The new Freight Industry Reference Panel will provide Australian federal, state, and territory transport and infrastructure ministers with an industry perspective on the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy.
Chaired by John Fullerton, who recently stepped down as the managing director and chief executive officer of the Australian Rail Track Corporation, the body will provide input onto decision-making at the highest level.
“The new panel will provide industry a clear line of sight on implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy and annually report to Transport and Infrastructure Ministers its independent view on progress made,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack.
McCormack highlighted Fullerton’s 35 years of experience in the transport industry.
Fullerton is a leading figure in Australia’s infrastructure and transport industry and consistently promotes the value of rail and freight supply chains to the national economy.”
Other members of the reference panel include Nicole Lockwood, who is the chair of the Westport Taskforce Steering Committee and is on the board of Infrastructure WA.
“As a member of the Expert Panel which led the Inquiry into National Freight and Supply Chain Priorities in 2017 and 2018, Lockwood is uniquely placed to bring both continuity and fresh perspectives in overseeing the Strategy,” said McCormack.
Sophie Finemore will also be a member of the panel. Finemore was senior manager – government relations at Toll Group before joining KPMG in January 2020.
“Finemore’s practical experience in navigating supply chain issues in her role with the Toll Group and her recent involvement in transport market reform will make her a valued member of the Panel,” said McCormack.
Other members include Peter Garske, chief executive of the Queensland Trucking Association and Brett Charlton, general manager of Tasmanian-based Agility Logistics and chairman of the Tasmanian Logistics Committee.
With membership now announced the panel will work with government to suggest areas for reform and the implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain strategy.