Annual Report 2021–2022

To:

Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

Hon Geoff Brock MP
Minister for Regional Roads

Hon Joe Szakacs 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 2022

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (the Department) delivered important infrastructure projects, transport improvements and essential services for South Australians in the 2021-2022 financial year, while continuing to respond to the impacts of COVID-19.

A key focus for the 2021-2022 financial year was the continued delivery of a multi-billion dollar pipeline of infrastructure investment, resulting in some of the Department’s major projects being completed or achieving significant milestones.

In June 2022, passenger services returned to the Gawler rail line, the second line to be electrified across the Adelaide Metropolitan rail network. The new electrified line between Adelaide and Gawler provides a cleaner, quieter, and faster service for the thousands of northern suburbs commuters who use it every day. The Department also took delivery of four new electric trains during the year, with a further eight to be delivered in 2023.

The new Granite Island Causeway at Victor Harbor opened to pedestrians in December 2021. The new Causeway will ensure that Granite Island continues to be a major tourism drawcard for Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula and provides better and more reliable access to the island.

To celebrate the Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri Traditional Owners’ continued connection to Country, the Granite Island Causeway project team worked closely with five local Indigenous artists to create a continuous Aboriginal artwork along the length of the structure. The artwork features etchings of 11 characters from Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri Dreaming stories, as well as connecting motifs.

Two of the biggest road infrastructure projects ever undertaken in regional South Australia, the Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication and Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication projects, also reached major milestones, as work continues.

The new Copper Coast Overpass north of Port Wakefield was opened to traffic in December 2021. The overpass removes all hazardous at-grade turn movements at the intersection of the Port Wakefield Highway, Copper Coast Highway and Augusta Highway.

In May 2022, traffic was switched onto the newly constructed section of the duplicated Joy Baluch AM Bridge in Port Augusta for the first time, to allow work to begin to upgrade the old bridge. A community event was held to mark the occasion, with thousands of locals taking the unique opportunity to walk over the new section before it opened to traffic.

Being born and raised in Port Augusta, I am particularly proud of the achievement and the legacy it will leave.

Major works commenced in early 2022, on other major regional infrastructure upgrades including the Augusta Highway Duplication Project between Port Wakefield and Lochiel, and Fleurieu Connections Main South Road and Victor Harbor Road Duplication Projects. Together, these projects are worth nearly $1 billion and will support more than 1,000 jobs throughout their construction over the next few years.

The Department’s ongoing program of metropolitan intersection upgrades continued throughout 2021-2022, with road users now benefitting from completed upgrades at the intersections of Main North Road and Nottage Terrace; Main North Road, Kings Road, and McIntyre Road; and Portrush Road and Magill Road. Traffic was also switched onto the newly constructed Torrens Road Bridge in June 2022, as part of the Ovingham Level Crossing Removal Project, removing the need for traffic to stop for passing trains on the Gawler rail line and improving safety.

During the year, the Department progressed the delivery of over 100 social infrastructure construction projects to upgrade existing and develop new schools, correctional facilities, hospitals and sporting facilities. This included the delivery of over 60 school projects to facilitate the move of Year 7 students into high school from the start of the 2022 school year.

Our transport infrastructure planning staff continued to undertake the necessary planning work required to ensure high-priority projects and programs are shovel-ready for delivery and completed a detailed submission on a new initiative for Adelaide Inner Ring Route capacity improvements for inclusion on the Infrastructure Australia Infrastructure Priority List.

Intense rain events and subsequent flooding in early 2022, across the Eyre Peninsula and the north of the State caused extensive damage to large sections of the sealed and unsealed road network, resulting in extensive road closures. The Department and its contractors worked together under difficult conditions to repair and reopen key rural arterial and outback roads, reconnecting communities and restoring freight movement of essential supplies across the nation.

The challenges of COVID-19 continued throughout the year, with impacts on the availability of materials, availability of public transport drivers and staffing at Service SA centres. The Department took a collaborative and flexible approach to overcome these challenges and continues to progress projects and deliver essential services for our customers.

The Department finalised a new contract with SeaLink to continue to run ferry services between the mainland and Kangaroo Island until at least 2039. As part of the new arrangement, SeaLink agreed to reduce fares for Kangaroo Island residents, increase services and deliver two new modern larger vessels.

