A new Thriving Cities policy platform released today by the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) calls for federal leadership to create great Australian cities for everyone.
“Australia is the one of the most urbanised countries in the world, and this is set to continue as our cities keep pace with population and economic growth,” said ASBEC’s President, Professor Ken Maher AO. “ASBEC’s recommendations aim to ensure that the cities we build for the future deliver healthy, liveable, productive and sustainable communities that we are all happy to call home.”
“This Federal Election comes in the wake of a clear multi-party consensus on the importance of a national approach to cities policy that delivers for all Australians. From our CBDs and outer urban growth areas, to our regional centres: a coordinated, national approach to urban policy will help us tackle those most intractable challenges associated with population settlement, productivity, climate and demographic change, and a low-carbon future.” said Jonathan Cartledge, Chair of ASBEC’s Cities and Infrastructure Task Group and Interim CEO of the Green Building Council of Australia.
“We encourage all parties to leverage this consensus across the Parliament, and support the re-appointment of a Minister for Cities and the re-establishment of a Major Cities Unit within the Australian Government.”
“In recent years we have seen incredible collaboration across governments and with industry and communities around Australia to deliver better cities. ASBEC’s recommendations provide a roadmap for that collaboration to continue and the benefits to grow.” Jonathan said.
ASBEC calls for commitment to a shared long-term vision for thriving cities, supported by targeted policy reforms to foster the best possible Australian cities. Key actions are:
- Investing in improved policy and governance, including a National Settlement Strategy and better procurement.
- Delivering more balanced business cases to realise better value from our infrastructure.
- Improving housing outcomes for more affordable, equitable and sustainable living.
- Adopting key recommendations of the House of Representatives Standing Committee Building Up and Moving Out report.
“A shared vision for our cities across all levels of government, coupled with improved business cases for infrastructure investment, will help realise better value from our infrastructure investments.” said Suzanne Toumbourou, ASBEC’s Executive Director. “We also need more affordable, equitable and sustainable housing options for all, with an understanding of housing as an essential component of infrastructure.”
“Last year the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Cities Inquiry into the Australian Government’s role in the development of cities provided a wealth of insights into how better outcomes can be achieved for Australia’s cities.” said Jonathan. “As it observed: we need a national vision for our cities over the next 50 years; nationally consistent guidelines on green spaces; and a clear trajectory to reduce carbon emissions from our built environment.”
“With almost 90% of Australians living in urban areas, there is great pressure on our cities to support the livelihoods, health and wellbeing of our population.” said Ken. “There is no better time than now to act and help ensure our cities thrive for the future.”
Read Thriving Cities
Read the full media release