Political circumstance has led to endorsing Neil Scales as Qld Transport’s Director-General
March 1, 2013
Arriving from the UK to lead Queensland’s Translink Transit Authority at the start of 2012, just 12 months later sees Neil Scales confirmed as Queensland Transport’s top bureaucrat.
Political circumstance contributed to Scales quick rise to the top after former Department of Transport and Main Roads Director-General Michael Caltabiano – appointed by Premier Campbell Newman to the post – was stood down from the position after allegedly misleading a Queensland parliamentary estimates committee.
Scales has acted in Caltabiano’s position since October.
Queensland Transport Minister Scott Emerson says Scales had demonstrated over the past four months that he was the right person to lead the Department.
Queensland’s Governor in Council yesterday approved to terminate the employment contract of Michael Caltabiano as Director-General, Department of Transport and Main Roads.
“Neil has been acting DG since October 2012 and showed outstanding leadership during the recent floods as the Department worked to re-open roads, re-build bridges and re-connect communities quickly,” Emerson says.
“He understands that the task has only just begun to deliver a significant recovery and resilience program across Queensland.
“Neil will also lead the implementation of Newman Government reforms, including a better public transport network, safer licensing, and the delivery of road and transport projects across Queensland.”
Matt Longland will remain as the acting Deputy Director General of TransLink.