Rail Planner

Department of Transport and Planning; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria is seeking a Rail Network Planner to shape short, medium and long-term planning for our mixed-use rail network. You will use demand modelling and analysis to forecast future needs and support government advice and VIDA.

The role collaborates with transport planners, major projects and VIDA to develop integrated network plans that guide investment and service concepts across rollingstock, stabling and maintenance.

Qualifications

• Transport planning qualifications or experience, or experience in a rail operations environment.

Responsibilities

• Supports short, medium and long-term planning for Victoria’s mixed-use rail network.
• Uses demand modelling and analysis to forecast future needs and support advice to Government and VIDA.

Skills

Transport planning

Rail operations

Data analysis

Job description

About Us

We create thriving places and connected communities. We plan, build and maintain Victoria’s transport, planning and land services. We are committed to a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and do meaningful work.

About the role

The Rail Network Planner supports short, medium and long-term planning for Victoria’s mixed-use rail network. The role uses demand modelling and analysis to forecast future needs, identify service, rollingstock and infrastructure requirements, and support advice to Government and VIDA. The role contributes to rail strategies, plans and network artefacts covering rollingstock, stabling, maintenance and service concepts. It also prepares clear advice and briefings for leaders and Ministers, and works closely with transport planners, major projects, Transport Services and VIDA to develop integrated, whole-of-network plans that guide future investment.

What we’re looking for

You’re someone who:

• Uses critical thinking and data to solve problems, applying evidence, analysis and sound judgement to develop practical solutions and informed recommendations.
• Communicates clearly and influences with evidence, using facts, data and balanced options to explain and support decisions.
• Takes a future-focused approach, aligning your work with broader organisational goals and staying current with emerging technologies and best practice.
• Understands the bigger picture, recognising how your work connects across systems, people and processes to deliver meaningful outcomes.
• Brings practical data analytics and transport planning expertise, turning complex information into clear insights and applying knowledge to transport and land use challenges.

Qualifications and experience

You’ll bring:

• Transport planning qualifications or experience, or experience in a rail operations environment.
• An understanding of Victoria’s freight and passenger rail network.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will be required. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re-employment restrictions apply.

Application deadline

Applications close at 11.59pm on Sunday, 8th November 2026.

Further information

For further information about the role, please contact Chris Bright - Director Rail Network Planning, at [email protected].

Redeployees

If you are a VPS redeployee, please state this in your cover letter and include your case manager’s contact details. This helps ensure your redeployment status is appropriately considered. For more information on redeployment, visit the Victorian Government policy.

Important information

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