Approximately $278 billion in construction work across housing and clean energy is relying on Australia’s environmental approvals system – but growing complexity, workforce shortages and outdated systems are putting delivery at risk. According to a new report, artificial intelligence (AI) can help unlock the pipeline. It tailors advice specifically to approvals use cases. It identifies what’s possible, what’s emerging and what to do about it.

The report finds that even small improvements to approvals processes could unlock significant productivity gains across the economy, helping to accelerate housing supply and the energy transition. The report shows the approvals system is under increasing strain. It found that artificial intelligence and better use of data can help address these challenges. Regulators abroad facing similar difficulties have begun to adopt AI solutions and are seeing significant benefits. 

Recommendations for federal government

• Establish an environmental approvals innovation taskforce.
• Ensure data and information standards mandate information sharing from private parties.