As Queensland’s infrastructure pipeline accelerates toward 2032 and beyond, the demand for coordination, capability, and clarity has never been greater. For Andrew Ross, General Manager Construction – Northern Region at Fulton Hogan, the Queensland Major Projects Pipeline Report (QMPPR) is a key tool in helping industry and government work together to meet that challenge.
Supporting Sustainable Growth
“Fulton Hogan is deeply committed to supporting the sustainable growth of Queensland’s infrastructure sector,” Andrew says. “Sponsoring the QMPPR aligns with our strategic vision to help the industry prepare and be resource ready, supporting government and private clients to deliver the major projects that drive economic and social outcomes.”
He sees the report as a foundation for industry-wide readiness; a transparent, data-driven resource that helps the sector plan more effectively and invest with confidence.
Clarity, Coordination, and Capability
The QMPPR’s real value, Andrew says, lies in its ability to provide clarity in a market that is both opportunity-rich and capacity-constrained. “The report plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of infrastructure in Queensland by offering clarity and foresight,” he explains. “It enables stakeholders to anticipate demand, align resources, and identify strategic partnerships. By mapping out the pipeline, it helps reduce uncertainty, encourages investment, and supports workforce planning — all are essential for long-term sector growth.”
With the mounting pipeline of work and the hard completion deadlines of Brisbane 2032, that foresight is more critical than ever.
Turning Insight Into Action
For Fulton Hogan, the QMPPR’s detailed breakdowns are more than just numbers — they’re strategic tools. “The detailed breakdown of project timelines, funding sources, and sector-specific forecasts are particularly valuable,” Andrew says. “These insights allow us to assess market readiness, identify potential strategic partners early, understand likely project risks, and align our pre-contract strategies with emerging opportunities.”
The regional distribution of projects, he adds, helps Fulton Hogan direct its resources where they can have the greatest impact, targeting areas that align with our resource base and high-growth potential, tailoring our engagement accordingly.”
Planning With Purpose
From feasibility through to delivery, Ross says the report fosters informed decision-making across all stages of a project’s life. “Having access to reliable data allows for better resource allocation, risk mitigation, partnership development, and stakeholder coordination,” he explains.
This kind of integrated planning, supported by robust industry data, is essential to maintaining efficiency and momentum as Queensland’s infrastructure activity continues to surge.
Collaboration as a Competitive Advantage
The QMPPR doesn’t just provide information — it builds alignment. “By providing a shared reference point, the report encourages dialogue and alignment between government agencies, private contractors, and industry bodies,” Andrew says.
He believes it plays a particularly valuable role in identifying areas of shared pressure, such as workforce development and supply chain capacity. “These challenges can be collectively identified and collaboratively addressed,” he adds. “The transparency of the report builds trust and facilitates joint planning efforts that are critical for successful project delivery.”
Projects That Shape the State
For Ross, the projects outlined in the QMPPR are much more than construction opportunities — they are the foundation of Queensland’s economic and social prosperity. “Major projects are the backbone of Queensland’s ‘Open for Business’ philosophy,” he says. “They stimulate job creation, enhance connectivity, and attract investment. The projects outlined in the report — particularly in transport, Olympic venues, and energy — will underpin regional development and improve the state’s competitiveness.” The multiplier effect of these projects, he notes, will extend well beyond 2032. “Their benefits will be felt across industries for decades.”
Managing Growth and Complexity
Looking ahead, Ross anticipates a dynamic and congested project landscape. “Over the next five years, we’ll see competing pressures on equipment, resources, and workforce to deliver multiple outcomes within fixed timeframes,” he says. “Collaboration across government and industry must be elevated if we are to jointly meet this challenge.”
Procurement reform and flexible contract models will also play a role. “Expediency and efficiency in procurement, supported by contract models that reflect the shared challenge, must be at the forefront.”
Sectors to Watch
Ross highlights transport, water, health, and Olympic infrastructure as key growth areas. “Transport, including road and rail, Olympic venues and supporting infrastructure, water infrastructure, and health are poised for significant growth,” he says.
Projects such as the Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail, The Wave, the Gateway Motorway, and the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program will all demand collective focus and coordination to meet critical timeframes. While renewable energy remains important, Ross anticipates potential headwinds. “Population growth and demographic shifts will also increase demand for healthcare, housing, and education infrastructure.”
Delivering the Pipeline Together
To put industry in the best position to succeed, Ross emphasises the need for coordinated leadership. “Fast, efficient procurement to ‘buy time’ now will pay significant dividends as we approach the Olympics in 2032,” he says. “A coordinated approach to workforce development, supply chain management, and regulatory reform is essential.”
He also points to investment in training and innovation as key enablers of success. “Streamlining approvals and fostering innovation will enhance delivery efficiency. Strong leadership and collaboration across sectors will be key to success.”
Overcoming the Challenges Ahead
Ross is clear about the barriers industry faces. “The biggest challenges include workforce shortages, skilled leaders in both industry and government, cost escalation, and critical material supply capacity,” he says. “Navigating complex regulatory environments and securing timely environmental approvals and funding can also hinder progress.”
He also stresses the importance of community engagement. “We need to bring our communities on our journey with us. Addressing these challenges requires proactive planning, robust risk management, and a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement.”
Looking Forward
For Fulton Hogan, the path to Queensland’s infrastructure future is built on partnership and preparedness. The QMPPR provides the visibility needed to plan for that future — and the confidence to deliver it.
“As an industry, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create lasting outcomes for Queensland,” Andrew says. “If we maintain transparency, strengthen collaboration, and stay focused on capability, we’ll not only deliver 2032 — we’ll leave a legacy that lasts well beyond it.”
