Palaszczuk Government announces head of train watchdog

A Brisbane-based change management specialist with extensive international experience will lead the body tasked with monitoring and auditing the reforms to Queensland Rail, as recommended in Strachan Inquiry.

Jacqui Walters will head the CityTrain Response Unit (CRU), to be set up within the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk made the announcement with Deputy Premier and Acting Minister for Transport Jackie Trad and newly appointed Queensland Rail Chairman Phillip Strachan while meeting trainee drivers at Doomben Station.

“Jacqui Walters is a recognised expert in organisational transformation and restructuring,” the Premier said.

“She has worked with organisations as diverse as Cathay Pacific, Indian Railways, Hewlett Packard and all three levels of government.

“Her skills experience will be vital in ensuring Queensland Rail sticks to the timetable needed to ensure it can deliver Queenslanders the timetable they deserve.”

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said her focus as Acting Transport Minister would be to fast-track the implementation of the recommendations.

“The Strachan Inquiry clearly demonstrated that there is significant work that needs to be undertaken to improve culture and in turn productivity at Queensland Rail,” Ms Trad said.

“I am committed to working with the Queensland Rail Board and the unions to methodically implement the recommendations and improve rail services for Queenslanders.

“I have had positive initial discussions with the board and union representatives and we will be identifying ways to fast track driver recruitment and training immediately.”

The CRU’s immediate priorities include:

• overseeing the implementation of a closely integrated public transport service;
• advising on the composition of the Queensland Rail Board;
• defining Queensland Rail's long-term industrial relations strategy to improve workplace flexibility and culture; and
• addressing systemic organisational issues identified in the Strachan Inquiry.

Queensland Rail Chairman Phillip Strachan has started meeting with key stakeholders ahead of interviews with shortlisted candidates for the position of QR CEO later this week.

Jacqui Walters starts her new role this week.

Media Contacts:

Premier’s Office: Geoff Breusch 0417 272 875
Deputy Premier’s Office: Anna Jabour 0429 890 942