CGC in Focus – Which projects are the government fast-tracking?

As part of CGC in Focus, we have been highlighting how the Australian Government will be fast-tracking infrastructure projects. But which major infrastructure projects will be fastest off the post-COVID starting line?

The Federal Government will fast-track 15 critical infrastructure projects — including the Snowy 2.0, inland rail from Brisbane to Melbourne and the expansion of South Australia’s Olympic Dam — to help with Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19.

The government’s five-year package includes $1.5 billion to immediately commence work on priority projects identified by states and territories, creating an estimated 66,000 direct and indirect jobs. Announced in August as a key component of the JobMaker program, the package will help federal and state governments halve project assessment and approval times. 

The government has allocated $1 billion for “shovel ready projects” that could commence within six months, and $500 million for local road safety works by state and territory governments within 12 months. An additional $500 million is available for roads and community infrastructure provided by local governments, while also bringing forward to this year $1.3 billion from the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant for local councils.

Updated Priority List from national industry body

Infrastructure Australia supports the government response to COVID-19, with the oversight body’s focus on selecting projects that will deliver lasting benefits. In August, Infrastructure Australia released an updated edition of the 2020 Infrastructure Priority List, presenting 155 infrastructure proposals of national significance, a pipeline worth more than $64 billion.

The updated list includes five new projects, two new high priority initiatives and five new priority initiatives around Australia. Infrastructure Australia’s CEO, Romilly Madew said the Government’s recent announcement to bring forward another $1.5 billion on local infrastructure projects, with $500 million of that targeted for road safety, is well placed. “It aligns with existing priorities on the [list], such as a National Road Maintenance strategy and a priority initiative for regional and rural road network safety improvements [in Western Australia].

“As we look forward, the focus is on delivery. This is about expanding the pipeline, keeping the economy growing, helping to create jobs and attract investment. The List directs investment to the infrastructure projects that will kick-start economic growth and have the greatest returns for all Australians.”

Infrastructure Australia Priority List: New South Wales additions

The M12 Motorway has been given a High Priority listing. To address the state’s needs, the Federal and NSW governments propose to build this new 16-kilometre dual-carriage motorway as part of their long-term Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan to support Greater Sydney’s growing population and transport needs.

The new M12 motorway will provide direct access to the Western Sydney International Airport at Badgerys Creek and connect to Sydney’s motorway network, including the major north-south Westlink M7 corridor.

With 31 stations and more than 66 km of new rail, Australia’s largest public transport project, the Sydney Metro, is another major project helping boost our post-pandemic economy. The project has already created many new jobs for engineering, construction and infrastructure professionals since its 2017 start.

Infrastructure Australia Priority List – new Queensland additions

In September, we welcomed the federal government’s announcement of fast-tracked backing for the next phase of the huge Inland Rail project from Brisbane to Melbourne. For the Queensland industry, Infrastructure Australia’s listing of two new High Priority Initiatives and four new Priority Initiatives will be a boost to the sector.

In Brisbane itself, the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail Project is the state’s highest priority infrastructure project. The new line and high-capacity stations are set to unlock the transport network’s problems, create many jobs, and generate unique opportunities for construction, urban renewal, economic development and revitalisation of inner-city precincts. 

For more information on all projects selected for fast-tracking, visit https://www.pm.gov.au/media/1-billion-unlock-thousands-infrastructure-jobs-nsw.

Recruitment insights

To read our expert predictions for the infrastructure, architecture, property development, construction, and engineering recruitment sectors in the coming financial year, and what it means for you, download our CGC in Focus Report.

CGC – your recruitment partner

At CGC Recruitment, our team of experienced consultants cover all major infrastructure, engineering and construction sectors. We help clients throughout Australia deliver their projects by attracting the best candidates and talent. This sector-driven focus gives CGC a strong understanding of the project lifecycles, government policy and economic considerations impacting our industry and the demand for skilled professionals.

If you’re looking for the right team member, get in touch with CGC, and one of our experienced consultants will be happy to help.

If you’re looking for your next career opportunity, you can register with CGC today. Simply complete our online registration, which takes just 30 seconds. Or, if you’re looking for something in particular, contact us or search our jobs.

To be involved in projects or to attract candidates that are changing and improving Australia’s infrastructure, connect with CGC today.

Sources:

The infrastructure projects Scott Morrison is counting on to rebuild the Australian economy  

PM announces fast-tracking of 15 major projects to create 66,000 jobs

Infrastructure Australia launches a refreshed infrastructure pipeline now worth more than $64 billion

$1 BILLION TO UNLOCK THOUSANDS OF INFRASTRUCTURE JOBS IN NSW

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