The federal government is currently assessing infrastructure projects to see what initiatives will receive funding.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack said in a webinar with Infrastructure Partnerships Australia that the government was looking to the infrastructure sector to kick-start the Australian economy.
“The federal government has recently called on our states and territories and the 537 local governments to ask them what infrastructure can be brought forward. We are now assessing that infrastructure with responses received from three-quarters of the local councils.”
McCormack also highlighted that already funded projects would continue.
“Designing and constructing infrastructure is vital to Australia’s immediate and long-term future and we are committed to ensuring our record $100 billion pipeline stays on track during this time.”
As construction was deemed an essential activity, most projects around Australia have continued despite coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions. With some restrictions now being lifted, further spending in infrastructure will be part of the government’s response, as Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure, Alan Tudge.
“We have been working closely with industry since the outbreak of this pandemic to ensure a considered and responsible national response, whilst ensuring the health and safety of employees and the broader community.
“We want this crucial job sector to be maintained and remain as strong as ever so we are in a much better position to come out of COVID-19 and get our economy back on track.”
Infrastructure Partnerships Australia CEO Adrian Dwyer said that further investment would enable the sector to continue to support the wider economy.
“By maintaining a focus on the pipeline of existing projects and supporting the acceleration of new investments, the Federal Government has been able to keep the wheels on the construction sector,” he said.
“It’s not just about the 1.3 million people employed in the sector, it’s the flow-on effect to their families and the broader economy which makes it so important that we maintain a strong and viable sector through the COVID-19 crisis and out the other side.”