The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) is celebrating the recognition of the Infrastructure Asset Manager as a specialisation in the updated Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
It says the landmark achievement acknowledges the critical importance of asset management in delivering sustainable infrastructure and services to communities across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
“The inclusion of asset management in the ANZSCO framework represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of the expertise and professionalism required to manage infrastructure
assets effectively,” the Institute said in a statement.
It validates the skills, knowledge, and strategic contributions of asset management practitioners in industries ranging from public works and utilities to private enterprises and non-profit sectors, said IPWEA President, Ian Daniels.
“This is a historic moment for our profession,” said Mr Daniels.
“The formal recognition by ANZSCO reflects the growing understanding of asset management as a vital field that delivers long-term value, economic sustainability, and improved quality of life for communities.”
IPWEA says the recognition of asset management as a profession has far-reaching benefits, including:
- Professional Standards: Establishing clear qualifications and career pathways for
asset management professionals; - Workforce Development: Enhancing recruitment, retention, and training opportunities
for practitioners; - Policy and Advocacy: Strengthening the role of asset management in government
and corporate decision-making; - Global Leadership: Reinforcing Australia and New Zealand’s leadership in the global
asset management community.
IPWEA has long championed the advancement of asset management through its training programs, leading to global certification with the World Partners in Asset Management (WPiAM), and thought leadership, including the globally recognised International Infrastructure Management Manual (IIMM) aligned to the ISO 55000 Asset Management Standards and the GFMAM (Global Forum on Maintenance and Asset Management) Landscape document.
“IPWEA calls on governments, industry leaders, and educational institutions to support the formal recognition by embracing asset management as a critical discipline.”
“By investing in the development of skilled professionals, we can ensure the resilience and sustainability of our infrastructure for generations to come,” the Institute said.