17 Feb 2016
17 FEB 2016
The nation’s first Australian Infrastructure Plan provides clarity, certainty and a pathway towards more resilient cities, says the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).
The first Australian Infrastructure Plan, released today, sets out the nation’s infrastructure challenges over the next 15 years and provides solutions to drive productivity growth and support more liveable and resilient cities.
The Plan sets out 78 recommendations for reform to address infrastructure gaps. Priority projects primarily target urban congestion and national connectivity, although water security, sewerage infrastructure upgrades, flood mitigation and investment in remote infrastructure are among other projects on the table.
“Our cities are growing – and so are congestion and the associated costs and loss of productivity,” says the GBCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Romilly Madew.
“Infrastructure Australia has previously estimated that the cost of congestion will rise to $53 billion a year by 2031 without significant investment – this plan provides the roadmap we need to kick-start this investment.
"We are particularly pleased to see investment in active and public transport options being considered in our cities, which will reduce congestion, cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve our health and wellbeing.
“As the plan points out, sustainability and resilience must be integrated into all infrastructure debates and decisions as good economic practice. Infrastructure that is sustainable and resilient can support growth and a higher standard of living.
“Transparency and long-term planning are critical if we are to get it right in our cities. Decisions on major projects must be made objectively with the best cost-benefit analysis possible to avoid uncertainty when governments change. This plan provides the clarity we need by identifying the ‘mission critical’ infrastructure projects that will deliver the best outcomes for our nation.
“It’s essential that the public and private sectors work together to find innovative mechanisms to finance the infrastructure we need. We look forward to continuing the conversation with the Turnbull Government on policies and programs that deliver better connected, more productive and resilient cities,” Ms Madew concludes.
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) was established in 2002 to develop a sustainable property industry in Australia and drive the adoption of green building practices through market-based solutions.
Karen Jamal
Green Building Council of Australia
Phone: 0412 179 135
Email: karen.jamal@gbca.org.au