Key industry groups to discuss procurement

KEY INDUSTRY players, peak bodies and stakeholder groups will discuss major infrastructure projects and procurement when they appear before the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Cities at videoconference public hearings on Tuesday, October 5 and Thursday, October 14.

The committee will examine the challenges and opportunities for the construction industry that comes with the Australian Government’s $110 billion commitment to the major infrastructure projects pipeline over the next decade.

Committee Chair, John Alexander OAM MP, said, "While the major infrastructure projects in the pipeline will play an important part in Australia’s economic recovery, the committee recognises that it will also place considerable demands on the construction industry and may exacerbate challenges the industry is already facing, including productivity and skill shortages.

"The key focus of this inquiry is how to improve procurement practices for government-funded infrastructure. Through strategic, effective and efficient procurement practices, governments can: help ensure the delivery of quality projects and value for money; drive important industry changes; and maximise opportunities for Australian businesses."

The public hearings will include panel discussion sessions on key themes. On October 5 selected groups will focus on issues in the construction sector, including driving cultural change. At the October 14 panel session, the committee will explore technology and digital delivery themes with industry groups.

"The committee looks forwards to hearing from these construction and engineering companies, industry peak bodies and stakeholder groups on what is working well in project procurement and delivery, and how the Australian Government can help drive necessary change and grow Australia’s sovereign industry capability," Mr Alexander said.

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

Public hearing details

Date: Tuesday, 5 October 2021
Time: 9.15am to 5.30pm
Location: Videoconference

Date: Thursday, 14 October 2021
Time: 9.15am to 5.15pm
Location: Videoconference

Programs for the hearings are 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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