Even though there have been some commercial tensions between the SCSA and the concessionaire due to the KPI reward and sanction regime, the SCSA has been able to work effectively with them on a number of issues, such as:
• counter-terrorism and community safety enhancements to the station
• State-initiated modifications to the precinct
• the impact of public transport re-franchising in 2009
Audit observed that other emerging issues such as diesel fumes from locomotives idling within the precinct, and community demands for better storm water harvesting have been actively managed by both parties.
Specific actions have been taken as required to address these issues, resulting in implementation of a rigorous air quality monitoring regime and a decision to install storm water capture facilities for re-use of water within the station.
SCSA management informed us that in the case of these 2 risks, the risk allocation patterns agreed for the PPP have been an effective framework for negotiation as it identifies the concessionaire as responsible for environmental compliance (including air quality).
On the issue of engagement with precinct stakeholders, we observed that the SCSA is now trying to establish forums and frameworks for precinct stakeholders to address operational interface and project issues, as well as develop more formalised and consistent stakeholder management and communication. This approach is designed to identify and deflate issues before they become escalated or unmanageable.