The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has welcomed the appointments of Nicole Lockwood and Mike Mrdak AO to lead an independent review of Infrastructure Australia.
Launched by the federal government, the review would consider Infrastructure Australia’s role as an independent adviser to the Commonwealth on nationally significant infrastructure priorities and advise on what changes may be needed to IA’s focus, priorities and – if necessary – legislation.
“Infrastructure Australia was created to provide expert advice to government regarding infrastructure priorities across the nation,” infrastructure minister Catherine King said.
She said this review and the changes it proposes will be essential in ensuring that the federal government receives the expert and non-partisan advice it needs to build a better future.
ALC CEO, Dr Hermione Parsons said infrastructure was a key part of ensuring the safety, efficiency and future sustainability of the Australian supply chain.
“Participants across the supply chain acknowledge the need to continue investment in world-class transport infrastructure and it is important that the criticality of infrastructure to the supply chain is considered, to support the economy and meet the growing freight task,” Dr Parsons said.
“ALC looks forward to Infrastructure Australia refocusing efforts on achieving greater productivity and all levels of government continuing to invest in the interest of the national economy,” she said.
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Dr Parsons said the review was an opportunity to streamline engagement between various levels of government to identify and agree on priority infrastructure.
“We must see investment in infrastructure continue and the development of projects that will deliver real efficiency gains and drive an uplift in productivity,” she said.
She continued that to do that all governments and industry must work together to align their priorities, consistent with achieving the objectives of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy.
“ALC looks forward to continued engagement with the Australian Government and Infrastructure Australia to support the considerations of the supply chain, freight, logistics and transport sectors to achieve modal shift, reduce emissions and improve outcomes for all Australians,” Dr Parsons concluded.
Source: Australian Logistics Council