Infrastructure Australia has released its 2026 Infrastructure Priority List, outlining the nationally significant projects and reforms needed to support Australia’s productivity, liveability and sustainability over the next decade.

The updated list identifies 68 priority proposals and provides independent, evidence-based advice to the Australian Government on where investment will deliver the greatest national benefit.

At its core are five key infrastructure themes, which together form a blueprint for addressing population growth, housing demand, supply chain resilience and the transition to a net zero economy.

1. High Productivity Freight Networks

Focused on improving the efficiency, capacity and resilience of Australia’s freight systems, this theme targets upgrades to road and rail corridors, intermodal terminals and supply chain connections.

With freight volumes expected to grow significantly, investment will prioritise better coordination across networks and a shift toward more sustainable, rail-based freight solutions.

LEARN MORE >

2. Ports Capacity and Connectivity

This theme aims to strengthen Australia’s international trade competitiveness by expanding port capacity and improving connections between ports, freight networks and industry precincts.

As global trade patterns evolve, modernising port infrastructure and addressing last-mile bottlenecks will be critical to maintaining efficient import and export supply chains.

LEARN MORE >

3. High-Capacity Transport for Growing Cities

With Australia’s population continuing to rise, this theme focuses on delivering public transport and road infrastructure that supports housing growth, reduces congestion and improves access to jobs and services.

Investment priorities include expanding rail, light rail and rapid bus networks, alongside targeted road upgrades to unlock new urban development areas.

LEARN MORE >

4. Secure, Sustainable Water for Growth

This theme addresses the growing pressure on water systems driven by climate change, population growth and industrial demand.

Key priorities include improving water security, upgrading ageing infrastructure and ensuring reliable water and wastewater services across urban, regional and remote communities.

LEARN MORE >

5. Delivering Net Zero and a Clean Energy Economy

Supporting Australia’s transition to net zero emissions, this theme focuses on enabling large-scale renewable energy generation, storage and transmission.

It also highlights the need for supporting infrastructure to unlock new economic opportunities and ensure energy reliability during the transition.

LEARM MORE >

The 2026 Infrastructure Priority List provides a clear framework for aligning infrastructure investment with Australia’s long-term economic and social goals. It emphasises the need for coordinated planning across all levels of government and the private sector to deliver the right projects at the right time.

For regional Queensland, the list highlights the critical role of infrastructure in supporting population growth, improving connectivity and unlocking new economic opportunities in the lead-up to major events such as the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

For RDA Brisbane, the Priority List reinforces the importance of strategic infrastructure investment in driving regional productivity, enhancing liveability and ensuring communities are well-connected to jobs, services and global markets.

By advocating for regionally significant projects and strengthening collaboration across government and industry, RDA Brisbane will continue to play a key role in ensuring regional Queensland is well-positioned to benefit from the opportunities identified in this national blueprint.