More Than Maintenance: Unlocking Strategic Value in Public Infrastructure
Maintenance is often seen as a cost to be managed, but in the public works and local government context, it is a strategic lever for delivering long-term community value. Steve’s presentation explores how well-planned, data-informed maintenance and reliability practices are fundamental to achieving asset performance, managing life cycle costs, and controlling risk.
Drawing on asset management principles and real-world examples, Steve will examine how reframing maintenance as an enabler—not an expense—can improve service outcomes, justify investment, and strengthen long-term sustainability. Attendees will gain insight into how maintenance connects with broader infrastructure strategy, and how leadership, planning, and culture shape its success.
Steve Verity has over 30-years’ experience managing infrastructure across both the public and private sectors. A recognised thought leader in the sustainable management of built infrastructure, Steve is the Principal Advisor for the IPWEA Asset Management Program and represents IPWEA on the Global Forum on Maintenance and Asset Management (GFMAM). He is also the principal author of several infrastructure studies, including the National State of the Assets Report for the Australian Local Government Association. brings a deep understanding of the need for robust planning and risk management frameworks to ensure infrastructure projects and programs are adequately funded and deliver services at agreed levels. He is regularly engaged by governments to advise on infrastructure planning and reporting reform initiatives.