The Reform of Across Government Facilities Management Arrangements was completed, with the new arrangements coming into effect on 1 December 2021. Under these arrangements, Ventia coordinates maintenance and repairs at government assets like hospitals, schools and prisons.

The Department delivered a range of projects and initiatives to make public and passenger transport more convenient and accessible for South Australians. These included completing the construction of the Golden Grove Park ‘n’ Ride and expanding the metropolitan boundary for point-to-point passenger transport services, so they could operate in the Adelaide Hills and Mount Barker Council regions.

The Department implemented changes to reduce the time people with a disability need to wait for an access taxi, including better incentives and a stronger regulatory framework, and progressed the driver trainer industry reform program by undertaking broad-ranging consultation and preparing legislation for Parliament aimed at providing greater accountability, compliance activities and improving the safety of novice drivers.

The new online learner driver education program myLs launched online in October 2021, providing a better introduction to the roads for novice drivers. Designed to improve learner driver education, the myLs course focuses on road rules, road safety, and driver attitudes and behaviours, giving new drivers the best possible start before they get behind the wheel. Additionally, the range of Service SA transactions that can be completed online was extended and improvements were made to the online customer service, while selected Service SA centres were refurbished.

Changes were also introduced to South Australia’s motorcycle Graduated Licensing Scheme in November 2021, to improve rider safety, including raising the minimum age for a learner’s permit and R-Date licence by two years and introducing a blood alcohol content penalty for R-Date licence (or less) holders.

The Department also released a new Road Safety Strategy to 2031, setting important 10-year targets, including halving fatalities and reducing serious injuries by 30 per cent. The Road Safety Infrastructure Program continued to provide funding for upgrades to regional roads to achieve a minimum Three Star Safety rating. Work is continuing along a number of regional road corridors, including the Sturt, Horrocks, Spencer, and Eyre highways.

The Department also marked some key internal agency milestones in 2021-2022.

In March 2022, the Department was proud to release its new Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, providing a new set of actions, targets and measures that will guide the way forward over the next three years of our reconciliation journey. Developed by the Department’s Reconciliation Action Committee in consultation with Reconciliation SA, the plan includes key actions around employment, training, procurement processes, creating culturally appropriate and inclusive events, investing in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, and working with partners to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in our projects. We were also one of several agencies partnering with the Department of Treasury and Finance to run a reconciliation film event during National Reconciliation Week.

Following the State Election in March 2022, the Department worked to support the transition to the new State Government, including the establishment of our three new Ministers’ offices. This included working quickly to start the planning and delivery of a number of new major projects and reforms resulting from election commitments, and we look forward to progressing these further in the coming year.

These include the transition of train and tram services back to public operation, free public transport for Seniors all day, every day and the review into key elements of the Torrens to Darlington Project, the most significant road infrastructure project in the State’s history which will complete the final section of the 78-kilometre North-South Corridor.

I’d like to thank the Department’s staff and our partners for their hard work to make these achievements possible, despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. We are committed to supporting the continued growth of the South Australian economy and the social wellbeing of our communities by delivering the essential services and infrastructure they need to keep moving.

Jon Whelan
Chief Executive
Department for Infrastructure and Transport

As at the period ending 30 June 2022, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (the Department) has diverse responsibilities for transport systems and services and infrastructure planning and provision within South Australia.

The Department ensures that South Australia’s needs for the movement of people and freight, and the delivery of services across the transport and infrastructure sectors are met in a safe, efficient, cost effective and sustainable manner.

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.

Transport Project Delivery

Designs, specifies, procures, delivers and integrates 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 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 connect the North-South Corridor and enhance economic opportunity and liveability for the communities it serves. The division is focused on delivering:

• The capability and expertise to become community and government’s trusted deliverers.
• An exceptional corridor journey that connects people and places through safe, smart, sustainable infrastructure.
• Community cohesion and resilience through capturing opportunities to minimise and mitigate disruption impacts.
• The Program objectives in partnership with industry, building value for the community and delivering outstanding transport and economic benefits.

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.

Across Government Services

Provides building project planning, design and construction services, facilities management, and property related services to State Government clients. The division is focused on delivering:

• A valued partnership that brings its expertise and works collaboratively with government agency clients to create and deliver solutions to meet defined requirements and produce enduring public value.
• A consistent approach to managing industry and delivery partner performance to meet government requirements.
• Efficient, evolving, and accountable service models that appropriately manage risk and assure delivery of target outcomes.
• Value for money through efficient processes and tools assure safe and effective asset management throughout the asset lifecycle.

