Infrastructure Australia announces leadership change

Infrastructure Australia (IA) Chief Executive Philip Davies has decided not to renew his contract and will be departing IA at the end of August, according to Chair Julieanne Alroe.

“Under Philip’s stewardship, Infrastructure Australia has become a trusted advisor to governments, industry and business leaders around the country, with a strong policy voice and widely recognised mandate to lead reform,” Ms. Alroe said in a statement.

“I would like to formally thank Philip for his leadership over the last three years and his commitment to delivering better infrastructure outcomes for the Australian community.

“Philip has made an indelible mark on infrastructure policy as the CEO who delivered the inaugural Australian Infrastructure Audit and Australian Infrastructure Plan. These documents have set the standard for infrastructure planning and analysis. He has also been a leading voice for infrastructure reform who has lifted the standard of debate on this critical subject.

“He has built an organisation that is deeply respected in the Australian community for providing independent, evidence-based advice on the projects and reforms that are in our national interest.

“We have commenced recruitment for the Chief Executive position, and will provide further information about interim arrangements soon,” she said – adding that IA will focus on the development of the 2019 Australian Infrastructure Audit.

“The Audit will provide a nationally consistent evidence base across all infrastructure sectors to guide the next phase of Australia’s infrastructure investment and be the key input into the next Australian Infrastructure Plan.”

Ms. Alroe also announced that Peter Colacino has been appointed as IA Executive Director – Policy and Research, to commence 2 July.

“Peter is currently the Executive General Manager of Corporate Affairs at NRMA and has extensive public and private sector experience,” said Alroe. “We are delighted to welcome Peter and the wealth of experience he brings to this role. As we farewell Philip, and welcome Peter, we remain focused on delivering better infrastructure outcomes for all Australians.”

The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has acknowledged and thanked Davies for his contribution to delivering better infrastructure and policy outcomes in Australia.

“ALC is among IA’s most vocal supporters. As the nation’s independent infrastructure umpire, we believe IA plays a critical role in advancing the infrastructure projects Australia needs to promote economic and employment growth,” said ALC Managing Director Michael Kilgariff.

“For the past three years, Philip Davies’ leadership of IA has underpinned the organisation’s efforts to ensure the nation has a coherent, nationally-focussed approach to infrastructure investment by prioritising key initiatives.

“These include transformational projects now underway such as Inland Rail, the Moorebank Intermodal Terminal in NSW, the Western Sydney Airport, the Port Botany Rail Duplication and, most importantly, recommending the development of a comprehensive National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, which is currently being undertaken by the Federal Government.

“Similarly, IA’s research activities have been vital in highlighting issues of major importance to the freight logistics industry, including adopting a nationally-consistent approach to corridor protection.

“IA is critical to ensuring infrastructure development in Australia remains subject to rigorous, evidence-based assessments, and that projects ultimately deliver the best economic and social outcomes for the community.

“We thank Philip Davies for his positive engagement with ALC during his time as CEO, and for his efforts to enhance the performance of our freight networks through the provision of better infrastructure.

“ALC also acknowledges the appointment of Peter Colacino as IA’s new Director of Policy and Research. Peter’s deep understanding of the challenges that face our supply chains will be an asset to IA’s ongoing research activities.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with IA’s new CEO once appointed, to deliver outcomes that enhance national supply chain efficiency and safety,” he said.