Government infrastructure plan released in response to 30-year infrastructure strategy
Infrastructure Victoria, the state’s independent advisory body, welcomes the release of the Victorian Government’s 5-year infrastructure plan.
The plan responds to the 30-year infrastructure strategy developed by the advisory body, Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2021–2051, which was presented to the Victorian Parliament in August 2021.
In its second cross-sectoral strategy, Infrastructure Victoria made 94 recommendations for policies, projects and reforms which respond to the state’s infrastructure challenges and opportunities over the short, medium and long term.
Strong support for Infrastructure Victoria recommendations
The Victorian infrastructure plan indicates the Victorian Government has supported 83 of the strategy’s recommendations in full, in part or in principle. A further 5 recommendations are subject to further consideration due to policy or other complexities of recommended actions.
This includes measures such as adopting permanent off-peak discounts for public transport fares which Infrastructure Victoria’s research shows would be fairer, make better use of the transport network and encourage public transport journeys as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
A foundation to support policy and investment decisions
Infrastructure Victoria acting CEO Jonathan Spear said: “The recommendations in Victoria’s infrastructure strategy are based on extensive evidence, innovative land use and transport modelling and consultation with Victorians.
“The plan indicates 94% of our recommendations have been supported or are subject to further consideration. Additionally, the government has stated Victoria’s 30-year strategy provides a foundation to inform the ongoing development of government policy and investment decisions.
“A continued focus on implementing the recommendations of Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2021–2051 will position the state to provide the infrastructure we need now and in coming decades.”
In accordance with the Infrastructure Victoria Act 2015, the advisory body undertakes an annual assessment of the government’s progress in delivering on its infrastructure plan. The assessment is included in the Infrastructure Victoria annual report, tabled in parliament each year.