Welcome to our final issue of Infrastructure for 2024! The closing of a year always prompts us to reflect on the year that was, and that’s certainly been the case for our team as we put this issue together.
There’s no denying it’s been a challenging year for many in Australia, as difficult economic conditions mean we all need to do more with less. This consumer sentiment has flowed through to the infrastructure sector also, with budgets squeezed, construction demand outweighing supply and a shortage of the skilled workers required to fulfil our infrastructurepipeline.
One thing we do know about our sector though is that we have the capacity to be resilient in the face of adversity, so for this issue, rather than dwell on the challenges, we wanted to focus on the positive things happening in Australianinfrastructure.
To that end, we have contributions from Infrastructure Australia CEO Adam Copp, who shares insights into the ways in which we can balance steel supply chains; Infrastructure Victoria CEO Jonathan Spear, who highlights the emerging technologies that will enhance sector productivity; and Infrastructure Association of Queensland CEO Louise Van Ristell, who reflects on the association’s
role in shaping Queensland’s infrastructure landscape.
We also had the chance to meet with the new CEO of the Infrastructure Sustainability Council, Toby Kent, and hear more about his ideas for reshaping the impact the council will have on how we approach sustainability in infrastructure in the decades to come.
As always in November, a key focus for the industry will be the two major events taking place – AusRAIL and the Australian Airports Association National Conference and Exhibition. Infrastructure will be distributed at both events – you might even be reading this copy at one of the events – and our team will be in attendance also. We hope to see you there!
Laura Pearsall Editor, Infrastructure
Get in touch at info@infrastructuremagazine.com.au or feel free to give us a call on 03 9690 8766. Don’t forget to follow Infrastructure on social media – find us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
This document has been produced to international environmental management standard ISO14001 by a certified green printing company.
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Construction complete on Gympie Bypass
Major construction is complete on the $1 billion Gympie Bypass project, with the new highway now open to traffic.
This means heavy vehicles no longer need to travel through Gympie, cutting travel times, improving motorist safety, access and flood immunity.
The project involved the construction of a new 26km, fourlane divided highway between the existing Bruce Highway interchange at Woondum, just south of Gympie, and Curra.
It includes three new interchanges – at Flood Road, Gympie Connection Road and Curra. There are also 42 new bridges at 23 locations.
The Gympie Bypass is jointly funded, with the Federal Government contributing $929.6 million and the Queensland Government contributing $232.4 million.
It is the final section of a 62km Bruce Highway program of works
between Cooroy and Curra, totalling $2.549 billion. Construction of the overall Cooroy to Curra program began in September 2009.
While major construction for the bypass is finished, there will be some intermittent works over the next few weeks while the crew finishes some minor activities on the connections at either end of the new highway.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the project was a long time coming for locals and visitors who travel throughout the Gympie region.
“We recognise the importance of upgrading the Bruce Highway, which is why we have committed almost $1 billion to the project,” Mr Albanese said.
“This is the culmination of 15 years’ worth of construction on the 62km Bruce Highway upgrade between Cooroy and Curra, and it is wonderful to see motorists will now be able to reap benefits of a completed Gympie Bypass.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the opening of the bypass marked a monumental achievement.
“This stretch of highway will improve safety, flood resilience and capacity for motorists as well as meet the transport needs of the Gympie and Sunshine Coast communities well into the future.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm, said, “This opening has been a long time coming. Gympie residents and regular visitors to this popular part of Queensland will be thrilled to hear that the bypass is ready to use.
“Today’s opening is the culmination of 15 years’ worth of construction on this 62km upgrade to the Bruce Highway, which will improve safety, flood resilience and is designed to meet the transport needs of the Gympie, Maryborough and Sunshine Coast communities well into the future.”
Image: Federal Government
Port of Melbourne secures new lease to 2066
Australia’s busiest container port has struck a deal with the Victorian Government to access additional land, boosting supply chain efficiency and resilience. This strategic transformation of the Port precinct will play a critical role in preserving Port of Melbourne as the key trade gateway for Southeastern Australia, while reducing congestion and minimising impact to surrounding communities.
Port of Melbourne will lease approximately 29 hectares of the former Melbourne Markets site to 2066 in line with its existing 50-year port privatisation lease. This represents the port’s largest ever expansion since the long-term lease was granted in 2016. Based on current planning, Port of Melbourne expects to invest more than $200 million into the development of the site.
Significantly, the future-focused integration of the site into the Port
precinct supports a $36-billion freight sector that employs 260,000 Victorians.
Port of Melbourne CEO Saul Cannon, said, “With container volumes at Port of Melbourne expected to double by 2050, access to additional land at the former Melbourne Markets site unlocks opportunities that are critical to the future needs of Victoria. Port of Melbourne is proud to invest in developing the site to support forecast growth and demands.”
Consistent with the Victorian Government’s 2018 Victorian Freight Plan, Port of Melbourne will invest in developing the site for a range of uses, including truck parking facilities and container storage. The establishment of port functions at this site will improve traffic movement in the area, complementing the West Gate Tunnel when it opens.
Victorian Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne, said, “This is a great deal for Victoria – we’re getting more trucks off local roads, increasing the amount of freight the Port of Melbourne can handle, boosting trade and the economy, while strengthening Victoria’s supply chains.”
Owned by VicTrack, the site is optimally positioned for port use. By accommodating freight and logistics functions closer to the port, the efficient use of the former Melbourne Markets site will redefine the movement of freight, in turn, relieving pressure on the inner west.
“For a city port in Australia’s soonto-be largest city, the site’s strategic location and proximity to existing port functions enables a visionary transformation of the Port precinct that will enhance supply chain efficiencies, reinforcing Victoria’s position as the freight and logistics capital of Australia,” Mr Cannon said.
The transaction remains subject to satisfaction of certain conditions which are currently expected to be satisfied by the end of 2024.
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Tenders released for Sunshine Coast Rail
Major construction on the 37.8km rail extension between Beerwah and Maroochydore is expected to begin in 2026, with engineering teams and procurement specialists to assist in finalising the reference design and support procurement activities.
Two tenders have been released for the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail line, which will enable The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads to call for detailed quotes from the construction industry in 2025 ahead of major construction in 2026, subject to approvals.
Meanwhile, geotechnical investigations from Beerwah to Birtinya are getting underway, a key milestone in the preliminary works package for Stage 1.
The geotechnical activity will help to provide more certainty about ground conditions along the corridor. These investigations will better inform environmental approvals, the design process and help contractors to price the project with more certainty.
Stage 1 of the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail line will deliver:
♦ A 19km link between Beerwah and Caloundra
♦ An upgraded station at Beerwah
♦ New stations at Aura and Caloundra
♦ Park ‘n’ rides and active transport connections
♦ 2,200 local jobs
♦ A 45-minute time saving during peak compared to driving
A progressive approach will see the line ultimately constructed to Birtinya and Maroochydore, delivering 37.8km of track directly connecting rail to the beachside centres of the Sunshine Coast.
The Queensland and Federal Governments have both committed $2.75 billion in funding for Stage 1. Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said, “This major investment in the Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line is locked in to ensure the region has the infrastructure it needs.
“The Direct Sunshine Coast Rail Line will not only revolutionise the way locals move around their region, but unlock new transport opportunities for tourists to visit the Coast as well.”
Queensland Transport Minister, Bart Mellish, said the rail line is a win for transport and a win for the lifestyle that the Sunshine Coast region is known for.
“Queensland is growing fast and a lot of the growth is happening on the Sunshine Coast, which is why we are backing rail infrastructure to support the region’s future.
“With trains able to travel at 140kph on large sections of the new line, it will help people move around our region and get to where they live, work and play quickly and easily.
“This public transport infrastructure project will help us to manage road congestion as the region grows and encourage more people to use more sustainable and climate-friendly transport options.”
Vic Gov launches road maintenance blitz
The Victorian Government has begun rolling out a major road maintenance program, investing almost $1 billion to rebuild and repair roads across the state.
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, launched the $964 million road maintenance blitz at the South Geelong depot of Fulton Hogan, one of the contractors that will deliver these works between October 2024 and mid-2025.
An army of road workers will begin delivering the equivalent of $2.6 million worth of works for every day of the year – with around 70 per cent of funding going to regional Victoria.
Over the next eight months, crews will complete thousands of projects on Victoria’s road network, ranging from road rehabilitation and resurfacing, to patching potholes and maintaining bridges, traffic lights, signage and road infrastructure.
To deliver major works such as road rebuilding and rehabilitation,
there must be extended periods of warmer and drier conditions, which is why most work is done between October and May each year – ensuring repairs last.
Repeated flooding and aboveaverage rainfall caused unprecedented damage to roads which meant the maintenance program needed to focus on rebuilding damaged roads last year – simply resurfacing these roads would not have prevented further degradation.
Now that this work to rebuild the most flood-damaged roads is complete, resurfacing and rehabilitation levels will significantly increase during the upcoming maintenance season.
The blitz will target the state’s busiest travel and trade routes, with works set to be delivered on the Hume Freeway, the Princes Highway, the Western Highway, the Goulburn Valley Highway and EchucaMooroopna Road.
Other roads set to be repaired include Terang-Mortlake Road, MorningtonFlinders Road, Horsham-Kalkee Road and Tylden-Woodend Road.
The roads were prioritised based on expert assessments and community feedback, ensuring that upgrades are focused where they’re most needed.
This package also includes flood recovery works, with priority given to repairing regional Victoria’s flooddamaged roads. The final list of flood recovery projects will be confirmed in the coming months.
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, said, “We’re investing nearly a billion dollars to rebuild and repair the roads that Victorians depend on every single day – from the highways connecting our major centres to the local roads that keep our communities moving.
“Crews will be out delivering $2.6 million of works every day for a year –with around 70 per cent of all funding going towards our regional roads.”
Contract awarded for Parramatta Light Rail
Construction on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 is set to commence in 2025, with a contract signed for the first phase of the project.
In September, the $322 million contract was awarded to John Holland Pty Ltd to deliver the construction of the first 1.3km of new light rail alignment, including a 320m bridge over the Parramatta River.
Design and early works will begin this year, before major bridge construction starts in 2025. It marks the first major bridge crossing the Parramatta River since the Ryde Bridge was completed nearly 40 years ago. This work will also see upgrades to surrounding public spaces including Archer Park.
The new public and active transport bridge will provide a much-needed link between the growing communities of Melrose Park and Wentworth Point, north and south of the river. It will form part of 9.5kms of walking and bike-riding paths once Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 is complete.
Construction of the bridge is expected to generate 1000 jobs, with 80 per cent of those based in Western Sydney.
In the 2024-25 New South Wales Budget, the State Government provisioned $2.1 billion towards the delivery of Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 to build better, more connected communities as the west continues to grow.
This significant milestone is a crucial step forward in extending the Parramatta Light Rail network, which will help get locals where they need to go, take pressure off roads, and support housing growth across Greater Parramatta.
John Holland Pty Ltd was selected as the successful company following a competitive tender process, with interest from 19 leading organisations across Australia and around the world.
Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will connect to Stage 1 and the Parramatta CBD to Sydney Olympic Park via Camellia, Rydalmere,
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Ermington, Melrose Park, and Wentworth Point with 14 stops over 10km.
Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 between Westmead and Carlingford (L4) is in the final stages of testing and commissioning, with passenger services expected to start before the end of the year.
New South Wales Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen, said, “This is a significant step towards delivering the much-anticipated extension of the Parramatta Light Rail.
“The new bridge will ensure the growing communities of Melrose Park and Wentworth Point are well-connected. It will enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and boost economic growth.
“This development is part of our vision for a sustainable and connected Greater Sydney, building the infrastructure needed to improve accessibility and support our growing communities.”
Reinforcing our options for steel
By Adam Copp, CEO, Infrastructure Australia
Understanding Australia’s local steel production capabilities is essential for balancing supply chains and ensuring project success.
If we want to better balance the use of local and international steel in the delivery of the nation’s major infrastructure projects, then we need a better understanding of local capability and their capacity to meet demand.
When it comes to infrastructure projects, or any piece of work, it is ultimately up to the market on how they decide to deliver it.
But at a time when there is such an incredible demand to build and resources are so limited, especially when it comes to materials – all choices need to be on the table.
One such way we can increase the amount of choice for those delivering major projects is increasing the avenues for sourcing steel, including from the local steel industry.
RELIANCE ON INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY
Our research shows that steel imports have grown about 20 per cent over the two years to October 2023, compared with the previous two decades, meaning there is now
more of a reliance on internationally sourced steel than domestic.
While the market should be free to choose where it sources its steel, this does come with several supply chain risks.
In our 2023 Infrastructure Market Capacity report, we highlight that these risks include being exposed to fluctuating prices, transport costs, and complex logistics.
For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a spike in shipping costs, which we are only really seeing normalise now. Or, as another example, immediately following the pandemic there was a significant increase in demand for globally sourced materials, which drove up prices.
Our report also points out that importing steel brings uncertainties with embodied carbon emissions and the impact it has on Australia’s efforts to decarbonise the infrastructure sector.
All of these issues place pressure on the ability of those delivering major projects to keep to budget and meet deadlines.
LOCAL CAPABILITY
That then leaves the question – how can we assist those delivering major projects to see the local steel industry as a viable option to meet their needs, especially when the local sector is able to deliver?
I believe the answer lies in one of the recommendations Infrastructure Australia made in our 2023 Infrastructure Market Capacity report, which called for a national analysis of the country’s steel production and fabrication capacity. But what would this achieve? First, the insights from this analysis could inform governments and those delivering major projects on the actual availability and capacity of the sector.
Having a clear understanding of local capability, what they can do, and at what scale is invaluable in the early stages of project planning and design. That is, projects could be designed with local businesses inmind.
It could then also help foster earlier engagement with the industry so it knows what projects are coming, how long they will be running for, and their value.
With this early engagement and transparency, the industry can then invest into itself to increase capacity to support the needs of these projects.
For our part, Infrastructure Australia is currently conducting an analysis of domestic fabricating capacity by geography in collaboration with steel industry groups.
Conducting an analysis of the sector could then also inform governments and their use of policy levers to encourage greater use of the local steel industry.
An example here could be leveraging the procurement process to ensure local businesses are considered in the delivery of certain project types.
This would be especially powerful for projects that are in close proximity to steel producers, fabricators and manufacturers.
Through early engagement, there are also opportunities for potential collaboration between steel businesses.
What I mean by this is rather than looking for one business to deliver every aspect themselves, there is time for multiple businesses to work together to meet a project’s needs.
DOMESTIC STEEL AT WORK
A very strong example of how this has worked in the past for a major project is CommBank Stadium in Parramatta, New South Wales.
This was a project that cost $360 million, created 1,200 construction jobs, and used 4,500 tonnes of Australian steel.
The steel was supplied by a local supplier and the exposed local steel was fabricated and painted by several Western Sydney businesses.
This was all possible because the structure was designed and specified to ensure local steel mills could competitively produce steel, which was then sent to a large group of
existing suppliers and fabricators within a 10km radius of the stadium.
The scale of the project and early engagement with these businesses was able to give them confidence to invest in new equipment and expand their capability to deliver on this project as well.
Of course, this is just one example, but it shows that the local steel industry can and does work well on major infrastructure projects.
Projects like these are of course multi-year projects, which also gives the industry a more sustainable flow of investment into their businesses.
This more sustainable flow of investment means that the local steel industry can consider longer term business planning and strengthen its capacity to meet demand.
