Annual Report 2023–2024

To:

Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

Hon Joe Szakacs MP
Minister for Local Government

Hon Dan Cregan MP
Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services

This annual report will be presented to Parliament to meet the statutory reporting requirements of the Public Sector Act 2009, the Public Finance and Audit Act 1987, and other relevant Acts and the requirements of Premier and Cabinet Circular PC013 Annual Reporting.

Incorporated in this document is annual reporting by the Commissioner of Highways under the provision of the Highways Act 1926, and by the Rail Commissioner under the provision of the Rail Commissioner Act 2009.

This report is verified to be accurate for the purposes of annual reporting to the Parliament of South Australia.

Submitted on behalf of the Department for Infrastructure and Transport by:

Jon Whelan
Chief Executive

Date: 30 September 2024

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport has had another highly successful year delivering infrastructure projects, transport improvements and essential services for the people of South Australia.

During 2023-2024, we progressed and completed a wide variety of projects and initiatives, not only providing everyday benefits to South Australians but also providing a critical boost to the State’s economy including supporting local businesses and jobs across the State.

We made exciting progress on the $15.4 billion River Torrens to Darlington Project, including releasing the major construction tender, undertaking advanced enabling works and progressing upgrades across the broader road network.

The River Torrens to Darlington Project will be the biggest infrastructure project in our State’s history, completing the final 10.5 kilometre section of the North-South Corridor. As well as providing a modern, enduring transport corridor that will benefit all road users, the project will support 5,500 jobs a year during construction, creating a valuable skills legacy for South Australia.

While the River Torrens to Darlington Project has understandably commanded much attention over the year, there have been many other major road infrastructure projects completed and progressed.

The $810 million Fleurieu Connections Project reached a number of major milestones, improving access and safety for travellers to our beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. All four lanes of the new Main South Road Stage 1 and Victor Harbor Road duplications opened to traffic in December 2023, while Stage 2 of the Main South Road duplication from Aldinga Beach Road to Sellicks Beach commenced.

Major construction also commenced on the $120 million Majors Road Interchange, to provide new on and off ramps for the Southern Expressway that will improve the connection between the Expressway and local attractions.

Early works commenced on the Marion Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive Intersection Upgrade, and main works commenced on the Brighton Road and Edwards Street junction upgrade. Safety improvements on Main Road, Cherry Gardens also commenced as part of the $150 million Adelaide Hills Productivity and Road Safety Package.

Work continued to upgrade the Heysen Tunnels on the South Eastern Freeway, including safety upgrades such as the installation of a lane-use management system and variable speed limit signs.

The $46 million Old Murray Bridge refurbishment project was completed, with traffic now moving freely across a better, safer bridge that will last for many decades to come.

Work through the $500 million Freight Highway Upgrade Program continued on three of our vital regional transport corridors – the Augusta Highway, the Stuart Highway and the Dukes Highway. The $260 million Augusta Highway Duplication Project also continued toward completion.

Other regional road achievements included the continued delivery of the $190 million Princes Highway Corridor program, from Meningie to the South Australian/Victorian border, with four roundabout upgrades at Mount Gambier nearing completion.

Work started to construct five new major floodways across the Oodnadatta Track, work continued on the $215 million upgrade of Strzelecki Track, and the sealing of a 10.5 kilometre section of Tea Tree Road was completed, notwithstanding the significant flood events which occurred across the region.

We completed several major intersection upgrades, which will improve safety and traffic flow for the many thousands of commuters who use them every day. This includes the $61 million upgrade of the intersection of Cross and Fullarton roads, and the $35 million upgrade of the Glen Osmond and Fullarton roads intersection.

Preparatory works also began on the major undertaking to remove level crossings from the Glenelg tram line at Marion Road and Cross Road, and replace them with an overpass. This $400 million project will mean no more waiting for busy boom gates that are down up to 20 minutes each hour during peak times, as well as improved safety, more accessible tram stops and better facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.

To help better understand the condition of our regional roads, we embraced world‑first technology, using the Intelligent Pavement Assessment Vehicle (iPAVE) to survey up to 18,000 kilometres of State maintained roads. This will provide rapid data collection without the need for traffic control, and will allow maintenance crews to make faster, more informed decisions on where works are needed most.

We also undertook important work to maintain or improve the State’s marine infrastructure. The $20 million South Australian Jetties Renewal Program was established to improve the condition and sustainability of the State’s jetties and wharves – assets that are often the lifeblood of their local regional communities.

The new O’Sullivan Beach Boat Ramp was completed and opened to the public, and refurbishments of the Beachport and Southend jetties on the Limestone Coast were also completed.

Major works commenced on the $73 million Cape Jervis and Kangaroo Island Ports Upgrade, to support economic growth in these regions and deliver improved essential transport services.

Importantly for the transport industry, we also delivered the Freight and Supply Chain Strategy for South Australia, providing a vision for a commercial freight and supply chain network that is safe, productive and sustainable.

Through our commitment to sustainable transport and infrastructure, the Department contributed to the development of national carbon values, resources and policies to drive decarbonisation of transport and infrastructure.

We continue to develop active travel options by delivering targeted improvements to cycling facilities on local roads (through the State Bicycle Fund) and arterial roads (through the National Road Safety Programs).

During the year we also reached important milestones in our delivery of social infrastructure on behalf of other State Agencies.

Work continued on the new Mount Barker Hospital, the Noarlunga Hospital, Modbury Hospital Health Precinct, 48 sub-acute beds at Lyell McEwan Hospital, the Flinders Medical Centre upgrade and expansion, and various mental health facility projects. Construction of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Redevelopment Stage 3 (Clinical Services Building) was completed, as were new South Australian Ambulance Service stations at Port Augusta, Norwood and Woodville.

School upgrades across the State included completion of the Adelaide Botanic High School extension, continued construction of the new Morialta Secondary College, and completion of the Findon Technical College.

Major work commenced on the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre, to replace the outdated facility. This $135 million project will provide South Australians with a world‑class aquatic health and wellbeing centre featuring water slides, splash zones and outdoor spaces.

An upgrade of the Thebarton Aquatic Centre began and neared completion, and works on the South Australian Sports Institute also progressed.

