The former National Director of the National Association of Women in Construction has been appointed as Victoria’s first Chief Engineer to help oversee the state’s record infrastructure pipeline.
Dr Colette Burke will provide expert advice to the State Government on major project design and engineering.
She has experience in both the private and public sectors – having been appointed Director to the VicTrack Board in 2015, and currently serving as the Managing Director of engineering consulting firm Exner Group.
Victoria continues to invest an average of $10.2 billion a year over the budget and forward estimates to provide the state with the infrastructure it needs.
Acting Treasurer, Robin Scott, said Victoria’s first Chief Engineer will help shape the future of Victoria’s major projects.
“Dr Collette Burke brings with her the experience needed to guide our record spend into the future, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget and at the highest possible standard.”
The new Chief Engineer role is based within the Office of Projects Victoria – a new expert body established by the State Government to oversee the planning and delivery of Victoria’s unprecedented pipeline of major infrastructure projects, and provide advice to government when developing and delivering new projects.
From the Metro Tunnel to level crossing removals – these projects will create more than 50,000 jobs statewide. The new Chief Engineer’s skills and experience will complement the Office of Project Victoria’s advisory board which has expertise in civil works and building construction, infrastructure policy, legal and architectural expertise, and government process.
The highly skilled team will ensure Victoria’s major infrastructure projects are delivered on time, and on budget.
Dr Burke will also help the government establish a registration system for engineers, ensuring the industry is properly regulated for safety, compliance and competency.
