The Victorian Government has appointed the state’s first chief engineer, who will provide expert advice on major infrastructure project design and engineering.
Dr Collette Burke is to take up the role, which is based within the new expert body the Office of Projects Victoria (OPV). The OPV was established by the Labor Government to oversee the planning and delivery of infrastructure projects, alongside the advice on project priorities provided by Infrastructure Victoria.
As chief engineer, Dr Burke will work alongside the OPV advisory board, delivering advice to the government when developing and delivering new 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,” Victoria’s acting treasurer Robin Scott said.
Dr Burke was appointed to the board of VicTrack in 2015, and is the current managing director of Exner Group, an engineering consulting firm. She is also a former National Director of the National Association of Women in Construction.
In her role as chief engineer, Dr Burke will also work with the government to establish a registration system for engineers that will provide industry-wide safety, compliance and competency regulations.
“Victoria is home to a huge engineering workforce, and Dr Burke will be a terrific industry leader,” said Daniel Mulino, parliamentary secretary for treasury and finance.
“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.”