The State Government provided $15 million funding (matching the Federal Government’s own $15 million commitment) towards the Adelaide Football Club’s new Thebarton Oval precinct. This will ensure its recreation and sport facilities are open for public access and support the growth of women’s football. The funding will help create new training facilities at Thebarton Oval for the club’s three teams (AFL, AFLW and SANFL) and it will become the venue for its AFLW home games.

The first stage of the long-awaited Coast Park Shared Use Path was completed, providing greater community access to the coastline between Semaphore Park and West Lakes Shore. The new path stretches 1.3 kilometres between Third Avenue, Semaphore Park and Wara Wayingga-Tennyson Dunes Conservation Reserve. Walkers, joggers, cyclists and families can now enjoy more of the picturesque coastline, and take advantage of new shelters, benches and picnic areas.

Critical to all of our work this year has been a continued strong focus on community engagement.

Throughout the year the Department engaged with more than 19,000 people. Key engagement included assisting thousands of Adelaide Aquatic Centre users with their relocation to alternative venues, and seeking important insights on a range of strategies including the Kangaroo Island and Fleurieu Peninsula Transport Study, Northern Adelaide Transport Study, and Harbour Master Plans.

The Department also sought feedback from community and key stakeholders for critical infrastructure projects such as River Torrens to Darlington, Tram Grade Separation Projects, Adelaide Hills Productivity and Road Safety Program, Majors Road Interchange and Main South Road Duplication.

In public transport, the Department continued to progress the return of train and tram operations back into public hands, which will occur in 2025.

The $43.5 million Tea Tree Plaza Park ’n’ Ride was completed, increasing the number of Park ‘n’ Ride spaces available to approximately 1,200 and making it even easier for people in the north-eastern suburbs to use public transport. Work also neared completion on the $6 million upgrade of the Crafers Park ‘n’ Ride.

Construction continued on the $51 million Port Dock Rail Line Project, to return rail services to the heart of Port Adelaide. Station upgrades commenced at Clarence Park, Nurlutta, West Croydon and Ethelton railway stations. Noarlunga Railway Station amenity and security upgrades were completed, including the installation of new escalators.

Further adding to convenience for public transport customers, the Buy and Go App was released and Tap and Pay options were expanded across our buses.

Stage One of a commitment to provide additional public transport services into the Adelaide Hills was introduced, delivering a 15-minute service during the weekday interpeak period between Mount Barker and the City and additional services on Sundays.

In line with our strong commitment to road safety and ease of travel for all South Australians, we continue to provide free public transport to a number of large events throughout the year.

This year saw the introduction to the first fleet of zero emissions buses and hybrid diesel trains. With the purchase of an extra 16 new hybrid buses to be rolled out across the Adelaide Metro network over the next three years, supporting Riverbanks College, Aldinga Payinthi College and Morialta Secondary College.

We’re also continuing to strive towards a cleaner, greener public transport network, with a business case being developed to transition the metropolitan bus fleet to zero emissions by 2040.

Service SA continued to deliver vital services across the State. New number plate styles were introduced – including Koala State and Japanese special number plates – allowing drivers to customise their vehicles.

Among important legislation enacted over the year was the introduction of the U Class Licence for drivers of ultra-high-powered vehicles, which will ensure that drivers of these cars comply with specific training and other requirements.

Thirteen mobile phone detection cameras were installed at five priority locations across Adelaide, to reduce crashes on the road as a result of distracted drivers. We also continued to promote road safety through initiatives such as THINK! Road Safety partnerships and the On The Right Track program.

A number of access taxi initiatives were introduced to benefit both drivers as well as people with disability who rely on the service. The $25 lifting fee was expanded to people who are not a South Australian Transport Subsidy Scheme member. Also, the maximum age limit for metropolitan access taxis was extended to 12 years, acknowledging the significant costs associated to set up an accessible vehicle in comparison to a standard taxi.

Throughout the year, the Department continued to focus on being a responsible leader in our approach to employment and equity as a proud ‘We’re Equal’ employer. This important program identifies businesses and organisations committed to treating everyone equally, regardless of their age, ability, gender diversity, sexuality, relationship and reproductive status, race, religion, and culture.

We’re also proud of our work to continue to deliver and develop our Reconciliation Action Plan and have high hopes of becoming the first government department to achieve the ‘Elevate’ Reconciliation Action Plan level, which is the highest commitment within the Reconciliation Action Plan framework.

I thank all of our staff and key partners not only for the outstanding work they have delivered over the past year but also for the spirit in which they have collaborated to achieve outstanding results.

Together, we remain committed to continuing to deliver South Australia’s multi-billion dollar pipeline of infrastructure investment, while implementing key reforms, supporting the continued growth of the South Australian economy and the social wellbeing of our communities.

Jon Whelan
Chief Executive
Department for Infrastructure and Transport

Our functions, objectives and deliverables

Transport Strategy and Planning

Develops plans, programs, management frameworks, standards and data-driven analytics tools for transport network development and management that optimises performance and outcomes. The division is focused on delivering:

• Integrated strategies for transport networks and assets driven by objective and evidence-based analysis, linked to broader state economic and social objectives.
• A high potential program and project pipeline of economically viable projects presenting government with clear investment options.
• Controls and governance from project initiation to benefit realisation.
• Contemporary standards and practices delivered through integrated partnerships with industry, fit for purpose for the whole asset lifecycle.

Infrastructure Delivery

Designs, specifies, procures, delivers and integrates social and transport infrastructure safely and efficiently to sustain and support growth and maximise the benefit of government’s investments.

The division is focused on delivering:

• Fit for purpose social and transport infrastructure that is responsive, meets customer needs and generates economic and community orientated benefits and outcomes.
• Best whole of lifecycle solutions developed and delivered collaboratively with colleagues, industry, and key stakeholders, through a motivated and skilled workforce.
• Leading practice and innovation in safety, environmental management, sustainability, procurement, design, engineering, and delivery.
• Effective governance and project controls.

North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office

Develops the plans and oversees the delivery of infrastructure needed to complete the final stage of the North-South Corridor, River Torrens to Darlington. The division is focused on delivering a project which:

• Significantly contributes to economic development.
• Improves liveability, connectivity and facilitates jobs growth.
• Delivers travel time savings and boosts productivity.
• Improves road safety.

