Labor goes back to the future to replace ‘uncomfortable’ C-Series train seats

The Cook government is adopting a back-to-the-future approach as it sets out to replace the drivers’ seats across its entire C-Series train fleet with the same model used in A-Series trains.

The seat types installed on the new C-Series trains emerged as a big issue for drivers after a Rail Tram and Bus Union survey found more than 80 per cent reported back, knee and leg pain.

That survey prompted the Public Transport Authority to bite the bullet and replace every seat with the A-Series model seat, known as the Grammer 90.6 SHORT, across 92 C-Series trains and the Australind train.

A tender document suggested that the existing seat model in the C-Series met all technical standards, but conceded that driver feedback shows it “did not meet operational expectations in terms of comfort and usability during service.”

The document said the A-Series model was selected due to its “proven performance and historical acceptance across the PTA’s A‑Series fleet”.

The seat issue is one of several that have plagued the C-Series since it began operation in April 2024, including issues with wipers in June last year, after which drivers were given squeegees to remove condensation from the driver’s window.

Opposition transport spokesman Steve Martin said it was pleasing the government finally listened to driver criticism.

“The only question now is whether the replacement seats will be ‘Made in WA’ or purchased in Sweden out of an Ikea catalogue,” he said.

“This belated repair job follows a survey of more than 300 drivers by the Rail Tram and Bus Union last year, which found nearly 80 per cent of drivers believed the trains should be pulled from service until key issues – including brakes and speed control – were fixed.

“Last year, minister Saffioti suggested drivers just needed to get used to the trains. It turns out the drivers were right. Taxpayers also need to know how much the new seats will cost.”

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the government had been working constructively with the union to incorporate driver feedback to support comfort and operability in the C-series driver’s cab.

“The driver’s seat currently installed in the C-Series was trialled and endorsed by driver representatives from the C-Series Operational Readiness Group, but once the trains entered service, some drivers raised concerns about their comfort after extended use,” she said.

“Following this feedback, the PTA successfully trialled an alternative model and a decision was made to replace the chair across the C-series fleet to deliver the best outcome for drivers.”

Saffioti did not reveal the project cost but said it would be delivered “within the existing project budget”.

She said the C‑Series trains had been performing well recently and continued to meet expected operational targets.

A RTBU spokesman said the union was happy its members were being listened to, and it would improve comfort for drivers.

The spokesman said many issues with the new trains, like the wiper issue, had been resolved and there was a pathway forward for the outstanding issues.

French builder Alstom won the $1.5 billion contract in 2019 to establish a train-making facility in Midland and build 246 railcars.

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