakoshi, Director of the Office of Project Development at the Railway Bureau, in Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) made a keynote speech outlining the High-Speed Railway system in Japan. His presentation was very informative, especially his points regarding earthquake protection at the time of the Great East Japan Earthquake in March.
Some major media, including ABC, Channel 7 and NHK broadcasted on television and online this event highlighting Senator Brown’s visit to the Japan booth, and Mr. Yamakoshi’s presentation.

JETRO Sydney Sponsored this event, and provided related information on Japan's high speed rail technology to Australian parties and achieved some positive outcomes though paticipating in this event.