Development of an asset management strategy for the city of Mandurah WA

Abstract

Over the past decade there has been an increasing national focus on improving the efficiency and accountability of Local Government organisations, particularly with respect to their critical role in the management and operation of public infrastructure assets. Australia’s economic, social and environmental sustainability depends heavily on the ability of municipal authorities to effectively manage the infrastructure assets for which they are ultimately responsible. The Community at large now expect government and private agencies to deliver cost efficiency and life cycle affordability in the provision and maintenance of public infrastructure. Planning for the sustainable provision of essential Community infrastructure has become a key issue now facing the Local Government sector in Australia. In meeting this challenge most municipal authorities have developed corporate level strategies to enhance internal business practices and demonstrate cost efficiency and lifecycle affordability in the management of infrastructure assets. Corporate goals and objectives have been aligned to reflect changing Community expectations with respect to infrastructure provision, management and financial sustainability. This research project examines the steps taken in the preparation of an Asset Management Improvement Strategy for the City of Mandurah in Western Australia. The strategy is intended to guide the development of existing management processes, systems and data required to support the production and implementation of detailed Asset Management Plans for major infrastructure asset groups. Through the adoption and ultimate implementation of this strategy Council can approach the future with confidence in their ability to provide the Mandurah Community with “sustainable” service delivery through efficient management and operation of the City’s infrastructure asset portfolio.