The Australian Trucking Association has welcomed Michael Deegan as the new ATA CEO. He replaces Andrew McKellar, who was appointed earlier this year and resigned in July. Long term ATA stalwart Bill McKinley has been functioning as Acting CEO in the interim.
Michael will be familiar to many in the trucking industry, as he has been involved in road freight transport policy for more than 20 years. He spent a period as the Chair of the National Transport Commission in the 2000s before moving on to a role as, National Infrastructure Coordinator at Infrastructure Australia.
In the intervening period, Michael has fulfilled roles as the CEO of the South Australian Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, and as the CEO of Inner West Council in Sydney.
“Michael is an expert at developing and implementing visionary strategies, responsible for Australia’s first national transport plan and first national freight strategy,” said David Smith, ATA Chair. “The ATA board believes Michael is the leader we need to push ahead with the extensive work the ATA and its members have done on our strategic plan.”
According to the ATA, as CEO, Michael will work with ATA members to refine and implement the plan, as well as improving member engagement and leading strategic lobbying activities.
“Michael will lead and implement our strategic direction and the projects we deliver, from the ATA’s role in the industry’s COVID-19 response through to infrastructure and productivity priorities,” said David.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the NHVR staff looked forward to working with Michael to continue to support the delivery of a modern heavy vehicle reform agenda.
“Michael has decades of experience across infrastructure and transport in Australia and has delivered many positive and practical outcomes for industry,” said Sal. “He joins the ATA at a pivotal time, as we work towards delivering a forward-looking heavy vehicle law to support improved safety and enhanced productivity.
“I look forward to working alongside Michael, ATA Chairman David Smith and the ATA staff to ensure we deliver the best outcomes for the hundreds of thousands of workers that keep Australia moving every day.”
