The Federal Government has laid out its vision for Australia’s cities and suburbs with the release of its new National Urban Policy.
The policy focuses on the government’s highest priorities for the nation’s cities, from equitable access to jobs, homes and services, to climate resilience and lowering emissions.
Nearly 80 per cent of Australians live in our largest 20 cities and the policy provides a framework and goals that support them all.
National Planning Ministers have jointly agreed a shared vision for sustainable urban growth, including a strong focus on ensuring Australia’s cities and suburbs meet the needs of both current and future generations – with housing affordability as the primary goal.
The policy includes a series of implementation principles and actions for the Federal Government to take forward in collaboration with partner governments.
The Urban Policy Forum, chaired by Emeritus Professor Barbara Norman, played an integral role in developing the National Urban Policy. These experts in urban development were central to delivering the Government’s revitalised approach to urban policy, highlighting the urgent challenges facing our cities and suburbs.
This work builds on strong investment in cities and suburbs, including the Thriving Suburbs Program, urban and regional Precincts and Partnerships Programs and the Housing Support Program.
Federal Minister for Cities Jenny McAllister, said, “Cities are home to nearly 80 per cent of Australians, and they count on them to provide equitable access to the essentials of a good life: affordable housing, employment, health, education, and safe and vibrant environments.
“We are investing in our cities and transforming our urban policy to support Australian families and drive economic growth and productivity.
“We also want to ensure that our communities are sustainable and resilient to the effects of climate change. The National Urban Policy sets out our shared vision for achieving that.”
Urban Policy Forum Chair Emeritus Professor, Barbara Norman, said, “As our cities and urban centres develop, there is an increasing need for coordinated government action to provide for liveable, productive and sustainable urban communities.
“The National Urban Policy includes an agreed vision, goals, and a set of principles to guide implementation of a sustainable urban future for all.
“As Chair of the Urban Policy Forum, I am delighted to see the launch of the National Urban Policy and thank members of the UPF for their excellent contributions.
“The policy provides the foundation for working collaboratively for the planning, design and development of our urban centres to deliver more equitable, innovative and resilient urban outcomes now and for future generations.”
The National Urban Policy was developed with input from a broad range of stakeholders including state, territory and local governments, industry, First Nations communities and urban policy experts.
