Judge John Cain has been appointed as the new Chair of the Transport Accident Commission, with the Allan Labor Government confirming he will commence in the role on February 21, 2026.
Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll said Judge Cain’s extensive legal and public sector background would strengthen the TAC’s work in road safety, injury prevention and recovery support for Victorians.
“I congratulate John Cain on his appointment. His depth of experience in Victoria’s legal community will build on the TAC’s achievements in building road safety and educating and supporting road users,” Carroll said.
Judge Cain will resign from the County Court to take up the appointment, concluding a judicial career that has included service as a County Court Judge, State Coroner, Victorian Government Solicitor, Solicitor for Public Prosecutions and Chief Executive Officer of the Law Institute of Victoria.
His appointment follows the conclusion of Dr Samantha Smith’s term as interim Chair of the TAC Board on February 20, 2026. Dr Smith has served on the TAC Board for nine years and was appointed interim Chair in August 2025 following the resignation of former Chair Greg Wilson.
Carroll thanked both Dr Smith and Mr Wilson for their leadership during a period of transition for the organisation.
“I would like to thank Dr Smith and Mr Wilson for their leadership in the TAC’s mission of promoting road safety and supporting Victorians who have been injured on our roads so they can get their lives back on track,” he said.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne also welcomed the appointment of the new TAC Chair, acknowledging the continuity it brings to Victoria’s road safety agenda.
“I thank Dr Smith for her successful tenure and welcome Judge Cain. I look forward to our continued work to reduce road trauma and educating drivers on making safer choices behind the wheel,” Horne said.
Judge Cain said it was a privilege to be appointed Chair and to lead the TAC Board during a critical period for road safety and injury recovery in Victoria.
“It’s an honour to take up the position of Chair and I am looking forward to leading the Board as we continue working to keep Victorians safe on the road and support injured road users in their journey to recovery,” he said.
“Prioritising road safety in Victoria is vital to protect lives, reduce preventable injuries and ensure every journey ends safely.”