The obvious long-term benefits here are a stronger local steel industry with increased capacity to be able to meet the demand to build major infrastructure projects.
An added benefit is that those delivering major projects are less exposed to risks associated with looking at international supply chains, such as those I mentioned earlier.
Increasing the opportunities for the local industry and elevating its capacity to meet demand starts with understanding the data – specifically understanding our local capability and what they can do.
With that understanding, the market will also have more choice for sourcing the steel it needs to deliver these projects.
Adam Copp. Image:
Superior security for major projects
Securing project sites during busy construction periods can be a challenge, but the right equipment can simplify the task.
The Toowoomba Bypass is an alternative crossing of the Toowoomba Range for drivers. It provides a 41km-long bypass route running from the Warrego Highway at Helidon Spa in the east to the Gore Highway at Athol in the west, via Charlton. This road improves freight efficiency and driver safety, relieves pressure on Toowoomba’s roads and enhances liveability for the city’s residents.
Completed in 2019, the bypass was delivered through a joint venture comprising of Plenary Group, Cintra, Acciona, Ferrovial and Broadspectrum. The bypass motorway includes five interchanges and 24 structures.
During the construction period, Challenger Knight was tasked with securing project sites along the route. These remote sites lacked electrical infrastructure and were vulnerable to theft and criminal activities, particularly targeting valuable equipment such as two-way radios.
Seeking a surveillance solution suitable for remote and unpowered locations, the obvious choice was to partner with Spectur, a leading Australian surveillance solutions provider. Approximately ten Spectur cameras were deployed across the project sites. Once installed, the theft stopped almost overnight.
COMPLETE SOLUTION
While Challenger Knight has traditionally used security guards to protect sites, this has not always been appropriate or affordable for clients. This is where Spectur’s surveillance technology offers an
effective security solution, especially in remote or unpowered areas.
The visual presence of Spectur cameras, combined with audible alerts and spotlight features, are a powerful deterrent against potential criminals.
Challenger Knight's clients can remotely access live feeds and recordings from the Spectur cameras, providing them with real-time visibility and control over site activities. Having a visual record of vehicles coming and going helps prevent opportunistic criminal activity that often occurs on construction sites.
When integrated with alarm monitoring centres, the centre will see any activity taking place and can contact police immediately.
Challenger Knight Business Development Manager, Garth Matheson, said, “We deal with the construction industry a lot and those sites are mostly unpowered, especially at the start of a project. We really had a very specific need and Spectur is one of the first companies to really cater to that.
Technology provides advanced security for infrastructure.
“Spectur is great to deal with as they’re always open to helping and working through any issues.”
EXPANDING THE RANGE
Challenger Knight originally used Spectur’s single camera HD5 solution; but have also recently completed a large eight system job with Spectur’s new HD6 platform, which provides them with highdefinition 4K video camera quality alongside Spectur’s integrated siren and flood lights.
Previously Challenger Knight have also utilised Spectur’s STA6 platform in two, three or four camera configurations to provide full 360-degree views on certain sites.
The result is always a reduction in criminal activity; and for Challenger Knight, a company that traditionally relies on security guards to protect sites, Spectur’s solutions provide a unique alternative when budgets or personnel requirements are tight.
For more information, head to spectur.com.au
Image: Spectur
Building Queensland’s Future
By Louise Van Ristell, CEO, Infrastructure Association of Queensland
As the Infrastructure Association of Queensland celebrates 30 years of service, CEO Louise Van Ristell reflects on its role in shaping Queensland’s infrastructure landscape.
Over the decades, IAQ has championed collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development, with a vision of building a #betterforqueensland
Our mission remains clear: to support Queensland’s growth, resilience, and community outcomes through collaborative efforts between government, industry, and society. We are committed to ensuring that every project, whether large or small, creates lasting benefits for Queenslanders and leaves a positive legacy for future generations. By working together, we aim to address today’s challenges while anticipating the needs of tomorrow.
A 30-YEAR JOURNEY
player in fostering collaboration between government and industry in Queensland.
Marking 30 years of service, IAQ celebrates not just its longevity but its significant impact on Queensland's infrastructure sector.
IAQ was founded by a group of industry leaders who asked, “How can we make a difference for Queensland?” At the time, there was no forum for bringing together all key players – from construction to consultancy and advisory specialists. IAQ filled that gap, offering a platform for unified voices and collaboration with government, built on the principle of cooperation rather than confrontation.
Since our establishment in 1994, IAQ has grown from a small group of forward-thinkers to a critical
Throughout the past three decades, IAQ has played a vital role in shaping infrastructure policy and ensuring projects align with our state’s strategic priorities. The association has focused on publicprivate collaboration, making industry expertise accessible to support government decision-making and contribute to Queensland’s long-term economic growth.
BRINGING INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT TOGETHER
IAQ has recently demonstrated its leadership and advocacy through strategic initiatives, impactful publications, and meaningful engagements with government and industry.
The Association has authored its own and contributed to influential government papers and initiatives, including but not limited to the Infrastructure Productivity Roadmap, the Reducing Emissions in Infrastructure Survey, and the AI-Construction Nexus Document (in collaboration with our Catalysing Infrastructure Transformation Taskforce). All of these have shaped policy and project delivery, particularly in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
IAQ’s Queensland Infrastructure Performance (QIP) initiative has been a standout achievement, providing essential insights into the state’s infrastructure pipeline. Our Regional Infrastructure Taskforce (RIT) has
Louise VanRistell.
Image: IAQ
IAQ is celebrating 30 years of impact on Queensland’s infrastructure sector.
worked closely with the Queensland Government on streamlining business case policy, while IAQ expanded its influence by hosting major events in Gladstone, Mackay, and Townsville, fostering greater regional engagement.
The Games Taskforce also led a successful roundtable series, providing a high-level summary to government on how best to deliver lasting legacies from the 2032 Games. This commitment to collaboration extends to the Infrastructure Productivity Roadmap Series, which has helped improve project outcomes across Queensland.
IAQ’s voice is consistently heard in media outlets such as the Courier
Mail, ABC Radio, and Infrastructure Magazine, where it has addressed critical issues like megaproject delays and sustainable infrastructure practices. The Association has championed industry interests at preliminary and post budget discussions and has been present at state and council budget media lockouts as investment has been unveiled.
The past few years have reinforced IAQ’s pivotal role in driving Queensland’s infrastructure sector forward, laying a strong foundation for future opportunities in regional growth, sustainable progress, and the legacy of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
OPPORTUNITIES
As we look to the future, IAQ recognises several key areas of opportunity for Queensland’s infrastructure sector.
Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion
IAQ is proud to launch the Diversity in Infrastructure Leadership Network, an initiative aimed at fostering diverse leadership across Queensland’s infrastructure industry. This network creates opportunities for mentoring, professional development, and networking for underrepresented groups, including women and minorities. By building a pipeline of diverse leaders, we are committed to ensuring Queensland’s infrastructure
Image: Darren Tierney/shutterstock.com
sector reflects the diverse communities it serves and promotes inclusive growth across the state.
Rolling out the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
As we prepare for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, IAQ is focused on ensuring that the infrastructure developed leaves a lasting, positive legacy for Queensland.
green technologies and practices. This effort includes renewable energy projects, sustainable urban planning, and transport systems designed to minimise environmental impact while driving Queensland’s economy forward.
CHALLENGES TO NAVIGATE
on ensuring that lessons from the pandemic are incorporated into future planning. From enhancing digital collaboration tools to building more adaptable and resilient supply chains, we must prepare for unforeseen challenges that look like they will increase in frequency as we approach a new political frontier.
A Changing Climate
The Games represent more than a sporting event; they provide a unique opportunity to build infrastructure that will serve Queenslanders for decades to come. From sustainable urban development to innovative transport solutions, IAQ is working to ensure that the infrastructure delivers long-term benefits, such as improved connectivity, enhanced public spaces, and energy-efficient systems that align with Queensland’s decarbonisation goals.
The legacy of the 2032 Games will be crucial for setting a foundation for Queensland’s future economic and social development. IAQ is dedicated to ensuring that this legacy supports growth in a way that strengthens communities and enhances liveability across the state.
Progressing towards net zero
Sustainability remains central to IAQ’s vision for Queensland’s infrastructure future. As the state transitions towards net-zero emissions, the need for innovative green infrastructure projects is greater than ever. IAQ is working with the Queensland Government and industry stakeholders to ensure that infrastructure investments support climate goals, reduce emissions, and create long-term, sustainable economic growth through
Maintaining a collaborative mindset Maintaining and enhancing the strong collaboration between industry and government will be more important than ever as we approach an unprecedented period of infrastructure delivery, particularly with the demands of the 2032 Olympic Games. The industry will face significant pressure, but by working closely together, we can ensure that projects are delivered smoothly and continue to drive long-term growth and innovation. Strengthening these partnerships will be key to overcoming challenges and ensuring that Queensland’s infrastructure supports the state’s future success well beyond 2032.
Geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions
Global geopolitical tensions pose significant risks to supply chains, which could delay key infrastructure projects. These disruptions affect the availability of materials and the workforce, pushing up costs and causing unforeseen project delays.
The COVID-19 pandemic has already shown how unexpected global events can upend even the most carefully planned infrastructure pipelines. The pandemic was a stark reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, affecting everything from budgets to labour markets and project timelines.
As Queensland’s infrastructure sector continues to recover, IAQ is focused
Queensland’s infrastructure sector is facing increasing challenges driven by the changing climate, including more frequent and severe weather events, and rising sea levels. Over the past decade, Australia saw a 54 per cent rise in climate-related insurance claims, with Queensland particularly impacted by floods and cyclones. By 2050, extreme heat days in southeast Queensland are expected to triple, straining energy and water systems. Rising sea levels also pose a significant threat to coastal communities and infrastructure, particularly in the state’s low-lying regions. These challenges require a shift toward more climate-resilient infrastructure and stronger collaboration between industry and government to ensure long-term sustainability and adaptability.
As Queensland’s infrastructure sector looks to the future, IAQ remains focused on leading the way through opportunities and challenges alike. By driving sustainable growth, fostering regional development, and ensuring the 2032 Games leave a legacy, IAQ is building the foundations for an infrastructure system that meets Queensland’s needs today and well into the future. In collaboration with government and industry, IAQ will continue to shape a resilient, innovative, and inclusive infrastructure future for all Queenslanders.
Sustainability remains central to IAQ’s vision for the future.
Ecological awareness has grown strongly in recent years. Green tracks contribute to the reduction of fine dust pollution and to improvement of the microclimate in inner-city areas.
STRAILastic protects the superstructure from stray current. In addition, noise emissions are considerably minimised.
¬ insulates stray current
¬ quick and easy installation possible, can be installed during on-going Operation
¬ available for all superstructure types by encapsulating the rail, the primary airborne noise is considerably
¬ reduced compared to an open construction method
track damping systems
grooved rail damping systems are available for both sleeper tracks, continous support and are suitable for all track types
¬ easy and fast installation > no bonding required due to self-clamping elements
¬ reaching up to the top of rail (TOR)
> joint sealing is not necessary
¬ High mechanical strengths
¬ UV-light and ozone resistant
Building towards net zero
By Michael Kilgariff, CEO Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia
As Australia strives for net zero emissions, the heavy construction materials industry has an important role to play in this transition.
Australia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions has never been more critical. In 2022, the Federal Government legislated targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and reduce emissions by 43 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030. The government’s Net Zero Plan will outline the nation’s strategic direction, supported by sectoral emissions reduction plans that cover electricity and energy, transport, industry, agriculture and land, resources, and the built environment.
Among these sectors, transport is poised to become Australia’s highest emitter by 2030 if no further action is taken. To address this, the government is developing the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Roadmap and Action Plan. This roadmap will be pivotal in guiding the country’s transition to a net zero economy, consistent with international and domestic commitments.
Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA), representing the heavy construction materials industry, welcomes the opportunity to contribute to this vital national conversation. Our industry plays a critical role in building and maintaining the infrastructure that underpins Australia’s economy and society. As such, the decarbonisation of our sector is crucial to achieving Australia’s net zerogoals.
INDUSTRY SNAPSHOT
The heavy construction materials industry in Australia is a cornerstone of the nation’s infrastructure development. CCAA members operate cement manufacturing facilities, concrete batching plants and quarries that supply the essential
materials used in construction across the country. Our industry generates approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and employs around 110,000 Australians, both directly and indirectly.
Cement, concrete and aggregates are the building blocks of Australia’s infrastructure. They are used in everything from roads and bridges to residential and commercial buildings. As the demand for infrastructure continues to grow, particularly with Australia’s expanding population and urbanisation, the need to produce these materials sustainably has become increasingly urgent.
Decarbonising the heavy construction materials industry presents significant challenges, but it also offers substantial opportunities for innovation and leadership.
The Australian cement and concrete sector has a long history of reducing its CO2 emissions having delivered a 25 per cent reduction since 2000.
Notwithstanding, the sector understands the challenge of decarbonising by 2050, and that the production of cement, one of the key components of concrete, is inherently carbon intensive.
The chemical process of producing clinker, the main ingredient in cement, releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide, known as process emissions. These emissions are independent of the fuel used in the manufacturing process, making them particularly challenging to abate.
Aggregates, another key ingredient in concrete, are also associated with carbon emissions, particularly due to the transportation of these materials from quarries to construction sites. As quarries are increasingly located further from high-demand urban
centres, the carbon footprint of transporting aggregates is growing.
Despite these challenges, the industry is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. In 2021, the Cement and Concrete Industry declared its ambition to deliver net zero carbon cement and concrete by 2050. This commitment is outlined in the Decarbonisation Pathways for the Australian Cement and Concrete Sector report, which identifies key strategies for reducing emissions across the sector.
STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DECARBONISATION
CCAA’s submission to the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Consultation Roadmap outlines strategic recommendations aimed at facilitating the decarbonisation of the heavy construction materials industry. These recommendations are designed to align with the broader goals of the Net Zero Plan and ensure that the industry can contribute meaningfully to Australia’s climate commitments.
1. Adopting a whole-of-life carbon approach
To accurately represent the carbon footprint of infrastructure projects, CCAA recommends that all government projects adopt a whole-of-life approach to planning, design and carbon estimates. This approach is akin to whole-of-life financial accounting and ensures that the full carbon impact of a project, from material extraction to end-of-life disposal, is considered.
2. Revising standards to facilitate decarbonisation
The Federal Government should encourage state and territory jurisdictions to support the redesign of standards that facilitate
MichaelKilgari .
decarbonisation. For example, changes to AS3972-2010 (General Purpose and blended cements) are necessary to enable the adoption of lower-carbon cement alternatives. Without such changes, the decarbonisation of transport infrastructure will be limited by outdated standards.
3. Fast-tracking the adoption of global best practices
CCAA urges the Infrastructure and Transport Ministers to mandate the fast-tracking of standards and specification changes by adopting best practices from the US and Europe. These regions have made significant strides in decarbonising their construction industries, and Australia can benefit from their experience.
4. Promoting material efficiency and low-carbon concrete
Governments should promote the design of infrastructure with a clear focus on material efficiency. This includes specifying lower-carbon concrete and adopting construction technologies that reduce material waste. Such measures will not only reduce carbon emissions but also enhance the sustainability of infrastructure projects.
5. Increasing the use of supplementary cementitious materials
State and territory governments should work towards performancebased specifications that promote the greater uptake of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) such as fly ash and blast furnace slag. These materials can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of concrete without compromising its performance.
