Released 04/06/2017
The ACT Government will introduce a position of Chief Engineer to lead the territory’s engineering and infrastructure projects.
During the 2016 election campaign, I made a commitment to appoint a Chief Engineer who would not only provide valuable strategic oversight for current and future projects, but would work with engineering bodies to deliver an engineering workforce plan.
As our city grows and we continue to deliver major infrastructure projects like our city wide light rail network, we need high level engineering advice to government and an army of world class engineers in the private sector.
Complimenting the beginning of the City Renewal Authority and the Suburban Land Agency on 1 July – as well as the transformative effect of Canberra’s light rail network, the city’s largest engineering project – the establishment of a Chief Engineer position will ensure Canberra continues to develop as a vibrant, modern city.
I have asked Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman to take responsibility for the development of the Chief Engineer position. As I committed during the election process, this position will be filled in the next financial year.
Minister Gentleman will carry out the substantive work of determining the most appropriate scope, location, funding and appointment mechanism for a Chief Engineer of the ACT.
The three relevant peak bodies – Consult Australia, Professionals Australia and Engineers Australia – will continue to be involved in discussions with the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate on the creation of the Chief Engineer role. Where possible, the role and functions of the Chief Engineer will harmonise with arrangements already in place in other jurisdictions.
Appointing a Chief Engineer is just the latest advance the ACT Government is delivering to ensure Canberra has best practice planning processes in place for the future of the city.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
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