A BILL aiming to “restore” Infrastructure Australia was tabled in Federal Parliament on Wednesday (22 March).
The Infrastructure Australia Amendment (Independent Review) Bill 2023 intends to make IA a “stronger” and “more focused” advisor to the Australian government.
Federal minister for infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government Catherine King said the legislation is part of the government’s response to an independent review of the advisory body, undertaken last year.
The review, commissioned by the government, concluded in December 2022 with recommendations that IA have a clearer purpose with a legislated mandate. It also recommended its governance undergo a structural reform, prompting a transition to an interim board.
The bill tabled this week will amend the Infrastructure Australia Act 2008 to clearly articulate the role of IA, redefine its functions and products and establish a new governance structure.
“The changes are an important step in restoring IA to its rightful place as the Commonwealth government’s independent infrastructure adviser,” Ms King said.
“A number of the review’s major recommendations will be implemented through legislative change, with the remainder to be largely implemented through a revised statement of expectations.”
Ms King said the bill defines IA’s mandate, refines the product suite to better support government investment objects, allows a “well targeted” infrastructure priority list and improves evaluation functions.
“It also puts in place a new governance structure made up of three expert commissioners in place of the existing board. The commissioners will be supported by an advisory council.”
Ms King said IA had been damaged under the previous government, which she claimed “impaired the organisation’s effectiveness, sidelined its advice and stacked the board with their mates”.
“The changes will provide IA with a clear purpose, streamlined functions that align with the Australian government’s strategic infrastructure priorities,” she said.