South Australia Public Transport Authority

The division 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:

• More 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.
• 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.

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.

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.

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Reporting directly to the Chief Executive are Executive Directors for:

• Transport Planning and Program Development
• Transport Project Delivery
• North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office
• Road and Marine Services
• Public Transport South Australia
• Across Government Services
• People and Corporate Services
• Public Affairs.

Changes to the agency

During 2021-2022 financial year there were no changes to the agency’s structure and objectives as a result of internal reviews or machinery of government changes.

Jon Whelan is Chief Executive of the Department, the South Australian Rail Commissioner and Commissioner for Highways. Jon is accountable for the delivery of the Government’s requirements for the Department, setting strategy and policy, overseeing implementation of programs, projects, initiatives, and service delivery, and driving improved performance.

Judith Formston is the Deputy Chief Executive of the Department and Head of People and Corporate Services. Judith enables the Department and its people to fully comply with our obligations, do our work and deliver on our commitments by directing and managing the enterprise’s human resources, finances, and core business processes and systems (including information technology, statutory and legal, procurement, risk, and assurance).

Wayne Buckerfield is the Deputy Chief Executive of the Department and Executive Director, North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office. Wayne leads and directs the program of work to enable the delivery of the final stage of the North-South Corridor. Wayne is the Senior Responsible Officer accountable for finalisation of the business case, detailed project design, all supporting pre-construction works, and delivery of the program to its final approved design, budget, and schedule.

Andrew Excell is Executive Director, Transport Planning & Program Development. Andrew is accountable for: development of policy settings, strategies, and technical standards for transport networks; modelling and analysis of transport network performance; strategic asset management; maintaining a prioritised portfolio and pipeline of potential network investments; directing the preparation of business cases and maintaining project assurance and reporting frameworks. In addition, Andrew provides oversight of Aboriginal engagement and inclusion initiatives.

Brian Roche is the Acting Executive Director, Transport Project Delivery. Brian leads and directs the delivery of a portfolio of capital investment programs for road, rail, marine and other transport infrastructure upgrades and new builds, and is the Senior Responsible Officer accountable for delivering these projects as specified, on time and within budget, identifying and implementing mitigation measures to manage any associated risks.

Emma Kokar is the Executive Director, Road and Marine Services. Emma ensures the safe, reliable and efficient movement and flow of goods, services and people across the State’s Roads and Marine networks by leading and directing the team that delivers all aspects of their maintenance, operation and regulation, and managing key partner relationships that play a role in these outcomes.

Scott White is the Executive Director, Public Transport South Australia (PTSA). Scott is responsible for the delivery of effective and efficient public transport services and exceptional customer service provision in mass public transit. PTSA provides a customer-first public transport system that is affordable, safe and secure, frequent along the key corridors, clean and comfortable, easy to understand and use and friendly and inclusive.

Simon Morony is the Executive Director, Across Government Services. Simon is responsible for leading and directing the team that delivers building infrastructure programs, minor building project works, facilities management services, property leasing, other property related services and land acquisitions on behalf of State Government clients from health, education, justice, cultural and other departments, as well as for the Department.

Andrew Ockenden is the Executive Director, Public Affairs. Andrew is responsible for leading the team that provides strategic communication services to support the Department’s essential service and infrastructure delivery objectives. Andrew’s responsibilities include stakeholder engagement, media management, marketing, communications, as well as leading the Department’s interactions with Parliament, Cabinet and Ministerial portfolio offices.

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

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 (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1986

North Haven Development Act 1972

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

*Denotes Act of limited application

The agency has achieved the following:

