The PTC, composed of five Commissioners appointed by the Governor of New South Wales, was accountable to the Minister for Transport.

The Commission acquired the assets and liabilities of the former commissioners, were bound by current agreements or contracts, and were responsible for the completion of business commenced by them.

Shirley had been involved with the Beeching cuts being vice chairman of the British Railways Board in his native United Kingdom in the 1960s.

[29] In November 1979, a modified livery for locomotives was introduced with the colours on the Tuscan and yellow painted ends reverted.

[34] In September 1975, the PTC began operating Denning coaches out of Dubbo when the Far West Express was replaced.