The Andrews Labor Government has appointed Dr Collette Burke as Victoria’s first Chief Engineer – to help oversee the state’s record infrastructure pipeline.

Dr Burke will provide expert advice to the Labor Government on major project design and engineering.

She has experience in both the private and public sectors – having been appointed Director to the VicTrack Board in 2015, and currently serving as the Managing Director of engineering consulting firm Exner Group.

Dr Burke is also a former National Director of the National Association of Women in Construction.

Victoria continues to invest an average of $10.2 billion a year over the budget and forward estimates – giving our cities, towns and communities the infrastructure they need.

The new Chief Engineer role is based within the Office of Projects Victoria – a new expert body established by the Labor Government to oversee the planning and delivery of Victoria’s unprecedented pipeline of major infrastructure projects, and provide advice to Government when developing and delivering new projects.

From the Metro Tunnel to level crossing removals – these projects will create more than 50,000 jobs statewide. The new Chief Engineer’s skills and experience will complement the Office of Project Victoria’s advisory board – which has expertise in civil works and building construction, infrastructure policy, legal and architectural expertise, and government process.

This highly skilled team will ensure Victoria’s major infrastructure projects are delivered on time, and on budget.

Dr Burke will also help the Government establish a registration system for engineers – ensuring the industry is properly regulated for safety, compliance and competency.

Quotes attributable to Acting Treasurer Robin Scott

“Victoria’s first Chief Engineer will help shape the future of Victoria’s major projects.”

“Dr Collette Burke brings with her the experience needed to guide our record spend into the future – ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget and at the highest possible standard.”

Quotes attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Treasury and Finance Daniel Mulino

“Victoria is home to a huge engineering workforce, and Dr Burke will be a terrific industry leader.”

“She will play a critical role in implementing a registration scheme for Victoria’s engineers – something the industry has long called for, and this government will deliver.”