Infrastructure

Infrastructure

Infrastructure quality and capacity play an important role in determining the structure and strength of economic growth and activity.

The BCA’s infrastructure policy agenda aims to work with governments to improve the planning, funding and delivery of infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing economy and population.

Reform is needed to alleviate the current constraints in Australia’s infrastructure systems and to provide the capacity to sustain strong economic and population growth.

The BCA has called for policies and programs that bring about:

  • long-term strategic planning of Australia’s land use and infrastructure needs to support a growing economy
  • private ownership of Australia’s economic infrastructure where pricing is transparent and consumer interests are safeguarded
  • long-term sustainable funding models for infrastructure provision that support efficient and consistent investment and which clearly define the funding responsibilities of governments and infrastructure users
  • public investment in infrastructure that delivers the highest economic and social gains as demonstrated by cost–benefit analysis
  • the development of fully operational national markets for transport (freight and passenger), water, electricity and communications
  • the elimination of regulatory impediments to investment in and efficiency of provision of electricity, urban and freight transport including ports, and water
  • the establishment of a cross-jurisdictional framework for appropriate, timely, and coordinated investment in infrastructure to meet future growth needs
  • a focus on the cost-efficient development of a quality broadband system with comprehensive access for business and households
  • regular and transparent audits of the state of our current infrastructure and risks.

BCA Secretariat contact on infrastructure policy: Simon Pryor, Director Policy

BCA Secretariat contact on energy policy and climate change policy: Maria Tarrant, Deputy Chief Executive