IAQ welcomed members and industry stakeholders to our annual Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (DSDIP) Scene Setting event last night with an exclusive opportunity to hear directly from senior government leaders about the priorities shaping Queensland’s infrastructure program in 2026.
A strong theme throughout the evening was collaboration between government and industry to foster innovation, investment and long-term prosperity for Queensland with senior government representatives outlining policy settings, governance reforms and regional planning initiatives that will influence project delivery across the state.
A renewed focus on delivery and partnership
Speakers signalled a shift from coordination to delivery, with a stronger and more active role for government in progressing major projects. This includes greater use of Coordinator-General powers to streamline processes and support timely, responsible delivery. Stronger partnerships between agencies and industry will be critical to delivering complex infrastructure safely and efficiently.
Long-term regional planning aligned to growth
Attendees heard an update on the rollout of 13 regional plans, each supported by an infrastructure appendix embedding transport, water, energy, digital and social infrastructure into future growth planning.
With a medium-to-long term horizon, government is aligning infrastructure investment to housing demand, economic development and regional opportunity, reinforcing the importance of planning beyond the forward estimates.
Strengthening oversight and lifting productivity
Reforms are underway to strengthen governance, improve visibility and enhance coordination across Queensland’s $116.8 billion four-year capital pipeline.
Planning for the 2032 Games is accelerating this shift, creating both pressure and opportunity to trial new delivery models, learn from other jurisdictions and lift productivity across the sector.
While the Games represent a significant investment program, leaders reinforced that they sit within a much broader statewide infrastructure agenda spanning transport, water security, energy and regional development.
The evening reinforced the value of IAQ’s role as a trusted connector between government and industry providing members with direct access to decision-makers and insight into the policy and delivery environment shaping the year ahead.
IAQ thanks the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning for their leadership and engagement, and event sponsor ARUP for their support in hosting and facilitation conversation.
