urban, regional, & economic development

Melbourne is one of the fastest growing developed cities in the world, with population increasing by around 100,000 residents per year. Melbourne’s population is forecast to reach 8 million by 2051.

Melbourne is acknowledged as one the most liveable city in the world as assessed by The Economist. However, sustained population growth is placing extreme pressure on Melbourne’s famed livability.

EDUCATION AND early childhood

The quality of human capital produced by our education and training system is critical to labour force participation and productivity. Access to high quality education and training is also a ladder for social mobility, especially for disadvantaged groups. The education and training system is also a growing employer, and education is also a major export earner.

Health, aged care & human services

Without health and wellbeing, Australians cannot live full lives. A healthy workforce is a key driver of productivity. We know from the social determinants of health, that vulnerable communities are at particular risk - which we need to address if we are to be an equitable society.

Justice and public safety

A well functioning justice system is crucial to community wellbeing, and at the same time it is also fundamental for the efficient functioning of the economy.

There are structural challenges for our justice system. There is a heavy investment at the acute end of the system - police, courts, prisons - but less investment in prevention and early intervention. Public perceptions about public safety are driving decisions around some justice settings - visible policing, suspended sentences, parole, mandatory sentencing - that are driving up incarceration rates, which can often further damage already vulnerable people and actually erode community safety in the longer run.

agriculture, water & environment

The connections between the health of the environment and economic performance are complex. The health of our land and waters directly supports significant industries including agriculture, food manufacturing, timber production and tourism. Our health, well-being and productivity depends on the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink and the quality of the recreational and tourism opportunities available to us in our waterways, beaches, parks and so on.

Resources, Energy & Utilities

Australia relies heavily upon its resources wealth to create income and jobs and to fund government services. These resources also need to be managed is a sustainable way for the environment and for communities.