Emerging Voices: Reflections from our EPN Winners at the 2025 National Transport Conference
October 2025
The 2025 National Transport Conference in Adelaide wasn’t just a gathering of industry leaders—we also had the opportunity to recognise emerging talent and young professionals in the industry. Winners of our Emerging Professionals competition from thought the country brought curiosity, insight, and fresh thinking to every session.
Emerging Professionals around the country were asked:
Answer in 150 words or less, what movement related initiative would you most like to introduce to create thriving communities in your suburb, city, town or region?
We couldn’t let the opportunity pass without hearing directly from them. So, we asked: What did you really think? From keynote moments to unexpected takeaways, and how the conference may have reshaped their views on “thriving movement for thriving communities,” and the advice they would give to those thinking of attending the National Transport Conference in 2026.
Miner Zhong | QLD
To build thriving communities, I propose an inclusive cycling initiative focused on school zones and living streets, inspired by global best practices.
Amsterdam’s “Protected Intersections” separate cyclists and pedestrians to improve safety for children and seniors. Delft’s “Woonerf” living streets prioritize pedestrians and cyclists over cars, creating shared, safe spaces. Copenhagen’s “Green Cycle Routes” provide wide, smooth paths designed for all bike types, including adaptive and cargo bikes.
In Australia, The Disability Trust’s CycleAbility program in Illawarra offers cycle skills training for all ages and abilities, fostering social connections and fitness. Bicycle Network’s 2023 Open Streets trial at Lloyd Street Primary School temporarily closed streets during school times, increasing safety and active travel.
Expanding these initiatives with inclusive infrastructure, skills training, and community “bike bus” events will create safer, healthier neighborhoods.
As one insightful quote goes, “When infrastructure serves the most vulnerable, it serves us all.
Can you share your experience attending the National Transport Conference as a winner of the Emerging Professional competition?
Attending the conference was an incredible experience. I had the chance to enjoy every aspect of the event—from the welcome drinks on Day 1 to the closing talks. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with professionals from across Australia and engage in meaningful conversations.
What were some of your key takeaways and highlights from the event?
What really stayed with me is the sense that transport models can contribute beyond just data and forecasts. They can help identify key opportunities and support evidence-based decision-making that leads to better outcomes for communities.
As part of your competition entry, you answered a question about “thriving movement for thriving communities.” Did anything you learned at the conference influence or change how you might answer that question now?
When active transport planning is guided by inclusivity, it enhances not only mobility but also the overall wellbeing of communities.
Attending the conference offered valuable insights into how data-driven approaches can strengthen such connection.
Alongside global best practices in inclusive design, I gained appreciation for the role of real-time data and predictive models, which reaffirmed my commitment to advancing inclusive transport solutions that create more livable cities for all.
What advice would you offer to other emerging professionals who are considering attending next year’s National Transport Conference in Brisbane?
Attend with an open mind and a willingness to learn from all areas of the transport sector. The conference brings together a diverse range of perspectives that spark new ways of thinking.
Muskan Soni | NSW
As a public transport user in Western Sydney, car-based planning and urban sprawl limit sustainable movement, especially for young people and those without access to a car. Western Sydney is known for its cycling tracks, however safe infrastructure for everyday commuting is still needed.
To create thriving and active communities, I would like to propose a people-first movement strategy which prioritises pedestrian and cycleway infrastructure. Inspired by The Netherlands, where it has been reported that 37% of short trips are by cycling, this would align with the Movement and Place strategies to improve connectivity to public transport hubs and increase blue and green infrastructure. Native planting, separated paths, and integration with existing recreational paths, could improve access to services, healthy lifestyles and climate change resilience while reducing car dependence. By collaborating with local governments, transport organisations, and communities, we can make movement across all of Sydney sustainable and connected.
Can you share your experience attending the National Transport Conference as a winner of the Emerging Professional competition?
Attending the National Transport Conference as an emerging professional competition winner was an invaluable experience that deepened my understanding of sustainable transport. It not only gave me insights into the complex challenges we’re facing, but also the future-focused solutions that are shaping more livable and connected communities. A key experience for me was the chance to engage with so many passionate professionals, including fellow emerging professionals, from across Australia and New Zealand. I appreciated the opportunity to learn from their perspectives and share ideas during the collaborative workshops, especially for speed management and designing cities, as we discussed the role of planning and policy. The keynote speakers were also inspiring as they encouraged us to think about the bigger picture in sustainable transport. Overall, I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned and contributing to people-first movement initiatives that support thriving communities.
