What a whirlwind start to 2023 for IAQ. We are already at the beginning of June, and what a full calendar we have had to date with: a series of strategic webinars, breakfast events focused on harnessing Queensland’s project pipeline from inception to delivery, and regional forums, forging relationships in North and Central Queensland.
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Like many of you, I spend a lot of my day talking to industry peers, colleagues, members and clients about infrastructure, the trends, the inspiration, the opportunities, the great ideas, and the impending challenges.
I like to think I’m pretty optimistic, but with creeping uncertainty in our daily lives – and with some real recent global challenges fresh in our memories - it has become pretty hard to piece it all together, and respond to the catalytic questions I inevitably get asked; “what is the future of infrastructure in Queensland?”
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Updates from our Taskforces
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2032 Games Taskforce
During the Olympic Games Taskforce meeting, key updates were shared. Tender packages for Moreton Bay and Logan Sports Venues were released, while ongoing Project Value Realization activities were reported. The forthcoming Sunshine Coast Stadium was discussed.
The impact of the Business Process Improvement Committee (BPIC) was emphasized, and the need for enhanced contracting models was raised. A suggestion was made for a collaborative contracting roundtable, building on the lessons learned from a recent session by TMR.
EPW expressed their intent to distribute workload industry-wide, while concerns were raised about the stressed Roma Street Precinct and upcoming leadership changes in Queensland Rail's operations area. The Workshop Series was outlined, covering Design, Procurement, Productivity, and Legacy Now. Feedback on the plan was requested by 19 May.
This concise update is vital for stakeholders, providing insights into ongoing initiatives, upcoming workshops, and important developments surrounding the successful delivery of the 2032 Olympic Games.
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Catalysing Infrastructure Transformation Taskforce
During the May taskforce update, Eliza Howell, the Net-zero lead, delivered an engaging presentation on industrialized construction for the workstream. The topics covered were:
- Definition and principles of industrialized construction.
- Benefits of industrialized construction, including productivity, cost-efficiency, and environmental impact reduction.
- Case studies showcasing successful implementations of industrialized construction techniques in infrastructure projects.
- Integration of renewable energy systems and sustainable materials in industrialized construction.
- Potential barriers and strategies to overcome challenges in adopting industrialized construction for achieving the net-zero transition.
Eliza's presentation provided valuable insights and practical examples. Her expertise and enthusiasm sparked interest among the workstream members, motivating them to further explore the potential of industrialized construction.
In addition to this, the members discussed the task force's role in influencing government policies and incentives for industrialized construction adoption. Stakeholder engagement, addressing concerns, and promoting collaboration were emphasized. Skill development and training for the workforce were seen as crucial. Strategies to overcome regulatory barriers and foster innovation were explored. The meeting ended with a shared commitment to driving progress in these areas, working together to create a sustainable built environment.
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Regional Infrastructure Taskforce
May was a pivotal month for the Regional Infrastructure Taskforce (RIT). The launch of IAQ in the regions continued as the Regional Queensland Forum was held in Gladstone on the 18th of May, and was attended by 43 people. The event was a huge success and established a comprehensive ‘who’s who’ of industry in Gladstone.
Furthermore, the first separate meetings for North Queensland (NQ) and Southeast Queensland (SEQ) Working Groups were held on the 3rd of May. The SEQ Working Group decided that it will focus on Initiative 2 by engaging with the State Government and Regional stakeholders to look into how we can better include measures in Business Cases with respect to supply chains and delivering targets.
The NQ Working Group discussed feedback from IAQ members and participants in the first North Queensland Industry Forum held on the 22nd of March. The Forum’s success resulted in participants agreeing to try and extend this to two events per location (Townsville, Gladstone and Cairns) per calendar year. There were also requests to see more virtual events where there is an SEQ speaker broadcast to each of the regions.
Moreover, given that it is costly to deliver projects in the regions, members suggested focusing on coordinated delivery – or trying to encourage cross-agency collaboration to mobilise multiple projects concurrently. Member feedback also suggested that RIT should focus on social infrastructure like housing, schooling and healthcare setting, as well as social equity – namely improving the equity boundaries in Queensland to make investment outcomes clearer.
