Kat Theophanous (1647): My question is to the Minister for Public and Active Transport.
How is the minister ensuring that stationeers in my community are supported to undertake their volunteer work now that the program has been transitioned to VicTrack management?
I have been proud to support the Northcote stationeers for many years, including advocating successfully for Metro to install taps so volunteers do not have to lug buckets of water to keep young plantings alive.
Led by Sharon, Alun, Ann, Stewart, Susan, Cathy, Jill and many more active volunteers, they have spent over a decade transforming Northcote station.
They have planted, pruned, weeded, watered and mulched to make a lush garden cherished by our community.
Recently I met with Sharon to discuss concerns around the onboarding requirements, confusion about responsibilities and the risk of volunteer disengagement because of increased barriers to participation.
Stationeers support rail safety, but they need more clarity and backing in the significant volunteer role they play caring for our station grounds.
Answer - 23 June 2026
I thank the Member for Northcote for her question and the Station Volunteer Groups across the state for their work to beautify station precincts, and for the many hours they dedicate to making the areas around our stations welcoming community spaces.
VicTrack has administered the Station Volunteer Program, in partnership with Metro Trains, V/Line and the Department of Transport and Planning, since early 2025.
I have asked VicTrack to ensure that they continue to support Station Volunteer Program participants in undertaking their work, while providing the appropriate training and guidance to maintain safety for volunteers and the community.
It has been a privilege to visit several station gardens planted and lovingly maintained by Station Volunteer Groups, including in the member’s electorate, and I look forward to joining her on another of these visits at the next opportunity.
Gabrielle Williams MP
Minister for Public and Active Transport
