“No matter the final structure of the next Tasmanian government, our advocacy focus remains on smarter infrastructure investments that fostering economic growth and stability across the state,” says Consult Australia’s Head of Policy and Government Relations Kristy Eulenstein.

Tasmania's economic prosperity hinges on strategic investments in infrastructure and the stimulation of private sector investment. Consult Australia's priorities for the new Tasmanian government revolve around enhancing long-term infrastructure planning, reforming risk management in government contracting, and improving procurement practices. These initiatives are proposed to ensure smart policy decisions that drive efficiency and better value for money, in the absence of capital investment.

The foundation of Consult Australia's election priorities is a coordinated, long-term infrastructure pipeline, essential for instilling business confidence and building capacity throughout the state. A 30-year view of the infrastructure landscape, as suggested by Consult Australia, would empower design industries to craft long-term strategies, thereby fostering a more stable and productive market environment. This approach not only supports industry and government productivity but also addresses workforce planning challenges and skill shortages, particularly in Tasmania’s unique market context.

“Pipeline investment is an economic lever," says Kristy. "If that lever is pulled too tightly, or let loose, it has implications on market capacity to deliver, regional growth, and competition. By improving the approach to the pipeline of projects, Tasmania can enhance industry productivity and workforce planning."

Setting industry standards

Consult Australia calls on the next Tasmanian government to adopt its three key policy recommendations, focusing on building business capacity and confidence, unravelling risk and reducing disputation, and embodying model client behaviours.

“We believe that government procurement should be built on fair risk allocations and collaborative partnerships," Kristy notes. "By committing to the behaviours set out in our Model Client Policy, government clients can drive positive change in the industry and ultimately contribute to Tasmania's economic growth and sustainability.”

Beyond spending to creating value

Our approach is founded on the premise that investment in infrastructure should not merely be about the amount spent but about the value created for the communities it affects,” says Kristy. “These policy recommendations emphasise efficient spending, smart policy implementation, and value-for-money outcomes.”

By fostering an environment of collaboration, risk-sharing, and long-term planning, Consult Australia aims to guide Tasmanian infrastructure development and planning in a proactive way, creating more thoughtful, vibrant and sustainable communities.

A comprehensive view of Consult Australia’s election priorities can be found here. Consult Australia remains open and eager to engage with all stakeholders to shape a productive and prosperous future for Tasmanian communities.