Road and Marine Services

Connects our communities by enabling safe, reliable and efficient movements and flows of goods, services and people across the State’s road and marine networks. The division is focused on delivering:

• Safe and reliable road and marine infrastructure operated and maintained to maximise economic and community benefit.
• Optimised networks, with data driven solutions, that optimise overall performance in movement of goods, services, and people.
• Effective regulation of access and usage that assures safety and sustainability, with clear boundaries reflecting reasonable expectations.
• Forward thinking policies, strategies and programs based on stakeholder engagement and evidence that will enable safe, inclusive, productive, efficient, sustainable transport.
• Service delivery that meets customer needs and expectations.

South Australia Public Transport Authority

Delivers frequent, better connected and customer focused services for mass transit and ensures services are delivered safely, efficiently, and sustainably. The division is focused on delivering:

• Customer-focused public transport and better maintained state assets in partnership with our service providers.
• Integrated end-to-end journeys with easier access, and information, payments and navigation enabled by new technologies.
• A clear plan for growth that makes the case for investment in new public transport assets and transitions them into service efficiently.
• Initiatives which support the government’s goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
• Better public transport networks that attract more customers.
• Improved customer experience through simple, safe and easy-to-use public transport services to attract and retain customers.

Commercial and Contract Management

Responsible for procurement of civil construction projects and contract management and commercial advisory of these projects and the Department’s road maintenance contracts, to ensure delivery is undertaken in accordance with the contracted requirements. The division is focused on:

• Procuring civil infrastructure and maintenance projects.
• Ensuring contractors perform contracted works in accordance with the terms of their contracts.
• Protecting the public interest in the delivery of infrastructure and maintenance projects by holding contractors to account to ensure that works are delivered within budget.
• Delivering contract management services that serve as a model for contract management throughout government.
• Maintaining effective procurement governance and contract management controls.

Public Affairs

Listens, informs, communicates and works with customers, and stakeholders to guide our agency to deliver improved outcomes for our economy, our community, and our State. The division is focused on delivering:

• Social value by putting people at the centre of everything we do, ensuring we deliver better outcomes for customers, stakeholders and the community.
• Trusted advice and services to government, supporting our business partners to ensure goals are achieved.
• Accurate, transparent and timely communications, with a focus on building our social licence and enhancing the Department’s reputation.
• A positive organisational culture that promotes the Department as a workplace of choice.

People and Corporate Services

Provide systems and assurance processes for managing our people, our finances, our performance and risk, ensuring we can work safely, efficiently, and productively. The division is focused on delivering:

• A high-performance organisation that is enabled by
  well-designed systems, processes, and technology, with effective management frameworks that enable efficient work practice.
• Effective control frameworks that ensure ongoing compliance with all relevant legislative, regulatory and policy requirements.
• Provision of valuable advice and user orientated services that support business partners enabling them to deliver.
• An engaging work environment with a clear focus on safety, flexibility, productivity, and progressive practices.
• A skilled, motivated, diverse workforce demonstrating our values in their actions.

Office of the Chief Executive

The Office of the Chief Executive is responsible for the delivery of a comprehensive range of professional, strategic, and responsive executive support services to the Chief Executive and the Executive team, with a strong focus on driving strategic priorities and objectives for the Department and government.

The Office of the Chief Executive provides a key customer service and interface with Ministerial Offices, to ensure the provision of accurate and timely information.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive for 2023-2024:

• Angela Gerace, Deputy Director, Office of the Chief Executive.
• Wayne Buckerfield, Deputy Chief Executive
  Executive Director, North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office.
• Andrew Excell, Executive Director, Transport Strategy and Planning.
• Simon Morony, Executive Director, Infrastructure Delivery.
• Emma Kokar, Executive Director, Transport Policy and Regulation.
• Ana Glavinic, Executive Director, Road and Marine Services.
• Robert Stopp, Executive Director, Public Transport South Australia.
• Brian Roche, Executive Director, Commercial and Contract Management.
• Graeme Jackson, Executive Director, People and Corporate Services.
• Andrew Ockenden, Executive Director, Public Affairs.

Changes to the agency

During 2023–2024, the agency’s structure changes as a result of an internal review.

Creation of new divisions

• Transport, Policy and Regulation

Restructured divisions

• Road and Marine Services
• North-South Corridor Program Office
• Commercial and Contract Management

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

Adelaide Oval Redevelopment and Management Act 2011

Adelaide Railway Station Development Act 1984

Aerodrome Fees Act 1998

Air Navigation Act 1937

Air Transport (Route Licensing—Passenger Services) Act 2002

Alice Springs to Darwin Railway Act 1997

AustralAsia Railway (Third Party Access) Act 1999

Civil Aviation (Carriers' Liability) Act 1962

Commissioner of Public Works Incorporation Act 1917

General Tramways Act 1884

Golden Grove (Indenture Ratification) Act 1984

Government House Precinct Land Dedication Act 2016

Harbors and Navigation Act 1993

Heavy Vehicle National Law (South Australia) Act 2013

Highways Act 1926

Land Acquisition Act 1969

Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law (Application) Act 2013

Maritime Services (Access) Act 2000

Metropolitan Adelaide Road Widening Plan Act 1972

Mile End Underpass Act 2005

Mobil Lubricating Oil Refinery (Indenture) Act 1976

*Morphett Street Bridge Act 1964

Motor Vehicles Act 1959

National Soldiers Memorial Act 1949

Non-Metropolitan Railways (Transfer) Act 1997

North Haven Development Act 1972

North Haven (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1986

Oil Refinery (Hundred of Noarlunga) Indenture Act 1958

Passenger Transport Act 1994

Proof of Sunrise and Sunset Act 1923

Protection of Marine Waters (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Act 1987

