Building Australia’s future: CJC Management’s role in infrastructure advisory and growth challenges

Australia’s growing fast. In fact, we’ve welcomed over half a million people in a single year. That’s a
significant surge and it brings us to an important question: “How do we build an Australia that’s
ready for all this growth?”. At CJC Management, we’re engaging in these conversations every day. Our
work begins long before the construction stage, where our reputation for Strategic Assessment,
Concept Design, and Tendering Review positions us at the forefront of the industry. We play a crucial,
though often ‘invisible,’ role in creating not just structures, but comprehensive infrastructure
solutions that make life better for everyone.

As a leading infrastructure advisory, we’re in the business of strategically engineering the arteries of
our nation – ensuring that as we grow, we stay interconnected and safeguarded for the future. As
recently announced, the Australian government’s move to fund 30,000 new homes is a solid step.
But it’s essential to acknowledge that homes are just part of the picture.

We need to consider the intricate network of roads that connect these homes, understanding that
well-planned transport routes are essential to meet the infrastructure challenges posed by our
growing population. It’s also about the schools and hospitals that serve our communities, each a
crucial piece in the complex puzzle of national development. And let’s not forget the digital networks
that bind us together, which are increasingly critical in a society where connectivity equals
productivity and inclusion.

Colin Calder, our Group Managing Director, puts it this way: “We’ve got a unique opportunity to build
a foundation for Australia that will last for generations. It’s about more than concrete and steel; it’s
about creating spaces where people can live well.”

The Intergenerational Report of 2023 is our guide here. It’s clear that we need to keep investing in
infrastructure to support our growing population. But it’s not just about spending more; it’s about
spending smart.

We’re also seeing a shift in how we manage construction projects. It’s a move towards more open
conversations and flexible arrangements. At CJC Management, we don’t see this as just a trend; it’s a
response to a world where change is the only constant. Colin emphasises this, saying “Embracing
change isn’t just part of our job; it’s at the core of our philosophy. By actively seeking feedback from
every stakeholder, we ensure our projects not only meet but exceed the expectations of the
communities we serve. There is a need to take an approach that involves this active engagement.
We’re also integrating advanced technologies and innovative methodologies to make our processes
more efficient and responsive. This new way of working isn’t about abandoning traditional methods;
rather, it’s about enhancing them with a modern mindset, where change is not just anticipated but
welcomed as an opportunity for growth and improvement.”

Despite the challenges – like rising material costs and interruptions in the supply chain – there’s room
for optimism. We’re learning that with the right approach, we can improve how we deliver major
projects. It’s about precision in planning, being realistic, and managing risks well.

And technology? It’s a game-changer. We’re seeing more mobile tech, AI, automation and data
analytics in construction. These aren’t just gadgets; they’re tools that can make us more efficient,
inform our decisions and help us build smarter.

Sustainability and diversity are also at the forefront of our industry’s evolution. It’s about building
with an eye on the environment and ensuring our teams reflect the diversity of the communities we
serve. This isn’t just good ethics; it’s good business.

So, what’s our vision for the future? Colin Calder sums it up perfectly: “Our goal is to look beyond the
conventional boundaries of infrastructure development. By embracing innovation and building a
diverse workforce, we are not just preparing for the future; we are actively shaping it with each
smart decision we make today.”

We’re excited about what’s ahead and we’re committed to playing our part in building a future-ready
Australia, offering an array of services and capabilities to support our clients throughout this
transformative journey.