Australia must deploy a radically different approach to the way we plan for our future infrastructure needs, according to the National Infrastructure Investment Update 2016 released by Engineers Australia.
“The quality of the nation’s infrastructure is an essential indicator of economic and social health and well-being. A key question for decision-makers is whether our current approach is going to meet the challenges and opportunities that are ahead for our nation. This Engineers Australia report unequivocally indicates that it will not," said Stephen Durkin.
"Improved standards of living and productivity require infrastructure that does more than just keep pace with economic and population pressures.”
“Decisions about design and operation should be taken beyond the political cycle and be underpinned by sound workforce planning and taking into account emerging digital technologies.”
“Sound infrastructure planning should also look at what we already have, rather than solely focusing on new projects and building ‘new shiny toys’.”
“Smarter thinking and better planning needs to also draw on the experience of over 60,000 engineers employed in infrastructure delivery in this country.”
“As the National Infrastructure Investment Update finds, if Australia embraces ICT-enabled capability, manages infrastructure sustainably over its full and expected life, and integrates land use planning into the process, the nation’s infrastructure can more effectively fuel productivity and innovation to generate future prosperity.”
“The Engineers Australia report recommends taking a longer-term mindset, adopting service standards and channelling smart information about usage. These measures will support better directed infrastructure decisions and spending – by the private sector and governments.”
Engineers Australia is the peak body for the engineering profession, representing more than 100,000 members from all disciplines of engineering, and maintains representation in every State and Territory.
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