Public Employees Housing Act 1987

Rail Commissioner Act 2009

Rail Safety National Law (South Australia) Act 2012

Rail Transport Facilitation Fund Act 2001

Railways (Operations and Access) Act 1997

Railways (Transfer Agreement) Act 1975

Road Traffic Act 1961

South Australian Ports (Bulk Handling Facilities) Act 1996

South Australian Ports (Disposal of Maritime Assets) Act 2000

*Steamtown Peterborough (Vesting of Property) Act 1986

*Tarcoola to Alice Springs Railway Agreement Act 1974

Terrorism (Surface Transport Security) Act 2011

Victoria Square Act 2005

Waite Trust (Vesting of Land) Act 2020

West Lakes Development Act 1969

Minister for Local Government

Commissioner for Kangaroo Island Act 2014

Local Government Act 1999

Local Government (Elections) Act 1999

Local Government (Implementation) Act 1999

Outback Communities (Administration and Management) Act 2009

Plebiscite (South East Council Amalgamation) Act 2022

South Australian Local Government Grants Commission Act 1992

*Denotes Act of limited application

During 2023-2024, the Department achieved the following:

• Received agreement from the Australian Government and the State Government to fund the River Torrens to Darlington Project on a 50:50 basis for a total of $15.4 billion.
• Released the River Torrens to Darlington Project Request for Proposal for major construction works package.
• Completed work on the new Selgar Avenue link road, connecting motorists to southern Adelaide’s Tonsley Innovation District and southbound lanes of South Road.
• Advanced enabling works for the River Torrens to Darlington Project including utilities services relocations, as well as land acquisition, and broader network upgrades.
• Completed construction of the Adelaide Botanic High School Expansion, second stage of the new Morialta Secondary College, and the Findon Technical College, which is the first to be completed of a program of five Technical Colleges.
• Completed construction of the Cadell Training Centre Dairy and the Kurlana Tapa Youth Justice Centre Consolidation, and significant upgrades to the Yatala Labour Prison.
• Completed construction of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Redevelopment Stage 3 (Clinical Services Building) and new South Australian Ambulance Service stations at Port Augusta, Norwood and Woodville.
• Completed works on Main South Road Duplication Project (Seaford to Aldinga) Stage One and Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project, Glen Osmond and Fullarton Roads Intersection Upgrade, Main Road Cherry Gardens, Old Murray Bridge Refurbishment, and various regional highways such as Sturt, Eyre, Barrier, Princes, Augusta and Horrocks highways.
• Completed the Tea Tree Plaza Park ‘n’ Ride and work on the Crafers Park ‘n’ Ride neared completion.
• Completed the Colonel Light Gardens entry arch.
• Completed Phase 1 of the Regional Bus Passenger Services procurement.
• Resurfaced and rehabilitated approximately 45 lane kilometres to improve ride quality on inner urban roads and resealed and rehabilitated approximately 163 lane kilometres on rural roads.
• Commenced works on the Marion Road - Anzac Highway to Cross Road Project as part of the Tram Grade Separation Projects.
• Progressed longer term repairs to flood affected roads throughout the State following the River Murray flood event and the ex-tropical Cyclone Tiffany severe weather event.
• Engaged with more than 19,000 members of the community about various projects, including assisting thousands of Adelaide Aquatic Centre users with their relocation to alternative venues.
• Commissioned new electric trains on the Gawler Rail Line.
• Commenced construction of the new Adelaide Aquatic Centre.
• Completed the upgrade of the O’Sullivan Beach Boat Ramp and refurbishment of Beachport Jetty.
• Commenced the Cape Jervis and Kangaroo Island Ports Upgrade Project.
• Passenger transport transactions, previously only available in one location, have been made available across all Service SA centres.
• Commenced consultation for the five-year Recreational Boating Safety Strategy.
• Played an integral role in convening and participating in the South Australian Outback Roads Consultative Forum.
• Introduced the Ultra High Powered Vehicle Licensing Scheme.
• Delivered increased online services through MySAGOV, with increased security.
• Launched Koala State and Japanese special number plates.
• Implemented mobile phone detection technology at five priority locations across Adelaide.
• Released South Australia’s Road Safety Action Plan 2023-2025.
• Reduced beach speed limits to 40 km/h and 25 km/h when passing, or within 50 metres of a person unless otherwise signposted.
• Continued to deliver the Black Spot Program to address 17 black spot locations.
• Implemented measures to improve Access Taxi services.
• Delivered the Freight and Supply Chain Strategy for South Australia.
• Progressed the review of the 2022 local government periodic elections.
• Worked with the new administration of the District Council of Coober Pedy to address the Council’s financial sustainability and the future delivery of essential services in the township.
• The Office of the Chief Executive continued to deliver professional, strategic, and responsive executive support services to the Chief Executive, Ministerial Offices, and the Executive team.
• Continued to deliver on our responsibilities as a ‘We’re Equal’ employer.

The Department is committed to the continued delivery of a multi-billion dollar pipeline of infrastructure investment, while implementing key reforms, supporting the continued growth of the South Australian economy and the social wellbeing of our communities.

During the 2023-2024 financial year, our People and Corporate Services Division enabled effective organisational assurance, safety and performance by:

• Coordinating and managing all industrial and human resource matters.
• Enhancing our People capability development framework that promotes a safe, inclusive, flexible engaging and productive workforce for all, where performance is managed consistently and effectively, and future workforce needs are considered.
• Developing and implementing initiatives to improve attraction, retention and development of individuals that represent the community we serve. These include the Women in DIT initiative that celebrates and strengthens the representation of women working in the Department, especially those in leadership and technical roles as well as the recommencement of the Aboriginal and Torres Straite Islander Traineeship program.
• Reaffirming our commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace and ending gender-based violence through the expansion of our Mental Health First Aid and Peer Support Office network.
• Releasing our Wellbeing Framework and delivery of training and education related to Family and Domestic Violence and commencing our reaccreditation with White Ribbon.
• Managing the redeployment and retraining program, with successful placement of unassigned employees into vacant roles or projects within the public sector, such as project support, maintenance and compliance programs.
• Managing the continuous improvement of agency-wide risk management and business continuity governance, safety management systems and the Return to Work program.
• Increasing the Department’s capacity and capability to respond to emergencies through training and upskilling activities.
• Managing continuous improvement activities that enhance the Department’s delivery of the SA Protective Security Framework and mitigate security risks.
• Sustaining effective financial controls and management over the Department’s program. Managing effective goods and services procurements and contracts, along with related policy frameworks.
• Providing professional and timely legal, legislative, commercial and assurance services to ensure the Department is compliant with all legal, revenue and statutory requirements.
• Supporting technologies across the Department and both coordinating and enabling the delivery and implementation of a prioritised pipeline of technology projects that supported the delivery of Departmental objectives and delivered a robust Cyber Security Framework.
• Managing Departmental records and information, further supporting the transition from paper records, assessing, archiving and disposing of records in line with the disposal schedule.

