Which government is primarily responsible for infrastructure and regional development?

The state government is primarily responsible for infrastructure and regional development because it plays a critical role in planning, funding, and managing such projects within its jurisdiction. State governments oversee transportation infrastructure, health facilities, education, and public works that directly impact regional economic development and community well-being. They have the authority to set policies, allocate budgets, and work with local communities to promote regional growth.

While the Commonwealth, or federal government, also engages in infrastructure projects, such as national highways and significant transportation initiatives, it typically focuses on broader national interests, leaving state governments to handle the specific needs of their regions. Local governments are more concerned with community-specific issues at a much smaller scale, focusing on immediate urban planning and local services rather than large-scale regional development projects. This division of responsibilities clarifies that state governments are integral to regional infrastructure and development within Australia.