
Building disaster- and climate-resilient infrastructure through public–private partnerships
The report discusses leveraging public–private partnerships (PPPs) to build disaster- and climate-resilient infrastructure in Southeast Asia, addressing funding gaps, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and integrating resilience measures. It highlights Australian practices, aligning climate, disaster, and inclusion goals for sustainable infrastructure development.
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OVERVIEW
Introduction
Southeast Asia faces escalating risks from disasters and climate change, with significant impacts on infrastructure and communities. Between 2012 and 2021, the region experienced average annual physical infrastructure losses of approximately US$58 billion due to extreme weather and geophysical hazards. Investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, with an estimated net benefit of US$4.2 trillion globally, are economically sound, yet funding gaps persist. Public–private partnerships (PPPs) are presented as a viable solution to mobilise resources, integrate disaster resilience, and address regulatory challenges.
Navigating disaster and climate challenges in a context of economic growth
Southeast Asia’s economic growth projections of 4.5% in 2024 and 4.7% in 2025 underscore the importance of resilient infrastructure to sustain development. The region’s vulnerability stems from high poverty levels, dependence on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, and extensive coastal development. Regional efforts have begun aligning disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, yet further coherence and integration are required. Addressing disaster and climate risks holistically is critical to safeguarding livelihoods and economic stability.
The need to work towards disaster and climate resilience in infrastructure
ASEAN member states, such as Myanmar and the Philippines, rank among the most affected by climate events. Risks include inadequate drainage systems, deforestation, and poorly constructed infrastructure, which exacerbate flooding, landslides, and erosion. Key vulnerabilities include regional poverty, reliance on natural resources, and urban migration. Addressing these challenges requires sectoral adaptation strategies, particularly in agriculture, water, health, and forestry.
The role of Public–Private Partnerships in enhancing disaster and climate resilience
PPPs provide a framework for governments to leverage private sector expertise and funding while transferring significant risk management responsibilities to private partners. Mechanisms such as performance-based payments incentivise investments in resilient designs, decarbonisation, and long-term risk management. Benefits include innovation in construction, sustainability practices, and improved lifecycle management of assets. For instance, PPPs in energy and transport sectors have demonstrated effectiveness in integrating resilience measures.
Australian good practices in the Public–Private Partnership process
Australia’s approach to integrating resilience into PPPs is guided by principles such as optimal risk allocation and adaptive technical standards. National and state-level frameworks include the National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework and the Victorian Government’s Partnerships Victoria guidelines. Projects like the EastLink toll road, which incorporated fire-resistant materials and climate risk registers, demonstrate effective private sector contributions to resilience and sustainability.
Global good practices
Global frameworks, such as the G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment, highlight the need for inclusive and climate-resilient infrastructure. Practices such as disaster risk screening during project identification and rigorous feasibility studies during structuring ensure resilience is embedded throughout the PPP process. Inclusive measures, including gender and disability analyses, enhance accessibility and broaden social impact.
Conclusion
Southeast Asia requires substantial investments in disaster- and climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate risks and sustain development. Leveraging PPPs enables resource mobilisation, innovation, and shared risk management. Collaboration with partners like Australia provides an opportunity to enhance regional standards, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and achieve resilience goals.