Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia said it was critical the state government, industry and community work together to guarantee access to essential construction materials in the wake of recent natural disasters.

The call is part of a four-point plan presented by CCAA to the LNP last week which outlines a path to ensure the supply of quarry aggregates meets industry demand.

The plan also demands the state government improve and protect access to quarries, develop strategies to facilitate the more efficient transport and supply of construction materials, and form a sound economic policy framework to reduce business on-costs and streamline government regulation.

CCAA Queensland state director Aaron Johnstone said the organisation’s policy plan was fundamental in the state’s bid to rebuild and grow.

“The recent spate of natural disasters and its impact on our road network has underlined the importance of having ready access to these essential construction materials,” Johnstone said.

“Add to the mix the demands of our growing population and expanding energy and mining sectors, and you start to appreciate the size of the task ahead.

“It’s critical that government, industry and the community work in partnership to ensure these current and future demands for construction materials are met.”

Johnstone also stressed the importance of protecting quarries from urban sprawl as cities expand.

He said there needed to be a more coordinated and consistent approach to the planning and development approval process.

“Transport is a significant component of the overall cost and environmental impact of heavy construction materials,” Johnstone said.

The reality is that quarries and concrete batching plants need to be situated close to their markets to ensure reliable, cost effective supply.

“We believe there are real opportunities to improve the supply chain and deliver a ‘triple win’ for the community, the government and industry.”