This month, we asked the industry’s decision-makers, ‘Why should the industry remain optimistic heading into 2024 and beyond?’
Jon Davies, CEO – Australian Constructors Association
This year’s renewed focus on productivity has presented an opportunity for a much-needed industry reset, and we are witnessing a true national and tripartite collaboration to do this. The Australian Constructors Association has been advocating for a 10-year National Construction Strategy to optimise how projects are procured, create a national digital alliance and improve the skills of all construction workers. We hope to see the strategy materialise in 2024, bringing widespread benefits to the entire industry.
Carlos Rial, CEO – Australian Flexible Pavement Association
The ever-increasing demand for a reliable and efficient transport network that underpins our economic productivity, competitiveness and way of life remains. Whilst inflationary pressure has seen Government pull the brakes on Capital Infrastructure spending in the short-term, we strongly urge all levels of Government to remain strategic, focused and firmly committed to the maintenance of our single most reliable and critical infrastructure that connects us – our roads. The emergence of policies promoting road safety and the success AfPA has seen in its sustainability frameworks and safety training programs have shown us that there is strong demand for more reliable road infrastructure, built with innovation and sustainability at its core. Government’s continuing interest, investment and commitment to supporting technology, innovation, safety, sustainability, diversity and inclusion instils confidence in industry as we enter the new year. AfPA looks forward to leading advocacy and collaboration across the flexible pavement industry, I am optimistic that we can address the urgent backlog of work that exists, especially in rural regions, and continue to keep communities connected.
Dr Arooran Rajah, Chief Operating Officer, ARC Smart Pavements Hub – SPARC
In the dynamic landscape of the transport infrastructure sector, optimism prevails as the industry embraces transformative technologies, sustainable practices, and collaborative, streamlined approaches. Strategic infrastructure investments, combined with resilient planning, position us for growth. Embracing innovations in smart infrastructure, digital and automotive technologies, renewable materials, and adaptive design promises a future where roads not only connect but also contribute to environmental and societal well-being. As industry leaders, our collective commitment to efficiency and sustainability ensures a strong foundation for 2024 and beyond.
This article was originally published in the December edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.