6. Supporting the development of environmental product declarations (EPDs)
The Federal Government should introduce a national grant program, similar to the US Governments’ Environmental Protection Agency scheme, to support businesses in developing and verifying Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). EPDs provide transparent
Cement and concrete decarbonisation pathways –percentage CO2 reductions 2020-2050.
Images: CCAA
information about the environmental impact of materials and are essential for driving demand for lowcarbon products.
7. Providing training on lower-carbon concrete
Governments should provide training and information across the supply chain on how to use lower-carbon concrete. As these concretes do not respond exactly the same as traditional concretes, there is often resistance from project managers and contractors. Training can help overcome these barriers and ensure that specified low-carbon concretes are used.
11. Transport infrastructure and heavy vehicles
The decarbonisation of transport infrastructure is inextricably linked to the heavy vehicles that deliver construction materials to sites. With approximately 100,000 heavy vehicle movements in Australia per day related to the heavy construction materials industry, transitioning these vehicles to zero emissions is critical.
8. Incentivising carbon targets in infrastructure projects
The Federal Government should financially incentivise state and territory governments to meet carbon targets for federally funded infrastructure projects. This would discourage the substitution of higher-carbon concretes and ensure that infrastructure projects contribute to Australia’s net zerogoals.
9. Promoting successful low-carbon projects
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, in conjunction with state counterparts, should promote case studies of projects that have successfully used lower-carbon cements, concretes and recycled materials. Sharing these success stories can inspire wider adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.
10. Measuring construction and demolition waste Government agencies should measure more categories of construction and demolition waste sent to landfill. This data is crucial for understanding the amount of concrete being disposed of rather than reused or recycled, and for developing strategies to increase material recovery.
However, this transition poses significant challenges. The availability of zero-emission heavy vehicles (ZEVs) that can legally operate on Australian roads and be efficiently refuelled is limited. Moreover, the heavy construction materials industry requires access to every residential street and country road, necessitating infrastructure upgrades to accommodate heavier ZEVs. Interim solutions, such as the use of biodiesel, which can deliver up to a 60 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions, should be considered as part of the transition strategy. CCAA’s recommendations include identifying the extent of infrastructure upgrades needed to support ZEVs, developing policy settings for heavier zero-emission vehicles, and rolling out refuellinginfrastructure.
THE WAY FORWARD
Australia’s heavy construction materials industry is at a critical juncture. The decisions made today will shape the sustainability of the nation’s infrastructure for decades to come. CCAA is committed to working with government, industry and other stakeholders to achieve the shared goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
The path to decarbonisation is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. By adopting a whole-of-life carbon approach, revising standards, promoting material efficiency and supporting the transition to zeroemission vehicles, Australia can build the sustainable infrastructure needed to support a thriving, lowcarbon economy.
The heavy construction materials industry, represented by CCAA, is ready to lead the way. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Australia that meets the challenges of the 21st century while preserving our environment for future generations.
Leaving an impact
Infrastructure Sustainability Council’s new CEO, Toby Kent, sat down with Infrastructure to share his priorities for the organisation and his perspective on the sector at large.
Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC) has an ambitious agenda. Its stated purpose is ensuring all infrastructure delivers social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits. It makes sense, then, that the organisation would appoint an equally ambitious CEO at its helm, someone with a clear vision and drive to achieve significant growth.
Throughout his career, Toby Kent has held a variety of positions that have prepared him for this new role.
“I really got into corporate sustainability in the late 90s after seeing how it was helping lift the corporate sector as a whole to more responsible practices,” Mr Kent said. He became heavily involved in the finance sector and eventually became Global Head of Sustainable Development at ANZ. He then spent more than five years as Chief Resilience Officer for metropolitan Melbourne as part of the Rockefeller Foundation’s ground-breaking 100 Resilient Cities program, before joining PwC Australia where he
served as a Partner in the Energy Transition team for the past two years.
“Throughout my career, I've tried to have positive impact through what I do,” Mr Kent said.
“I think I’m at my best working in smaller to medium-sized organisations that have leverage and impact through their partners and members.”
The role at ISC also meant an opportunity for Mr Kent to take his experience in helping build a city’s resilience and apply it on a larger
scale. While ISC is known for its work in transport, road and rail, it’s also looking to expand its focus to include emerging sectors.
“We’ve done some really good work with airports, and in the water and energy sectors,” Mr Kent said.
“Advancing our work with the water and energy industries is a key priority moving forward, and that includes generation, transmission and distribution of energy.”
GUIDING SUSTAINABILITY
ISC is a membership-driven organisation that prioritises engagement with its network and broader industry participants. It provides training on how to apply sustainability in infrastructure, whether that’s using ISC rating tools on projects, fundamentals for those moving into infrastructure or sustainability roles, as well as sustainability training for executives in infrastructure and financial services.
With an increasing shift towards privately funded or owned infrastructure, Mr Kent said ISC is prioritising working more with the finance sector.
Beyond looking at the planning, development and operation of assets, Mr Kent encourages a holistic approach to infrastructure and sustainability, emphasising the need to consider interconnectivity and interdependence.
“We need to think about infrastructure as an interconnected system of systems,” he said.
“If we’re only looking at an asset, we can only provide so much value.”
Global demand for infrastructure is growing, and Mr Kent acknowledges the magnitude of the challenge faced by the sector moving forward.
“No matter the scale, whether it’s a massive port or a cycle path along a creek, the creation of infrastructure has an impact.
“The impacts of infrastructure on the natural environment are
huge, and yet, the demand for infrastructure around the world is probably going to be about twice what it is today by 2050.
“We need five times the amount of energy production that we have today, while trying to transition away from fossil fuels.”
Mr Kent said that at the same time, there is real hope and a sense of excitement about what can be achieved, particularly through
ISC is a membership-driven organisation that prioritises engagement with its network and broader industry participants.
Image: Olga Kashubin/shutterstock.com
Toby Kent.
Image:
digital,” he said.
“Digital needs to be seen as part of infrastructure, as both a contributor and facilitator, and infrastructure in and of itself.”
Mr Kent also emphasised the importance of recognising nature as infrastructure, often referred to as blue and green infrastructure.
“Whether that’s protecting, restoring, redeveloping mangroves in coastal areas to play both filtration and storm protection roles or rewilding creeks or creating metropolitan-wide urban forest.
“How do we make better use of the natural world to help restore the natural world while achieving outcomes that humans and nature need?”
Equally important is the way humanity views its relationship with nature.
“By seeing ourselves as above nature we lock in all kinds of problems for ourselves. It’s important to understand we are part of nature, rather than separate to it.”
to know where to begin. Mr Kent said initiatives such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are important in helping prioritise efforts.
“They provide a framework at the highest possible scale and then it’s up to individual countries and actors to determine what actions they can take.
“At a personal level, while I might feel devastated about certain impacts that are happening around the world, my focus is on trying to achieve as much as I can through the ISC, our membership and broader supporters.”
Mr Kent said one of the challenges we have as a society is looking for the quick win or easy answer.
“We fall back on just waiting a bit longer and letting technology or something else sort it out.
“It’s better to chip away at we can now, with what we have. That’s what will actually lead to real change.”
Mr Kent cited concrete manufacturers increasingly adopting
LOOKING FORWARD
As for ISC’s long-term vision, the organisation is currently working on its five-year strategy, which is expected to be released in the first half of 2025. Mr Kent said the strategy will likely tie into the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which are also targeted for completion by 2030. ISC is also looking to grow and transform, including expanding internationally.
However, most of the organisation’s work will continue within in Australia and New Zealand, helping advance initiatives in sustainable infrastructure.
“The most important question to be asking ourselves is infrastructure for whom and to what end,” Mr Kent said.
“I think there is a shift towards thinking more long-term and understanding how to deliver infrastructure that is inherently multigenerational in terms of impact.”
ISC is currently working on its five-year strategy.
Mastering innovationprocurement
Procurement specialists are essential to the infrastructure sector, but their skills are in short supply. Bridging this gap is crucial for meeting the needs of tomorrow.
As projects grow more complex and cost constraints tighten, a workforce skilled in procurement has never been more critical. CQUniversity has developed a new course to meet this demand.
The Graduate Certificate in Procurement Innovation runs over a 12-week period, with students engaging in two units. Procurement Excellence in Private and Public Sectors equips students with advanced proficiency in strategic procurement planning, ethical standards, legal and regulatory compliance, supplier
evaluation methods, advanced negotiation and risk mitigation. Upon completion, students will be able to lead innovation within procurement teams across diverse organisations. Leading Innovation and Value Delivery in Procurement equips students with the ability to apply agile and value-driven strategies to adapt procurement practices to dynamic market conditions. Upon completion, students will be able to drive innovation in procurement, navigate complex procurement landscapes and contribute to organisational success through advanced procurement practices.
WE SEE YOU INNOVATE
STUDY A GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN PROCUREMENT INNOVATION
Equip yourself with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation, navigate complex frameworks, and contribute to organisational success through ethical procurement practices.
Start online in March APPLY NOW
UNIQUE LEARNING APPROACH
Setting this course apart is its emphasis on problem-based learning. Students are able to develop and implement procurement strategies, conduct supplier evaluations and manage contracts. Interactive learning methods including workshops and simulations facilitate deeper engagement and collaboration among students.
From current procurement professionals looking to deepen their expertise, supply chain specialists wanting to understand procurement dynamics or mid-career professionals aiming for leadership roles, the course caters to a diverse audience. Designed to be comprehensive, the course is also open to business leaders interested in strategic procurement insights and recent graduates eager to enhance employability in this vital field.
The Graduate Certificate in Procurement Innovation is now open for enrolment for March 2025. Applications close on 24 February 2025.
Making tracks
Inland Rail is poised to transform Australia’s freight and logistics landscape, connecting existing freight routes through rail, roads and ports, and supporting Australia’s growth.
Inland Rail is a 1,600km freight rail line that will connect Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Recognised as Critical State Significant Infrastructure by the New South Wales Government, this ambitious project promises to help Australia keep pace with the increasing freight demands of a growing population.
Inland Rail CEO, Nick Miller, said, “This is a critical nation building project, and one of the things that most attracted me to Inland Rail is that it is being delivered across regional areas of Australia.
“In my previous roles I have been fortunate enough to work extensively in regional and rural Australia, and I know how important sustainable, well-delivered infrastructure programs are in these areas and for these communities.”
The track will enable doublestacked trains to run from Beveridge, north of Melbourne, to a proposed intermodal terminal at Ebenezer, west
of Brisbane; with single-stacked trains able to pass through Ebenezer to Kagaru to connect with the existing Sydney to Brisbane coastal line.
Inland Rail will better link businesses, manufacturers and producers to national and global markets, generating opportunities for industries and regions during construction and beyond.
At present, around four billion tonnes of freight is moved across Australia every year, representing around 163 tonnes of freight for every person, and total domestic freight volumes are expected to grow by more than 20 per cent between 2018 and 2040.
With 1,800m long doubled-stacked trains travelling at speeds of up to 115km/h, each train using Inland Rail is designed to carry the equivalent freight volume of 110 B-double trucks, reducing congestion and creating capacity for the Australia’s major east coast highways and regional roads.
Inland Rail is expected to cut rail freight travel time between
Melbourne and Brisbane by almost a third, from 33 hours to less than 24 hours, making it competitive with road, and will reduce congestion by taking tens of thousands of trucks off the nation’s roads each year when complete.
LONG-TERM BENEFITS
Australia’s population is forecast to reach between 37 and 49 million people over the next 40 years. Inland Rail will help keep up with the increasing freight demands of a growing population, delivering competitive pricing and reliability for freight customers compared with road freight.
Two thirds of the freight that will be carried on Inland Rail will be for domestic use – including food, white goods, medical supplies and industrial equipment.
Inland Rail will enable faster, safer, more resilient delivery of freight and reduce supply chain costs – moving freight by rail is 16 times more fuelefficient than moving freight by road.
Around four billion tonnes of freight is moved across Australia every year.
Images: Inland Rail
In addition, regional communities will benefit from reduced local road congestion, fewer emissions and reduced noise from large trucks passing through local towns.
When fully operational, Inland Rail will also improve resilience, providing an additional freight route to the Brisbane to Sydney coastal line which traverses through Sydney.
Inland Rail is already improving freight connections with Adelaide and Perth via the now-operational North-West Connection at Parkes.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Around 17 per cent of the 1,600km line is now operational, with the Parkes to Narromine section and major construction works on the Narrabri to North Star Phase 1 project both finished.
Mr Miller said Inland Rail construction is progressing very strongly in the Beveridge to Albury (B2A) section in Victoria and in southern New South Wales between Stockinbingal and Parkes.
“We have just completed very successful works during possessions in both sections,” Mr Miller said.
“Inland Rail has reached major completion milestones in Tranche 1 of B2A, including completion of a new bridge in Glenrowan, and is expecting to complete all Tranche 1 works in 2025.
“We will shortly begin major construction works on Tranche 2 of the B2A project, having already appointed John Holland as our major contractor.”
In the recent possession completed as part of B2A, Inland Rail lifted the Green Street bridge superstructure into place in Wangaratta, conducted site investigations and survey work in Benalla, Broadford, Tallarook and Seymour, lowered tracks at Wallan and Seymour and installed new signal gantries at Kilmore East and Tallarook.
In New South Wales, major works have already begun on the Stockinbingal to Parkes section of the project, and are progressing well.
In the recent possession completed in mid-September for the S2P section, new turnouts were installed at the new crossing loop at Daroobalgie and the track was lowered at Wyndham Avenue at Forbes and the station
awning at Forbes Station reduced, enabling double-stacked trains to pass through.
Elsewhere in New South Wales, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) approved the environmental impact statement and supporting documents for the Illabo to Stockinbingal section in early September. The project is now under Commonwealth assessment under theEnvironment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
Inland Rail is continuing to progress approvals for the Albury to Illabo section of the project with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
“Once environmental approvals have been granted in the coming months, Inland Rail expects to begin major construction in the Albury to Illabo and Illabo to Stockinbingal sections in New South Wales next year, meaning construction will be underway in all Beveridge to Parkes sections,” Mr Miller said.
“Two of the twelve sections of the project, Parkes to Narromine and
Around 17 per cent of the line is now operational.
Narrabri to North Star (Phase 1), are already operational.
“In terms of construction of the project north of Narromine, in line with the recommendations of the independent review into Inland Rail, accepted by the Australian Government, Inland Rail is focusing on completing construction of the Beveridge to Parkes sections of the project by 2027 and on securing environmental approvals and land acquisitions for the Narromine to Kagaru sections of the project.
Inland Rail has already secured planning approvals for the Narromine to Narrabri (N2N) and North Star to the Border (NS2B) Inland Rail projects in northern New South Wales and is continuing with design and securing land.
“Completing this work north of Narromine will help Inland Rail deliver a better-informed estimate
to the Australian Government for the total cost and delivery schedule of completing the Inland Rail project from Melbourne through to Brisbane.
“Future decisions by the Australian Government on the delivery of sections north of Narromine will be considered once the Australian Government has more certainty as to the delivery and full cost of Inland Rail.”
KEY MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
There have been several significant achievements on the completed sections of Inland Rail so far.
Parkes to Narromine
The Parkes to Narromine section is the first rail infrastructure project to install carbon neutral concrete culverts that reduced carbon emissions by more than 7,250t
CO2-e, the equivalent to removing approximately 1,350 vehicles from the road for a year. 100 per cent of spoil on the project was reused and diverted from landfill. 297,000m3 of blended ballast and ash was reincorporated during formation works, reducing emissions associated with hauling materials.
