Plan identifies $13.9 billion worth of infrastructure projects

THE Hodgman Government has released a 10-year plan for infrastructure which includes projects worth $13.9 billion.

Infrastructure Minister Jeremy Rockliff. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

THE Hodgman Government has released a 10-year plan for infrastructure which includes projects worth $13.9 billion.

The $576 million Bridgewater Bridge, light rail, water and sewerage investment and a North-East rail proposal are among the projects on the list.

Infrastructure Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the Infrastructure Pipeline would assist private investors to make investment and employment decisions.

Mr Rockliff said Infrastructure Tasmania would release by the end of the year a 30-year Tasmanian Infrastructure Strategy which would be based on emerging demographic, social and technological trends.

“The Tasmanian Infrastructure Pipeline includes 247 vital projects, each valued at $5 million or more, and totalling a combined $13.9 billion over 10 years,” he said.

Mr Rockliff said $4.1 billion in private construction projects and $8.1 billion in horizon projects had been identified.

“These infrastructure projects will help to further underpin the growth of our economy, support thousands of jobs, boost business confidence and support our growing population,” he said.

“With infrastructure expenditure in Tasmania expected to top $1.5 billion this financial year alone, it is important that we take a long-term co-ordinated approach.”

Mr Rockliff said the Pipeline provided a long-term view of key projects that were under way or on the table.

“It includes economic infrastructure that helps us grow and prosper such as roads, rail, energy, water and sewerage, irrigation, stormwater, ports, airports and communications, as well as the social infrastructure that forms the basis of our society and communities like public housing, schools, hospital and prisons.