Infrastructure WA
Discussion Paper
A Stronger Tomorrow - Discussion Paper
A Stronger Tomorrow - State Infrastructure Strategy Discussion Paper was published by Infrastructure WA on 26 June 2020.
This document was designed to serve as a tool to encourage constructive conversation with industry, the community and all levels of government in the early stages of the development of Western Australia's first 20-year State Infrastructure Strategy.
During a formal eight-week consultation period between 26 June 2020 and 21 August 2020, IWA undertook a broad-reaching program of engagement, endeavouring to obtain the views of as many people as possible. This included:
- releasing the Discussion Paper via an online event in collaboration with Infrastructure Partnerships Australia (you can learn more and re-watch the launch and panel-based discussion here);
- creating and sharing a short video to encourage people to have their say on infrastructure planning;
- briefing industry and government representatives and undertaking outreach with other key groups including younger people (tomorrow's infrastructure users) and Aboriginal stakeholders;
- hosting a state-wide workshop series, which included 12 in-person events and three online events to gain a better understanding about different stakeholders infrastructure priorities and their local impacts (learn more here);
- surveying nearly 600 Western Australians about their vision for the future of the State and its infrastructure needs; and
- inviting formal submissions and projects/program proposals.
IWA is currently analysing the substantial volume of feedback that has been received from organisations and representatives from across the State. An overview on these consultation outcomes will be published in late 2020.
In the meantime, you can still download and read the Discussion Paper and its supporting documents below.
For a quick overview download the two-page summary relating specifically to the State Infrastructure Strategy.
IWA invites anyone with questions or comments relating to the State Infrastructure Strategy to get in touch at any time.
What is the State Infrastructure Strategy?
The State Infrastructure Strategy (Strategy) provides a statewide perspective of Western Australia’s infrastructure needs and priorities over the next 20 years.
Under the Infrastructure Western Australia Act 2019 (IWA Act), Infrastructure WA (IWA) is tasked with preparing the Strategy at least every 5 years.
The Strategy considers economic, social and environmental objectives to make recommendations relating to infrastructure planning, delivery and operation. The Strategy’s recommendations include a focus on both new projects and programs as well as non-build solutions (e.g. planning, policy, regulation, pricing, technology, procurement, skills and governance reforms).
What is the State Infrastructure Strategy Discussion Paper?
A Stronger Tomorrow, State Infrastructure Strategy Discussion Paper (Discussion Paper) was released in June 2020 and provides a foundation for the development of the Strategy.
Strategic focus areas of the Discussion Paper include
- the guiding principles and objectives that will help define the Strategy parameters;
- the methodology and governance for developing the Strategy; and
- the priority opportunities and challenges the Strategy should address, particularly over the medium to long-term.
The Paper identifies key issues and needs relevant to the planning and provision of infrastructure across a range of sectors and regions.
Why is the Discussion Paper important?
IWA recognises the value of stakeholder expertise and is committed to open engagement across all levels of government, industry and the community. The Discussion Paper is a key element of our engagement process, seeking valuable feedback to help shape the Strategy.
Why is the State Infrastructure Strategy necessary?
Infrastructure is planned, delivered and managed by all levels of government, private industry and the community. With so many stakeholders involved, infrastructure decision-making can be disjointed and lack coordinated opportunities such as colocation and shared use. A well-developed Strategy, based on sound evidence, will highlight the needs and priorities of where funding is best spent to maximise value for Western Australians. Having an infrastructure strategy is also expected to help attract more Federal funding.