Opposition raises concerns over transport project’s contract roles

Sydney Morning Herald

by Matt Dennien

March 3, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Opposition raises concerns over transport project’s contract roles

Opposition leaders in Queensland have expressed concerns over a decision to award commercial roles on the $1.4 billion The Wave transport project to two consultants who previously worked for a rival government agency. Critics argue that this raises potential conflicts of interest and undermines public trust in the multibillion-dollar infrastructure project, which aims to connect Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast via rail and light rail. The Department of Transport and Main Roads confirmed it engaged Ted Williams and David Kalinowski, partners at Nexus Infrastructure Partners, as commercial directors for The Wave. Both consultants had previously worked together at the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority for over five years before leaving in late 2023 to establish their new firm. While department officials insist the roles were awarded through an open-market tender process as required by law, opposition figures are calling for greater transparency and accountability. Labor’s transport spokesperson Bart Mellish described the arrangement as “deeply concerning,” arguing that such high-stakes contracts should be free from any perceived or actual corruption risks. He pointed to recent changes in The Wave project’s planning laws, which now exempt it from development application processes, public notification periods, and independent scrutiny—a move he claims further erodes public confidence. Mellish also highlighted a reported connection between Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg and one of his brother-in-law’s clients, who is bidding for a contract on The Wave. While both Mickelberg and his brother-in-law have denied any inappropriate lobbying, Mellish remains skeptical. Additionally, concerns were raised over the project’s route changes, including plans to build a station near Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie’s home, which Bleijie has declared a conflict of interest. The opposition’s criticism underscores broader tensions over The Wave project, which was initially promised as passenger rail but now only extends train lines partway, with buses taking over beyond Birtinya. Critics argue that the government’s fast-tracking of the project and its controversial planning exemptions are bypassing vital safeguards for public accountability. As The

Verticals

worldaustralia

Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 3/3/2026