Narrabri to North Star Phase 1
During Narrabri to North Star Phase 1, Trans4m Rail upgraded six site caravans with solar panels, batteries, timers and manual/auto switches. This helped achieve a 50 per cent reduction in diesel, operational greenhouse gas emissions and generator maintenance costs.
Stockinbingal to Parkes
In September 2023, the Stockinbingal to Parkes section received an ‘Excellent’ Design rating from the
Construction of the new Beaconsfield Parade bridge in Glenrowan.
Infrastructure Sustainability Council (IS Council) for its best practice outcomes in economic, social and environmental performance metrics. IS Council reviewed Inland Rail’s approach to increasing vertical clearance under the Wyndham Avenue Road Bridge in Forbes and building a new crossing loop north of the Daroobalgie Road level crossing.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Over the next 12-24 months
Inland Rail will be in construction all the way from Beveridge to Parkes, helping the project reach its target of completing the entire section by 2027. Providing that all approvals are successfully completed, construction will also begin on two major sections of the project in New South Wales.
These include the Albury to Illabo section which runs through the city of Wagga Wagga, and enhancements along approximately 185km of existing rail corridor from Albury on the Victoria-New South Wales border to Illabo in regional New South Wales.
In June 2023, Inland Rail appointed Martinus Rail to design and construct enhancement works on the Albury to Illabo and Stockinbingal to Parkes sections of Inland Rail.
Additionally, the Illabo to Stockinbingal project will include constructing 39km of new rail track in the Junee and Cootamundra regions of New South Wales, creating a new direct route from east of Illabo tracking north to Stockinbingal. The route will bypass the townships of Cootamundra and Bethungra and the winding, steep section of track known as the Bethungra Spiral on the Main South line, opening a more efficient way to transport freight through the area. The Illabo to Stockinbingal project is the largest section of Greenfield rail on the Beveridge to Parkes section of the project.
With the Federal Government having approved the Narromine to Narrabri section in February 2024, the only remaining New South Wales approval north of Narromine is phase two of the Narrabri to North Star section.
In Queensland, Inland Rail continues to progress its Environmental Impact Statement for the Border to Gowrie section with the Queensland Coordinator General. Work on progressing the remainder of the Queensland sections continues.
ENGAGING LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND BUSINESS
Inland Rail has worked extensively to leave behind a legacy on the Inland Rail alignment. One way it has done this is through the Inland Rail Skills Academy, which works with industry partners to deliver programs that build skills and prosperity in local communities, regions and around Australia.
To date, the Inland Rail Skills Academy has:
♦ Awarded 26 scholarships to undergraduate students
♦ Trained 550 people in civil construction and rail competencies (almost 50 per cent of whom are First Nations people)
♦ Upskilled more than 620 local and First Nations businesses through workshops and training
♦ Engaged more than 11,500 students in STEM education opportunities; of whom around ten per cent are First Nations people and 46 per cent are female
♦ Upskilled 620 local and First Nations businesses to work on major projects, including Inland Rail
♦ Engaged 15 schools along the Inland Rail alignment in our Clontarf and STARS Foundations programs – more than 1,100 First Nations students have participated in these programs
♦ Delivered sustainability mentoring for businesses
In addition to the work that has been done with upskilling local communities via training, the project has also helped to create new opportunities for local companies and workers.
“A primary focus of ours is to create social and economic benefits for the regional communities in which we are working,” Mr Miller said.
“We are committed to investing in regional communities by providing sustainable business and job opportunities for local and First Nations businesses.
“Inland Rail construction has already brought major benefits to communities along the alignment with some $485 million spent with over 700 local businesses and over 2,900 local workers helping to deliver the project.”
Inland Rail has spent over $100 million with nearly 300 local companies on Tranche 1 of the B2A project and a further $7.4 million has been spent with local companies on A2P, with a lot more to come next year as construction begins on A2I and I2S.
Inland Rail has now employed over 5,750 people on the project to date, with around half of these being residents and over 460 being First Nations peoples.
Rail without risk
As cities invest in light rail systems to reduce congestion and promote greener transport, it’s crucial to learn from global best practices, especially regarding safety.
Australia’s light rail and tram stops are often unmanned, and the open network they operate on provides a level of risk not seen on train networks. This is the case in light rail networks globally, and Australian operators can learn valuable lessons from counterparts around the world.
Recently, one UK light rail tram operator needed to conduct a review of common safety methods for risk evaluation and deliver recommendations to meet industry good practice. Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) Consultancy applied its expertise to meet this client’s needs.
Initially, the light rail tram operator had two key risks to evaluate for which they needed RSSB’s support. The first was associated with the platform train interface, assessing the risk of potential incidents involving members of the public falling into and/or becoming trapped in the gap between tram and platform edge. The second was assessing the risk of passengers falling into the gap between the carriages, which could happen as a result of coupler surfing or moving between trams, whether trams were in transit or not.
Subsequently, RSSB was tasked with undertaking a tram operation risk assessment review and delivering its recommendations to allow
the operator to meet industry good practice.
The project scope included recommendations for the tram operator to generate risk assessments that target operational areas of improvement, which in turn would provide confidence in their ability to act reasonably in accordance with ‘as low as reasonably practicable’.
PROJECT DELIVERY AND OUTCOME
RSSB’s experts included a system safety engineer and principal system safety engineer. As part of this project, they used existing RSSB guidance documents, including Taking Safe Decisions and CSM common safety method for monitoring and the GEGN8646 Guidance on the common safety method for risk evaluation and assessment.
After considering the initial project brief, they concluded that an independent review into the risk assessment of the double units was required.
This approach enabled our experts to ensure their recommendations were aligned with good industry practice in detail, content, and structure, together with identifying whether risks had been captured and incorporated correctly in the recommendations.
While this project wasn’t required to analyse standards, RSSB was able to provide the tram operator with recommendations that would align their risk assessment practices to best practice in rail. This enabled the tram operator to receive further insights to help target risk management activities in the most effective and appropriate way. The consultancy project also provided an independent expert opinion about which additional quantified risk assessments should be carried out.
GLOBAL EXPERTISE
Safety is the highest priority for any rail or tram operator. However, operating an unsecured network poses significant challenges, so it was vital RSSB worked thoroughly to make sure that all the necessary risks were captured correctly.
RSSB’s consultants set the standards, enabling them to diver exactly what clients require. Whether it’s rail, light rail, other modes of transport or other industries, RSSB Consultancy makes its experts available on a project basis, to help organisations answer technical questions that are critical to their future.
For more information, visit rssb.co.uk
International RSSB.
The Rail Safety and Standards Board is the independent safety, standards and research body for Great Britain’s rail network. We’ve powered safer, smarter rail for more than 20 years – and now rail organisations around the world can benefit from this experience and insight. To see how we could help your organisation, download your guide to our international services.
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Training, consultancy, insight.
Connecting Perth’s north-east
The METRONET Ellenbrook Line is set to give people living and working in the north-eastern suburbs of Perth better transport choice and faster journeys.
Jointly funded by the Federal and Western Australian Governments, the $1.65 billion Morley-Ellenbrook Line is the biggest public transport project delivered in Perth in more than 16 years.
Starting at Bayswater Station on the Midland Line, the new 21km line travels along the centre of Tonkin Highway, through land north of
Marshall Road, along the western side of Drumpellier Drive and ends in Ellenbrook, south of The Parkway.
Ellenbrook is one of Perth’s fastest growing regions, with annual growth figures forecast to be more than 6.5 per cent. Due to the lack of rail services, the corridor between Morley and Ellenbrook has the highest usage of cars compared to other Perth corridors.
Once complete, the METRONET Ellenbrook Line is set to create a more interconnected city with better transport, housing and employment options. The line will majorly reduce vehicle usage in north-eastern Perth by reducing travel times on public transport by up to 50 per cent and slashing travel times to a 30-minute train journey between Ellenbrook and the CBD. It will also provide direct
Over 6,500 jobs have been created as part of the project.
links to Midland and Perth Airport, as well as better connections to Whiteman Park and the Swan Valley.
“The 21-kilometre Ellenbrook Line will give people living and working in Perth’s north-eastern suburbs more transport choice and halve the travel time to Perth for those travelling from Ellenbrook,” a METRONET spokesperson said.
SUPPORTING GROWTH
New stations in the suburbs of Morley, Noranda, Ballajura, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook will serve these growing communities. Additionally, the New Bayswater Station will create connections to improve connectivity with the Midland, Airport and Ellenbrook lines.
Each station is set to enable the development of the surrounding precincts to provide access to more housing, jobs, community
services, tourism and recreation opportunities over the next 30 years, helping shape these growing neighbourhoods into vibrant new communities.
INVITING STATION DESIGN
“Unique features of these station include new public spaces that prioritise pedestrian movement between transport corridors and the creation of vibrant public spaces,” the spokesperson said.
“Wayfinding was given significant consideration, and the new station precincts will give visitors generous pathways, artwork to entice people to the area, shade arbour canopies and interpretivesignage.
“The precinct, including station buildings, urban spaces and landscaping, consider a passenger focused design.
“This includes positioning carparks and drop-off points close to the station.”
LOCAL JOBS
Over 6,500 jobs have been created as part of this project, stimulating local employment opportunities.
Around 150,000 sleepers and 96,000 tonnes of ballast were used in the construction of the line.
Once the new line opens, commuters in the north-east will be able ride to the city using a SmartRider for only $4.16.
The first train to Ellenbrook hit the tracks in late-August, marking the beginning of a four-week program of rigorous testing and commissioning.
The program was undertaken to ensure all infrastructure and systems are operating efficiently and trains will run safely and smoothly.
Following testing and commissioning is driver familiarisation, before the line enters passenger service from December 2024.
KEEPING SUSTAINABILITY FRONT OF MIND
One point of focus for the project is working more sustainably to reduce carbon impacts of materials by more than 15 per cent and to improve resource efficiency and support a circular economy by using recycled materials.
“Each new state-of-the-art station is built with future sustainable growth in mind for the precincts surrounding the new stations and rail corridor,” the spokesperson said. A number of initiatives have been implemented to help reach these sustainability targets, including:
FOGO Trial
The project has committed to using 20 per cent Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) in imported topsoil used for landscaping. In collaboration with local industry, the trial is expected to set a precedent that supports the use of FOGO and grows confidence to embrace this and other new materials, while encouraging innovative landscape practices.
Crushed
recycled concrete trial
Crushed recycled concrete (CRC) is being trailled for the base asphalt layer in Ballajura and Noranda station car parks. CRC is made of concrete debris from construction and demolition projects. The use of CRC aims to reduce materials going to landfill and result in reduced carbon emissions.
Hollow core noise walls
The amount of concrete used on site is also being reduced through a hollow core noise wall system that contains 30 per cent less embodied carbon than standard noise wall panels. Approximately 770 hollow core panels have been installed on the line so far.
NEW STATION PRECINCTS
The new stations as part of the Morley-Ellenbrook line are:
Morley Station
Morley Station is located under the Broun Avenue bridge, within the Tonkin Highway Median. Frequent bus services will connect passengers to the Morley Galleria shopping precinct, surrounding businesses and the local community.
A concept master plan for the Morley Station Precinct is already complete, which sets the long-term vision for planning, development and infrastructure delivery for the
Images: METRONET
area around the station over the next 30 years.
The master plan was designed using feedback gained from the City of Bayswater, key stakeholders and the community, and sets out a vision for an urban village with a vibrant public environment and enhanced connections.
Noranda Station
Noranda Station is located at Benara Road and Tonkin Highway and will deliver a reliable new connection point for local and surrounding communities.
Future planning for the precinct around Noranda Station will be managed by the City of Bayswater.
Ballajura Station
Ballajura Station, formerly Malaga Station, will provide efficient transport links to the surrounding suburbs and support future growth in the area.
The station is located northeast of the junction of Marshall Road and Tonkin Highway, and has been renamed to Ballajura Station due to its geographical location and its connection to the Ballajuracommunity.
A new footbridge will be built across Tonkin Highway in Ballajura, with access via the shared path along the highway, close to the Premier Place access point on the
western side. The footbridge will provide easy access to Ballajura Station and to Whiteman Park and improve connections for commuters.
Structure planning of the surrounding precinct is underway to guide the long-term planning of future roads, community facilities, schools, public space and land use in the area around the station.
Whiteman Park Station
Whiteman Park Station is located alongside Drumpellier Drive, just south of the Whiteman Park entrance.
The station will efficient and modern transport services to the communities of Henley Brook, Dayton, West Swan and Brabham, including new links to two of Perth’s most popular tourism destinations, Whiteman Park and Swan Valley.
A concept long-term master plan for the area around the station is already complete. The plan is designed to support growth in the area over the next 30 years and sets the high-level road map for the urban development east of Whiteman Park Station, as well as recreational and tourism areas to the west.
Ellenbrook Station
Ellenbrook Station is located in the town centre, south of The Parkway and west of Civic Terrace. The station will offer a new transport option for the 46,000 residents in Ellenbrook and the surrounding
areas. It has been designed to accommodate the anticipated growth in the region, making the most of vacant land around the station.
Future planning for the precinct around Ellenbrook Station will be managed by a State Government and private sector joint venture.
Bennett Springs East Future Station
The Bennett Springs East Station and precinct is a potential addition to the line that would urbanise the surrounding area with complementary transport, housing and recreation choices.
Precinct structure planning is currently underway to establish the long-term planning framework that will guide the future development of local roads, housing density, zoning and locations for community facilities such as schools, shops and public space.
The Morley-Ellenbrook Line will open with a community celebration on 8 December and commence passenger service on 9 December 2024.
The station precincts will create more liveable communities, new business and employment opportunities, as well as better transport links for tourists and visitors to the Swan Valley and Whiteman Park, making this project as a transformational expansion of Perth’s rail network and vital connection for Perth’s north-east.
The Ellenbrook Line will provide more transport choice for those living and working in Perth’s north-eastern suburbs.
Keeping it green
Installing green track around Australia’s light rail networks is an easy way to create greener, quieter and more climate-friendly cities.
Large cities today are becoming much more ecological and sustainably aware, with urban planners seeking new ways to increase greenery and mitigate the urban heat island effect. One way to do this is in Australia is by maximising the amount of green track installed around existing or proposed light rail systems.
Green tracks, using lawn or sedum, retain large amounts of rainwater and capture fine particulate matter and road dust, to improve the macro environment in urban centres. Moreover, the recycled rubber encapsulation of the rail significantly reduces the primary airborne noise and vibration.
The Strailastic TOR (Top of Rail) Light Rail system provides not only the opportunity for new routes to be greened using its various green track options, but also allows for simple, cost-effective green track conversion of ballasted track using the Strailastic – R Green track design.
MADE FOR ALL WEATHER
Rapid temperature changes and tropical storms are not uncommon in Australian cities and these variations can put a lot of stress on tram and light rail infrastructure, whether embedded in asphalt, pavers or concrete.
“This ensures a very stable product under normal operating conditions.”
and have a non-slip moulded surface for bikes and pedestrians.
Installing green tracks can mitigate these rapid temperature changes and reduce the high stresses caused by expansion and contraction.
STRAILastic International Operations Director, Andreas Göschl, said the company’s solutions are used in areas where there are big temperature variations.
