Reforms that deliver on the community's priorities

In the Australian Government 2027-2022 Budget Outlook,1 recent record rates of economic growth are expected to moderate but remain higher than global averages, and COVID-19 vaccines should become fully available by the end of 2021. Under this outlook, the five recommendations that have the strongest impact against the balance of community priorities share commonalities in meeting the needs of the next generation through infrastructure planning that keeps them in mind (see Table V.1).

•  The COVID-19 pandemic provides an opportunity to rethink the role of our Fast-growing Cities, to embed the positive behaviour changes associated with COVID-19 and to reshape the planning of cities for the future. Collaborative governance aligns investment priorities to improve economic development and support future employment patterns.

•  The infrastructure industry is large and globally it does not have endless capacity. Improved planning, portfolios and pipelines enable Australia to remain an attractive market for investment. Investing in governance will improve affordability, unlock significant economic productivity gains and lift industry capacity.

•  Governments should strive to act as a model client providing a clear and consistent long-term direction on next generation infrastructure investment. This reform supports the increased alignment of the various levels of Australian Government to ensure increased capability, alignment and collaboration. This will involve the identification of a common vision for infrastructure and the sector that supports it.

•  Driven by water-literate communities, Australia must enter a new phase of water efficiency to adapt to an unpredictable future and to ensure urban, rural, environmental and cultural users have secure, long-term water supply. A consistent approach to measuring water security risk enables stronger planning to support better health and environmental outcomes, with reduced frequency and intensity of water shortages.

•  In addition to being critical to the health of people, the environment and communities, water is a key driver of economic prosperity. It transforms urban environments into desirable places to live, work and visit. All Australians have a right to high-quality water for healthy communities. This is essential to strengthen outcomes for health, wellbeing, economic prosperity and sustainable development.

Table V.1: Community priority reforms