PANEL DISCUSSION: Budget Blowouts!

Why do infrastructure projects blow their budget? 

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring esteemed economists as they unravel the mysteries behind infrastructure project budget blowouts. 

From big builds to railways, these experts will delve into the complexities of cost overruns, exploring the economic factors, political influences, and management pitfalls that contribute to these challenges.

Keynote Speakers

Lars Rognlien is a transport and urban economist with more then 20 years international experience in economic appraisal of major projects. He has developed tools and techniques for modelling impacts and benefits of transport on productivity, land use, housing and city shaping benefits and has developed Cost Benefits Analysis guidelines in the UK, NZ, US and Australia.

During his career he has worked on London’s Crossrail, UK High Speed 2, NZ Additional Harbour Crossing, Sydney Metro, Sydney Western Harbour Tunnel, Melbourne Metro, Canberra Light Rail, Brisbane to Sunshine Coast Fast Rail, Adelaide Light Rail and Perth Metronet.

Marion Terrill established Grattan Institute’s Transport program and ran it for the past 8 and a half years, analysing issues ranging from infrastructure investment to congestion, electric cars and trucks to fuel taxes. Her previous experience includes authoring parts of the 2010 Henry Tax Review to leading the design and development of the MyGov account.

She has provided expert analysis and advice on labour market policy for the Commonwealth Government, the Business Council of Australia and at the Australian National University.

Dr Aneeq Sarwar is Domain’s resident guru economist, he leads Domain’s forecasting and technical division. With over a decade’s worth of experience in academia, industry, and giving advice to the government, he brings a wealth of knowledge to our research work and discussions. 

Dr Sarwar has a PhD in Economics, Big Data, Productivity, and Innovation. He is a firm believer that data should drive insight and decision-making, with constant evaluation and self-accountability. Dr Sarwar regularly works and publishes with various international and national organisations on a wide range of public policy issues. 

Event Details

Date: Monday 13 May 2024

Time: 5:30PM - 7:30PM

Location: FTI Consulting Offices, Level 51/600 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

Cost: Free for ESA Members, $10 for Non-Members. 
Catering and drinks included - please indicate any dietary requirements on the registration form. 

If you are not an ESA Victoria member, this event is an opportunity for you to become a member to enjoy our members discount rates on our social events and access to other free events exclusive to members! You can become a member here.

We look forward to welcoming you to this event, 

ESA VIC Young Economists Network