Senior Rail Network Development and Strategy Lead

Department of Transport and Planning; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Transport and Planning in Melbourne seeks a senior transport planner with a rail focus to develop and test robust strategies and align rail planning with broader transport and land-use objectives.

You will engage stakeholders, analyse complex data, and translate insights into practical, lasting solutions for Victoria’s rail network. This is a Melbourne-based role with VPS conditions.

Qualifications

• At least five years’ experience developing transport strategies and/or plans, with a focus on rail.
• Strong understanding of Victoria’s freight and passenger rail network, with technical expertise in rail systems.
• Qualifications in Engineering or equivalent professional experience.

Skills

Rail systems expertise

Stakeholder collaboration

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Engineering degree or equivalent

Job description

Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs

Reference: 12750

About Us

We create thriving places andconnectedcommunities. We plan,buildandmaintainVictoria’s transport,planningand land services. We are committed to a safe,inclusiveand 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

Whatwe’relooking for

You’resomeone who:

• Thinks critically and solve complex problems, considering the broader business context and delivering practical, lasting solutions.
• Builds strong partnerships and collaborate effectively with stakeholders, users and technical experts to develop and test robust strategies.
• Takes a future-focused, systems-thinking approach, connecting broader organisational objectives, emerging trends, technology and the wider transport system.
• Use data and technical expertise to analyse issues, draw clear insights and apply knowledge across transport and land use planning and train control systems.
• Communicate clearly and confidently, using sound judgement and evidence to support informed decisions and achieve outcomes.

Click here to access the Position Description.

Qualifications and experience

You’llbring:

• At least five years’ experience developing transport strategies and/or plans, with a focus on rail. (mandatory)
• Strong understanding of Victoria’s freight and passenger rail network, with technical expertise in rail systems.
• Qualifications in Engineering or equivalent professional experience.

Pre-employment checks and employment conditions

Relevant pre-employment screening and reference checks will berequired.

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.

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

For further information about the role, please contact Chris Bright, Associate Director - Future Rail, at [e-mail]

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

If you require any adjustments to fullyparticipatein the recruitment process or need the advert or attachments in an accessible format (e.g., large print), please contact us.We'rehere to support you.

Applications close Sunday 8 November 2026 at 11.59pm