Special Report: Recalibrating growth plans

FOLLOWING an unprecedented period of growth in recent years, engineers are preparing for challenging times as project developers and major clients wind-back or close their operations.

CONSULTING engineers across Perth are calling on state and local governments to urgently improve the approvals process for the development of projects throughout Western Australia, amid soaring costs to business.

ENGINEERING graduates face an uncertain future as the number of potential employers and the pool of projects in the development pipeline dry up.

THE reduction in the number of engineering-based projects under way or in planning as a result of the downturn has alleviated the skills shortage, but care should be taken not to lose staff from the sector when the pendulum swings again.

CONSULTING engineers have joined the Western Australian business community in calling on the state government to implement a long-term strategic infrastructure plan.

DESPITE the belt-tightening currently being experienced across all industries, including the engineering sector, designers and developers say sustainable design remains key.

LOCAL engineering firms were bombarded with calls from underprepared local councils at the end of last year seeking assistance in applying for the federal government's infrastructure handouts.