The Victorian State of Engineering Report has highlighted the immense environmental, social and economic benefits that engineers bring to the state.
Led by Victoria’s inaugural Chief Engineer, Dr Collette Burke, the report released today finds that engineering-enabled industries are responsible for more than 600,000 jobs and contribute nearly a quarter of Victoria’s gross state product.
The report highlights how engineers are playing a pivotal role in bringing the Andrews Labor Government’s unprecedented infrastructure pipeline to life, and that engineers are needed more than ever to plan, design, deliver, operate and maintain the Victoria of the future.
The report also maps out a broad range of challenges for the engineering profession, including STEM uptake in schools, adaptation to technological advances and workplace diversity.
The Labor Government will continue to support the growth and education of the engineering profession, knowing engineers positively affect every part of our daily lives and make a major contribution to our economy.
With support, they will be able to deliver a more liveable, cleaner, advanced and efficient Victoria, creating a positive legacy for future generations.
It’s why a re-elected Andrews Labor Government will reintroduce legislation to deliver on its commitment for a mandatory registration scheme for engineers, giving Victorian engineers an edge.
It will further bolster the Labor Government’s focus on infrastructure, which has already included the establishment of Infrastructure Victoria and Office of Projects Victoria, the appointment of the Chief Engineer and the biggest infrastructure pipeline in the state’s history.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“This report demonstrates how engineering innovation and ingenuity are playing a key role in rolling out the biggest infrastructure pipeline Victoria has ever seen.”
“By shining a spotlight on the essential contribution of engineers, the report highlights the importance of enhancing engineering education pathways and career structures.”
Quote attributable to Chief Engineer Dr Collette Burke
“Engineers are driving a range of improvements in the way Victorians live, work, commute and socialise through the delivery of record levels of new infrastructure.”
Quote attributable to Victorian President Engineers Australia Alesha Printz
“We commend this report and its call for long term infrastructure planning, a focus on encouraging young people to take up STEM subjects, and we also would welcome the reintroduction of legislation that ensures mandatory registration of engineers.’
Quote attributable to Chief Executive Officer Professionals Australia Chris Walton
“This piece of work by the Chief Engineer helps catalogue the achievements of the past and reminds us of the important work ahead to lift the standing of the engineering profession.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020