Media Release 

The peak body representing Queensland’s bus industry has congratulated Deputy Premier Jackie Trad on her appointment as the new Minister for Transport. 

Executive Director of Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) David Tape said he enjoyed a good relationship with Ms Trad when she was the opposition transport spokesperson and he is pleased she is continuing in the role. 

Mr Tape said he is seeking a more inclusive relationship with the new Government, noting that buses are the largest public transport provider.

“We are looking forward to working with Jackie to deliver stability to bus operators across Queensland and returning to negotiated contracts,” he said. 

Prior to the state election QBIC revealed that many bus operators across Queensland were living in fear that they would be replaced by out of state bus companies who could afford to initially run at a loss to meet the Newman Government’s proposed open tender criteria. 

Mr Tape said the industry group had campaigned for the past year against the proposed changes, arguing that it was bad policy that would destroy Queensland companies and local jobs. 

“We welcomed Labor’s pre-election commitment that if elected, they would scrap the tender process, reintroduce negotiated contracts and better engage with the industry. 

“We are now greatly looking forward to working closely with the new minister to forge a better way forward and continue to deliver excellent bus services across the state.” 

Media Contacts: Lyall Mercer – 0413 749 830 // Barbara Gorogh – 0435 909 608