Michael Schaper has been appointed chair of Infrastructure WA, taking the helm as the agency prepares to transition into the state\u2019s first productivity commission, the 2050 Commission.<\/p>\n
Dr Schaper, a former deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), will succeed Nicole Lockwood, who is stepping down after seven years leading the organisation.<\/p>\n
The appointment marks a major step in Infrastructure WA\u2019s evolution as it embarks on a new mandate to drive productivity, growth, and transformation across Western Australia\u2019s economy.<\/p>\n
WA Premier Roger Cook said Dr Schaper\u2019s leadership would provide continuity and expertise during a pivotal phase for the agency.<\/p>\n
\u201cMichael Schaper\u2019s extensive background in public sector governance makes him an ideal candidate to oversee Infrastructure WA as it goes through a critical transition, and I want to congratulate him on his appointment as chair,\u201d Cook said.<\/p>\n
\u201cI also want to thank Nicole Lockwood for her seven years as chair and wish her the best in her future roles.<\/p>\n
\u201cInfrastructure WA has played a key role advising government on policy for many years, and its transformation into the 2050 Commission will ensure it continues to play a critical role advising government on how the state will need to grow and transform in the coming years.\u201d<\/p>\n
Dr Schaper brings more than two decades of experience in both regulatory and governance roles.<\/p>\n
In addition to his decade-long tenure at the ACCC, he currently serves as deputy chair of Infrastructure WA.<\/p>\n
He chairs both Energy Consumers Australia and the Energy and Water Ombudsman WA.<\/p>\n
Lockwood has overseen Infrastructure WA since its establishment, guiding long-term infrastructure planning and policy advice to ensure sustainable growth for the state.<\/p>\n
Her departure comes as the agency begins implementing structural changes to support a broader economic reform agenda.<\/p>\n
The upcoming 2050 Commission will assume Infrastructure WA\u2019s existing responsibilities, including conducting Major Infrastructure Proposal Assessments, while also introducing new inquiry functions to assess the state\u2019s productivity and long-term growth potential.<\/p>\n
Legislation to formally establish the 2050 Commission is expected to be introduced in the second half of this year, with the new body anticipated to commence operations by mid-2027.<\/p>\n
Dr Schaper\u2019s appointment is seen as key to ensuring a seamless transition from Infrastructure WA to the 2050 Commission, aligning infrastructure planning with the broader economic ambitions of Western Australia.<\/p>\n
The 2050 Commission is designed to provide independent, long-term strategic advice to government on how to shape the state\u2019s economy ahead of and beyond 2050, focusing on productivity reform, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure development.<\/p>\n
As Infrastructure WA enters this phase of transformation, Dr Schaper\u2019s leadership is expected to provide stability and forward-looking direction, ensuring Western Australia remains on track to meet the challenges of the next generation.<\/p>\n
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