Infrastructure’s Next Decade: Bold, Enduring Public Value

Australia’s infrastructure pipeline is one of the largest in the developed world with around $100 billion invested annually—more than double the average of a decade ago.

While the numbers alone are impressive, the true measure of this expenditure lies in its ability to deliver projects that act as long-term economic engines.

Few examples capture this “flywheel” effect better than the rollout of Metro and Light Rail networks, which are reshaping the way cities grow and function.

These major transport projects are more than just a response to congestion —they’re instrumental in providing economic renewal, social connectivity, and urban regeneration.

Metro systems are leading the charge. Sydney Metro is the largest public transport project in Australia’s history. With multiple stages already delivered, it’s setting a new national benchmark for connectivity, speed, and capacity—linking key employment hubs, reshaping urban growth corridors, and unlocking development potential along its routes.

Its impact is already being felt where integrated planning is driving private sector confidence and public value.

Light rail projects are also delivering complementary benefits, particularly in unlocking fine-grain urban renewal.

Sydney’s CBD and Southeast Light Rail has triggered precinct revitalisation, enabled new housing, and breathed new life into commercial and cultural spaces.

On the Gold Coast, light rail continues to catalyse development along its coastal corridor.

These networks are reshaping land use, attracting investment, and delivering long-term uplift to surrounding areas.

“Metro and light rail done well is transformational,” CBRE Consulting head of Development, Infrastructure and Structured Transactions Nick Graham said.

“It creates a ripple effect across the property market—raising values, spurring private sector investment, and attracting people and businesses to previously underutilised areas.”

The challenge, Graham said, was ensuring these state-significant infrastructure projects were bold in vision, provided attractive investment opportunities and were resilient in delivery.

Stewart Mathews, Principal in CBRE’s Development and Infrastructure team and lead on State-Significant Infrastructure development, agreed.

“These projects demand a unique blend of public and private expertise. From feasibility testing to transaction structuring and delivery frameworks, our role is to help ensure they’re not only delivered but drive the economic and social outcomes they set out to achieve.”

CBRE’s Infrastructure 2025 report shows that while investment is expected to moderate slightly over the next three years, it will remain close to 80 per cent higher than the past decade’s average. This sustained spend presents both opportunity and responsibility.

CBRE Pacific head of Research Sameer Chopra said that the projects delivered in the next decade “will shape Australia’s global competitiveness for the next half-century”.

“Getting the planning and delivery right today means creating economic and cultural assets that endure well beyond their construction timelines.”

The next decade offers a rare opportunity to build not just infrastructure, but enduring legacy.

CBRE Consulting supports our clients to deliver bold, resilient infrastructure outcomes – click here explore our expertise and discover how we can support your next project.

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