• Continued to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, minimising disruptions to services and ensuring the continued delivery of essential services and infrastructure projects across South Australia.
• Delivered Commonwealth and State funded infrastructure stimulus programs in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to boost the State’s employment and continued economic recovery.
• The electrified Gawler rail line was opened to passenger services in June 2022, providing a cleaner, greener, quieter and faster service for thousands of northern suburbs commuters.
• Released a new Road Safety Strategy to 2031, setting important and ambitious targets, including halving fatalities and reducing serious injuries by 30%.
• The new Granite Island Causeway was opened to the public, providing better access to the Island, and supporting tourism in the area.
• E-scooter trials were introduced in eastern suburbs, to be managed and monitored by City of Norwood Payneham and St Peters until October 2022.
• Repaired and reopened regional and outback roads following heavy rain and extensive flooding in early 2022, reconnecting communities and restoring freight movement of essential supplies across the nation.
• Responded effectively to widespread rains and flooding in early 2022, that affected 13,000 kilometres of roads in the far north of the State, by restoring and reopening all outback roads that were damaged.
• Progressed the Driver Training Reform program, having undertaken broad-ranging consultation and prepared legislation to be introduced to Parliament.
• Commenced community consultation on the preferred location for the new modern, fit for purpose Adelaide Aquatic Centre facility.
• Commenced a review of the North-South Corridor, Torrens to Darlington Project.
• Refurbished selected Service SA centres, extending the range of transactions that can be completed online and improving the online customer service.
• Contributed to the development of national reforms to improve freight transport safety, efficiency, and productivity, including Heavy Vehicle National Law and road vehicle standards.
• Completed upgrades at the intersections of Main North Road and Nottage Terrace; Portrush and Magill roads; Grand Junction, Hampstead and Briens roads; and Main North, Kings and McIntyre roads.
• Completed and opened the new section of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge and the new Port Wakefield Overpass; and commenced works to duplicate the Augusta Highway from Port Wakefield to Lochiel.
• Opened the new Torrens Road bridge at Ovingham to road traffic.
• Commenced works on the Old Murray Bridge Refurbishment Project and continued works on key regional routes, including the Sturt, Eyre, Barrier, and Horrocks highways.
• Advanced major remediation and makeover of key government owned CBD office buildings including the State Administration Centre, Wakefield House and 31 Flinders Street, and the fit-out of new leased premises at 83 Pirie Street.
• Completed the Reform of Across Government Facilities Management Arrangements, with the new arrangements coming into effect on 1 December 2021.
• Progressed the delivery of over 100 social infrastructure construction projects to upgrade existing and develop new schools, correctional facilities, hospitals and sporting facilities. This included the delivery of over 60 school projects to facilitate the move of Year 7 students into high school from the start of the 2022 school year.
• Managed the leasing of space required for Government offices and facilities maintaining a vacancy rate of below 1%.

During the 2022-2023 financial year, our People and Corporate Services Division enabled effective organisational assurance, safety and performance by:

• Coordinating and managing all industrial relations and human resource matters.
• Organising and managing an effective redeployment and retraining program, with successful placement of unassigned employees into vacant roles or projects within the public sector, such as project support and maintenance programs.
• Embedding an enhanced people capability development framework that promotes a safe, inclusive, flexible, engaging, and productive workplace for all, where performance is managed consistently and effectively agency wide.
• Coordinating and implementing an integrated program of reforms and improvements to the framework of procurement policies and practices.
• 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.
• Sustaining effective financial controls and management over the Department’s program.
• Coordinating and managing agency wide risk management, and risk mitigations and treatments to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to identity, action and treat enterprise-wide risks.
• Embedding an enhanced in-house legal services capability model.
• Providing professional and timely legal, legislative, commercial and assurance services to ensure the Department is compliant with all legal, revenue and statutory requirements.
• Facilitated the Department becoming an official signatory to the Equal Opportunity Commission’s 'We’re Equal' campaign with implementation activities being planned internally and across Service SA centres and the Adelaide Railway Station.

The Department continued to focus the internal COVID-19 response on ensuring the health and safety of staff and the provision of essential services to the community. The Department’s personnel provided government transport and construction advice to the State Coordinator and Chief Public Health Officer through the State Emergency Centre (and other forums) to assist in the coordination of a State level response to COVID-19.

The Department continues to liaise with industry and local, State and Federal jurisdictions to support the transport and infrastructure sectors to ensure the economic wellbeing of the State.

Efficient and effective delivery of infrastructure projects.

Greater participation of medium and small businesses through best-practice procurement processes.

Sustainable development through strategic transport and infrastructure delivery.

Local participation policies for procured services.

Improved governance and investment decisions.

Rejuvenation and growth through the reuse of existing buildings and assets.

Public transport services that meet community needs.

Improved community engagement across major projects.

Service SA providing enhanced customer service through ongoing and expanded digitisation.

