A recent study commissioned by Infrastructure Victoria reveals that five digital technologies could expedite the fulfilment of Victoria’s expanding infrastructure requirements.

Dr. Jonathan Spear, the Chief Executive Officer, remarked, “There are established digital technologies currently available that can revolutionise the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure. Widespread adoption of digital technology throughout government infrastructure has the potential to save money, enhance productivity, and improve worker safety.”

The Digital Technology and Infrastructure Productivity report evaluated 25 existing digital technologies and their capacity to enhance productivity within government infrastructure in the short term.

The report identifies five technologies with the highest potential to generate substantial savings and productivity advantages if broadly implemented:

 

machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI)

-robotics

-advanced imaging

-advanced data analytics

-geospatial technologies
 

The assessment demonstrates that utilising robotics for inspection and maintenance within the water sector, for instance, could reduce water leaks by 10 per cent and save more than £140 million in maintenance and repair expenses annually.

Building information modelling, which utilises advanced data analytics to construct 3D digital models, is readily accessible and can also result in significant savings and other advantages. International instances illustrate that building information modelling can lower public housing construction costs by nearly 7 per cent.

“Building information modelling can diminish the expenses associated with designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure. It also aids in identifying and preventing errors during design and construction,” noted Dr. Spear. “When applied to billion-pound projects, the savings are substantial.”

Geospatial mapping, with its swift progress in satellite imagery and locational data, also presents significant potential.

“Geospatial mapping, coupled with advanced data analytics, can be beneficial for monitoring and predicting detrimental events, comprehending exposure to natural risks, and managing traffic and logistics flows and routes.”

The conclusions of the report inform the advisory body’s proposal to leverage digital technologies to enhance productivity across the Victorian Government’s infrastructure. This suggestion will be included in an updated 30-year infrastructure strategy for Victoria, scheduled for release for consultation early next year.

"We recommend that the government trial digital technologies on its infrastructure projects, implement building information modelling on major initiatives, and encourage wider adoption of digital technologies in projects through procurement. This will empower businesses to invest in the digital capabilities necessary for their expansion,” he stated.

“As Victoria's population expands, meeting its infrastructure demands will pose a significant challenge in the coming decade,” Dr. Spear emphasised. “Digital technologies can aid in delivering infrastructure more intelligently, swiftly, safely, and cost-effectively.”

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