March 2026

Priority infrastructure proposals unveiled

Consult Australia CEO Jonathan Cartledge (l) and Infrastructure Australia CEO Adam Copp (r) discuss the Infrastructure Priority List at CollabX 2026 in Canberra.

Infrastructure Australia’s new Infrastructure Priority List features 68 proposals that aim to strengthen transport connectivity, ports and freight networks, water security and support the net zero transition.

Released in early March, the Infrastructure Priority List sets out Infrastructure Australia’s independent, evidence-based advice to the Australian Government on the proposals that should be considered for investment over the next decade.

“From our growing population and the strength of our economy to the liveability and connectivity of our cities and regions – everything hinges on having the right infrastructure invested in at the right time,” says Infrastructure Australia Chief Executive Officer Adam Copp.

“This investment blueprint will give the Australian Government the confidence, clarity and evidence it needs” to “address critical infrastructure gaps and unlock economic opportunities”.

Each proposal responds to one of five key priority areas identified by Infrastructure Australia:

• High productivity freight networks: Enhancing the capacity, interoperability and resilience of nationally important freight corridors and networks for higher productivity rail and road freight.
• Ports capacity and connectivity: Expanding national ports capacity and strengthening import-export supply chains with last mile freight and intermodal connections.
• High-capacity transport for growing cities: Building safe, efficient and city-shaping transport for fast-growing urban populations while unlocking priority growth areas for housing and development.
• Secure sustainable water for growth: Delivering climate-resilient water and wastewater capacity to support housing growth and rising demand from water-intensive industries.
• Delivering net zero and clean energy economy: Delivering large-scale renewable generation, storage and transmission infrastructure to support the net zero transition.  

The Infrastructure Priority List is one of several inputs considered by the Australian Government when making investment decisions. Inclusion on the list does not guarantee funding, and proposals not featured may still be supported through Commonwealth funding pathways.

“Whether it involves upgrading key freight links to boost Australia’s trade competitiveness or exploring new public transport connections that could improve mobility, unlock housing and create jobs, each proposal has the potential to materially improve the nation’s productivity, liveability and sustainability,” Adam Copp concludes.

View Infrastructure Australia’s Infrastructure Priority List.