The standards should be based on a set of nationally defined principles that outline a sustainable approach to infrastructure delivery in remote areas.
These principles would ensure land use and infrastructure decisions are coordinated and planned. They would allow local communities to develop consensus about service delivery, economic activities and the location of critical social infrastructure.
The consultation and collaboration process for developing the principles and standards should be led by a specialised taskforce established by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications in partnership with the states and territories. Ideally, reporting against these minimum standards will be coordinated through National Cabinet, on a sub-committee.
Infrastructure services in all communities could then be audited against the standards on a rolling basis and updated every 4-5 years.
This approach would ensure state and territory governments focus on resolving basic infrastructure access and reliability issues faced by smaller communities.
It would also build community confidence that ongoing basic infrastructure needs are being addressed, support improved social outcomes, and encourage future growth and economic opportunities.