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EPIQ
Those involved in EPIQ have been planning a series of exciting events to take place over the next few months. For now, these include:
- Brisbane 2040 – the Future of Infrastructure Advisory Panel Event | 10th of August
- Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Site Visit | TBC July
- WSPxEPN Collaboration Event – Inclusion of First Nations in Infrastructure Project | TBC 12th of July
- KPMG Water Infrastructure Panel Event | TBC end of July
- Transurban Tunnel Site Visit | TBC 6th of August
- Speed Mentoring Event | TBC September
- YEAQ Collaboration – Conversations with the Chief | 5th of October
With a membership of approximately 200 and opportunities at the Assembly 2023, EPIQ remains a strong force for emerging young professionals.
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Updates from our Working Groups
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Diversity and Inclusion Working Group
We formally launched our Diversity and Inclusion Working Group on the 10th of May, after months of work behind the scenes from Helen Hutchings, Shaylee Cowan and Adam Walsh, the group's Chair and Co-Vice Chairs. This working group has been in the works since the end of last year.
The Working Group was formed with a view to providing a forum for members to discuss, educate, reform and recommend priorities for:
- inclusion and diversity for all people working in infrastructure; and
- The impacts for individuals within our membership.
The D&I Working Group will forge education and position papers and engage with government and stakeholders to improve outcomes for all, in respect of inclusion and diversity, in the infrastructure sector. The D&I Working Group is outcomes driven and supports the promotion of equity and diversity.
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IAQ Connect
IAQ Connect transformed from an idea coined by Hayley Grossberg and Robert Hoffmann into a steadfast reality this month. Seizing the gap in the market, the Group is offering networking and professional development opportunities to mid-level infrastructure professionals within the IAQ membership group.
The launch, which was facilitated by Marie Gales and took place at Jacobs on 17 May, hosted guest speaker Rhyl Jones McCoy who offered invaluable insights into the industry, career growth and giving back up and down, along with speed-networking opportunities.
Given the success of the launch, IAQ Connect hopes to hold another two events before the end of the year.
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Events and Webinars on the horizon
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Prepare yourself for an exciting couple of months coming up, where you'll have the opportunity to engage in two significant events and attend informative webinars. Gain valuable insights, forge meaningful connections, and equip yourself with the knowledge and resources to excel in your professional endeavours.
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Joint EPIQ / WSP Emerging Professionals Network (EPN) Event |4.30pm - 7.00pm, 12th July.
EPIQ brings you an evening networking event to discuss the importance and ways to have First Nations involvement on all of our infrastructure projects.
Where: WSP, 900 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley
EPIQ MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE AN INVITATION SOON
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IAQ Diversity & Inclusion Working Group event ''A Connected Future'' |5.30pm - 7.30pm, 13th July.
IAQ (in partnership with Jacobs) is delighted to launch our Totem Artwork produced by proud Mayi and Kalkadoon woman, acclaimed artist and infrastructure professional - Leah Cummins. This incredible artwork will be included and celebrated in all our correspondence so that everyone we communicate with on behalf of IAQ understands our commitment to First Nations Peoples. This launch will be a catalyst and safe environment for rich and robust discussion around the importance of First Nations leadership and outcomes in connecting all Queenslanders to a better future and how we can leverage major initiatives like Brisbane 2032 to make meaningful steps towards Closing the Gap.
Where: Jacobs, 32 Cordelia St, South Brisbane
REGISTER HERE - THIS IS AN IAQ MEMBERS ONLY EVENT
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Tips, Tricks and Traps – Anecdotal Ways to Harness the Power of AI in Infrastructure
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Are you ready to unlock the true potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of infrastructure? We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming webinar titled "Tips, Tricks and Traps – Anecdotal Ways to Harness the Power of AI in Infrastructure," where industry experts will share their valuable insights and experiences.
By attending this webinar, you will:
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- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of AI integration in infrastructure.
- Learn practical applications of AI in design, enabling you to leverage its power in your projects.
- Gain insights into future trends and emerging technologies, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve.
