Stirling Hinchliffe has resigned from his Ministerial position for Gold Coast 2018 ©Getty Images

Kate Jones has taken over Queensland Ministerial responsibility for Gold Coast 2018 preparations after replacing Stirling Hinchliffe.

Hinchliffe resigned from his post this week with 14 months to go until the Games are due to open.

The official, who was Minister for Transport as well as the Commonwealth Games, stepped down due to a scathing report into problems with the Queensland railway network.

Dozens of trains were cancelled due to mismanagement and a shortage of drivers.

Hinchliffe opted to fall on his sword despite not being directly blamed.

Jones had formerly served in the role in 2015 and was replaced by Hinchliffe in a reshuffle which saw her move to Minister for Education and Tourism and Major Events.

She was appointed to return to the position by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

It marks the third personnel change in the last three years after Jann Stuckey also served in the role until 2015.

Jones re-familiarised herself by immediately visiting Gold Coast today and posting a photo on Twitter posing with the city's Mayor Tom Tate.

Both were wearing official Gold Coast 2018 hats.

Her experience will negate most of the instability resulting from a change at such a vital time in preparations, it is hoped.

Kate Jones speaking at the official opening of the Gold Coast 2018 headquarters building in 2015 ©Getty Images
Kate Jones speaking at the official opening of the Gold Coast 2018 headquarters building in 2015 ©Getty Images

"Clearly transport will be one of my key focuses when I meet with heads of the Commonwealth Games,” Jones told reporters.

"The transport operations plan is out there for consultation.

"This really is a make or break moment for us.

"We can ensure that everybody knows that if you want to hold a major event, if you want to hold a conference, the Gold Coast has to be on the list, that’s what we want to see happen."

Action at Gold Coast 2018 is due to take place from April 4 to 15 next year.

Gold Coast 2018 chairman Peter Beattie said: "The appointment of Minister Kate Jones to the Commonwealth Games portfolio is welcomed by GOLDOC and Games delivery partners.

"She brings a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges to be faced over the next 14 months as we prepare to deliver the biggest event in Queensland’s history.

"As we continue to call for volunteers and prepare to launch the ticketing programme we know she will bring an enthusiasm that will help sell the Gold Coast, Queensland and Australia to the world.

"The Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games will provide significant legacy benefits to Queensland business, education, tourism and the events sector. 

"Having all portfolios under her guidance will no doubt ensure the best possible outcomes for the community and local businesses.

"The Organising Committee would also like to thank Stirling Hinchliffe for his support and dedication to GC2018."