Consult Australia is urging political parties find ways not to play politics with infrastructure and think long term. Consult Australia has released five policy recommendations in their election platform entitled ‘Think in Decades’ calling for candidates to commit to a thirty-year infrastructure plan and respect contracts signed between industry and government.
“Great cities require decades of foresight. They understand the importance of people, and the challenges and opportunities associated with increasing urbanisation and connectivity. They are smart and future focused.” Kevin Keith, Consult Australia ACT Manager commented “This is why we are calling for a 30-year infrastructure plan to manage a population expected to double by 2060 and why we believe the ‘tearing up’ of contracts would be a dangerous precedent: in addition to costing taxpayers an estimated $300 million and damaging industry confidence, it debilitates long-term planning as a time when Canberra needs it most.”
Mr. Keith went on to explain that Consult Australia believes Canberra could become a world-leader in the development and implementation of ‘smart city’ policy and technology whilst simultaneously transforming how governments and citizens interact.
Mr. Keith also explained that Consult Australia’s FIVE recommendations are as follows:
- Think in decades: Develop a 30-year plan of necessary infrastructure to sustain a population expected to double by 2060.
- Respect contracts: Maintain all contracts signed between government and industry.
- Redefine relationships: Develop new engagement guidelines on industry, citizen and government engagement.
- Capital of SMART: Become leader in the development, implementation, and governance of smart city technology and related innovation.
- More for Less: Develop positive professional procurement culture based on open relationships, quality and value for taxpayers.