On 2 May 2008, Australia’s Transport Ministers agreed to begin an ambitious program of national reform to address significant national challenges across all modes – passenger and freight – including climate change, safety, efficiency, congestion, and the skills crisis.

Development of the National Transport Policy is a significant task, which requires the support and commitment of industry, the community and governments to put Ministers’ vision into practice.

The National Transport Commission (NTC) will provide a regular update to communicate with all stakeholders on the progress of the national reform agenda. Open and transparent consultation at a national level will be an important part of the reform process. Further details will be provided in coming weeks.

NTC is delighted with preparation for the July 25 Australian Transport Council (ATC) meeting, and thanks all stakeholders for their efforts and contribution. Below is an overview of the key reforms currently underway:

• a single national market for transport, including road regulation, vehicle registration and driver licensing; starting with heavy vehicles
• effective national measures to address climate change
• a national approach to attract, retain and train workers
• more coordinated strategic research across all transport modes
• National Road Safety Council to advise Ministers on best practice national safety initiatives to save lives and reduce injuries across Australia
• investigate governance models for a single National Rail Safety Regulator
• investigate governance models for an independent National Rail Safety Investigator
• national audits to improve the efficiency of coal, grain, oil and gas, inter-modal and livestock supply chains

NTC has invited expressions of interest from consultants to join a Professional Services Panel, which will provide assistance in progressing supply chain audits.

• Details of the National Transport Plan and Policy Framework presented to Ministers on 29 February 2008 are available HERE

At the request of the Commonwealth Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Anthony Albanese, the NTC Chairman briefed the COAG Infrastructure Working Group on progress with these initiatives.