Critical Infrastructure Act 2026 Commenced

New Regulations commence the Critical Infrastructure Act 2026, bringing it into operation on 17 July 2026.

The Act was enacted without amendment from the Bill as introduced. It is intended to address delay, fragmentation and sequencing risks in the delivery of State infrastructure (defined as any infrastructure that enables essential facilities and systems of the State to function effectively, including transport facilities; energy generation, transmission and distribution systems; and water supply, wastewater and waste management systems).

The Act applies to projects and programmes funded by capital investment, by or on behalf of the State, or by or on behalf of a public body. “Public body” is broadly defined to include Ministers of the Government, local authorities, bodies established by or under enactment, charter or Ministerial scheme, certain State-funded companies, designated institutions of higher education, and any other person or body prescribed by regulation by the