“Moulded from vulcanised rubber, STRAILastic track systems provide a high temperature stability and can easily manage the issue of expanding and contracting with a temperature range between -40°C and plus 90°C with a glass transition point of -55C,” Mr Göschl said.
The benefits of the vulcanised rubber solution extend beyond its resilience and stability. While made from 70 per cent recycled rubber, the outer cover of virgin rubber contains UV and ozone and fire-resistant materials to withstand the elements.
EASY INSTALLATION
Installing STRAILastic track systems is simple as the chamber filler is precisely moulded to fit against the rail. No glue is required, as the solution is self-clamping, finishing level with the railhead. STRAILastic track systems are also designed to withstand the wear and tear of traffic
While chamber-filling elements are common to many light rail networks, not all are created equal.
“STRAILastic does not use polyurethane, as this reduces the life of the track,” Mr Göschl said.
STRAILastic light rail track damping solution keeps trams and light rail quietly moving. Backed by more than 40 years vulcanized rubber product experience, Strailastics TOR is installed in over 60 cities and 300km of light rail track.
For more information, visit strailastic.com.au
Image:
arda savasciogullari /shutterstock.com
High-quality access covers deliver a robust performance even in harsh conditions.
Covering all bases
For more than a century, cast iron covers, drainage gratings and access solutions have been an essential part of infrastructure project planning.
In recent times, the introduction of composite access products has meant new advantages and levels of choice for industry.
As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of access covers and drainage solutions, EJ is aware of the tough demands of today’s infrastructure projects. By developing high-quality composite products alongside existing cast iron options, EJ can provide tailored solutions that combine the best of both worlds.
In Australia’s challenging climate, access covers need to be built tough to survive. EJ’s best-in-class composite access covers are engineered to be resistant to these harsh conditions and tested to Australian Standards.
High-quality composite access covers are lightweight and anti-corrosive, delivering robust performance and extending the lifespan of assets. Some of the benefits of high-performance composite access covers include:
♦ Ergonomic design – resulting in lower product weight
♦ Corrosion resistance – material resistance to corrosion for H2S or other chemicals
♦ No signal interference – radio frequency (RF) friendly for transfer of signals
♦ Environmentally friendly –low energy consumption in manufacturing
♦ Minimal risk of theft – due to no scrap value
♦ Variety of colour options – colours are permanent and UV resistant
TRIED AND TESTED
EJ’s composite access covers follow the same rigorous design and manufacturing processes as its products, ensuring full compliance with relevant local standards.
The Australian Standard AS3996:2019 sets the industry benchmark for access covers, grates and frames for the Asia Pacific region. Composite products must meet several specified design features and a comprehensive series of tests that must be passed to fully comply with the Standard.
As industry leaders, EJ has commissioned its own research and testing to demonstrate its commitment to the Standard; ensuring all requirements are met. EJ maintains its own NATA Accredited testing facility in Brendale,
EJ composite access covers are engineered and tested to Australian Standards.
Queensland and also utilises independent third-party NATA test resources.
BACKED BY EXPERTISE
EJ is a fifth-generation family-owned company that spans five continents, promoting innovation, quality and a commitment to customer service. Equipped with manufacturing facilities, distribution hubs, sales offices, and multiple research and development centres worldwide, EJ has a complete understanding of the global market.
Since the arrival of composite access solutions, supplier knowledge and expertise has never been more important. As a traditional cast iron specialist, EJ’s market knowledge and expertise are already in place and now it also designs, produces, and delivers high quality composite products.
EJ is a company built on trust and reliability, boasting 140 years of experience helping project managers, engineers and owners get the job done.
For more information, visit ejco.com/global
Image: EJ
Lifting efficiency with MLA and HELI
Whether it’s moving containers at a bustling port or handling heavy loads on a construction site, the right equipment can make all the di erence.
Over more than four decades, MLA has built a reputation for excellence in customer service, safety, operational reliability, engineering and equipment maintenance.
The core business of Mitsubishi Lift trucks Australia, MLA, is the sale, hire and service support of materials handling equipment. MLA are the exclusive Australian distributor of four complementary brands – Mitsubishi Forklifts, Nichiyu Forklifts, HELI Heavy Forklifts and MLA Vulcan Equipment. The business operates nationally through eight MLA owned branches and an extensive regional authorised dealer network.
MLA is widely regarded as a leader in a competitive market thanks to its strong focus on customer needs, and ongoing commitment
to delivering quality, cost-effective materials handling solutions. The company provides a complete one-stop shop solution by suppling a range of equipment from 1 tonne pallet movers to 45 tonne capacity Reach Stackers, and everything in between.
MLA is the Exclusive Australian Distributor of HELI Reach Stackers and HELI Heavy Forklifts 16-46Tonne*. HELI Reach Stackers are state of the art machines designed and manufactured for the intensity of round-the-clock container handling applications. While the HELI 16-46 Tonne range of heavy-duty industrial forklift trucks also provides performance, reliability and dependability in the most arduous of applications.
HELI Reach Stackers and HELI Heavy Forklifts include the following features and components that are
associated with all leading brands in this class of equipment:
♦ Trusted drive train components
♦ Cummins QSB 6.7 Engines
♦ ZF automatic transmissions
♦ Kessler drive axles
♦ Parker and Permco hydraulics
♦ Advanced features for operator comfort and safety
♦ Electric tilting cabin
♦ SKF auto lube system
♦ Reversing camera and sensors
♦ Air suspension seating
♦ Luxurious cabin environment
♦ Durable carriage and fork design Next time you see a HELI forklift in action, appreciate the engineering marvel that keeps supply chains and projects moving. Contact MLA now on either sales@mlaholdings.com.au or MLA’s Heavy Truck Specialist on 0478 712 223.
* Exclusivity excludes Heavy Trucks in WA ranging from 12T+
Image:
Keeping the wheels turning
In the high-stakes world of rail and road transport, asset health and passenger satisfaction are non-negotiable.
Asingle overlooked fault in a vehicle can halt an entire transport network, delaying thousands of passengers or critical cargo deliveries. With real-time data from IoT-driven technologies, operators can not only anticipate maintenance needs but also provide uninterrupted experiences for passengers and reliable, uninterrupted cargo transport.
As the demand for operational efficiency increases, industrial connectivity manufacturers like Cisco and Teltonika offer innovative networking solutions designed to address the unique challenges of fleet management. Their technologies enable seamless integration of IoT-driven connectivity, allowing operators to monitor asset health in real time.
By harnessing these technologies, transport networks can anticipate maintenance needs before issues arise and ensure vehicle reliability. Furthermore, advanced monitoring systems provide critical insights, enabling proactive decision-making and reducing the risk of downtime. Detecting an overheating engine in real time allows operators to reroute a vehicle for maintenance – a better outcome than an expensive breakdown.
KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Selecting the right industrial connectivity technologies for fleet management and vehicle asset monitoring is crucial for both operational efficiency and longterm reliability. When evaluating solutions, several key factors must be considered:
♦ Reliability and durability: The harsh conditions of rail and road transport demand solutions that can withstand temperature
extremes, constant motion, and exposure to the elements.
♦ Certifications: Compliance with certifications such as EN50155 and fire protection standards is essential, particularly for railway applications. Selecting devices that meet these requirements gives you confidence you’re meeting regulatory requirements.
♦ Ease of deployment: Fast and flexible deployment is critical to minimising downtime and operational disruptions. Solutions should be easy to integrate into existing systems and infrastructure.
♦ Centralised monitoring: Systems that offer remote monitoring via an IoT dashboard allow operators to manage multiple assets from a central location, enhancing operational visibility and control.
♦ Interoperability: The ability to integrate various devices and sensors is vital, enabling transport networks to scale their operations and ensure seamless communication between systems. These factors form the industrial connectivity foundation of a fleet management strategy, empowering operators to adapt to changing demands while maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.
Centralised monitoring and cloud platforms are transforming fleet management. Solutions like the Cisco IoT Operations Dashboard and Teltonika’s Remote Management System allow operators to oversee entire fleets on a single platform. These systems provide real-time insights into asset health and maintenance needs, allowing operators to act proactively.
Cloud platforms also enable scalability, allowing networks to expand without costly infrastructure overhauls. This flexibility ensures
that new devices can be integrated seamlessly, supporting the network's growth over time.
By leveraging cloud technology, operators can perform remote troubleshooting, configuration, and updates, significantly reducing operational disruptions. For example, if a vehicle's onboard connectivity device starts to malfunction, it can be diagnosed and reconfigured remotely, preventing communication failures that could disrupt real-time data sharing.
In environments where multiple technologies must function together –such as older communication systems and new IoT sensors – interoperability is key. Reliable communication between systems prevents compatibility issues and allows for faster responses. For example, integrating sensors with central systems ensures data availability across the network.
The right fleet management technologies can revolutionise operations, ensuring asset health, connectivity, and enhanced passenger experiences. By focusing on integration, interoperability, and cloud-based monitoring, operators can reduce downtime, streamline operations, and ensure longterm adaptability.
Fleet management is evolving rapidly, and now is the time to ensure your fleet is equipped for success. Madison Technologies works with industry leaders like Cisco and Teltonika to deliver solutions tailored to your unique transport needs. Get in touch to discover how we can help you drive success.
For more information visit madison.tech
Is IoT dead?
By Frank Zeichner, Founding CEO, IoT Alliance Australia
As
the conversation around the Internet of Things evolves, it’s crucial to recognise the importance of leveraging IoT data smartly.
Everyone says that the Internet of Things (IoT) is either dead or is now BAU. Fact is, it’s neither, but it does need to be reframed as an integral part of data smartness.
IoT no longer features on the Gartner hype cycle. The hype is gone and yet the number of IoT devices and connections continues to grow by 20 per cent a year – and the data collected by these devices is a tsunami that threatens to overwhelm our ability to store, manage and use it.
A SHIFT IN FOCUS
What’s happening now is that the focus is shifting from the technology to how IoT data can be used to best effect and in a trusted and responsible way. Connected trusted data that’s fit for purpose is what we call data smartness.
I think IoT’s days in the spotlight are over, not because it’s dead but because it’s no longer just about the technology and how it works. IoT is maturing and it’s now all about the data and why we need it – as it always has been (and perhaps should have been).
secures supply chains and provides better health outcomes.
At the same time, the AI hype is incandescent, mirroring IoT’s hype phase when the technology was in its infancy. I recall plenty of gee whizzery, confusion, uncertainty and even a little fear sitting alongside the excitement that comes with ‘the next big thing’.
NOT LACKING DATA, LACKING DATA SMARTS
We’re not lacking data by any stretch of the imagination, but we are lacking data smartness. Where IoT can make the greatest difference is in providing trusted quality data that enables the net zero and energy transition, reduces waste, raises productivity,
IoT can (and should be) a trusted source of data truth. This is critical in the face of the power of AI and automation, which demand accurate and trusted data input. Data can (and must) be represented safely and securely and be able to be traced back to source. This requires greater responsibility as the glut of data and its use (or misuse) threatens privacy, security, fairness, sovereignty, business models and even our ability to sustainably and safely store it.
Frank Zeichner.
FROM HYPE TO TROUGH TO MATURITY
This follows the classic shift from hype to trough to maturity for IoT and will have a profound effect on how we can enable and trust the progressive digitalisation of how we run our industrial plants, operations, infrastructure, our personal lives, track to net zero and nature positive, and ultimately and how we achieve circular economy.
Let’s unpack that a little.
IoT data smartness has two key aspects:
♦ The digital world where we use IoT to translate and bridge real world features into data, process the data and act on it for effect back in the real world
♦ The physical and real world where we apply data smartness, for example, to improve business operations, safety, yield, customer interaction, inform and drive net zero transition
As the collection of IoT data continues to increase dramatically along with the use of AI and automated outcomes, it becomes more critical that the data we use be trusted. That requires us to be smart about how we use IoT technologies to deliver trusted data (i.e. data that is secure, reliable, accurate and used responsibly). Doing that requires real
work that moves beyond technology and extends into scalable operations, resilience and good governance.
Data smartness requires trusted IoT data across:
♦ The digital technologies that collect, connect, store, process and automate data use. These include IoT, AI, cloud, connectivity and block chain
♦ The practices, tools and benchmarks needed to enable and promote confidence in reliable data delivery, relevance and trustworthiness (e.g. ratings, labels, guidelines and standards)
♦ Interoperability and sharing between systems and between companies, sectors and government to streamline operations, unlock data value and reduce cost of collection
Data smartness in the physical (non-digital) world requires us to think through:
♦ What data we need for operations, supply chains, climate adaptation etc. to inform, make decisions, streamline processes, activate responses and automate
♦ The reliability, safety, security and privacy aspects the data needs to have, as well as who we might need to share it with (e.g. down the supply chain, for scope three emissions data reporting)
♦ How we marry data insights and automation with legacy practices and make change for the better
THE IOT INDUSTRY MUST EVOLVE
Ultimately, data smartness drives us down a pathway where we use IoT data and digital technologies to understand and enable how we best use our constrained resources in a climate challenged world.
Gearing up the capacity and capability to employ mature IoT in a data smart world is a massive opportunity for the IoT and digital communities. If we seize this opportunity, the potential to make a positive impact on economies, communities and the planet is enormous. Is IoT dead? No; we just have to become data smart.
IoTAA is working to create a data smart Australia through trusted, accessible, automated data by focusing on three key areas to deliver the outcomes that matter most: sustainability, productivity and trusted technology and data. IoTAA promotes good practice, raises awareness and advocates for the responsible use of IoT.
Learn more about IoTAA at www.iot.org.au
Unlocking productivity with digital tech
By Dr Jonathan Spear, CEO, Infrastructure Victoria
Which digital technologies are most likely to increase infrastructure productivity? New research from Infrastructure Victoria might have the answer.
With productivity
lagging and tight government budgets, digital technologies can help deliver infrastructure smarter, faster and cheaper.
But choosing which technologies to use and where can be a challenge.
Government procurement can play a role in enabling wider use of digital technologies in infrastructure and give businesses the confidence to invest in the capabilities they need to grow.
Infrastructure Victoria’s recently commissioned research assesses which digital technologies, available now and already proven, are most likely to boost productivity ininfrastructure.
The Digital technology and infrastructure productivity report assessed 25 existing digital technologies and their potential to boost productivity across
government infrastructure in the near term.
This filter found five of the most promising technologies if widely used:
♦ Machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI)
♦ Robotics
♦ Advanced imaging
♦ Advanced data analytics
♦ Geospatial technologies
These technologies were then analysed using a test case to show their real life potential, possible broader applications across the sector, and an estimate of the cost savings of each.
The test cases (below) highlight the report’s main finding that adopting digital technologies more widely in the infrastructure sector can boost productivity, save money and help deliver projects faster and more safely.
Infrastructure Victoria is recommending the Victorian Government pilot digital technologies
on its infrastructure projects, use building information modelling on major projects, and promote greater use of digital technologies in projects through procurement.
MACHINE LEARNING AND AI
Applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to the design and delivery of Victorian schools and kindergartens could reduce cost overruns by an average of 2.5 per cent, the study finds. This amounts to avoided costs of around $20 million every year.
Machine learning and AI means computers learn from data without direct human programming. Large and complex data can be managed and analysed. These technologies can be used across projects, from generating and assessing design and project management options, automating decision-making such as in procurement, and managing assets. The technologies allow designers and project managers to
Digital technologies can unlock millions in productivity benefits.
quickly assess different scenarios and better manage on-site project challenges.
