The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA WA) has welcomed the final passage of Infrastructure WA legislation, hailing it as a win for a more strategic approach to infrastructure delivery in the state.
“We have been calling for a more strategic approach to infrastructure planning and provision across the state for many years,” UDIA WA CEO Tanya Steinbeck said. “It is great to see that the legislation passed in a relatively short timeframe due to bi partisan support.”
“Given one of the key objectives of IWA will be the development of a 20 year State Infrastructure Strategy, this will result in much better outcomes for infrastructure provision across the state,” Ms Steinbeck said.
“For too long, WA has fallen short in terms of securing a fair share of federal infrastructure funding compared with other states,” Ms Steinbeck said. “This is partly due to the lack of forward planning and coordination in our dealings with Infrastructure Australia.”
“We hope that IWA will provide the leadership necessary for WA to gain more traction with Infrastructure Australia, and in turn, secure much needed increased federal infrastructure funding,” Ms Steinbeck said.
“In our submission to government on the establishment of IWA last year, UDIA also outlined the significant importance of IWA’s independence from the government of the day,” Ms Steinbeck said.
“The independent board will hopefully provide that independence and expert advice required to ensure the most efficient and effective use of funding for priority infrastructure projects,” Ms Steinbeck said.
“As Perth grows toward a city of 3.5 million people, it is critical that we work together to plan and accommodate for the increased pressure this will put on our transport and other essential infrastructure services,” Ms Steinbeck said.
“Infrastructure is truly the backbone of successful urban development and growth in our cities and regions and this is a fantastic step forward for WA.”
Ends.
For more information:
Gemma Osiejak
Executive Manager Communications and Marketing
UDIA WA
P: 0421 506 819
E: gosiejak@udiawa.com.au