The Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria, Australia, plays a crucial role in overseeing and developing the state’s transport network and urban planning initiatives. This complex department is structured to manage a wide array of responsibilities, from public transport and road safety to freight and land use planning. Understanding the Department Of Transport Structure is key to navigating its services and understanding how transport and planning decisions are made in Victoria.
The Department of Transport and Planning operates with a diverse portfolio of public-facing brands and specialized administrative bodies. These include well-known entities such as:
- Public Transport Victoria (PTV): Responsible for planning, coordinating, and promoting public transport across the state.
- Road Safety Victoria: Focused on improving road safety and reducing road trauma.
- Freight Victoria: Dedicated to supporting and developing Victoria’s freight industry.
- Active Transport Victoria: Promoting walking and cycling as viable transport options.
- Heritage Victoria: Protecting and celebrating Victoria’s cultural heritage places and objects.
- Victorian Planning Authority (VPA): Responsible for strategic planning and urban renewal projects.
- Land Use Victoria: Providing land administration and property information services.
These brands represent the public face of the department, each specializing in a specific area of transport and planning. In addition to these public brands, the department also includes the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA). VIDA serves as the department’s administrative arm, overseeing major infrastructure projects through specialized divisions like:
- Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA): Focusing on health infrastructure projects.
- Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV): Managing significant road infrastructure upgrades.
- Metro Tunnel Project: Overseeing the construction of the Metro Tunnel.
- Level Crossing Removal Project: Responsible for removing dangerous level crossings across Melbourne.
At the helm of this extensive organization is the Secretary of the Department of Transport and Planning. Currently, this position is held by Jeroen Weimar, who commenced on 27 January 2025. The Secretary is not only the administrative head but also holds the statutory office of Head, Transport for Victoria. This dual role, established under the Transport Integration Act 2010, underscores the Secretary’s strategic responsibility for ensuring an integrated and coordinated transport system for Victoria. Mr. Weimar’s prior experience includes CEO roles at VicRoads and Public Transport Victoria, as well as a senior position at Transport for London, bringing a wealth of experience to the department.
The Department of Transport and Planning operates under the guidance of several key ministers, each responsible for specific portfolios within the transport and planning sectors. These ministers provide political direction and oversight to the department’s operations. Currently, the ministerial team includes:
- Hon Gabrielle Williams MP: Minister for Transport Infrastructure and Minister for Public and Active Transport.
- Hon Melissa Horne MP: Minister for Ports and Freight, Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and Minister for Health Infrastructure.
- Hon Sonya Kilkenny MP: Attorney General and Minister for Planning.
- Hon Harriet Shing MP: Minister for Suburban Rail Loop, Minister for Housing and Building, and Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts.
Supporting the ministerial team is the Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure Delivery, a role currently held by Josh Bull MP. The Parliamentary Secretary assists the ministers in their duties and acts as a liaison between the parliament and the department.
In conclusion, the Department of Transport and Planning’s structure is multifaceted, encompassing public-facing brands, administrative authorities, and a clear leadership hierarchy. From the Secretary and Head of Transport for Victoria to the dedicated ministers and Parliamentary Secretary, each level plays a vital role in shaping and managing Victoria’s transport and planning landscape. This structure ensures a comprehensive approach to developing and maintaining a modern and efficient transport system for the state.
