STUART Hicks has today announced his resignation as Commissioner and Chairman of the National Transport Commission (NTC). The decision was based on medical advice, which precludes extensive travel associated with the role.

“It has been a tough decision, but with the encouragement of my family I must act in the interest of my health,” Mr Hicks said.

Mr Hicks has been closely involved with the NTC since its inception as the National Road Transport Commission (NRTC) in 1992 and was in his fourth term as Chairman. He has been a champion of national transport reform and recently led the transition of the NRTC to an organisation responsible for road, rail and inter-modal regulatory reform.

“I’d like to thank NTC management and staff for their support and commitment over the last eight years. My time with the Commission has been a fantastic,” he said.

“Great things have been done and will continue to be done by the NTC.”

Deputy Chairman of the Commission, Michael Deegan, will become acting Chairman from 31st August, 2005. He thanked Mr Hicks for his significant contribution to transport industry reform.

“Stuart’s retirement will be a great loss to the industry. He brought a real passion and determination to the role,” Mr Deegan said.

“He has also built a great platform for the NTC to continue its leadership role in progressing transport regulatory reform.”