- Understand the legal and policy considerations associated with AI adoption and how to address them effectively
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Outcomes from the Network Process Development Review
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IAQ proudly presents the final in the Assembly Conversation webinar series for 2023. Hosted by Powerlink the session is titled Outcomes from the Network Development Process Review. Discussion will centre around:
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- Network development process
- Stakeholder engagement
- Renewable energy commitments
- Transmission infrastructure
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Powerlink will unpack the Network Development Process outlining its use as a sequence of high-level steps used to assess and select new transmission line routes and/or substation sites, with emphasis on engagement, corridor selection, planning and environmental approval, and easement acquisition stages of projects. This Process is a guide that is used for all transmission infrastructure projects and includes commitments to extensive engagement with affected landholders, communities and other stakeholders, to consider all relevant matters in determining the most appropriate location for proposed infrastructure.
Driven by the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan (QEJP), released by the Queensland Government in September 2022, Powerlink will outline commitments for Queensland to transition to 50 percent renewable energy by 2030, 70 percent by 2032 and 80 percent by 2035. This will mean the delivery and implementation of a significant amount of transmission infrastructure must be developed over the coming decade to enable this transition and connect more renewable energy and storage across the state.
Reviewing the current Network Development Process to identify opportunities for improvement is critically important to support the energy transition to improve community outcomes and target a more effective delivery of the new transmission backbone.
REGISTER HERE
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2023 IAQ Infrastructure Assembly
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The 2023 IAQ Infrastructure Assembly is IAQ's annual one day conference. This year we will explore the theme - ''Realising Queensland's Infrastructure Legacy", focusing on these key areas:
- Energy - Realising Queensland as an energy superpower
- SEQ & Regional - Sustainability for the future
- 2032 Games - Delivering the Games
The event will feature internationally acclaimed experts, government decision makers, researchers and practitioners who will share their in-depth knowledge, expertise and innovative thinking.
Sponsorship packages are nearly sold out. This Assembly will give you a chance to place a spotlight on your company’s achievements and capabilities.
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See what sponsors, delegates and speakers thought of last year's Assembly below.
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Exclusive stories for our members
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A New Framework: Using Migration to Benefit the Regions
There are a series of challenges facing post-pandemic Australia – slow productivity growth, budget blowouts and transitioning to a net zero economy – and a more effective skilled migration program can help address each of them. However, the overwhelming majority of the benefits from migration are seen in the major capital cities, while the needs of the regions are overlooked. Implementing restrictions on visa-holding workers' access to employment in regional areas could potentially undermine the envisioned sustainable employment growth in those communities during the energy transition.
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How Investments in Critical Mineral Capacity Could Make Australia a ‘Renewable Superpower’
Treasurer Jim Chalmers unveiled the Government’s first major budget on Tuesday evening and claimed it kick-starts Australia’s journey to ‘renewable superpower’ status, the main components of which were significant investments into hydrogen power and the transformation of the energy industry. The commitments spawned a myriad of articles from the nation’s foremost media institutions discussing the two investments, and how they will lead Australia’s transition into a global renewable superpower. However, what they often overlooked was the government’s investment into Australia’s secret weapon: critical mineral capacity.
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Rising to the Challenge of Megaprojects on the Road to 2032
Megaprojects have come into an era of prominence in Australia. It is no longer true that only a couple of large-scale infrastructure projects are being built at the same time across the country. The number of concurrent megaprojects in progress increased from only one in 2009 – Brisbane’s M7 Airport Link and Northern Busway – to ten in 2021 (Terril, 2021). Much of the construction work is being completed on ‘megaprojects’ – or projects that cost at least $1 billion (Terril, 2021). However, these projects are currently being delayed – if not stopped entirely – at a concerning rate.
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2022-2023 Federal Budget Outline
Delivering a surplus for the first time in 15 years, Treasurer Jim Chalmers unveiled the first major budget since the government’s election victory in May 2022, and it aims to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, deliver the energy transition and strengthen national defence. With sensibility, reprioritisation and impact driving the budget, will all of the new government’s commitments be realised in the year to come – which is almost certain to be plagued by economic uncertainty and global unrest?
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IAQ thanks the support and involvement of all our members and welcomed the following new members in 2023.
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Copyright IAQ 2023
Our mailing address is: GPO Box 2146, Brisbane QLD 4001
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