Digital uplift of our information and processes

Driving a modern digital workplace

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) continued to invest in technology to enhance service delivery and improve operational efficiency. The adoption of Power Apps, a platform that enables businesses to quickly build custom applications, workflows, and forms, has automated over 800 workflows. It has reduced manual effort and enabled the development of more than 400 applications, workflows, and forms. This transition supports a modern, agile ecosystem and provides an opportunity for a deliberate and strategic shift away from legacy systems.

Leveraging evergreen methodology, the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 was completed. The project delivered a hardware compatibility refresh and Managed Operating Environment enhancements, while spending less than 10 per cent of the cost of prior Windows upgrade projects.

In parallel, TMR launched a pilot program for monthly Microsoft 365 updates, including Copilot which involved 350 participants and demonstrated the impact Artificial Intelligence (AI) can have in the workplace. Over 28 days, the program saved 2100 task completion hours, showcasing the technology's transformative benefits.

These initiatives establish a solid foundation to embrace AI advancements and drive productivity, innovation, and business value now and into the future. As part of this journey, TMR is also progressing the development of a comprehensive AI Strategy, which will guide the responsible and impactful adoption of AI technologies across the department. This strategy will ensure alignment with organisational goals while enabling scalable, secure, and ethical AI integration.

Digitisation of Corporate Processes

TMR's ongoing success in digitising corporate processes was recognised, with the Source-2-Pay project receiving Best in Class status in the SAP Ariba Global Benchmarking Report. This recognition builds on previous accolades.

Ariba continues to deliver strong results with, following phases 1 and 2, 30 per cent of invoices received against purchase orders now processed through the platform and 87 per cent of those being touchless. Our on-time payment performance remains high, with 97 per cent of all supplier payments and 99.5 per cent of small business payments made on time.

TMR has also commenced modernising its HR and payroll processes. The HR Forms project digitised key employee movement requests, with Phase One delivering seven forms now in active use. Since go-live, over 6000 submissions have been processed through the new system. TMR has been nominated in the SAP Tech Awards for this work as part of the Data and Analytics category.

TMR has begun its transition to the Cloud with the move to SAP S/4HANA. The initial technical upgrade lays the foundation for future transformation. By adopting a 'Clean Core' approach, we are minimising customisations and aligning with industry best practice. Our workforce will be equipped with the tools, skills, and support needed to deliver value to both TMR and the community.

In parallel, TMR is advancing towards a future where data underpins every decision, operation, and service. Our Data Strategy is a key enabler, providing critical insights and establishing a strong foundation for data management and consistent reporting. This will support the adoption of advanced capabilities such as embedded analytics and AI. The modernised enterprise resource planning data environment will not only store data, but it will also unlock its potential through improved access, integration, and analysis. This will empower users with richer insights, streamlined operations, and the agility to respond to the complexities of the transport and roads sector.

TMR's digital uplift, enabled by AI and supported by streamlined processes, will reduce service delivery costs and enhance decision-making through data-driven insights.

Case study: ICT strategy development and delivery

The TMR Information and Communication Technology Strategic Plan 2024–2028 aims to enhance TMR's digital capabilities and support digitally connected transport services. Developed through extensive consultation across TMR, the strategy aligns with the department's overall objectives and addresses stakeholder needs. Key objectives include customer centricity, business flexibility, secure and compliant design, information as an asset, digitally enabled workforce, sustainable technology ecosystem, and fostering innovation.

The strategy will deliver outcomes including real-time asset information, personalised customer experiences, a reliable and inclusive workplace, sustainable outcomes, a fit-for-purpose ICT operating model, and a cost-optimised technology ecosystem. The development process involved analysing requirements, engaging stakeholders, and establishing strategic directions and governance.

Delivery of the strategy relies on managing information strategically, enhancing cyber security, and fostering innovation to improve operations and services to create human-first service experiences.

The plan sets the foundation for a digitally connected and efficient transport system, transforming TMR's digital capabilities and delivering enhanced services to customers and staff.