The PM’s promise to raid the Infrastructure Fund, to help kick start the national economy in the wake of the US based sub-prime fiasco, could finally prise open the previously impregnable treasury doors and finance some much needed and perennially overlooked state projects.
Without an election in prospect and an urgent imperative to boost the sagging national economy the legitimate use of previously sacrosanct commonwealth public servant’s superannuation to fund projects of importance must seem irresistibly compelling to federal pollies of all hues.
Of course NSW ‘must haves’ will first have to endure the now obligatory ‘Rudd Review’ (read at least 6-12 months bureaucratic process) and will no doubt also become part of a massive competitive lobbying campaign from all over the country.
But in terms of what’s required for all Sydney centric areas the broad outlines are already well known:
First, has to be Transport – particularly road and rail.
Traffic snarl-ups lasting hours seem a weekly occurrence on all main thoroughfares these days – that includes the harbour bridges, various toll tunnels and nearly all freeways.
Just announced 25% hikes in rail tickets over the next four years, fewer and slower train services, plus potential parking fees at stations already flag the seriousness of the current situation.
Second, is Health with virtually all of our hospitals in all sorts of financial disarray.
In recent years they’ve been reviewed and re-organised to death - Blind Freddie can see they just need a lot more funds to keep going as they are.
Why we don’t have a single national health system has to be seriously questioned.
Thirdly, and this applies equally everywhere in the country, Telecommunications, specifically the rollout of very fast and affordable broadband.
If there is one infrastructure project up for consideration, which has the potential to boost productivity throughout Australia, it has to be the introduction of vastly improved internet access.
Mr Rudd in fact went to the last election with this as an important plank in his platform. I know for many techos and IT professionals that issue alone swung their vote to the ALP - forget any more delays Kevin - just do it.
Well that’s my wish list. If you have any more ideas for our new Premier – let me know in the Comments box below: | 
