The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the importance of understanding and strengthening critical connections and interdependencies between networks and assets, places and communities, and the economy. For example, many health and education services were able to move online because of government investment in digital technology and the National Broadband Network (NBN).
There was nationwide take-up of new technologies such as collaboration tools and cybersecurity, making it possible to move rapidly from physical to virtual service provision. This enabled business continuity and the ongoing functionality of the Australian economy. Many people were able to keep their jobs so they could continue earning and spending.
Going forward, harnessing a collaborative, flexible and adaptive approach to infrastructure will handle uncertainty, enhance community resilience, improve equitable access to opportunities and give communities the best chance to thrive.
Other trends that emerged during the pandemic, such as increased decentralisation of the energy supply and a revaluing of parks and other community assets, should also be amplified and extended as Australia recovers. Supportive policy reforms will help to make the Australian economy more resilient and sustainable by providing opportunities for new industries and the jobs of the future.