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Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Australia: Exploring Public Opinion and Key Considerations

Week 2: Concerns about Cost and Value for Money


As Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have been utilised for more infrastructure projects in Australia, concerns have emerged around whether these models actually provide value for taxpayer money compared to traditional procurement. By examining specific Australian PPP case studies that faced challenges or were deemed successful, we can gain insights into the factors that influence outcomes and how to mitigate risks to costs.

One of the highest profile cases of a PPP facing major financial issues is the Cross City Tunnel in Sydney. This A$2 billion toll road project between the NSW Government and private consortium CrossCity Motorway Group ultimately cost hundreds of millions more than planned. Inaccurate traffic and revenue projections proved pivotal, as construction issues like redesigns and flooding also contributed to cost overruns. The lesson here is robust due diligence on key assumptions must occur prior to signing long-term PPP contracts.


In contrast, the A$1.13 billion Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre PPP between the state government and private partners leveraged innovative design and construction techniques under a collaborative model. This has resulted in capital cost savings estimated at up to A$1 billion for taxpayers compared to traditional procurement approaches. Ongoing facilities management is also projected to yield operational efficiencies.


Other large infrastructure PPPs in areas like tollways and hospitals across multiple states demonstrate the potential for value when risk is properly allocated to the partner best positioned to manage it, and private consortiums have incentives for efficiency through long concession periods.

Overall, the Australian experience points to both benefits and pitfalls of PPPs from a cost perspective. Successes show opportunities, but failures also provide valuable lessons on the importance of rigorous due diligence and risk analysis prior to deals. With careful planning and assessment, PPPs offer promise - but public confidence ultimately depends on transparent value-for-money evaluations over the long term.


Next week, we will be focused on the crucial theme of transparency and accountability in PPPs. We examine initiatives implemented internationally to promote openness, independent oversight and community participation throughout all stages of large, long-term infrastructure partnerships between government and private entities. Please join us again then as we learn about best practices for governance structures that can help PPPs achieve value and responsible risk management with confidence.

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