* Number of claimants assessed during the reporting period as having a whole person impairment of 30% or more under the Return to Work Act 2014 (Part 2 Division 5).

** Before third party recovery.

Data for previous years is available at: https://data.sa.gov.au/data/dataset/work-health-and-safety-and-return-to-work-performance-for-dpti.

Data for previous years is available at: https://data.sa.gov.au/data/dataset/executive-employment-in-the-department-for-planning-transport-and-infrastructure.

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment has a workforce information page that provides further information on the breakdown of executive gender, salary and tenure by agency.

The following is a brief summary of the overall financial position of the agency. The information is unaudited. Full audited financial statements for 2023-2024 are at Attachment 1 of this report.

For a detailed breakdown of financial performance, please refer to Note 1.3 Budget Performance.

The Department has assets worth $47.039 billion. This consists mainly of network, land and building assets, and Deposits at call with the Treasurer, the Hon Stephen Mullighan MP. The Department has total liabilities of $1.553 billion. This mainly consists of financial lease liabilities and expenses due but not yet paid on supplies and services and capital projects.

In 2023-2024 the Department did not engage any consultants.

Data for previous years is available at: Consultants engaged by the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure - Dataset - data.sa.gov.au.

See also the Consolidated Financial Report of the Department of Treasury and Finance for total value of consultancy contracts across the South Australian Public Sector.

A summary of external contractors that have been engaged by the agency, the nature of work undertaken, and the actual payments made for work undertaken during the financial year, is attached as Appendix 2. Data for previous years is available at:

External contractors engaged by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport - Dataset - data.sa.gov.au.

The details of South Australian Government-awarded contracts for goods, services, and works are displayed on the SA Tenders and Contracts website. View the agency list of contracts.

The website also provides details of across government contracts.

Pursuant to section 79D of the Road Traffic Act 1961, the responsible Minister is required to report to Parliament on the operations of the Community Road Safety Fund. This report is provided separate to this annual report and will be tabled by the Special Minister of State and Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, the Hon Dan Cregan MP.

The Department manages a wide range of complex areas with the need to manage significant levels of risk and is committed to embedding, monitoring and refining risk management processes into our culture, practices, and decision-making processes.

NB: Fraud reported includes actual and reasonably suspected incidents of fraud.

• Continue to implement and continuously improve fraud and corruption control strategies in line with Australian Standard 8001-2008 Fraud and Corruption Control.
• Mandatory annual completion of the online Fraud and Corruption Control training module by all employees within the Department.
• Continue to promote behaviour in line with the Code of Ethics for the South Australian Public Sector.
• Assess and test controls relating to fraud as part of internal audit processes and reviews.
• Continue to develop relationships between the Investigations unit, People, Culture and Capability directorate and other business units to develop and plan projects and resources that mitigate any potential risks.
• Targeted face to face training sessions are held with specific business units based on their risk profile.
• Fraud and Corruption Control presentations at corporate induction days for new employees.
• Staff are reminded of their obligations to report any conflicts of interest and instances where they have received a gift or benefit. Conflicts of Interest and Gifts and Benefits reporting requirements are continuously monitored.
• Probity presentations to employees in the Department requiring probity briefings.
• Review of fraud and corruption control policies and procedures and training materials.

Data for previous years is available at:

• Fraud Detected in the Department for Infrastructure and Transport - Dataset - data.sa.gov.au
• Annual Reports - Department for Infrastructure and Transport - South Australia (dit.sa.gov.au)

Number of occasions on which public interest information has been disclosed to a responsible officer of the agency under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2018:

Nil.

Data for previous years is available at: Public Interest Information (Whistle-blowers') disclosure for the Department for Infrastructure and Transport - Dataset - data.sa.gov.au.

Note: Disclosure of public interest information was previously reported under the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1993 and repealed by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2018 on 1/7/2019.

The following report is provided in accordance with section 10 of the Harbors and Navigation Act 1993 (the Act) for the 2023-2024 financial year.

Safe navigation for vessels River Murray Flood Event

The Department was a support agency to the State Emergency Service (SES) during the River Murray flood event. Under section 67 of the H&N Actseveral restrictions were placed on operating on the River Murray to keep river users safe due to the flood conditions.

The River Murray work involved the deployment of 211 temporary signs advising the community of hazards and restrictions and 284 navigational hazard assessments.

A dedicated webpage was set up with marine safety information about restrictions and safe river use and boat ramps that were closed along the river.

Registration and Licences in 2023-2024

In 2023-2024, 3,207 new boat licences were issued, and 140 Special Permits were issued for persons aged 12 to 15. Of these Special Permit holders, 27 undertook a theory examination and a practical test to allow them to operate unsupervised. A further 113 undertook a theory test only, which only allows them to operate supervised with a full boat licence holder. There are a total of 309,639 boat licence holders in South Australia. In terms of registration, there were 2,257 new boat registrations in 2023-2024, with a total of 52,682 boats registered at the end of June 2024.

Safety Strategies

A marketing campaign ran from October 2023 to April 2024. The campaign was derived from the top compliance issues that Marine Safety Officers encountered on South Australian waters. The key areas were lifejacket wear and servicing, safe speed limits, having the correct safety equipment on board and understanding the weather conditions.

The campaign was supported by the dedicated Marine Safety SA Facebook page. The campaign included social media posts throughout the season and boosted social media posts around school holidays and long weekends, radio advertisements on metropolitan radio, radio interviews, radio advertisements on radio streaming services and podcasts, advertising via YouTube videos, print adverts, Fishing SA magazine editorial and digital advertising on websites that boaters visit.