Maximising efficiency of programs and services.

More efficient and safe movement of local, interstate, and international freight.

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 2021-2022 financial year, our People and Corporate Services Division enabled effective organisational assurance, safety and performance by:

• Coordinating and managing all industrial relations and human resource matters to support transition programs for all major reforms and organisational changes.
• Organising and managing an effective redeployment and retraining program, with successful placement of unassigned employees into vacant roles or projects within the public sector, such as project support and maintenance programs.
• Managing and coordinating supporting public sector activities in response to COVID-19, including mobilisation of employees to support home quarantine compliance and contact tracing.
• Implementing an enhanced people capability development framework that promotes a safe, inclusive, flexible, engaging, and productive workplace for all, where performance is managed consistently and effectively agency wide.
• Coordinating and implementing an integrated program of reforms and improvements to the framework of procurement policies and practices.
• 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.
• Sustaining effective financial controls and management over the Department’s program.
• Coordinating and managing a staged agency wide review of risk registers to ensure that appropriate measures that manage and mitigate enterprise-wide risks.
• Implementing an enhanced in-house legal services capability model.
• Providing professional and timely legal, legislative, commercial and assurance services to ensure the Department is compliant with all legal, revenue and statutory requirements.
• Delivering a program of business process improvements and office automation initiatives that empower an agile and flexible workforce.
• Enabling the transition to the South Australian Government’s new hazard and incident reporting system GovSAfety.

* 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 2021-2022 are attached to this report.

For a detailed breakdown of financial performance, please refer to Note 1.4 Budget Performance.

The Department has assets worth $41.325 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 $1.441 billion. This mainly consists of financial lease liabilities and expenses due but not yet paid on supplied and service and capital projects.

In 2021-2022 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 during the financial year, the contract title and nature of work undertaken, and the total contract awarded sum, 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 Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services.

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 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 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.

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 2021-2022 financial year.

Registration and Licences

In 2021-2022, 6,287 new boat licences were issued and 198 Special Permits were issued for persons aged 12 to 15. Of these Special Permit holders, 115 undertook a theory examination and practical test to allow them to operate unsupervised. A further 83 undertook a theory test which only allows them to operate with a boat licence holder. There are a total of 304,087 boat licence holders in South Australia.

In terms of registration, there were 2,781 new boat registrations in 2021-2022, with a total of 54,070 boats registered at the end of June 2022.

Safety Strategies

A new marketing campaign ran from October 2021 to April 2022. The campaign aimed to remind boaters to stay safe with the key message of ‘Safe boating for life – you’ve got this’. The campaign included boosted social media posts around school holidays and long weekends, billboards in regional and metro areas, radio advertisements in English and Vietnamese, radio advertisements on radio streaming services and podcasts, and digital advertising on websites that boaters visit. The non-compliance rate of vessels checked during the campaign period (39.5%) was an improvement on the previous year (41.18%).

A monthly newsletter was distributed to more than 3,600 subscribers, providing regular information about new regulations and boating safety. Media releases were issued at peak boating periods with Marine Safety SA staff undertaking radio interviews to promote key messages. The Marine Safety and Compliance team attended the 2021, Club Marine SA Boat and Fishing Show and Royal Life Saving SA River Safety Day at Renmark to provide information to attendees.

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 2021-2022, 98 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.

Four Pilot Licences and 14 pilotage exemptions were issued during 2021-2022.

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 for safety equipment, registration and licensing requirements.

Approximately 3,884 recreational vessels were inspected during 2021-2022, with 591 expiation notices and 918 cautions issued to owners or operators. Most of these were issued for offences relating to failing to carry items of safety equipment, lifejackets, expired flares, operating unregistered and speed.

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 2021–2022

Activity ceased in 2020–2021, as a result the Adelaide – Port Augusta declaration ended on 31 December 2020.

The principles of the Carer’s Charter are incorporated into the Department’s strategic human resource framework, onboarding, and corporate induction resource material. Guidelines and operating procedures outline the responsibilities of managers to assist employees to meet their caring obligations by providing a range of options that can be tailored to suit each employee’s personal circumstances. This includes measures such as access to family carer’s leave, flexible working hours, flexible leave arrangements and access to special leave.

