Western Australia is on the verge of a new era of infrastructure planning after legislation establishing Infrastructure WA passed both houses of Parliament.
Infrastructure WA, which was a key election commitment of the McGowan Labor Government and part of its ‘Plan for Jobs’, will prepare the State’s first long-term infrastructure plan.
The passing of the Infrastructure WA Bill 2019 clears the way for the statutory body to be established and start the important work on preparing its 20-year strategy, which will outline what infrastructure is needed for our growing State.
Infrastructure WA will be run by an independent board comprising of up to 10 members, combining the expertise of both the public and private sectors.
Its focus will be to provide independent expert advice on the State’s infrastructure needs and priorities, maximise value for money on major proposals and create a pipeline of investment in WA in order to secure jobs.
As well as preparing a 20-year strategy, Infrastructure WA will also be responsible for:
- Assessing and reporting on major government infrastructure proposals prior to investment decisions being made;
- Providing advice on infrastructure priorities and funding and financing options; and
- Co-ordinating the State’s submissions to Infrastructure Australia.
The model, which will now be enshrined in legislation, will provide certainty to industry and business and help foster a bipartisan approach.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“For too long Governments have been short-sighted when it comes to long-term planning for our State.
“My Government’s focus is on planning for future infrastructure and ensuring investment is made in the right projects at the right time – boosting our economy and creating long-term jobs.
“WA has long needed this level of planning to get the State back on track – provide certainty to industry and encourage private sector investment, which all helps grow our economy and create jobs.
“The rigour and governance applied as part of the Infrastructure WA model will ensure the community’s interests are a priority and taxpayer’s money is invested wisely.”
