- Published:
- Monday 14 December 2015
One of the largest public transport research centres in the world has been established at Monash University.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan joined Professor Graeme Currie and Public Transport Victoria CEO Gary Liddle to officially launch the Public Transport Victoria – Monash University Public Transport Research Group.
Five million dollars in seed funding will support up to 18 PhD scholarships for students from all over the world to undertake independent, applied research into public transport planning and delivery.
To date, 16 topics have been matched to students covering subjects including public transport safety, better coordination of transport modes, and train design and engineering.
The research group is jointly funded by Public Transport Victoria (PTV) and Monash University, with industry contributions from Metro, Yarra Trams, VicRoads and the bus industry.
Graham Currie, who holds Australia's first professorship in public transport, will lead the new research group. Professor Currie has over 30 years’ experience as a public transport planner and has worked for some of the world’s leading transport operators.
The new research group will form part of a world-first public transport research ‘cluster’ at Monash University’s Clayton campus, including the Institute of Rail Technology, the Monash University Accident Research Centre, the Institute of Transport Studies and the Transport Design School.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“This world-leading research centre will drive improvements, and keep us at the cutting edge of public transport research, design and delivery, both here in Victoria and internationally.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in the projects and services our network needs now, and in the strategic planning and thought leadership we need for the future.”
Quotes attributable to Public Transport Victoria CEO Gary Liddle
“By funding academic enquiry into public transport we will access some of the brightest minds in public transport research, which will complement our extensive stakeholder engagement.”
“Applied research and innovation will help us deliver a competitive, effective, world-class public transport system.”
Quotes attributable to President and Vice-Chancellor, Monash University Professor Margaret Gardner AO
“This initiative demonstrates Monash's reputation as a world-leading research University with significant community impact.”
“Applied research of this type can progressively address the challenges and opportunities facing Melbourne’s growing transport system into the future and advance international practice in this field critical to the success of growing cities throughout the world.”