The head of Transport for NSW has crossed state lines to take up powerful public service roles in Queensland.

Transport for NSW director general Dave Stewart is going back to his home state to become director-general of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, and Queensland’s new premier Annastacia Palaszczuk

NSW transport minister Gladys Berejiklian says that while Mr Stewart spent just 16 months at the head of the department, he racked up an impressive list of achievements.

“Dave joined us from Queensland during an exciting time for transport in this state,” she says.

“The NSW Government delivered the South West Rail Link and made great progress on the North West Rail Link, the CBD and South East Light Rail project, WestConnex, NorthConnex, the Pacific, Princes and Great Western highway upgrades, as well as the rollout of the Opal [public transport ticketing system] and light rail expansions in Parramatta and Newcastle.

“We wish Dave every success.”