About Us
About Us
Flexible leasing solutions for
locomotives and wagons
We are Australia’s only domestic manufacturer of rail wagons, delivering innovation and reliability tailored to local industry needs. We are Australia’s only domestic manufacturer of rail wagons, delivering innovation and reliability tailored to local industry needs. Flexible leasing solutions for
locomotives and wagons
customer safety - Railfirst CF Loco

Australia’s Leading Full-Service Locomotive & Wagon Leasing Company

Rail First is Australia's largest lessor of rail freight vehicles. We manage $500 million in assets including over 80 locomotives and 1,400 wagons. We are Australia’s only domestic manufacturer of rail container freight wagons, ensuring industry-leading reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.

Rail First has over 24 years of experience. Starting with a small fleet of 13 used locomotives. We’re now the leader in the country’s rail freight logistics industry.

Flexible leasing solutions for locomotives and wagons
Comprehensive maintenance and overhaul services
Local manufacturing for high-quality, fast-turnaround rolling stock
Build-to-lease solutions tailored to customer needs

Our national footprint includes major facilities in Adelaide, SA, and Goulburn, NSW, providing essential servicing and engineering capabilities that keep Australian freight moving.

Rail First

Driving Efficiency, Safety & Sustainability

Rail First is committed to delivering safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible rail freight solutions. Our approach includes:

Investment in low-emission technology to reduce our carbon footprint
Supporting Australia’s shift towards sustainable transport with rail’s lower environmental impact
Reducing supply chain risks through local manufacturing and maintenance
Ensuring rigorous safety standards through end-to-end quality control in our production process

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Why Choose Rail First?

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A Fleet Built for Australian Industry

With 1,400+ locomotives and wagons, we support intermodal, bulk, and agricultural freight transport across the country.

End-to-End Rolling Stock Solutions

From leasing and maintenance to refurbishment and custom-built solutions, we provide everything you need to keep your operations running smoothly.

Local Manufacturing & Expertise

We are Australia’s only domestic manufacturer of rail wagons, delivering innovation and reliability tailored to local industry needs.

Commitment to Innovation & Sustainability

We invest in cutting-edge technology to reduce carbon footprints, enhance safety, and improve operational efficiency.

National Reach, Local Support

With key facilities in Adelaide, Goulburn, and Sydney, we provide rapid support and maintenance nationwide.

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Bluebird Rail

Expansion through Bluebird Rail acquisition and the establishment of key maintenance facilities.

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Driving Growth

Investment by Anchorage Capital Partners (ACP), driving fleet growth and operational improvements.

2019
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New Ownership

Acquired by Amber Infrastructure and the Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF), both with proven expertise in international rail leasing and infrastructure development.

2022
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DIF & CBRE Investment

Amber Infrastructure divested to the Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF) & CBRE Investment Management

2024
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Energy Efficient

Rail First invests $100m in 12 new energy-efficient freight locomotives.

2025

Proudly Supporting Australia’s Freight Future

We continue to see strong demand for rolling stock solutions, driven by:

✔ Increased leasing penetration across Australia
✔ Growth in third-party maintenance services

Our 130+ highly skilled team members in Adelaide and Goulburn play a crucial role in providing fast, reliable, and tailored solutions that keep freight moving across the country.

Reliable

Trusted by Australia’s Largest Industries

We partner with leading grain producers, mining companies, and intermodal logistics providers to deliver efficient, scalable rail solutions.

Let’s Move Australia Forward

If you’re looking for a reliable rail leasing partner, get in touch today.


📞 Call Us: +61 2 8965 0000
📩 Email: info@railfirst.com.au

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    Let’s Move Australia Forward

    📍 Head Office: Sydney, with servicing & repair hubs in Adelaide & Goulburn

    📞 Call Us: +61 2 8965 0000
    📩 Email: info@railfirst.com.au