NARASINETWORK.COM - Indonesia's regional governments are increasingly responsible for delivering essential infrastructure. Authorities across the country are working to identify suitable funding and financing arrangements to address local needs.
The Indonesia Australia Partnership for Infrastructure (KIAT) supports the strengthening of Indonesia’s infrastructure sector. Australia assists with research and policy dialogue to improve coordination in national and regional planning, budgeting, and financing.
The partnership focuses on aligning systems for the effective design and delivery of infrastructure projects. It facilitates knowledge exchange between Australian and Indonesian institutions, drawing on international practice to inform local policy development.
Natalie Mendelsohn, Counsellor for Infrastructure, Climate and Green Growth at the Australian Embassy in Jakarta, recently met with Bapak Medrilzam, Deputy of Regional Development at the National Development Planning Board (Bappenas). The discussion focused on identifying policy options to enhance subnational infrastructure development across Indonesia.
During the meeting, participants examined approaches to make infrastructure projects sustainable, inclusive, and attractive to investors. Topics included streamlining approval processes, improving project preparation, and strengthening accountability at the regional level.
Both representatives agreed on the importance of clear policy guidance to support regional governments, noting that infrastructure can drive economic activity, improve public services, and enhance the quality of life for communities across Indonesia.
The dialogue also explored opportunities to build capacity within regional government agencies. This includes training staff in project management, financial planning, and stakeholder engagement to ensure infrastructure investments deliver value.
The collaboration between Australia and Indonesia under KIAT continues to evolve with emerging priorities. Future activities will focus on implementing agreed policy measures and supporting selected regions to pilot new approaches to infrastructure financing and delivery.
By strengthening coordination and building capacity at the subnational level, the partnership aims to help Indonesia develop infrastructure that meets current needs and prepares it for future challenges.