The non-compliance rate of vessels checked during the campaign period of October 2023 to April 2024 was 35.6%, an improvement on the previous year’s campaign of 35.9%. A monthly newsletter was distributed to more than 5,500 subscribers (an increase of approximately 1,200 subscribers compared to the previous financial year), providing regular information about new regulations, and boating safety. Media releases were issued at peak boating periods with Marine Safety and Compliance staff undertaking radio interviews to promote key safety messages.

Aquatic Activity Licences

Aquatic Activity Licenses are issued to organisations for the purpose of an aquatic sport, activity, or other purpose to be conducted on State waters. During 2023-2024, 116 Aquatic Activity Licenses were issued for events such as races, exhibitions and fireworks displays.

Pilotage

The South Australian Government is responsible for issuing pilot licenses and pilotage exemptions for a vessel 35 metres or more in length which must not be navigated within a ‘prescribed area’ (compulsory pilotage area) unless the vessel is navigated under the control or at the direction of a licensed pilot; or the master of the vessel holds a Pilotage Exemption certificate; or the vessel is a Royal Australian Navy vessel. Three Pilot Licences and 15 pilotage exemptions covering 11 different ports across South Australia were issued during 2023-2024.

Safety Operation of Vessels

The Department employs a team of Marine Safety Officers who operate throughout the State. These officers conduct routine and targeted patrols by land and by water, to observe boating behaviours and to inspect vessels for compliance and safety equipment, registration and licensing requirements. During 2023-2024, there were 5,356 recreational vessels inspected with 34.95% non-compliant. This was a slight increase on 2022-2023, where 33.7% of vessels (2,993) were non-compliant, which can be attributed to the significantly higher number of vessel checks conducted, a 75% increase year-on-year. During 2023-2024, there were 581 expiation notices issued for a total of 713 offences and 1,279 cautions were issued to owners or operators. Most of these were issued for offences relating to failing to carry one to two items of safety equipment, failure to carry and / or wear lifejackets, failure to carry or expired flares, operating unregistered, and speeding.

The following report is provided pursuant to Section 19 of the Air Transport (Route Licensing—Passenger Services) Act 2002.

Operation and administration of the Act in 2023–2024

There were no Declared Routes or Route Licenses in 2023–2024.

The Department complies with the requirements of the Carer’s Recognition Act 2005, and actively incorporates the principles of the Carer’s Charter in its Human Resource Policy. The policy provides the overarching framework for human resource management within the Department. The Charter’s principles are reflected in our corporate induction and onboarding processes and material, which outline the options available to employees that can be tailored to meet their individual circumstances, along with the responsibilities of managers to support employees in utilising these arrangements. This includes measures such as flexible working arrangements, various types of leave including family carer’s leave, special leave, cultural leave and purchased leave and access to resources and services on wellbeing.

The Department is committed to ensuring our premises are a safe space for all people and our workplace is one where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. The Department continues to be a contributor to the ‘We’re Equal’ initiative, is a member of the Diversity Council and supports internal initiatives and actions related to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the form of Communities of Practice and implementation of a new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2024-2026.

South Australians with severe and permanent disabilities which limit their capacity to access public transport independently can apply for transport assistance such as the Plus One Free Companion card and the South Australian Transport Subsidy Scheme. The Plus One Free Companion card provides assistance to people who cannot travel independently due to mobility, cognitive, sensory or communication impairment. Companions or carers accompanying Plus One Free Companion card holders may access Adelaide Metro public transport services free of charge.

The Department provides public transport information for people with a disability, their families and their carers on network accessibility via the Adelaide Metro mobile app, website, as well as the Adelaide Metro InfoLine and InfoCentres. The range of accessibility features has been enhanced to include ramps available on all public transport services, priority and allocated seating, provision for assistance animals, alternative signage and audible information.

The Department administers the Passenger Transport Act 1994 (the PT Act) and Passenger Transport Regulations 2009 by planning, regulating and funding public transport services (bus, train, tram, taxi and hire car) across South Australia. Pursuant to section 24A of the PT Act the following report is provided.

The Department has performance-based franchise contracts with bus, tram and train operators that keep the operators focused firmly on the efficiency and quality of service delivery to customers. The South Australian Government retains ownership of rail assets (including trains, trams, tracks, stations, and all infrastructure),sets requirements for levels of services andcontinues to set the fare price for travel on bus, tram and trains whilst retaining the revenue.

Public transport bus and tram services across metropolitan Adelaide are provided by four private transport providers, Torrens Transit Pty Ltd operates three contract areas (East West, Outer North and Outer North East); Busways South Australia Pty Ltd operates the Outer South contract area; and Australian Transit Enterprises Pty Ltd trading as Southlink operates the Hills contract area. Torrens Connect (a joint venture between Torrens Transit Pty Ltd, UGL Rail Services Pty Ltd and John Holland Pty Ltd) provides both bus and light rail services in the North-South contract area.

The bus and tram contracts commenced on 5 July 2020. Rail infrastructure maintenance for tram functions (i.e. within track, civil, signalling and overhead) transitioned to Torrens Connect on 31 January 2021, in line with the commencement of the new train contract.

The Outsourced Rail Operations Agreement with Keolis Downer Adelaide commenced on 31 January 2021, for the operation and maintenance of the Adelaide Metropolitan Passenger Rail Network, which consists of six commuter routes on four main lines with the provision of asset management and rolling stock maintenance services.

In line with the South Australian Government’s election commitment to return rail to government hands, an agreement has been reached with the train operator Keolis Downer Adelaide and tram operator Torrens Connect to hand back operational functions for train at 3am on Sunday, 2 February 2025, and for tram at 3am on Sunday, 27 July 2025, respectively.

Public transport services in regional South Australia are also administered by the Department. These include regular route services (country bus services), provincial city services, integrated transport services, special medical-related services and Dial‑a‑Ride services.

The Department supports community passenger networks across regional South Australia and within metropolitan Adelaide.

The Community Passenger Networks Program is established to facilitate access to transport for people who are transport disadvantaged. The program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Program and the Department of Human Services.

The Department is committed to continually improving public transport services and infrastructure and making public transport more accessible and easier to use for all users. The metropolitan bus fleet is now 100% accessible.

