David Clarke Appointed Chief Commissioner of Transport Accident Investigation Commission

The announcement was made by Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey, who expressed confidence in Clarke’s leadership capabilities.

David Clarke has been appointed as the new Chief Commissioner of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC), starting from 1 October 2024. Clarke, a seasoned barrister with over 20 years of experience in corporate and commercial law, brings a wealth of expertise in governance, spanning commercial, public, and charitable sectors. In addition to his legal background, he is already serving as a current TAIC Commissioner, providing him with a deep understanding of the Commission’s operations.

The announcement was made by Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey, who expressed confidence in Clarke’s leadership capabilities. “I am delighted that David has agreed to take on the role of Chief Commissioner. David brings a wealth of leadership and governance experience to the role, and I am confident this mix of skills and experience complements those of the other Commissioners,” said Doocey.

Clarke's tenure as Chief Commissioner will run through to 30 November 2025, marking the conclusion of his current term. He succeeds Jane Meares, who announced her retirement effective from 30 September 2024, after nearly a decade of service to the Commission. Meares initially joined the Commission as a Commissioner in 2015, later stepping into the role of Chief Commissioner in November 2016.

Minister Doocey took the opportunity to thank Meares for her contributions, stating, “I would like to thank Jane Meares for the dedication and leadership she provided to the Commission since 2015, first as a Commissioner and then as Chief Commissioner from November 2016.”

David Clarke’s leadership is expected to drive continued progress in the Commission’s work, enhancing transport safety through robust investigation practices across the country.