Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie appointed Regional Infrastructure Coordinator

Former Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie AC DSC CSM has been appointed the NSW Government’s first Regional Infrastructure Coordinator, charged with accelerating the roll-out of infrastructure across the State.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro have asked Lieutenant General Gillespie to advise the Government on how to deliver, in the most efficient and effective way, key local infrastructure projects with a focus on the regions.

“We are spending unprecedented amounts on roads, railways, hospitals and schools in every corner of NSW but we acknowledge that more needs to be done to ensure all communities are getting their fair share in a timely manner,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We’re delighted that Lieutenant General Gillespie has agreed to work with the Government to identify and overcome any roadblocks to the roll-out of our local infrastructure program.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, John Barilaro, said the appointment demonstrates the Liberals & Nationals Government’s commitment to ensuring the people of Regional NSW get their share now, not later.

“We have committed record amounts towards infrastructure projects across regional NSW and we need to ensure these projects are up and running as quickly as possible,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This important appointment underscores our commitment to the regions and delivering on our promises.

“This is an exciting time for the people of regional NSW. Lieutenant General Gillespie’s appointment will ensure that every dollar committed will be spent and each infrastructure project undertaken, however big or small, will be completed as soon as possible.”

Lieutenant General Gillespie said: “It is a privilege to be asked by the Premier and Deputy Premier to undertake this important task so vital for the future of our State.

“I am particularly excited about working with local communities including the strong network of regional councils, industry groups and individuals I have established over the past four years on a range of Government transport and freight studies.”

Lieutenant General Gillespie previously worked with NSW Trade and Investment in 2011, targeting business opportunities for the NSW defence industry.

In 2015, he chaired the Government’s Regional Intermodal Taskforce, which assessed the viability of intermodal terminals across the State.