The Department continues to upgrade selected stations along metropolitan passenger rail lines, with improvements focusing on safety, amenity and accessibility in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 2002, for public transport services. Improved facilities for commuters may include new shelters, improved lighting, platform furniture, improved access, pedestrian crossings, bike enclosures, additional CCTV cameras, new access paths and ramps along with new car and bike parking facilities.

Accessibility gates at the Adelaide Railway Station are monitored and provide 'sighted guide' assistance to passengers to board trains if needed. Information regarding accessible journeys is published on the Adelaide Metro website.

Adelaide Metro patronage 2023-2024

The total patronage on the public transport system increased by 12.6% compared with the previous financial year.

Total patronage by mode

Total patronage by passenger type

Total patronage by ticket type

*The figures listed above include free travel data.

Public Transport South Australia (PTSA) progressively introduced a range of additional new payment options including EMV (Eurocard, Mastercard and Visa) which allows full fare customers to tap onto the network using their credit and debit cards and new Buy & Go digital QR tickets through the Adelaide Metro Buy & Go app.

The progressive rollout of the new features and functions include:

Below are the patronage details for the new payment systems for the 2023-2024 financial year, noting that these numbers are already included in above tables.

Special event services

On 23 October 2014, an amendment to the PT Act was enacted with respect to the management and funding of public transport for special events. The aim of the legislation is to facilitate the successful planning of special events in metropolitan Adelaide by requiring mandatory notification of major events and also to provide a mechanism for the costs of additional public transport services required for the event to be recovered where the event is considered a "commercial event".

The key elements of the legislation include the requirement for venue managers to notify the Department six months in advance (or as soon as the event is known) of any event expected to attract more than 5,000 patrons and, where additional public transport services are required, that commercial events contribute to the cost of these extra services.

Events are classified as one of two different categories of event for the purposes of the legislation. The two categories are:

• Commercial Events – organised for profit where there is a fee for participants either in the form of a ticket or an indirect fee i.e. membership of a club or association; or
• Community Events – organised as not for profit, the event is open to the community and attendance is free or a voluntary donation from attendees may be sought.

Based on the information provided in the notification form, the Department will make a determination regarding the need for additional or special public transport services to cater for the event and, where extra services are required, events categorised as "commercial" will be required to fund the services.

Throughout 2023-2024, the South Australian Government continued to support major events in Adelaide by providing additional public transport services to deliver patrons safely to and from events. In addition to the regular AFL seasons where a significant number of additional bus, train and tram services operate before and after games, special event public transport services were also provided to events such as the Royal Show, the Christmas Pageant, the VAILO 500, concerts at Adelaide Oval including Pink. Major international events hosted in Adelaide and supported by additional public transport services included Gather Round, LIV Golf, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Regional services

The Department regulates and contributes to funding transport services in some regional areas.

Regular route services operate across regional South Australia and link major centres to Adelaide. Services operate in the Barossa Valley, Murray Mallee, Mid North, Upper North, Far North, Riverland, Eyre, South East and Fleurieu regions.

Integrated transport services operate in the Coorong District Council, Karoonda East District Council, Murray District Council, Southern Mallee District Council, Mid Murray District Council, Southern Yorke Peninsula, Tatiara District Council, Eastern Riverland, Upper North, Mid North, Adelaide Hills, Victor Harbor and on Kangaroo Island.

Dial-a-Ride door to door services are provided in Victor Harbor, Port Lincoln, Murray Bridge, the Copper Coast and Barossa Valley. These supplement regular timetabled services and extend the range of public transport options for these communities.

New Regional Bus Service contracts commenced in October 2023, following a tender process for 14 Phase 1 contracts. The Department also released a tender process for the five Phase 2 Regional Bus Service contracts, to ensure that the current regional bus service levels are maintained, and all vehicles used for regional services comply with mandatory disability standards.

Patronage on regional bus services has continually decreased in the last ten years. This decrease has in part been attributed to cheaper regional airfares, internet banking/services/shopping and people generally choosing to use cars rather than travelling long distances on buses.

Based on data provided by regional bus operators, regional bus patronage in 2023‑2024 was 573,051, a decrease of 4.4% from the previous year.

Provincial city bus services

Regular passenger services operate in South Australia's provincial cities of Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Whyalla, Port Augusta, Murray Bridge and Mount Gambier. Provincial city services are a combination of town and school services.

In the four years prior to the start of COVID-19, provincial city bus service patronage decreased by an average of 1.6% each year.

Based on data provided by provincial city bus operators, patronage in 2023-2024 was 327,792, an increase of 4.8% from the previous year. Although patronage has increased in the provincial cities, it is still lower than pre COVID-19 levels due to passengers appearing to have changed their travel habits or choosing alternative options, such as telehealth appointments, on-line shopping and delivery services.

Complaints, commendations and submissions

Feedback on public transport

Feedback from customers about passenger transport services is welcomed as it provides the ability to improve and assess existing services and practices. Customers are presented with multiple opportunities to provide their feedback through the Adelaide Metro website, Adelaide Metro InfoLine and InfoCentre, as well as social media such as Facebook and Twitter. Complaints represented 0.02% of total public transport patronage (initial boardings and transfers) in the 2023-2024 reporting year, with a decrease of 288 (2%) compared to the previous year. There was a decrease of 32 commendations (4%) compared to the previous year.

The table below shows feedback information on public transport.

Feedback on taxi and Small Passenger Vehicle (SPV) services

The Department receives complaints and commendations regarding taxis and small passenger vehicles. Complaints may lead to disciplinary action if a breach of the regulations under the PT Act is found to have occurred.

The table below shows feedback information on taxis and SPVs.

As at June 2024, there were 6,631 small passenger vehicles (including rideshare) in the metropolitan area that can provide point to point services; an increase from 5,572 in 2022-2023.

Waiting times

The taxi Centralised Booking Services reported that the average waiting time for general taxis in metropolitan Adelaide for 2023-2024 was 6 minutes and 17 seconds during the day (6am to 6pm), 8 minutes and 42 seconds on weekdays nights (6pm to 6am), 7 minutes and 40 seconds on weekend days and 8 minutes and 43 seconds on weekend nights. The figures include waiting times for phone-booked, hailed and taxi rank trips and meet the prescribed waiting time of 12 minutes, as stated in the conditions for accreditation.

