Looking back: 11 big ideas from 2025 shaping infrastructure across Australia
January 14, 2026
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The challenges we face have never been clearer. Climate change is accelerating, global tensions are rising, and growing populations are putting more pressure on our infrastructure and community wellbeing.
From artificial reefs at the base of wind turbines to AI models saving lives on our roads, these 11 stories showcase the inventive, real-world solutions helping us to meet those challenges head on.
1. Why cultural infrastructure is key to building better, future-ready cities
Cultural infrastructure isn¡¯t a luxury¡ªit¡¯s essential. Arts and culture strengthen social cohesion, support wellbeing, and drive economic growth. One in five Australians attends events for health reasons; more than half go for joy. Engaging with culture reduces loneliness and fosters inclusion. That¡¯s why we need to prioritise building cultural infrastructure like any other core community service.
2. How we can improve housing affordability in Australia
Affordable housing is increasingly out of reach for many. The problem is urgent, but solutions have remained elusive. But there are incremental steps we can take that can help shift the equation. Through better collaboration, thoughtful planning, and smart incentives, we can shift the system. We may not fix everything at once, but we can make real progress.
3. Why liquid cooling is leading the way in Australian data centres
As demand for data surges, cooling systems need to work harder than ever. Traditional air-based methods just can¡¯t keep up with the heat generated by AI-ready loads. That¡¯s why more data centres are designing liquid-first cooling systems. Liquid cooling can move heat more effectively, reduce energy waste, and help data centres meet performance and sustainability goals.
4. How we¡¯re modelling wastewater infrastructure for a changing world
For decades, we planned wastewater infrastructure around a predictable formula. We looked at stable population growth and pipes that would last us the next 50 years. But with a growing population and climate extremes, traditional models are no longer enough. Using digital tools, we can now test assumptions, model future scenarios, and build flexibility into our designs. These innovations help us prepare for the unexpected¡ªand build wastewater infrastructure fit for whatever tomorrow brings.
5. Why designing for green spaces is essential for healthier, happier communities
Green spaces are critical to community wellbeing. But as housing density increases and open land becomes harder to preserve, access to green spaces is decreasing for many. In this conversation, our professionals explore the barriers that stand in the way of incorporating more green spaces in our neighbourhoods. The end result? Greener, more liveable communities.
6. How we can build more sustainable data centres in Australia
Australia¡¯s 200-plus data centres already use 5 per cent of our electricity¡ªand that number is rising by the day. As demand for data grows, so does the pressure to reduce emissions. Smart data centres are starting to pair energy-efficient AI models with renewable power to cut environmental impacts. It demonstrates that when we make the right design choices we can meet performance needs and sustainability targets.
7. Why we need to rethink community consultation to create sustainable streetscapes
Walkable, people-focused streets boost health, connection, and quality of life. But too often, streetscape projects stall before they begin¡ªbecause we¡¯re not engaging communities early or meaningfully enough. If we want better outcomes, we need to meet people where they are and listen first. Community consultation isn¡¯t a checkbox¡ªit¡¯s how we build places people want.
8. Why using AI in transportation can improve outcomes for our communities
AI is already transforming how we plan and manage infrastructure¡ªbut transport is falling behind. Policy, process, and hesitation are slowing adoption. Australia invests more than $30 billion a year in its road network, with up to 40 per cent going toward maintenance. That¡¯s a huge spend¡ªand one that could go much further with AI. We can¡¯t afford to wait.
9. How we can build more sustainable water infrastructure
Australia¡¯s growing population is putting more pressure on aging water infrastructure. New projects are essential¡ªbut so is maintaining what we¡¯ve already built. Councils are being asked to do both, often with limited resources. It¡¯s time to explore what¡¯s holding us back from making smarter investments in wastewater infrastructure. It¡¯s all about a more sustainable future.
10. How offshore wind farms could provide habitats for marine life
Offshore wind farms offer more than clean energy¡ªthey¡¯re also a chance to support marine biodiversity. Wind turbine foundations can act as artificial reefs, creating habitat for threatened species and boosting local fisheries. But not every structure placed in the ocean will spawn a thriving marine ecosystem¡ªdesign matters. With the right approach, Australia¡¯s offshore wind farms could deliver lasting benefits for our environment¡ªabove and below sea level.
11. Why flexible naval infrastructure is critical for a maritime nation
Australia¡¯s Navy is increasingly likely to be called on to operate at a scale and intensity not seen since the Second World War. But without modern, resilient, and future-proofed bases, shipyards, and support systems, we risk fielding advanced vessels without the means to maintain or deploy them at pace. We need to learn from allies; embed flexibility; and invest in people, networks, and redundancy. If we do so, we¡¯ll lay the foundations for Australia¡¯s long-term security and prosperity.
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