South Australians with severe and permanent disabilities which limit their capacity to access public transport independently are able to 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 and 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 keeps the operator focused firmly on the efficiency and quality of service delivery to customers. The government retains ownership of rail assets (including trains, trams, tracks, stations, and all infrastructure); sets requirements for levels of services; continues to set the fare price for travel on bus, tram and trains and retains the revenue.

Public transport bus and tram services across metropolitan Adelaide are provided by four private transport providers: Torrens Transit Pty Ltd which operates three contract areas (East West, Outer North and Outer North East); Busways South Australia Pty Ltd which operates the Outer South contract area; and Australian Transit enterprises Pty Ltd trading as Southlink which 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 (OROA) with Keolis Downer Adelaide commenced on 31 January 2021, for the operation and maintenance of the Adelaide Metropolitan Passenger Rail Network (AMPRN), which consists of six commuter routes on four main lines with the provision of asset management and rolling stock maintenance services.

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 plans, 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 South Australian 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's Station Upgrade Program continues to upgrade selected stations along metropolitan passenger rail lines to provide safer and more efficient services for train customers, with all improvements focusing on accessibility in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 2002, for public transport services. Improved facilities for commuters include new shelters, improved lighting, platform furniture, additional cover, improved access, pedestrian crossings, bike enclosures, additional CCTV cameras, new access paths and ramps along with new car parking facilities.

Departmental officers at the Adelaide Railway Station monitor accessibility gates 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 2021–2022

The total patronage on the public transport system in 2021-2022 was 47,529,317, an 8.7% reduction compared with total patronage in the previous year (2020-2021).

Note: 2021-2022 patronage continued to be significantly impacted by the impacts of COVID-19.

Total patronage by mode

Total patronage by passenger type

Total patronage by ticket type

*The figures listed above include free travel data.

Special event services

On 23 October 2014, an amendment to the Passenger Transport Act 1994, 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.

During 2021-2022, the COVID-19 pandemic continued to have a significant impact on special events with many events either cancelled or considerably scaled back with respect to crowd numbers permitted. Major events that were held during 2021-2022, albeit with reduced crowd numbers, included cricket, AFL football and the Christmas Pageant. All of these events were held at Adelaide Oval with additional, special AOX services operating across the bus, train and tram network, to and from the event. While crowds were significantly reduced, the Department maintained a full suite of services to assist patrons to maintain social distance while on special public transport services. Despite the reduced crowds during 2021-2022, an average of 40% of the crowds attending AFL matches at Adelaide Oval used public transport to travel to and from the events. During 2021-2022, all cruise ships were cancelled and therefore the Department was not required to provide additional public transport and customer support services for these visits as has been required in previous years.

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.

On 28 June 2022, the Department commenced Phase One of a competitive market process for the regional bus service contracts. As part of this competitive process, the Department has consolidated 28 existing regional contracts to 19 contracts with contracts 1-14 (representing 21 of the current 28 contract areas, expiring on 30 June 2023) included in Phase One and contracts 15-19 (representing seven of the 28 current contract areas) to be released to market in mid-2023.

Regional Contractors are legally obliged to ensure their vehicles fully comply with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport by 31 December 2022.

In the four years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic patronage on regional bus services decreased by an average of 5.7% per year. 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.

In 2021-2022, regional patronage was further impacted during the state-wide lockdown in July 2021, when the border opened in November 2021, and as a result of the increase in COVID-19 cases since December 2021.

Based on data provided by regional bus operators, regional bus patronage in 2021-2022 was 555,783, a decrease of 7.38% 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 2021-2022 was 316,800, a decrease of 21.22% from the previous year. As with the other regional bus services, the decrease is due to the further impacts of COVID-19 and passengers appearing to have changed their travel habits or choosing alternative options rather than travelling, such as telehealth appointments, on-line shopping, and delivery services.

Throughout 2021-2022 the COVID-19 Financial Support Package was provided to contracted regional bus service operators. This assisted in alleviating the financial strain on contractors due to their loss of patronage, and therefore fare revenue. This package was critical in ensuring that these essential services were maintained for the regional communities.

Complaints, commendations and submissions

Feedback on public transport

Feedback from customers about passenger transport services is welcomed as it helps PTSA 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 2021-2022, with an increase of 3,556 (41.5%) compared to the previous year. There was an increase of 101 commendations (16%) compared to the previous year.

The table below shows feedback information on public transport.

