Full Breakdown
Queensland Rail CEO Katarzyna Stapleton to Depart in 2027
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Announcement
On October 6, 2026, Queensland Rail chief executive Katarzyna Stapleton informed staff that she will not seek to extend her appointment, which is set to conclude in April 2027. The decision ends a tenure that began with her appointment as CEO in April 2022, following a prior role as the organization’s chief financial officer from 2019.
Background and Recent Challenges
Stapleton’s leadership has coincided with a series of operational pressures. In 2024-25 the rail network faced protracted industrial action by multiple unions, prompting a reduced timetable to address a maintenance backlog. Earlier crises—including the COVID-19 pandemic, cyclones and floods—required emergency responses and recovery efforts. Under her watch, Queensland Rail introduced permanent 50-cent fares, recorded patronage growth, deployed the European Train Control System for passenger services, and built new accessible stations.
Official Statements & Responses
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg thanked her for securing an in-principal employment agreement across seven enterprise agreements and wished her success in future endeavors.
Data and Compensation
The most recent Queensland Rail annual report lists Stapleton’s total remuneration package at $1.124 million in 2026, placing her among the highest-paid public-sector executives in Queensland. Following the finalization of the seventh enterprise agreement, about 91 percent of services were expected to be restored by October 12, with a full timetable slated for the end of November.
Verbatim Quote
“Personally, it has been a pleasure to deal with Kat, and I am certain that whatever she chooses to do next, she will do so with the same vigour, dedication and drive for success that she’s shown while at Queensland Rail.” — Katarzyna Stapleton, queensland rail chief