Michael Schaper has been appointed chair of Infrastructure WA, taking the helm as the agency prepares to transition into the state’s first productivity commission, the 2050 Commission.
Dr Schaper, a former deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), will succeed Nicole Lockwood, who is stepping down after seven years leading the organisation.
The appointment marks a major step in Infrastructure WA’s evolution as it embarks on a new mandate to drive productivity, growth, and transformation across Western Australia’s economy.
WA Premier Roger Cook said Dr Schaper’s leadership would provide continuity and expertise during a pivotal phase for the agency.
“Michael Schaper’s extensive background in public sector governance makes him an ideal candidate to oversee Infrastructure WA as it goes through a critical transition, and I want to congratulate him on his appointment as chair,” Cook said.
“I also want to thank Nicole Lockwood for her seven years as chair and wish her the best in her future roles.
“Infrastructure WA has played a key role advising government on policy for many years, and its transformation into the 2050 Commission will ensure it continues to play a critical role advising government on how the state will need to grow and transform in the coming years.”
Dr Schaper brings more than two decades of experience in both regulatory and governance roles.
In addition to his decade-long tenure at the ACCC, he currently serves as deputy chair of Infrastructure WA.
He chairs both Energy Consumers Australia and the Energy and Water Ombudsman WA.
Lockwood has overseen Infrastructure WA since its establishment, guiding long-term infrastructure planning and policy advice to ensure sustainable growth for the state.
Her departure comes as the agency begins implementing structural changes to support a broader economic reform agenda.
The upcoming 2050 Commission will assume Infrastructure WA’s existing responsibilities, including conducting Major Infrastructure Proposal Assessments, while also introducing new inquiry functions to assess the state’s productivity and long-term growth potential.
Legislation to formally establish the 2050 Commission is expected to be introduced in the second half of this year, with the new body anticipated to commence operations by mid-2027.
Dr Schaper’s appointment is seen as key to ensuring a seamless transition from Infrastructure WA to the 2050 Commission, aligning infrastructure planning with the broader economic ambitions of Western Australia.
The 2050 Commission is designed to provide independent, long-term strategic advice to government on how to shape the state’s economy ahead of and beyond 2050, focusing on productivity reform, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure development.
As Infrastructure WA enters this phase of transformation, Dr Schaper’s leadership is expected to provide stability and forward-looking direction, ensuring Western Australia remains on track to meet the challenges of the next generation.