What were some of your key takeaways and highlights from the event?
A key takeaway for me was understanding how interconnected transport planning is with other sectors, especially land use and housing. This helped me realise that sustainable transport must be shaped by how communities move and use space, both now and in the future. It was valuable to reflect on this feedback loop and the need for holistic planning which considers infrastructure as a dynamic system.
Additionally, a key highlight for me was the introduction of the ‘cathedral thinking approach’ during a keynote session. As an emerging professional, I found this concept meaningful, as it encouraged me consider intersectionality and the needs of the local community within the wider context of movement and social, environmental, and economic development.
As part of your competition entry, you answered a question about “thriving movement for thriving communities.” Did anything you learned at the conference influence or change how you might answer that question now?
Yes, definitely, the key takeaway and highlights that I learned at the conference broadened my perspective on what “thriving movement” truly means. In my entry, I focused on people-first movement and collaboration between stakeholders to integrate Western Sydney’s cycling tracks with everyday transport use. However, through attending various sessions, I reflected that cycling infrastructure alone isn’t enough to create thriving communities. Aspects such as planning, safer design, and healthy streets principles are essential to meeting people’s needs. This further influenced how vital I believed placemaking to be in achieving positive social, environmental, and economic outcomes.
If so, how would you restate your pitch based on your new insights?
Based on my new insights, I would restate my pitch to reflect that thriving movement is not only about providing transport options or addressing current challenges but also about planning with long-term vision. I would include consideration for how different users may use cycling infrastructure and how future needs may evolve to ensure that people-first movement strategies are adaptable and inclusive.
What advice would you offer to other emerging professionals who are considering attending next year’s National Transport Conference in Brisbane?
I would highly encourage emerging professionals to attend next year’s National Transport Conference, as it offers a unique opportunity to gain insights on transport planning in a welcoming and supportive environment. It’s also a great way to meet other like-minded peers, share experiences, and learn from each other. My advice would be to come with an open mind and attend sessions you might not have thought, as some of the most valuable insights can come from those sessions. Also, don’t hesitate to ask questions, engage with professionals, and attend the collaborative workshops. Overall, the National Transport Conference is an inclusive space to grow professionally and further develop your knowledge to contribute to sustainable transport.
Rahul Dumbre | NSW
To tackle living and transport costs in high-density inner suburbs, I propose an affordable housing model that replaces private parking with “mobility memberships” built into leases. Instead of constructing basement parking, developments would provide residents with transport packages that include weekly Opal top-ups, credits for shared e-bikes, and access to on-demand shuttle to nearby hubs. This approach shifts the focus from car ownership to mobility.
The model reduces construction costs for developers, increases housing yield and will deliver value through stronger market appeal and tenant satisfaction. Councils will benefit by creating safer, walkable, transport-friendly streets, reducing parking demand by data-driven planning.
Residents, low-income earners, students and migrants will gain affordable access to jobs, education and essential services. Real-time travel updates, mobility volunteers and Travel Access Guides integrated into the development can provide support for car-free living.
By embedding mobility into housing, we can create inclusive, car-free communities.
Can you share your experience attending the National Transport Conference as a winner of the Emerging Professional competition?
Being recognised as an Emerging Professional was a very rewarding experience. It provided me with an opportunity to connect with many inspiring individuals in the industry and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of transport. I particularly valued meeting other emerging professionals from around the country, which significantly boosted my confidence to actively engage with my peers.
What were some of your key takeaways and highlights from the event?
For me, the biggest highlights were the people and the energy in the room, and the workshops covering a wide range of topics. I was able to connect with professionals from a wide range of backgrounds – engineers, planners, policymakers, engagement specialists – and everyone was so open to sharing knowledge. The workshops in particular helped have a deeper understanding of the transport related issues / problems and allowed to collaboratively develop potential solutions.
I also gained a stronger understanding of how the knowledge we discuss is applied in practice, particularly through practical examples. The case studies focusing on community outcomes really stood out to me, as they reminded me that our ultimate goal is “designing for the communities”.