Note: a number of complaints were received during the COVID-19 pandemic that related to service impacts and the mask mandate on public transport

Feedback on taxi and Small Passenger Vehicle (SPV) services

The Department receives complaints and commendations regarding taxis and SPVs. 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 2022, there were 4,974 SPVs in the metropolitan area that can provide point to point services.

Waiting times

The taxi centralised booking services reported that the average waiting time for general taxis in metropolitan Adelaide for 2021-2022 was 9 minutes and 50 seconds during the day (6am to 6pm), and 8 minutes at night (6pm to 6am). 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 1,035 general licences in metropolitan Adelaide in 2021-2022.

Access Taxis

The taxi centralised booking services reported that the average waiting time for Access Taxis in metropolitan Adelaide for 2021-2022 was 6 minutes and 13 seconds during the day (6am to 6pm) on weekdays and 8 minutes and 3 seconds on weekends, and 17 minutes and 44 seconds on a weekday night (6pm to 6am).

Approximately 9,286 Access Taxi jobs took more than 30 minutes to pick up the passenger. This compares with 12,798 in 2020-2021, noting this statistic has been reviewed and updated from that previously reported.

There are 101 general licences with special conditions (Access Taxis).

Passenger Transport Standards Committee

The Passenger Transport Standards Committee (PTSC) 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 for Infrastructure and Transport from time to time.

In 2021-2022, the PTSC sat on 107 occasions and considered 579 matters which comprised:

• 149 accreditation applications; and
  
• 430 disciplinary matters.
  

Of the 430 disciplinary matters, the PTSC:

• suspended the accreditation of 284 accredited persons for a period of time;
  
• revoked the accreditation of 124 accredited persons and disqualified them for a period of time; and
  
• permanently disqualified 1 person from holding accreditation under the Act.
  

The remainder were dealt with by other actions, such as a fine, reprimand, caution issued; or found to have no cause to answer.

Disciplinary matters included people who failed to demonstrate they met the standards and requirements to hold an accreditation under the 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 these 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 PTSC found no cause for disciplinary action against nine accredited persons, while the remaining accredited persons were fined or reprimanded.

In addition to the above disciplinary matters, the PTSC also placed conditions on the accreditation of one person.

Note: the Department has improved processes to more effectively identify, report and action complaints this financial year which contributed to the increase in complaints recorded compared to last financial year.

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

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

• Service SA transitioned from managing complaints from Vtiger Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to the Department’s Record Management System (KNet) in line with the Department’s requirements.
• Naming conventions established to improve reporting capabilities.
• Trends in complaints discussed regularly at team meetings and improvements raised in the directorate’s improvement tracking system (JIRA).

Service improvements resulting from complaints or consumer suggestions:

• Customers now have 21 days to lodge a transfer of registration before being charged a late transfer fee. Previously 14 days.
• Security enhancements have been put in place in the mySAGOV account to reduce the risk of customer information being accessed by a third-party. This includes temporary geo-block of overseas customer transactions, as well as strengthening password requirements, account lock policy, introduction of reCAPTCHA and two factor authentication.
• Change of Address: removed the ability for customers to complete a change of address anonymously in response to growing concerns related to potential fraud. Change of address is now only available online, securely through a customer’s mySAGOV account.
• Native Title SA Name field available for customers to add to their residential address on their driver’s licence.
• New functionality introduced to the mySAGOV account:
  • Enhancements to direct debit functionality including bulk direct debit subscriptions.
  • Vehicles that are no longer owned by a customer or are statutory write-offs will longer be listed in the customer’s mySAGOV account or app.
• More detailed information provided on the Outback Roads Warnings report regarding road conditions.
• Information on the Outback Roads Warnings map linked to the Traffic SA map for ease of access by the public.
• A new fleet of vehicles has been ordered for use by people undertaking practical driving assessments which better reflect the type of vehicle used by these people.
• Amended business processes to enable regulator assessments for Motor Driving Instructors to be conducted in automatic vehicles, instead of manual vehicles.
• A 12-month trial to improve the service delivery in the Access Taxi industry commenced in March 2022, which includes an increase lifting fee of $25 (plus GST) being paid to drivers of all trips booked by South Australian Transport Subsidy Scheme (SATSS) members through the Access Taxi Centralised Booking Service, as well as new accreditation conditions being applied to access drivers, operators, and licence holders.