News

Trudi Mares is the Deputy Secretary at Transport for NSW. In this episode of the Women Who Move Nations podcast, proudly sponosred by NEC, Trudi talks to host Michelle Batsas about transformative changes in NSW transport. Trudi delves into enhancing network reliability to increase patronage, with a strong focus on equitable access. Trudi shares her pivotal transition from corporate affairs roles to spearheading strategic planning and public transport operations. Discover her innovative approach to integrating transport services with urban development and her proactive strategies for overcoming fiscal constraints and improving customer experiences. A not-to-be-missed dialogue for those passionate about the evolution of public transport systems. 

The Hon. Minister Williams MP is Victoria’s Minister for Public Transport and Active Modes and shares her fascinating journey from practicing law to becoming a key political figure in Victoria, with host Michelle Batsas. With a remit that includes driving major public transport infrastructure initiatives, like the Metro Tunnel, she advocates daily for the needs of Victorians. This episode, proudly sponsored by NEC, delves into her decade in politics, the challenges of juggling leadership with her personal journey of starting a family, and her commitment to creating equitable and sustainable transport solutions. Minister Williams’ personal stories and policy insights offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of governing and the dedication required to shape public policy. 

Cassie Hames is a programmer at Sage Automation who has lived experienced as a professional with impaired vision. She discusses her role at Sage with host, Michelle Batsas, including the development of the SeeMe app which enhances public transport accessibility for users with impaired vision, and shares her personal journey proving her detractors wrong by becoming a programmer in the face of discrimination and harassment. This episode explores the intersection of leadership, gender equality, and technological innovation, highlighting the vital importance of inclusive design. Tune in to discover how Cassie’s lived experiences have driven her to champion changes that make public transport safer and more accessible for everyone. 

Stacey van der Putten is the Director Public Transport and Active Modes at Auckland Transport and a PTAANZ Board Director. A trailblazer in the transportation industry, Stacey delves into her journey of integrating private sector expertise into public transport with host Michelle Batsas, emphasising the significance of inclusive leadership and effective communication. Discover how Stacey’s background has equipped her to tackle challenges and innovate within her field, particularly in creating safer and more inclusive environments for women in leadership roles. This episode is packed with actionable insights on fostering customer-centric solutions and supporting women’s career growth. Tune in to hear Stacey’s strategies for blending diverse experiences to lead change.  

Michelle Sheppard is a Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at Victoria’s Department of Transport and Planning. In her transparent and vulnerable conversation with host Michelle Batsas, Michelle details her personal and professional journey as a transgender woman in the transport industry. Reflecting on her own experiences struggling with identity and belonging, and feeling torn between men’s and women’s spaces, Michelle emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, particularly for marginalised groups, and how education and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and support can demonstrate to young people that public transport can be an industry of choice for their future careers.  Tune in for an inspiring and courageous conversation on improving leadership by bringing your true self to work.  

Kylie Gorham is a Senior Product Manager at NEC Australia. In her interview with host Michelle Batsas, Kylie talks about the innovative edge of public transport. Listen as they unpack the impact of technology on operational intelligence and passenger experience. Kylie shares her career journey and insights, including the importance o travelling to different cities and experiencing the local transport networks first-hand to gain perspective on potential improvements. They discuss the role of Artificial Intelligence in enhancing public safety and the flexibility required to address evolving transport needs. Tune in to gain insights into Kylie’s leadership philosophy and her perspective on gender diversity in transport leadership roles.

This episode of PTAANZ’s Women Who Move Nations podcast features Mel Barber, Managing Director at NEC New Zealand. Guest hosted by Rowan Selwood-Eyles, Public Transport Advisor at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader, Mel discusses her transformational leadership approach in the industry as she touches on public transport projects, community engagement, and the integration of technology like AI for enhancing public safety and accessibility. Explore insights on leadership practices, diversity in leadership roles, and the impact of mentorship. This episode provides a comprehensive look into improving public transportation in Wellington, and the broader implications of technology and leadership in the industry.

