The Western Australian civil construction industry is ready to partner with government to fast-track infrastructure projects and provide a much-needed economic stimulus, says the industry’s peak body.

Civil Contractors Federation WA CEO Andy Graham said the private sector civil construction pipeline in WA was already feeling the effects of the COVID-19 crisis, with regular reports of projects delayed or deferred.

“Now is the right time for the State Government and Local Governments to step up and accelerate their project pipelines,” he said. “They will get great value for money, they’ll keep a vital sector of the economy healthy, and the community will benefit from upgraded infrastructure, improving productivity and quality of life for this generation and generations to come.”

Mr Graham said it was vital that any infrastructure stimulus package of projects provided a broad spread of opportunities for contractors of all sizes, particularly local mid-tier contractors who were the most consistent contributors to the local economy and a source of permanent employment for thousands of Western Australians.

“Now more than ever, we need to look after our own,” he said. “We’ve already seen too many government projects bundled up into large packages to suit the big internationals, leaving local companies to fight over the crumbs.”

Mr Graham said a firm signal of intent was needed soon from Government to maintain business confidence – not just contracting businesses but the thousands of local suppliers of construction materials and equipment and specialist services who depend on a strong pipeline of opportunities.

“Our message to Government on behalf of WA’s contractors, consultants and suppliers is – we’re here, geared up and ready to help deliver an accelerated program of essential infrastructure projects,” he said.

Mr Graham said the industry continued to demonstrate it can work safely and effectively through the COVID-19 crisis.

“We’re proud to say civil infrastructure projects are among the safest of all construction workplaces, thanks to a concerted effort over the past 15-20 years by our industry in partnership with Government agencies,” he said. “The clear and effective safety systems and processes we’ve refined over many years are again proving their worth as we integrate strict hygiene and distancing measures in response to COVID-19.”