The people behind the wheel: Lauren Streifer’s story, Public Transport Association Australia and New Zealand

Can you tell us a bit about your role at PTAANZ?

My role as the Chief Executive of the Public Transport Association Australia and New Zealand (PTAANZ) is to lead our organisation in driving positive change in the public transport sector across Australia and New Zealand. I’m responsible for setting the strategic direction, fostering collaboration and advocating for innovative solutions that enhance transportation systems for everyone – and, ultimately, better communities for us all.

What inspired you to seek a career in the transport industry?

Like most of the leaders that I’ve met, I fell into this sector as a happy accident. I came from a diplomatic background – which meant that I had to get up to speed on numerous topics in a short space of time. Agriculture, trade, even economic recovery from the financial crisis. It was exhilarating. After taking a year-long sabbatical and travelling, I saw a government relations role in the transport sector advertised and thought I’d apply and do it for a short time until I found something else, but I fell in love with this sector. This sector has a huge amount of opportunity, learning and adventure. 

I think the reason that people enter this industry is less important than why they stay. This industry is collaborative, future-facing and has a big community impact. Once you enter this industry, you tend to never leave. It gets into your blood. 

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