Independent review to rejuvenate Infrastructure Australia

The Australian Government has today appointed Ms Nicole Lockwood and Mr Mike Mrdak AO to lead an independent review of Infrastructure Australia.

This review will consider Infrastructure Australia’s role as an independent adviser to the Commonwealth on nationally significant infrastructure priorities and advise on what changes may be needed to IA’s focus, priorities and – if necessary – legislation.

This review is an important first step in restoring Infrastructure Australia to its rightful place as an expert advisory body of national significance. The Government looks forward to a revitalised IA helping the Commonwealth deliver a better future for all Australians through its infrastructure policy and investment decisions.

The review’s Terms of Reference are set out below. A draft report is expected within three months, and a final report shortly thereafter.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King

“Infrastructure Australia was created to provide expert advice to government regarding infrastructure priorities across the nation.

“In recent years, the organisation has been allowed to drift with partisan board appointments and a lack of clear direction. It’s clear a review has been necessary and that’s why Labor committed to one before the election.

“In Nicole Lockwood and Mike Mrdak, we have two of Australia’s pre-eminent infrastructure experts who will conduct a thorough and independent review of Infrastructure Australia and make recommendations to get it back on track.

“Our nation has big challenges ahead, whether that be in dealing with population growth, managing skills shortages, decarbonising the transport and infrastructure sector or dealing with the uptake of electric vehicles.

“This review and the changes it proposes will be essential in ensuring that the Australian Government receives the expert and non-partisan advice it needs to build a better future.

“I thank the board members, some of whom have agreed to step down, for their understanding and contribution as the Government reviews and refreshes Infrastructure Australia.

Review information

Nicole Lockwood

Ms Lockwood is the Chair of Infrastructure Western Australia, a member of the Boards of the Green Building Council of Australia, the WA Association for Mental Health, and is also a non-executive Director of NBN Co. 

Mike Mrdak AO

Mr Mrdak is President and CEO for Australia and New Zealand of NEC.  He is a previous Secretary of the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, and of the Department of Communications and the Arts.

Independent Review of Infrastructure Australia

Terms of Reference

1. The Review will examine Infrastructure Australia’s (IA’s) role as an independent adviser to

the Commonwealth on nationally significant infrastructure priorities, and its capacity to deliver on this role.

2. The Review will make recommendations on reforms that may be required to ensure IA is able

to fully deliver on its responsibilities, including but not limited to:

a. Functions

i. the advice and products for which IA is responsible, and whether these

remain fit-for-purpose

ii. how IA’s work relates to the work of state-level infrastructure bodies, and iii. how IA’s work addresses the priorities and requirements of the Australian

Government.

b. Governance and administration

i. the optimal size, mandate, responsibilities, and composition of the IA Board,

including the experience, skills, and expertise of members

ii. whether IA’s administrative arrangements are appropriate to support delivery

of its role and functions, and

iii. IA’s relationship with the responsible Minister.

c. Legislation

i. any legislative changes that may be required.

3. The Review will be conducted by Independent Reviewers and supported by the Department

of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

4. The Review will provide a report to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional

Development and Local Government.