Jon Whelan has been appointed the new chair of the Austroads Board.
Whelan, the Chief Executive of the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport, has been with the organisation for four decades, and is widely regarded for his commitment to improving transport outcomes for the community.
Whelan began his career in a pavements laboratory, before moving into the South Australian Highways Department.
He has worked closely with Austroads throughout this journey and joined its Board in 2025.
“Jon brings an impressive breadth of knowledge and experience to the Austroads Board,” said Austroads Chief Executive Dr Geoff Allan.
“He has been a valuable member of the Austroads Board, and I am excited to work with him as Chair.
“I believe Austroads will continue to deliver important work for our members under his leadership.”
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As Chief Executive of the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Whelan oversees the design, delivery and maintenance of transport infrastructure across the state – including SA’s largest infrastructure undertaking, the $15.4 billion River Torrens to Darlington Project.
Whelan succeeds Louise McCormick, whose departure marks the end of a historic tenure as the first woman to lead the Austroads Board.
“I am excited to see what Louise does in the future,” Allan said.
“She has had an immeasurably positive impact on Austroads, and we are very thankful for her leadership during her time as Chair.”
