Getting infrastructure procurement on track

GOVERNMENT, industry and a think tank will appear before the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Cities at a videoconference public hearing on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, to examine how to improve procurement practices for government-funded infrastructure.

Committee Chair John Alexander OAM MP said, "Given the Australian Government’s $110 billion commitment to the infrastructure pipeline as part of Australia’s Economic Recovery Plan, it is crucial that government ensures taxpayer money is used effectively.

"The diversity of witness groups at this, and upcoming hearings, reflects that for infrastructure procurement reform to be effective, it must be a collaboration between government, industry and key stakeholders,"Mr Alexander said.

The Australian National Audit Office, Department of Defence and New South Wales state-owned corporation Sydney Water will help illustrate challenges faced, and lessons on what has not worked and what is working well.

Consult Australia and the Australian Industry Group Limited (Ai Group) will provide a valuable industry perspective on challenges and opportunities in infrastructure procurement. The Grattan Institute think tank will share its findings on the effects of mega-projects and recommendations for government action.

"Sydney Water and the Centre for Defence Industry Capability have taken some innovative approaches to project delivery, technology and supporting industry development. The committee looks forward to hearing about their experiences and potential for wider application in the infrastructure sector," Mr Alexander said.

The terms of reference and submissions received are available on the committee’s website.

Public hearing details

Date: Tuesday, 14 September 2021
Time: 9.15am to 3.30pm
Location: Videoconference

A program for the hearing is available on the committee’s website.

Due to health and safety concerns relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, this hearing is not currently scheduled to be open for public attendance. Interested members of the public will be able to view proceedings via the live webcast at aph.gov.au/live.

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