The ACT Government has created the long-awaited position of Chief Engineer to advise the government on engineering and infrastructure projects and encourage collaboration with industry.

Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman announced senior public servant George Tomlins will step into the role for an initial six month period, while an EOI process is conducted to permanently fill the role. 

“I am pleased to announce George Tomlins as the Acting Chief Engineer for this new role. He is a highly regarded engineer in the ACT Government and his qualifications and experience in engineering, planning and public administration are well-recognised,” Gentleman said.

“Mr Tomlins has extensive experience in government and on major infrastructure programs. He most recently led the Government’s Procurement and Capital Works teams, responsible for delivering over $2 billion in capital works over the last four years." 

The Chief Engineer will liaise closely with the Government Architect, Catherine Townsend, and the various peak engineering bodies including Consult Australia, Engineers Australia and Professionals Australia, who have all strongly advocated for the role. 
 
“The ACT Government’s commitment to the creation of a Chief Engineer is part of delivering modern infrastructure and ensuring Canberra has innovative and safe engineering and delivery processes in place for the future of the city,” Gentleman said.

Engineers Australia ACT Manager Keely Quinn tole The Canberra Times it was a positive move to see the role filled after so many months of waiting, although she would like to see someone independent and outside of government in the permanent role. 

Megan Motto, Chief Executive of Consult Australia said: “We welcome this as an interim step to help shape and define the role in preparation for the appointment of a full time Chief Engineer to deliver high level strategic engineering advice to government. ACT’s ability to efficiently connect people to places and products to markets is critical for continued economic growth. The Chief Engineer will not only be a key adviser to the Government on infrastructure planning, but must also play a leading role in helping the ACT Government become a more informed purchaser.”