In the third episode of Season 7 of the Women Who Move Nations podcast proudly sponsored by NEC, host Michelle Batsas welcomes Dr Nicole Kalms, Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Monash University XYX Lab. Dr Kalms shares her ground-breaking work on gender-inclusive urban design, diving into the challenges girls, women and gender-diverse individuals face within city design. Dr Kalms also shares how her team’s research is shaping safer, more navigable cities. From responsive lighting to digital safety tools, the discussion illuminates practical strategies for transforming public spaces. Discover how engaging communities and leveraging technology can create more equitable urban environments.

In this episode of Women Who Move Nations, proudly sponsored by NEC, Michelle Batsas interviews Ishra Baksh, Executive Director Strategic Insights and Transformation at Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads. Ishra and Michelle discuss the fusion of technology, diversity, and leadership in transforming transport and mobility, and Ishra shares reflections from her journey from graduate to Executive Director. The conversation also touches on the critical role of diversity and inclusion, Ishra’s personal growth as a woman leader of colour, and the importance of authentic leadership styles. They explore strategies for increasing leadership diversity, the impact of transport on the cost of living, and the future of public transport in Queensland. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of transport, leadership, and the power of embracing diversity to drive positive change.

In the first episode of season 7, proudly sponsored by NEC, we welcome Veronica O. Davis, a pioneering voice in public transport and author of “Inclusive Transportation – a Manifesto for repairing divided communities.” Veronica discusses the essence of equitable transport systems and her mission to mend divided communities through better transport planning and community engagement. Her insights challenge us to rethink accessibility and advocate for change. Delve into a conversation that intersects innovation with action, uncovering how diverse leadership is vital in steering the future of public mobility. This episode is not just a dialogue; it’s a call to all for creating an inclusive, connected society. Tune in for an empowering session that drives home the need for equality in every lane of our transport networks.

Natalie Reiter is the Deputy Secretary of Strategy and Precincts at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning. In her conversation with host Michelle Batsas, Natalie shares her invaluable insights on the future of public transport, emphasising the need to increase accessibility and reduce car ownership. Discover Natalie’s unique journey in transport planning and leadership, shaped by her experiences in private consulting. Uncover the secrets of leadership growth and challenging traditional hierarchies, as Natalie encourages listeners to embrace paradigm shifts for professional success. Join the conversation on work-life balance and gender dynamics, where Natalie candidly addresses discrimination and highlights the ongoing battle against gender bias.

Get to know PTAANZ’s new Chief Executive, Lauren Streifer, in her inspiring interview with Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning and a PTAANZ Ambassador. Lauren has built an incredible career by getting to know as many people as possible, creating a diverse network of mentors and taking every opportunity she can. Lauren also shares her passion for public transport, especially big infrastructure projects and the legacy of investment decisions made now for future generations. Hear how Lauren is breaking down gender barriers, managing executive life and preparing to have a baby. As Lauren says, “You can be a leader, be a woman, have a baby and work it out”!

Joanne (Jo) McDonald is the Chief Legal and Risk Officer at Kelsian Group, Australia’s largest integrated multi-modal transport provider and tourism operator, which also has bus operations in Singapore, London and the Channel Islands. Jo shares unmissable advice on developing strategic influencing and management skills, how she has built a sustainable career and key lessons she’s learnt along the way. Jo emphasises that for her, working in public transport is so satisfying because it’s connected with people’s everyday lives, it involves systems and is purpose driven. Tune in now to hear Jo’s interview with Jamie-Lee Owen, a PTAANZ Emerging Mobility Leader and Passenger Experience Lead for the Level Crossing Removal Project at Metro Trains Melbourne.

Alana Newbrook is the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of SYSTRA ANZ. In her interview with Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, Alana shares how she’s harnessing SYSTRA’s global insights and applying them to Australia and New Zealand’s public transport sector. Alana discusses her passion for delivering city-shaping and life-changing projects, relishing how her role allows her to make tangible contributions to creating more equitable communities.

The Hon Catherine King is Australia’s Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government and the first woman to hold the transport portfolio at the national government level. In her interview with member host Michelle Batsas, Executive Director of Future Mobility at the Victorian Department of Transport, Minister King shares insights on Australia’s fast rail future, reflections on her 20-year political career and advice for aspiring politicians and policymakers.