Nearly 80 per cent of Australians live in our largest 20 cities. The policy focuses on the Government’s highest priorities for Australian cities, from equitable access to jobs, homes and services, to climate resilience and lowering emissions.

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.

Along with a shared national vision, the policy includes urban goals, a series of implementation principles and actions for the Australian Government to take forward in collaboration with partner governments.

Urban goals

1. Liveable and equitable
2. Productive and innovative
3. Sustainable and resilient

Principles

• Planning and development should produce equitable and inclusive outcomes.
• Planning and investment choices should bolster economic growth, productivity and innovation.
• Design and development should support sustainable and climate resilient urban environments.
• Urban governance should be cooperative and collaborative. 
• Decisions should be guided by evidence-based practice.