There were 1,007 general licences in metropolitan Adelaide in 2023-2024, noting that not all licences were operational.

Access Taxis

The taxi Centralised Booking Services reported that the average waiting time for Access Taxis in metropolitan Adelaide for 2023-2024 was 4 minutes and 55 seconds during the day (6am to 6pm) on weekdays and 5 minutes and 16 seconds on weekends, and 11 minutes and 44 seconds at night (6pm to 6am) on weekdays and 12 minutes and 44 seconds on weekends.

Average waiting times for Access Taxis improved from 2022-2023, when the average waiting times were 5 minutes and 25 seconds during the day (6am to 6pm) on weekdays and 5 minutes and 30 seconds on weekends, and 13 minutes and 25 seconds at night (6pm to 6am) on weekdays and 13 minutes and 30 seconds on weekends.

Approximately 6,970 Access Taxi jobs took more than 30 minutes to pick up the passenger. This compares with 10,476 in 2022-2023, representing a decrease of 33.5% in the number of jobs with a 30 minutes or more waiting time.

As at 30 June 2024, there were 99 general licences with special conditions (Access Taxis), a reduction of 3 licences from 2022-2023, noting that not all licences were operational throughout the year.

Passenger Transport Standards Committee

The Passenger Transport Standards Committee is a statutory committee, established under the Act, responsible for exercising disciplinary powers under Part 4, Division 5 of the Act and for exercising or performing such other powers or functions as may be conferred by the Minister from time to time.

In 2023-2024, the Passenger Transport Standards Committee sat on 131 occasions and considered 987 matters, which comprised:

• 235 accreditation applications; and
• 752 disciplinary matters.

Of the 752 disciplinary matters, the Passenger Transport Standards Committee:

• suspended the accreditation of 274 accredited persons for a period of time;
• revoked the accreditation of 423 accredited persons and disqualified them for a period of time; and
• permanently disqualified 2 persons from holding accreditation under the PT Act.

The remainder were dealt with by other actions, such as a fine, reprimand or caution and in some cases it was found there was no cause to answer.

Disciplinary matters included people who failed to demonstrate they met the standards and requirements to hold an accreditation under the PT Act.

Temporary suspensions primarily related to administrative matters, such as the suspension of a driver’s licence through the fines enforcement system, or following an alcohol related driving offence or after the expiry of annual medical clearances. In most instances, the suspension remains until the driver’s licence has been reinstated or until the updated medical report is provided indicating that the person meets the commercial medical standards to drive a public passenger vehicle.

The majority of accreditation revocations relate to interstate driver’s licence transfers, as a driver cannot hold an accreditation in South Australia if they do not live in the state (with the exception of cross-border workers). Others had their accreditation revoked because their working with children check had been revoked, or their driver’s licence was disqualified or cancelled.

After holding an enquiry, the Passenger Transport Standards Committee found no cause for disciplinary action against five accredited persons, while the remaining accredited persons were fined or reprimanded.

In addition to the above disciplinary matters, the Passenger Transport Standards Committee also placed conditions on the accreditation of seven persons.

Data for previous years is available at: https://data.sa.gov.au/data/dataset/public-complaints-received-by-the-department-of-planning-transport-and-infrastructure

Some of the improvements include:

Addition of the Where to go in Adelaide page on Adelaide Metro website

• After seeing multiple enquiries from tourists and locals looking for simple trip planning to popular locations, the ‘Where to go in Adelaide’ web page was developed, which allows users to easily plan their trip to various key spots in Adelaide from their chosen destination.

Upgraded functionality of the Stop ID page to allow users to plan future trips

• Originally, the intended purpose of the Stop ID web page was to allow customers to see the services that are due to arrive soon. The Adelaide Metro website received a lot of feedback from customers on these pages requesting to see future dates from their preferred stop pages, so the future date selection was developed.

Create the Transport to Adelaide Oval web page

• There was a demonstrated need to highlight the easy transport to Adelaide Oval for AFL games and all major Adelaide Oval events, with a significant number of customers using search engines to find the available routes to and from the oval. This web page was developed to simplify this search and demonstrate to customers how easy it is to use public transport to get to and from Adelaide Oval.

Creation of the events calendar

• Similar to the Transport to Adelaide Oval page, the events web page and calendar was developed to highlight to users how easy it is to use public transport to travel to and from events. The development of the tool to closely mimic Google Calendar has assisted our customers due to a simple interface. The web page also allows for social media to easily promote the use of public transport to get to and from major events.

Launched the Adelaide Metro Facebook page

• The Adelaide Metro Facebook page was successfully launched and has been used successfully to promote service information, website functionality, upcoming events and engage meaningfully with customers to increase public perception of the Adelaide Metro brand.

Data for previous years is available at: https://data.sa.gov.au/data/dataset/public-complaints-received-by-the-department-of-planning-transport-and-infrastructure

Report on how your organisation has improved its complaints management system, set new KPIs or update system features.

• Trends in complaints and ministerial correspondence are discussed regularly at team meetings and improvements monitored and tracked.
• Regular reporting data is used to audit complaints data.
• Records management data is also used to audit positive feedback and other complaints not captured in other reporting processes.

Service improvements resulting from complaints or consumer suggestions:

• Improved messaging within the registration and licensing database to ensure less errors are made when entering data.
• Updated wording to the sa.gov.au website to clarify and simplify the process for setup of direct debit.
• Implementation of a direct debit campaign to increase sign up to direct debit registration to reduce the occurrence of customers driving unregistered.
• An increase in the types of transactions that can be completed via phone due to the ability to verify a customer's identity using the Document Verification System.
• Removed the issue number on driver's licence cards, reducing misinterpretation of licence conditions.
• Streamlined process for licence applications for heavy vehicles and special purpose vehicles by having them assessed and approved in a Service SA Centre instead of the customer having to write to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
• Website updates to ezyplates.sa.gov.au with clearer descriptions of plate styles and plate services to simplify the process of ordering number plates.