As part of your competition entry, you answered a question about “thriving movement for thriving communities.” Did anything you learned at the conference influence or change how you might answer that question now?
Absolutely. My original pitch focused on replacing parking with integrated mobility memberships in affordable housing. However, the conference broadened my perspective. I now understand that thriving communities are built when housing and transport are seamlessly integrated. Affordable housing should be more than just a place to live; it should offer residents easy and affordable access to jobs, services, and community life. Transport is the crucial factor that makes this possible.
What advice would you offer to other emerging professionals who are considering attending next year’s National Transport Conference in Brisbane?
I would definitely encourage emerging professionals at all levels to attend. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from experts and contribute fresh ideas by sharing your own perspective. It allows you to gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in the industry, which can be invaluable for your professional growth.
Moreover, attending the conference provides a chance to build your network within the industry, connecting with like-minded professionals and potential mentors. These connections can open doors to new collaboration opportunities.
Airlie Williams - Kitchen | SA
Active transport is key to thriving communities, but my suburb specifically lacks the infrastructure to support walking and riding. To encourage active transport, I would increase the street and public space lighting, making outdoor areas more safe and inviting.
I would improve parks and playgrounds and introduce dedicated activity areas like bike parks and mock roadways to help children build their confidence in riding, and also to encourage kids to ride to local play areas and give them a space to interact with the local community.
I would also expand bike lanes with strategic routes to the beach and train station, to promote cycling and better integration with public transport. These initiatives would foster a more connected, active community and create lasting benefits for residents.
Can you share your experience attending the National Transport Conference as a winner of the Emerging Professional competition?
My experience attending the conference was really special, from quality of the conference through to what I learnt and the connections I made, the experience is something that provided me with significant value and I am really grateful for the opportunity.
Conference Program
The conference program was structured exceptionally well and it was evident that a lot of thought went into the grouping of speakers which meant that each sessions provided a lot of value and in depth perspective about the subject. There was also a lot of variety in the available sessions throughout the conference which meant there was a lot of opportunity to deepen your current understanding of subjecys or to learn about something new within the industry.
Networking and Engagement
As an early career professional, having the opportunity to hear from and stand amongst nationally and internationally epxerienced industry professionals was invaluable. The atmosphere at the conference encouraged networking and open discussions with all the speakers and attendees, there is no doubt that an experience like this at such a critical stage of my career will be incredibly impactful.
Insights and Learnings
As mentioned above, there was a lot of variety in the sessions that were offered throughout the 3 days. As my contribution to the industry is more focused around up-front investment decision making, being able to hear from people who design and deliver these projects was very insightful. It allowed me to have an understanding of the where we are going as an industry, what drives us all, and what outcomes we are trying to achiveve through the delivery of the projects.
What were some of your key takeaways and highlights from the event?
The key takeaway for me was the importance of being connected to what is happening in the industry and where I fit into the process. I was able to get a greater understanding of the industry as a whole, and what happens after the investment decision is made. Being able to understand the industry and government drivers, and the outcomes that are trying to be achieved through the work we all do is so valuable especially to my role.
The highlight of the conference was the networking, although I wasn’t able to attend the conference dinner I did spend a lot of time during breaks, lunches, and networking drinks building and re-establishing great relationships.This was definitely the highlight for me!
As part of your competition entry, you answered a question about “thriving movement for thriving communities.” Did anything you learned at the conference influence or change how you might answer that question now? How would you restate your pitch based on your new insights?
One of the sessions that stood out to me most was how to integrate gender and diversity considerations into planning. If I was to submit the competition entry now, with a better perspective around how to plan for diveristy and gender, it would be influenced to be a lot more inclusive. My pitch would be changed to include how to encourage and support active transport for people in the community with disabilities, as well as how to improve safety in active transport opportunities for women.
What advice would you offer to other emerging professionals who are considering attending next year’s National Transport Conference in Brisbane?
My advice would be to take full advantage of the opportunity to meet so many great people in the industry! Networking is such a critical part of your career, and an opportunity to be exposed to and speak with so many talented and passionate people is such a privilege. I would also say above everything to enjoy it and allow yourself to fully abosorb it.. there was SO much to learn and so much to do across the 3 days so it’s really important to close the work laptop and let yourself be completely immersed in the experience.