Applying machine learning and AI on all government infrastructure could deliver $374.6 million of benefits per year or $9.4 billion by 2055, the report finds.
Widescale adoption will depend on effective governance and regulation which also enables innovation and investment. Standards and regulations must be updated to encourage the responsible use of AI, data analytics and digital tools in infrastructure development and maintenance.
ROBOTS FOR INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Robotics have a variety of applications across the infrastructure sector including maintaining utilities assets, bridges, jetties, roads and buildings. They are currently being used to undertake repetitive and low value tasks, but more advanced applications can use robotics for tasks that are fully autonomous and more intricate.
Our report finds robotics for underground water maintenance
could extend the life of assets and reduce water leakage in underground pipelines by ten per cent. This can save money and ensures every drop of water is saved as the climate changes. More frequent inspections can improve performance and extend the life of water infrastructure. The analysis finds the use of robotic monitoring in the water sector can also reduce maintenance costs by 20 per cent.
Researchers from the University of Technology in Sydney, working in collaboration with Transport for NSW, developed a robot designed to inspect and clean bridge piles. The submersible pile inspection robots have claw arms that allow them to grasp a pile, conduct surface cleaning using high-pressure water jets, and use cameras and sensors with advanced algorithms to allow the robot to work autonomously.
The robots collect high-definition images of the cleaned pile and produce a 3D map of the structure to inform a human-led condition assessment. They perform underwater tasks which are usually done by divers who face a range of safety risks including low visibility, strong water currents and using high pressure water systems.
The high capital costs of robotics remain one of the main barriers to entry. These are compounded by a lack of understanding of the benefits of the technology and how it can be sourced and applied. The potential impact on jobs will need to be managed – displacing some but creating demand for new skilled jobs.
ADVANCED IMAGING FOR SUBSURFACE INSPECTIONS
Advanced imaging combined with ground-penetrating radar can be used to map infrastructure below the surface quickly and accurately. This helps reduce the potential for costly clashes with underground infrastructure. It can also find potential defects or maintenance needs earlier.
Our report finds advanced imaging with ground-penetrating radar could save around $41.5 million every year if applied across the Victorian infrastructure sector.
Ground-penetrating radar is a non-intrusive method of seeing below the ground’s surface to find underground utilities and other layers, such as pipes and cables, concrete and metals. The units are becoming smaller and easier to use. Compact units can now be towed behind cars and even smaller units mounted on or underneath vehicles.
Advanced imaging can be employed across engineering, medical imaging, astronomy, biology and physics to improve diagnostics and decision-making. It still at the early stages of deployment in Australia. As such, costs are still high and the equipment highly technical. But is has the potential to deliver substantial productivity gains across the sector. These gains are amplified when combined with other technologies.
BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING
Building information modelling (BIM) can reduce project delivery times and costs and improve resource efficiency. It uses advanced data analytics to create 3D digital models and is widely available.
The technology has many potential applications across the infrastructure sector. For example, experience from Norway has found that drawingless construction of roads using BIM can reduce average cost overruns by around 15 per cent.
The Randselva Bridge, also in Norway, is the world’s longest bridge designed and built without drawings. Five teams across five countries collaborated on the project. The detailed design was done through a single model, with all foundations, four pier piles, 200,000 rebars
Jonathan Spear.
and 250 post-tensioning cables. Adjustments were made directly through the model, ending the need for manual drafting and allowing more efficient testing.
Our report finds use of building information modelling technology could save more than $76 million every year on the cost of building public housing. This figure is based on an estimate that full adoption of BIM can save around seven per cent project costs on residential housing.
AI-POWERED GEOSPATIAL HAZARD MANAGEMENT
Geospatial technologies, combined with AI-enabled predictive analytics and earth observation monitoring, have many potential uses including land use management, emergency management, construction, and transport.
For example, an Australian company based in Queensland has developed an AI-powered geospatial intelligence platform that quickly
imagery with on-ground camera sensors for near immediate threat identification. Pixels showing heat are used to confirm smoke.
Access to earth observation technology and satellite infrastructure, combined with advanced data analytics, is increasing the precision, timeliness and processing power of geospatial technologies. Continuing the development of geospatial and communities.
Geospatial information systems, positioning technology and satellite imagery are evolving to incorporate 3D 4D and GeoAI. Each of these components allows for faster and more accessible spatial analysis.
To read the full report visit infrastructurevictoria.com. au/resources/digital
Machine learning and AI can help manage on-site project challenges.
Building digital defences
CSIRO and Google are embarking on a new research partnership to tackle vulnerabilities in Australia’s critical infrastructure operators’ supply chains.
Digital transformation continues to reshape every corner of Australia’s critical infrastructure (CI), from utilities and hospitals to roads and railway systems. As part of this shift, many systems have become reliant on open source software, which introduces significant security challenges.
In August 2024, CSIRO and Google announced a new collaboration focused on helping Australian CI operators meet critical obligations around software supply chain security, including those in the amended Security of Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act and the 2023 — 2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy
The partnership forms part of Google’s Digital Future Initiative and CSRIO’s Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience mission. Launched in 2021, Google’s Digital Future Initiative is $1 billion investment in Australian infrastructure, research and partnerships to build a stronger digital future for Australia.
Google Cloud Security Practice Lead, Stefan Avgoustakis, said given their shared focus, partnering with CSIRO was an obvious fit.
“As a company, Google has always been very focused on open source software. It's built into our DNA.
“What we see more and more is that open source software is pervasive across all sectors, and we’re really looking at how we can support that. How can we secure that supply chain of software into those organisations?
“We’re seeing a lot of activity around critical infrastructure operators needing to meet critical obligations around software and supply chain security.”
CSIRO Project Lead, Dr Ejaz Ahmed, said vulnerabilities related to open source software are a major problem currently facing Australia’s CI operators.
“Open source software has many vulnerabilities that can be exploited,” Dr Ahmed said.
“This presents a bigger challenge for how we can use existing data on those vulnerabilities to strengthen the security of CI to ensure operational and control environments do not contain any open source vulnerabilities.”
EMERGING RISKS
While open source is transforming the way companies build and deploy technology, it also introduces new cybersecurity challenges.
“As open source software becomes more pervasive, there’s this cascading effect where potential vulnerabilities become increasingly important,” Mr Avgoustakis said.
Exploitation of vulnerabilities in CI can have dangerous consequences. For example, if attackers were to exploit rail signalling systems, it could cause major disruptions. There’s also the potential for an attacker to divert a train from one track to another, which could resul in a fatal accident.
CSIRO and Google's partnership aims to provide CI organisations, such as transport operators, with a clearer understanding of their security posture to address these risks.
KEY OBJECTIVES
CSIRO is working with the Google Open Source Security Team and Google Cloud to create AI-powered tools for automated vulnerability scanning and data protocols. These tools will be able to quickly identify and assess the impact of open source vulnerabilities on Australian CI operators’ software supply chains. Using existing resources including Google’s OSV database, they will harness the latest intelligence on vulnerabilities. CSIRO’s applied research, including methods to test for responsible AI usage and tools for analysing software packages, will help to ensure recommendations directly
address Australia's local regulatory and operating context.
“When we were designing this project, we came up with three main objectives,” Dr Ahmed said.
“The first is to develop AI-based technologies to enhance vulnerability information so stakeholders can act effectively and make informed decisions.
“For that purpose, we are using AI, and Google has provided good infrastructure for us to use.
“The second deliverable is how we prioritise vulnerabilities. If there are hundreds of vulnerabilities emerging, how do you identify the one that poses the biggest threat.
“The third is the development of a reference architecture and checklist specifically for CI operators in Australia to help them better understand their security posture and how any problems can be addressed.”
CSIRO and Google will design a secure framework that gives Australian CI operators clear guidance on how to meet current requirements, as well as establishing a baseline for future standards. The framework will build upon Google's Supplychain Levels for Software Artifacts framework, with insight from CSIRO’s Australian industry practices.
“There’s very little information out there that tells organisations why they need to implement the right practices,” Mr Avgoustakis said.
“We want to bring together a set of good practices from across the industry and government, both in Australia and overseas.
“We have a set of tools that exist, but we want to make them better.
“At the end of the day, from a Google perspective, we want to make an impact. We want to create a safer, more resilient, digital future for Australia.”
To help ensure the partnership has an impact on critical infrastructure sectors, all project findings will be made publicly available.
The changing cyber landscape
By James Baker, First Assistant Director-General Cyber Threat Intelligence, Australian Signals Directorate
Hackers are evolving, and cyber defence must change to keep pace with emerging threats.
From ransomware threats to large-scale data breaches, most Australians are now unfortunately aware that the cybersecurity landscape is becoming increasingly perilous, particularly as our world grows ever more connected.
Nowhere is this danger more acute than in the critical infrastructure networks that underpin so much of daily life. While such systems drive sectors like energy, health, water, telecommunications and transport, they are increasingly vulnerable to malicious cyber attackers who are constantly evolving their tradecraft and techniques.
These systems often rely on networks and computer systems built years ago, before many of these cyber security threats were even conceptualised.
Yet now we face a deteriorating geopolitical environment and global conflicts which are driving a highlycontested online environment, and critical infrastructure networks have moved from the fringe to a more central focus.
The last 18 months have seen a rise in global cyber threats aimed at disrupting the technology that keeps these critical networks running. This is expected to continue. The sheer volume of traffic and the more integrated nature of the internet, including in operational technology and industrial control systems, has created significant risk and vulnerability.
We continue to see serious incidents caused by a lack of cyber security awareness and hygiene, like failing to quickly patch vulnerable software or implement appropriate
identity and access policies for vital systems.
That is why the uplift of cyber security across Australia’s critical infrastructure and systems of national significance is a priority for the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD).
Already we have seen malicious cyber actors revising their tactics to avoid regular defences by using legitimate tools and genuine accounts within a network to mimic regular system and network activity, in techniques known as Living-Off-The-Land.
Earlier this year, US cybersecurity officials warned about malicious cyber actors that were compromising and gaining persistent access to US critical infrastructure for the purposes of future disruption.
Australian critical networks could also be vulnerable to similar intrusions. Any network connected to critical infrastructure systems could be a target.
Unfortunately, cybercriminals and hacktivists also continue to remain an ongoing and persistent threat. Ransomware and data theft extortion impose a perverse, costly and highly disruptive threat to businesses and individuals.
The shift in actor techniques and intent poses significant challenges for traditional cyber security approaches and requires a mindset shift in our defensive posture. No longer are we looking for the known bad, but instead, we are searching for a needle in a haystack of ‘usual’ behaviours. COVID had a significant impact on how businesses operated. In order to access and maintain networks, technology was quickly implemented to enable remote work, including in
critical infrastructure organisations, and in some cases direct connectivity to critical infrastructure assets. This has given those malicious cyber actors more opportunity to find weaknesses and get a foothold in our networks.
We have seen a number of vulnerabilities in edge devices –the exact technology that enables remote connectivity – and malicious actors weaponising these at record pace. It is imperative that operators understand their networks and prioritise protecting the most critical assets.
One of the roles of the ASD’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) is to identify and disrupt malicious cyber activity targeting Australia. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive national threat picture that informs technical advice and assistance to make Australia the most secure place to connect online.
In many cases, we leverage our unique capabilities and relationships to proactively notify organisations of potential targeting of their networks. However, the majority of the networks providing critical services are privately owned and run on technology, software and services developed and operated by the private sector. The insights
James Baker.
Cybercriminals remain an ongoing and persistent threat. Image:
and intelligence that enables ASD’s ACSC to warn others and help thwart attacks early also comes from industry and our partnerships.
A more resilient cyber landscape demands we work more closely in partnership, supporting each other across both business and government.
Our greatest defence is our ability to work together to defend against the cyber threats before us. ASD can offer intelligence, advice andassistance.
We need a coalition of willing and able partners to work tirelessly to make Australia's most sensitive and critical digital infrastructure resilient to intrusion, theft and disruption.
There are steps critical infrastructure entities should be taking to help defend themselves.
Take the time to map and prioritise the defence of your network (i.e. patch those edge devices exposed to the internet as quickly as possible).
Ensure your board understands the consequence and impact of different cyber threats, and is able to prioritise management of those risks. Also crucial is a well-rehearsed incident response plan, so when,
not if, an incident does occur, the organisation is able to quickly identify, contain and remediate the threat.
Enhancing the visibility of your network and building detection processes for relevant threats, like Living-Off-The-Land techniques, can also help an organisation identify and mitigate threats early.
Applying strong cyber security practices can help, like ensuring strong multifactor authentication and adopting secure-by-design principles to your supply chain by procuring trusted and verifiable technologies.
ASD is here to help. We provide guidance on hardening and protecting information systems, including systems used by critical infrastructure. We can offer technical assistance, from sharing threat intelligence to preparing and exercising a full-scale cyber incident response.
The ASD Partnerships Program helps organisations to engage with ASD and other partners, drawing on collective understanding, experience, skills and capability to lift cyber resilience across the Australian economy.
Our Cyber Threat Intelligence Sharing (CTIS) Platform, which partners can opt to sign up to, shares indicatorsof-compromise in real time, within a growing community of Australian government and industry partners.
Meanwhile, CI-UP, our Critical Infrastructure Uplift Program, is a voluntary and nationwide program which focuses on hardening against attack pathways on CI assets and operational technology (OT) environments.
Incidents can be reported via ReportCyber on cyber.gov.au, or the Australian Cyber Security Hotline on 1300CYBER1, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
We publish alerts, technical advice, advisories and notifications on significant cyber security threats at cyber.gov.au.
Strong and strategic operational alliances between government and industry, a cycle of reporting and defending, is our best chance to protect ourselves and the nation. In the cyber threat environment we face, we cannot do this alone – cyber security is everyone’s responsibility.
Soaring ahead
By Simon Westaway, CEO, Australian Airports Association
As Australia’s aviation sector emerges from a challenging period, Australian Airports Association CEO Simon Westaway reflects on the bright future of the nation’s airports.
The Australian aviation sector has rebounded strongly from the major black swan event and collective adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
I believe it is a point worth reinforcing because our industry was staring at a metaphoric abyss almost five years ago.
In the immediate post-COVID period, Australia’s aviation market was amongst the slowest to recover globally, despite its past scale and importance to our national economy and communities.
But the wheels have now turned.
On passenger volumes we’re nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, particularly for domestic flying.
In parallel, the bounce back in outbound travel by many Australians mirrors pre-virus levels based on data and all those social media celebratory feeds.
Only the lag in inbound international visitors returning to our shores, still 16 per cent below previous levels, stands out as the point of distinction and some consternation.
As we put the COVID-19 response well behind us, Australian airports are looking to the future.
Infrastructure spending has been significantly stepped up at airfields across the country to meet both current demands and future-proof facilities for a more resilient, sustainable and passengerfriendly experience.
From now to 2032, around $20 billion will be spent on infrastructure projects to upgrade, expand or construct airports across the
country, including the exciting completion of Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).
At the Australian Airports Association, our airport members across all corners of the nation are particularly focused on increasing their overall operational capacity.
Brisbane Airport is preparing to welcome a booming population, with 60 million passengers a year expected by 2050.
To cater for this growth, it is investing $5 billion in 150 projects as part of the Future BNE program, including a third passenger terminal to be completed by the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
It also includes next-generation security upgrades in the domestic and international terminals, to be completed next year, as the airport celebrates 100 years of service.
Melbourne Airport’s current runway system has become increasingly constrained as the international city grows to Australia’s largest by population in this decade.
