Planning reform of the Australian Capital Territory: towards a more sustainable future

Abstract

The National Capital Canberra as a planned city has a unique system in Australia with direct federal planning controls combined with Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government administration integrating state and local functions. The immediate surrounding border of NSW is also a significant consideration in planning and land management. In its Centenary year, Canberra is reflecting on its planning heritage and in doing so exploring the planning challenges for the next 100 years. Key issues being discussed include climate change, renewable energy, public transport, regional development and demographic change. Recent initiatives include the introduction of light rail, green precincts and strengthening Canberra as a knowledge economy capitalising on the universities and national research institutions. The voices of the community are developing strongly and the planning system is being challenged to accommodate this change. This article will outline the major reforms in the planning system in the ACT in recent years and discuss whether these have provided a platform for a more sustainable future for Canberra as a national capital, a regional capital for the south-east NSW and as a local community expected to grow to half a million population by 2030.