Have your say on the National Urban Policy

The Albanese Government is seeking feedback on the National Urban Policy, and how we can better work together to improve Australia’s cities and suburbs.

The conversation is critical to our commitment to developing the first National Urban Policy in over a decade.

The draft Policy outlines our objectives to create more liveable, equitable, productive, and resilient urban areas. 

It has been developed with input from all three levels of government, Federal Government agencies, and members from the Urban Policy Forum, chaired by Professor Barbara Norman.

The Albanese Government recognises the importance of community input to build thriving urban areas. 

This consultation is your chance to contribute to shaping the future of our cities and suburbs. You can have your say via a survey, providing a submission, or attending consultation sessions.

The Government will consider all feedback prior to finalising the National Urban Policy in consultation with the state and territory governments and urban policy experts.

In keeping with the vision of the National Urban Policy, the Albanese Government has committed $350 million in urban community infrastructure programs including $200 million for the Thriving Suburbs Program and $150 million under the urban Precincts and Partnerships Program.

Forecast Funding Opportunity information for these programs was released by the Minister on 16 May 2024. 

For more information on the National Urban Policy and to have your say, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/national-urban-policy.

To view the urban community infrastructure Forecast Funding Opportunities, visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities. 

Comments attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“Our urban communities are experiencing demographic change, the structure of our economy is shifting, many parts of the country are experiencing extreme weather events and technology is quickly reshaping how Australians go about our day-to-day lives.  

“How we manage these challenges and take advantage of these opportunities will have significant implications on the future of our country – economically, socially and environmentally. 

“The National Urban Policy presents a critical chance to create sustainable and adaptive cities and suburbs that meet the needs of the community now and into the future.”

Comments attributable to Urban Policy Forum chair, Professor Barbara Norman:

“This Policy is a very positive contribution recognising there can be competing objectives in delivering housing targets, protecting good agricultural land, space for urban infrastructure, managing disaster risk and climate change, renewable energy and more. 

“The principles provide a pathway for reconciling these challenges when developing a sustainable urban future.

“The Policy opens a conversation on how we can link international to state to local, and better coordinate across governments and ensure that as we face these challenges, we follow a more sustainable pathway.”