It is why its recent Federal Government approval to build a crucial third runway, scheduled to be operational in 2030, has been widely welcomed.
Our airports are also working collaboratively with airline partners by aligning the shared goals of enhancing operational efficiency and maximising growth potential.
A shining example is the historic $5 billion deal between Perth Airport and Qantas to expand capacity over a 12-year agreement.
Perth Airport will invest around $3 billion in consolidated terminal facilities and a new parallel runway.
Through this agreement, Perth Airport is looking to capitalise on its geographical advantage for ultralong-haul travel direct to Europe in collaboration with Qantas’ strategic plans, whilst providing an innovative boost to Australia’s visitor economy.
Adelaide Airport has initiated a five-year, $1 billion capital investment program, including $600 million for major aeronautical projects at the airport.
Australian airports are focused on improving the passenger experience, both on and off site.
Still our largest gateway, Sydney Airport has advocated and worked closely with the NSW Government for the $2.6 billion Sydney Gateway, a new toll-free connection that
Simon Westaway.
Australia’s airport passenger volumes are nearly back to pre-pandemic levels.
opened in September to reduce congestion and save time getting to the domestic terminals.
While airports are investing in significant transformation to meet future growth, the Australian Government is also facilitating the entry of new air gateways.
WSI is of course nearing completion. Set to open in 2026, it will cater for the increased aviation demand in Sydney that’s set to double in the next 20 years.
The airport will serve as a hub for Western Sydney residents, while also providing a boost to the nation’s supply chains.
40 per cent of current passengers travel through an Australian regional airport in their domestic journey
and considerable infrastructure upgrades are underway in our regions.
Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal is expected to open by mid-2025, delivering a world of opportunity for residents across the greater Hunter Region and beyond.
Hobart Airport has commenced its $200 million terminal upgrade along with improvements on its runway, while Cairns and Mackay Airports are set to benefit from $155 million in government-loaned funding for extensive upgrades.
For remote communities, the local airstrip is a lifeline and upgrades are keeping residents connected thanks to Federal Government funding.
21 projects were approved in the latest round of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program, including works to weather-proof, re-seal and improve runways.
We’ll also see more projects begin after round four of the Regional Airports Program, with individual grants up to $7.5 million.
By bringing innovative ideas to the table, Australia’s airports are continuing to expand and provide the gateway to growth for the nation’s economy.
Through infrastructure upgrades, technological revamps, customer-centric initiatives, and decarbonisation efforts, they are positioning themselves to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Images: Australian Airports Association
Aeromedical arrival
Brisbane Airport’s new Aeromedical Precinct is set to transform emergency medical services, ensuring faster response times and better health outcomes for remote and regional communities.
Australia’s vast landscape presents significant challenges in ensuring everyone has access to high-quality healthcare and emergency services. People living in rural areas of the country often have lower access to health services and poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts. As a result, aeromedical services become essential in bridging this gap.
By providing rapid transport for patients in emergencies, these services ensure timely access to
In Queensland, thousands of patients move through Brisbane Airport each year. As the state’s population grows, a new hub at the airport will play a key role in ensuring those in hard-to-reach areas can get the care they need.
Brisbane Airport is delivering the $217 million Aeromedical Precinct in partnership with the Queensland Government. Once complete, the precinct will have the capacity for 26 aircraft and include 18,700 square meters of hangar and headquarter s space, along with 17,800 square
project will significantly enhance the level of care for Queenslanders needing urgent treatment in Brisbane.
“The population growth of Queensland and growth in regional communities gives rise to an increasing need for specialist and emergency health care.
“The state-of-the-art Aeromedical Precinct will provide the opportunity to connect regional Queenslanders with the top-class medical facilities in Brisbane.”
JOINING FORCES
The Aeromedical Precinct is the largest multi-tenanted property built by Brisbane Airport. Located between its twin parallel runways, it will consolidate emergency services that are currently located kilometres apart. This will lead to better response times and help foster collaboration among teams.
“Currently, RFDS, LifeFlight and other emergency agencies are spread across Brisbane Airport,” Mr de Graaff said.
“The Aeromedical Precinct will bring them together in one location, centrally located between our two runways, so they can quickly get
The Aeromedical Precinct will be the largest multi-tenanted property built by Brisbane Airport.
Around 18 patients are flown in and out of Brisbane Airport every day.
into the air. Not only will these lifesavers work together, but they’ll also learn from each other."
There are four interdependent but related tenants, including two government organisations and two non-government organisations.
These are:
♦ The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)
♦ LifeFlight
♦ Queensland Police Services
Aviation Capability Group
♦ Retrieval Services Queensland
The new facility will integrate and collate patient aeromedical retrieval and transport, as well as clinical and logistic coordination, including statewide telehealth clinical and education support to rural and remote hospitals.
It will also feature:
♦ Hangars for fixed and rotarywing aircraft
♦ Administration areas for managing operations
♦ A medical base for regional patient and donor transfers
“Brisbane Airport provides a vital 24/7 connection for Queenslanders in regional, country and remote communities who need critical care,” Mr de Graaff said.
“The Aeromedical Precinct will strengthen the current network of aeromedical bases throughout Queensland and
deliver long-term serviceability and capacity improvements.
“This will result in improved connectivity to the major hospitals throughout the State, ensuring Queenslanders – particularly located in regional or remote areas – receive effective medical treatment as quickly as possible.”
Around 18 patients are flown in and out of Brisbane Airport every day, highlighting the critical role these services play in supporting better health outcomes. Throughout the 2024 financial year, the Royal Flying Doctor Service flew 4,611 patients to Brisbane Airport. LifeFlight’s Air Ambulance jets airlifted 528 people, and its helicopters helped 552 people.
At the core of the Aeromedical Precinct will be a new transfer patient facility that will care for people transitioning between aircraft and road ambulances.
STRIVING FOR SUSTAINABILITY
The project is following a 5 Star Green Star pathway for the four tenanted buildings, aiming for the Australian Excellence accreditation. Part of this process includes a focus on the below areas:
♦ Amenity and comfort – creating space that caters to diverse needs and promotes inclusivity
♦ Social procurement strategy – the integration of social value into the
buildings, creating more inclusive and equitable opportunities within the construction process
♦ Responsible procurement – the use of products and materials that have a lower environmental impact
♦ Energy Source exceptional performance – the incorporation of on-site renewable energy systems
♦ Responsible finishes – using building finishes that meet high standards of environmental and social responsibility
During the project's construction phase, 150 people will be employed on-site, and more than 400 people will work at the precinct once it is operational.
ADCO Constructions is the contractor selected to carry out the works and aims to complete the project in Q1 2027.
Mr de Graaff said there is nothing like the scale of the future Aeromedical Precinct anywhere in the world.
“This is a groundbreaking project that will significantly enhance the level of care for Queenslanders needing urgent treatment in Brisbane.
“The project is a state-led initiative that focuses on long-term communitywellbeing.
“There is a highly dedicated team across all the involved stakeholders to deliver each significant milestone of this state-of-the-art precinct.”
A new transfer patient facility will care for people moving between aircraft and road ambulances.
Images:
The final descent
With the majority of construction now complete, Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is on track to commence operations in late-2026.
Building Australia’s first international greenfield airport in more than fifty years is no small feat.
Infrastructure sat down with Western Sydney International (WSI) CEO, Simon Hickey, for an update on this monumental project and the impact its already having on the region.
“This is one of the biggest and most complex infrastructure projects being undertaken in Australia,” Mr Hickey said.
“And construction is now more than 80 per cent complete, with major works to conclude in the first half of next year.”
disruptions, including COVID19 shutdowns, bushfires that came up to the fence line and drainage systems overtaken by floods. With the help of its delivery partner, Bechtel, WSI has been able to progress safely, with the project remaining on time to open in late 2026.
Multiplex, CPB ACCIONA Joint Venture, AeroWest Joint Venture, and DXC Technology are the four major works contractors engaged for the project.
we understand who’s responsible for what.
“Having four major works contractors also created that competitive tension and best-in-class across the site, which has helped maintain our momentum.”
OVERHEAD
“A key challenge for us was integrating those packages, which has gone really well,” Mr Hickey said.
Over the course of the multi-year program, there have been numerous
“We’ve kept open lines of communication across all the contractors and worked to ensure
In July, the completion of the airport’s terminal roof — more than 25m off the ground at its highest point — marked a major milestone for the project. As one of the largest roofing contracts in Australia, the project needed to be handled with care and precision.
“The roof consists of ten layers, including a structural liner and top roof sheet made from BlueScope
WSI is on track to open in 2026.
Images: Western Sydney Airport
COLORBOND® steel coils, produced in Port Kembla and painted in Western Sydney,” Mr Hickey said.
“This material was then passed through custom roll-forming machines on site, creating roof sheets up to 75m long.
“Joined together, they are the largest of their kind ever produced and craned onto a roof in Australia.”
40km of Australian-made steel purlins and more than 3,500 tonnes of steelwork used to support the terminal roof were primarily fabricated between Adelaide, Whyalla, Tamworth and Orange.
As a custom design, the project created an opportunity for upskilling. Even experienced roofers participated in weeks of specialised training to master the installation.
Lead roof contractor, Red 8, provided the labour force required for the project, including ten apprentices. Approximately two-thirds of their team came from Western Sydney.
A further 30 engineers, architects and specialist consultants
were involved in developing and monitoring the design and construction.
“It’s a good example of where we used the best of Western Sydney, the best of technology, in order to deliver something unique,” Mr Hickey said.
GREEN SLATE
“Building a new greenfield airport means that we’re ready for the challenges of tomorrow as well as today,” Mr Hickey said.
“This means building in efficiency and effectiveness throughout the airport. Sustainability begins well before the first shovel hits the ground.”
WSI’s roof structure is a prime example of this approach. At the main entry to the terminal is an expansive veranda space, supported by eight 15m-tall concrete columns. These columns, reinforced with internal hollow steel sections, cleverly conceal downpipes that collect rainfall for the almost two hectares of roofing. This rainfall can then be
recycled for use in airport operations like bathroom facilities, irrigation and cooling towers.
Sustainability and effective water management has also been a focus throughout the construction process. Around 98 per cent of the water used for WSI’s earthworks packages was recycled water captured on site. Approximately 5.5 million tons of recycled crust sandstone from the Sydney Metro and WestConnex projects was repurposed for the base layer of the 3.7km airport runway. WSI has also committed to planting more than 2,500 trees and grasses from the Cumberland plains into its 117 hectares of land designated as Environmental Conservation Zones, with the help of the local community, schools and Rotary clubs.
As a brand new airport, WSI can incorporate the latest innovations in aviation from the ground up, taking inspiration from Australia and overseas.
“We looked at some of the best airports around the world and cherry picked what we thought were the best parts of those,” Mr Hickey said.
WSI will be the second airport in Australia to have a digital aerodrome instead of a traditional control tower, following Canberra.
“We’re also implementing a CATIIIB landing system,” Mr Hickey said.
“Currently the only other airport in Australia with a CATIIIB system is Melbourne Airport. With CATIIIB, aircraft can land and take off in fog and all weather conditions.
“As we move forward, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a key initiative of the aviation sector, and we will be capable of delivering SAF to aircraft from day one of operations.” WSI’s airfield is also designed for efficiency with rapid exit taxiways, which will see average taxi times of around five minutes, helping airlines save fuel.
SEAMLESS JOURNEY
Another recent trend in aviation is making it easier, faster and less stressful for passengers going through airports. From advanced tote-based baggage systems to smart aero bridges that adjust automatically to the height of the aircraft, WSI has put a strong
focus on creating a hassle-free travel experience.
“Moving through an airport is an inherently stressful ordeal,” Mr Hickey said.
“Finding ways to achieve the best efficiency, effectiveness and ease of use for our passengers moving through the airport was a top priority.”
WSI’s international and domestic terminals are integrated under one roof, creating faster connection times for travellers. The terminal design incorporates an abundance of natural light, which plays a significant role in reducing passenger stress. Swing gates have been implemented throughout the terminal to enhance efficiency and productivity during different travel peak times across international and domestic services. Multiple self-service options are designed to cater to the growing number of
passengers who prefer to check in online.
But a smooth travel experience relies on much more than what happens inside the terminal.
“It's really important when you're an airport, that you have connectivity, not just in terms of flights or airlines,” Mr Hickey said.
“We’ll be the first airport in Australia to have a metro from day one. There’s also the new toll-free motorway, the M12, which connects to the M7, helping bring people to and from the airport in a seamless way.”
These crucial transport links, being delivered by the New South Wales Government, will not only improve connectivity but also support job growth in the region.
Mr Hickey said these were examples of how the airport has been a positive catalyst for these investments and changes in and around the community.
LOCAL CONNECTIONS
Western Sydney is home to about two and half million people, making it the third largest catchment for an airport in Australia. By the early 2030s, that number is expected to rise to approximately three million.
“We’re really proud to be here in Western Sydney,” Mr Hickey said.
“We’ve spent about $500 million with Western Sydney businesses to date and have worked with businesses small and large to bring the airport to life.”
Take, for example, the self-service check-in and bag drop hardware. This was produced by Micron Manufacturing in Blacktown, employing about 30 locals to manufacture the kiosks. Steel used for fencing and concrete reinforcements on the airside package was sourced from Horsley Park, Windsor and Victoria. The aluminium panels, a defining feature of the terminal ceiling,
Aerobridge at Western Sydney International.
were manufactured in Moorebank. Work on the terminal ceiling, which resembles the Blue Mountains, is now being finalised, as WSI readies itself for opening in 2026.
“There's about 30 other structures that we're putting together across the rest of the site, so there’s plenty more milestones ahead,” Mr Hickey said.
SAFE LANDING
Safety has remained a top priority throughout the construction of Western Sydney International, underscored by a strong safety performance across the 2024 financial year.
“I think one of the reasons we’ve remained on time and productive is our relentless focus on safety, and that's a key differentiator of this project,” Mr Hickey said.
“We had a year-end Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate of 2.6, which is well below industry benchmarks.
“As for proactive safety activities, more than 13,500 safety lead indicator activities were undertaken across all of the airport’s development packages over the course of FY24.”
“An ongoing emphasis on visible leadership, cultural alignment, and active engagement with our main contractors will be essential moving forward to ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved in this project.”
Once major construction wraps up next year, WSI will move into a lengthy testing and commissioning phase across the entire project.
“We’ll stress test the entire airport, making sure that all systems are working together, so that we're ready to go when we open in 2026.”
This included 10,600 workplace monitoring activities, 2,316 workforce engagement activities and 587 safety leadership walks.
WSI will be the second airport in Australia to have a digital aerodrome.
Committing to carbon neutrality
Development Victoria is setting new standards for sustainable construction and deconstruction, driven by its goal of achieving carbon neutrality for all projects by 2030.
From the Docklands precinct to the Melbourne Arts Precinct, Development
Victoria continues to help evolve and redefine the state’s urban landscapes. But the organisation is also contributing to transforming how the construction industry approaches sustainability.
In response to the Victorian Climate Change Act 2017, which sets out the state’s target to achieve net zero by 2045, Development Victoria has established its own target of achieving carbon neutrality across all its projects by 2030.
The organisation’s ambitious goal encompasses all scopes of carbon emissions, focusing on proactive collaboration with contractors and suppliers throughout the delivery chain.
Development Victoria Sustainability Director, Clare Parry, said, “We have a fairly holistic sustainability strategy, and one of the things we're addressing is complete resilience of our projects, including climate, but carbon as well.
