Consult Australia urges project planning overhaul as failures drive escalating cost blowouts
Consult Australia warns that infrastructure cost blowouts worth billions are caused by systemic failures in project planning before construction begins, not during the building phase.
Why are infrastructure projects going over budget before construction starts?
Builders and subcontractors face delayed projects and budget pressures from poor upfront planning. This affects tender pricing and payment schedules across major infrastructure works.
Key takeaways
- Infrastructure cost overruns are locked in during planning phase, not construction.
- Consult Australia identifies systemic failures in how public projects are planned and tendered.
- Poor upfront planning creates billions in avoidable cost blowouts.
- Industry body calls for overhaul of project planning processes.
Related
NSW's Housing Delivery Authority builds pipeline for 150,000 new homes
NSW's Housing Delivery Authority has built a pipeline of 150,000 potential new homes in 18 months. The state government is fast-tracking housing delivery through the HDA.
Why it matters: Builders, plumbers, electricians and other trades in NSW could see a significant uplift in work as 150,000 homes move through the development pipeline.
Rushing Working from Home laws will only lead to more bungling
Victoria is pushing ahead with Working from Home laws despite HIA urging the government to drop the proposed legislation, citing added burdens on residential building.
Why it matters: Builders in Victoria may face new compliance obligations under the proposed laws. Day-to-day operations and labour flexibility on residential sites could be affected.
Interview with Jaimee Rogers, Sky News Australia
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn was interviewed on Sky News Australia on 12 July 2026 regarding the Federal Budget. No further detail on content is available.
Why it matters: Builders and related trades may be affected by Federal Budget measures, but no specific impacts can be identified from the available content.