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BIM and digital tools set to improve infrastructure delivery according to Infrastructure Victoria.
Infrastructure Victoria has published a report, Digital Technology and Infrastructure Productivity, which assesses 25 digital technologies and their potential to enhance productivity across government infrastructure projects. The report identifies five key technologies that offer the most significant opportunities for cost savings and efficiency gains, with Building Information Modelling (BIM) at the forefront.
Dr Jonathan Spear, CEO of Infrastructure Victoria, emphasised the transformative power of these technologies: “There are proven digital technologies, ready now, that can transform how infrastructure is designed, built, and maintained. Wider use of digital technology across government infrastructure can save money, boost productivity, and improve worker safety.”
BIM’s Role in Cost Savings and Efficiency
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is highlighted in the report as a crucial tool in driving productivity improvements across infrastructure projects. BIM enables the creation of 3D digital models that integrate data and advanced analytics, providing detailed visualisations that support more efficient planning, design, and management of construction projects.
“Building information modelling can reduce how much it costs to design, build, and maintain infrastructure. It also helps to identify and avoid mistakes during design and construction,” Dr Spear noted. The report references international examples where BIM has reduced public housing construction costs by nearly 7%, underscoring its potential to deliver significant savings if applied widely in Victoria.
BIM’s capacity to improve coordination and communication between project stakeholders is another key benefit. By providing a centralised digital model, BIM ensures that everyone involved in a project – from designers to contractors – can work from the same set of accurate data. This minimises the risk of errors, delays, and rework, ultimately leading to more efficient project delivery.
Focus on Government Infrastructure Projects
The report primarily explores BIM’s benefits in the context of traditional infrastructure projects, such as public housing and government buildings. While the discussion does not extend to other construction methods, BIM’s potential to enhance the precision and oversight of infrastructure projects is evident.
According to the report, BIM’s ability to streamline design processes and improve overall project management makes it an essential tool for the Victorian government’s infrastructure projects, particularly those with large budgets and complex logistical needs. The report also encourages broader adoption of BIM across the public sector to maximise these benefits and help deliver infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing population.
Other Key Technologies to Drive Smarter Infrastructure
In addition to BIM, the report highlights several other digital technologies that could play a pivotal role in improving infrastructure delivery. These include machine learning, advanced imaging, and robotics, all of which are noted for their potential to improve productivity and reduce costs.
Geospatial mapping, combined with advanced data analytics, is singled out for its ability to support real-time monitoring of infrastructure and logistics systems, particularly in the context of managing traffic and forecasting natural hazards. The report’s findings will inform Victoria’s updated 30-year infrastructure strategy, which is set to be released for consultation next year.
“We’re recommending the government pilot digital technologies on its infrastructure projects and promote greater use of BIM and other digital tools through procurement,” said Dr Spear. “This will help businesses build the digital capabilities they need to grow, while ensuring government infrastructure projects are delivered smarter, faster, and more cost-effectively.”
Download the report HERE (pdf)