"We're working really hard to attack that from every angle and collaborating with all of our partners throughout the delivery cycle. It means that everybody in that delivery chain needs to work hard to reduce the carbon footprint, and we need to work quite proactively with our contractors and our suppliers.”
Ms Parry said considering the “whole-of-life” of a project is an important aspect of achieving this goal.
“It's about designing for lowcarbon outcomes, ensuring our communities can live in a lowcarbon way once these projects are delivered.”
PROJECTS LEADING THE WAY
Central Pier
The removal of Central Pier from Victoria Harbour is a key step in plans to revitalise the waterfront in the heart of Docklands and sustainability has been a key consideration in the removal process.
Works are well underway to safely remove the pier, with resource recovery top of mind.
Development Victoria has achieved over 80 per cent resource recovery throughout deconstruction efforts.
“We've recovered 10,000 tonnes of materials so far, including steel, concrete, bricks, timber, e-waste,” Ms Parry said.
“That has gone back into projects and products being manufactured and built locally as well.
“We’re really proud of those circular economy outcomes and the fact that those materials are being reused locally.”
Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation
Backed by a $1.7 billion investment from the Victorian Government, this project will see the establishment of a new cultural hub, featuring a contemporary art gallery and public parklands.
Development Victoria is delivering the project on behalf of on behalf of the Victorian Government through Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation (MAP Co), in partnership with Arts Centre Melbourne, National Gallery of Victoria and Creative Victoria. As part of this, the former Carlton & United Breweries building has been deconstructed to make way for the new gallery. Over 95 per cent of the non-hazardous materials from the deconstructed building have been recycled.
Development Victoria has also partnered with Revival, who is removing some of the timber from trees on the site and exploring ways to repurpose it, including in projects being built at the precinct.
Image: Development Victoria
Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation deconstruction works.
“Revival is a small business doing something really innovative,” Ms Parry said.
“For us to invest in that, it's not necessarily a complex thing. It's just not business as usual.
“We’re saving probably what was a modest amount of timber going to become wood chips. However, when you look at it on a larger scale, trees get removed from hundreds and hundreds of projects each year or even month.
“What that means for resource recovery is pretty important.”
Development Victoria has also taken materials from the deconstruction works and put them to use on their own projects. This includes using old lift cables in the Werribee Open Range Zoo elephant enclosures.
ENCOURAGING INNOVATION
When it comes to striving to achieve carbon neutrality, Ms Parry said Development Victoria is proactive at encouraging innovation and investing in new practical technologies.
“One example is at soccer facilities we delivered at Powerful Owl Park in Bulleen where we used a Victorianfirst solution for the infill on top of the synthetic turf pitch. This involved using natural wood particles instead of a rubber microplastic infill that usually leach into the stormwater and end up in our water systems.
“Transitioning from synthetic to natural material meant we reduced the huge amount of plastic that would otherwise have sat under that turf.”
Development Victoria is now looking at how it might adopt the technology in other sports precincts that it’s developing.
Additionally, the organisation is exploring the use of mass timber as a sustainable alternative to concrete in construction, which has demonstrated a reduction in carbon emissions by 30 to 50 per cent in some projects.
“Many of the strategies that we're employing aren't necessarily highly technical, but they are rational product substitutions or design methodologies to achieve carbon reduction,” Ms Parry said.
Development Victoria is reducing the need for new raw materials, helping conserve resources. But implementing a circularly economy approach to construction has been challenging at a local and national scale.
“As you move down the supply chain, the businesses that we’re working with across these projects are smaller and smaller,” Ms Parry said.
“They need the support of project doing something a little different to boost circular economy outcomes.
“It’s been a bit of a fringe area, but I think it's getting a lot more focused now,” Ms Parry said.
Some other local businesses that have played a crucial role in Development Victoria’s strategy include:
♦ Delta Recycling in Sunshine has taken concrete and brick waste and transformed it into valuable construction materials and road bases
♦ InfraBuild has recycled steel waste from Central Pier to produce various steel products used in construction and manufacturing
♦ Jaks Timber has found creative ways to repurpose high-quality wood into new products like furniture and flooring
MEASURING PROGRESS
To ensure accountability across its organisation, Development Victoria has mandated carbon accounting for all new projects.
“Any new project that comes into the organisation must do carbon accounting from early design, and we’re retrospectively estimating
carbon impacts from projects that are
“It aligns with the expectations across the sector to measure carbon, but also the State Government’s expectations that are emerging in business cases and will play out further moving forward,” Ms Parry said.
Carbon accounting is emerging as a key priority across the whole construction sector, but there are still challenges around the cost of delivering carbon reduction, the availability of products and the integrity of the data.
With varying inputs and standards involved in establishing the carbon impacts of products around the world, knowing whether the data attached to a product is accurate or what it does include can be quite complicated.
“That doesn’t mean we can’t start acting and estimating our carbon impacts,” Ms Parry said.
“We need a pretty colossal shift, but it is underway, and there's sector organisations and the Green Building Council and the government, both state and federally, who are putting in place new expectations.
“The main challenge is that we need to continue to prioritise sustainability and resilience, even in the face of the pressures around delivery that we're seeing.”
Development Victoria will continue to take a holistic approach to sustainability.
“We’re focused on making sure that carbon is part of a broader remit around delivering resilience for our communities and for the state of Victoria.”
Wood chipping on site at Central Pier.
Making SENSE of sustainable design
As the construction industry makes headway towards a decarbonised future, lowering Scope 3 emissions requires e ectively managing the embodied carbon in modern construction materials.
With engineers facing increasing pressure to incorporate sustainable practices into design concepts - the challenge of specifying materials that not only meet sustainability objectives, but also simplify the regulatory process is complex.
Steel, as a core material in modern constructions, is now providing significant advancements in this space through the introduction of SENSE Solutions® by InfraBuild. In its ambition to support decarbonising the construction industry, SENSE Solutions® has married sustainable product design with steel innovation to help reduce the carbon emission of new constructions.
This is demonstrated in its flagship product – SENSE 600® –which delivers up to a 39 per cent reduction in embodied carbon compared to their standard 500N reinforcing bars, via a higher strength and innovative bar design, that complies with Australian Standards and is additionally supported through CodeMark Certificates of Conformity.
TIME SAVING ADVANTAGES
The National Construction Code (NCC) sets out the minimum standards for safety, health and sustainability in buildings across the country, ensuring every material and method used in all designs is compliant. All buildings must meet the performance requirements set out in the NCC, which is typically achieved by designing to an Australian Standard. However, not
all design aspects of an innovative product are covered in the scope of an Australian Standard. This can be due to several reasons, one of which is the lengthy process required to produce and publish an Australian Standard.
CodeMark certificates are available to fill the gaps in the Australian Standards relating to the design of the SENSE 600® range of products. InfraBuild have undertaken the time
SENSE 600® marries sustainable product design with steel innovation.
Images: InfraBuild
The NCC sets out the minimum standards for sustainability in buildings.
consuming and labour-intensive process of producing performance solutions for the CodeMark Certificates of Conformity to be awarded to the SENSE 600® products. The CodeMark certificate on a product provides a simple Deemed-To-Satisfy Solution for the construction industry to follow that ensures the product complies with the NCC.
This means each SENSE Solutions® product in the range with CodeMark certification is just as easy to design as the standard 500 MPa
“CodeMark certificates allow engineers tasked with implementing sustainable practices across all aspects of design, to use products such as SENSE 600® knowing InfraBuild have already done the heavy lifting for engineers on the compliance front. The CodeMark certificates makes navigating the regulatory process simple.”
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS FOR ENGINEERS
The CodeMark certificationadministered by the Australian
standards, including those outlined in the BCA (Volumes 1 and 2).
For engineers, SENSE 600®’s compliance with Australian Building Standards and its CodeMark certification provides clear guidelines on how the product can be used in structural design with two certificates of note:
Certificate No. 301354 for Longitudinal Column Reinforcement
This certificate covers SENSE 600®’s use as longitudinal bars in reinforced concrete columns, ensuring it has the same load capacity as traditional 500 MPa bars but with a lower environmentalimpact.
Certificate No. 30136 for Column Fitments
This certificate allows SENSE 600® when used as fitments in reinforced concrete columns, to be directly substituted for its equivalent load capacity 500 MPa bar. The certification simplifies the design process by eliminating the need for additional calculations, ensuring compliance with the NCC.
“Design using a CodeMark certificate is no different to design using an Australian Standard, it is no more difficult and it is recognised by the Australian Building Codes Board as equivalent and therefore compliant with the NCC,” Mr Ng said.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO CODEMARK SUSTAINABLE STEEL
As our industry continues to evolve, the ability to deliver sustainable, compliant and cost-effective projects will be critical to success. For engineers committed to sustainability, efficiency and excellence, SENSE 600® presents a promising opportunity.
By integrating SENSE 600® into their designs, engineers can efficiently achieve significant reductions in embodied carbon, streamline compliance processes, all while delivering high-quality, sustainable projects. This is a promising step forward for an industry where precision and compliance are critical, making SENSE 600® an essential asset for any future-focused engineer.
CodeMark certificates simplify the regulatory process.
Smart tech making Sydney’s roads safer
Driverless vehicles are communicating with tra c lights as part of an intelligent transport trial that is set to improve tra c e ciency and road safety in New South Wales.
An intelligent transport systems (ITS) trial taking place on Sydney’s busy streets is utilising SCATS Cit-e, a software solution which provides vehicle-to-infrastructure communication between intelligent traffic systems and Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV).
The software is intended to improve driver behaviour, traffic efficiency, deliver network insights to support performance and optimisation, and improve the safety and efficiency of automated vehicles.
Cit-e is being developed as part of the Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS),
an intelligent real-time traffic management platform designed to help monitor, control, and optimise road networks and ensure smooth traffic flow, prioritise different road user movements, improve road user journey times, and achieve sustainability goals by reducing emissions and energy consumption.
SCATS was developed by the New South Wales Government Department of Main Roads in 1975 and was one of the first adaptive control systems to be available commercially. It continues to be developed by a dedicated team within Transport for NSW.
VEHICLE-TO-INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY
SCATS Executive Director, Adele Beachley, said that the Cit-e software developed by SCATS aims to make drivers move more efficiently and more safely.
“This vehicle-to-infrastructure technology aims to save lives by feeding data about pedestrians, cyclists, other motorists and traffic light signal changes from specially equipped junctions to vehicles fitted with a radio receiver,” Ms Beachley said.
“As vehicles approach the traffic lights, Cit-e can send messages about the intersection’s layout, right
Self-driving vehicles on the streets of Sydney.
Images: Transport for NSW
Tra c lights equipped with the SCATS Cit-e technology.
of way, timing of signal changes and warnings of imminent hazards – including vulnerable road users such as pedestrians crossing part of the junction.”
The application in the vehicle uses its turn signals, navigation information and/or other inputs along with the information provided by the intersection controller to warn drivers if their intended movement is likely to conflict with an active pedestrian or cyclist movement.
Cit-e junctions can also provide approaching vehicles with information regarding the signal timing and geometry of the intersection. The vehicle uses this information, together with its speed and acceleration profile, to determine if there is a risk of violating a red light.
“By warning drivers of possible redlight violations and of the potential to endanger other road users, Cit-e can have demonstrable effects on road safety.
“But it can also alert drivers waiting at a junction of an imminent change to a green light, increasing the efficiency of traffic flow, as well as allowing for lights to be held for green longer when queues emerge.”
Transport for NSW Director of Future Mobility, Evan Walker, said that vehicle safety is a critical part of making roads safer and independent
modelling has shown that vehicle safety improvements have saved more than 700 lives over the past decade.
“The safety outcomes from this technology for drivers and pedestrians could be substantial, and it is closer than many may realise,” Mr Walker said.
“As we’ve seen in the trial, existing car models can be retrofitted with a wireless receiver and driver notification system.
“Though the trials in collaboration with the University of Sydney have partly been taking place using Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs), they have also included a Volkswagen retrofitted to receive the data transmitted by the upgraded intersection infrastructure.
“Leveraging smart infrastructure has real-world, immediate applications and will compliment automated features such as lane keep assist and emergency braking that already exist in various vehicle models and are constantly being tested at by our team at Transport’s Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre.”
TRIALLING ON LOCAL STREETS
Two self-driving vehicles have driven in live traffic on the streets of Chippendale using wireless
connectivity to interact with traffic lights equipped with the SCATS Cit-e technology.
As the automated vehicles approach the specially equipped traffic lights, Cit-e sends information about the local traffic conditions to a receiver in the vehicle, which uses the information in conjunction with the vehicle’s position, direction and velocity to gauge whether it is likely to commit a red-light violation or endanger other road users.
The vehicles were designed by researchers at the Australian Centre for Robotics within the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Engineering, and safety-tested at Transport for NSW’s Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre at Cudal.
Mr Walker said that the research centre continually supports developmental testing for new and upcoming CAV and C-ITS technology.
“Transport for NSW is addressing potential hurdles in scaling automated vehicle technology by conducting a review of vehicle policy and legislation to include automated and connected features, testing how this technology works in real life and providing that information back to vehicle manufactures directly, to policy
makers and also to drivers through ANCAP star ratings.”
The trial was showcased at the ITS Summit in Sydney – which was held from 13-15 August – and attendees from around the world experienced the integrated solution for the first time.
“Showcasing Cit-e and its role in a C-ITS (Co-operative Intelligent Transport Systems) Automated Vehicle trial was a key opportunity to demonstrate the New South Wales Government’s commitment to advancing smart mobility that makes our roads safer and more efficient,” Ms Beachley said.
“The ITS Summit allowed for valuable feedback and engagement with industry leaders, reinforcing the importance of these technologies for the future of transport networks.
“It’s always exciting for the SCATS team to share the technological advances we continue to make. As pioneers and innovators of this industry with proven, rich and deep domain knowledge, SCATS continues to be world leading and adopted by cities globally.”
LOOKING TOWARD A SMARTER TRAFFIC FUTURE
While the Cit-e software has been designed with driverless vehicles in mind, SCATS has designed the software to be able to provide its valuable data to standard vehicles as well. With the technology able to be rolled out long before driverless vehicles become commonplace, Cit-e is set to be commercially available soon.
"We aren’t just future-proofing, we will be ready to offer Cit-e solutions from next year, so the technology is ready,” Ms Beachley said.
“Embracing it early means the traffic efficiencies and safety outcomes start sooner in New South Wales, as well as supporting the development of local industry and expertise.
“The next steps for us are delivering Cit-e to the market next year, with technology that has the potential to make immediate impacts on road safety and traffic efficiency.”
Mr Walker said that preparing for the introduction of automated
vehicles and future-proofing traffic networks will help Transport for NSW harness the benefits and understand the risks associated with this technology.
“From that we can formulate the right policies and infrastructure investments to get the most out of it.
“A national harmonisation initiative is examining how to ensure Australia takes a consistent approach to the adoption and rollout of C-ITS technology. Transport for NSW is a key stakeholder in this process, and once a national approach is finalised, New South Wales should be looking to lead in the adoption and deployment.
“Failure to prepare could lead to us missing the benefits of the technology through slow or poor adoption.
“But equally, the reality is that it’s a long way before there are safe, fully self-driving vehicles on our roads. Cit-e on the other hand won’t just prepare us for that future – it will support vehicles that already exist on our roads.”
Cite-e sends information about local tra c conditions to a receiver in the vehicle.
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