Background
Sydney and Melbourne have recently produced 30 year plans which aim to improve liveability, reduce the extent of sprawl, create jobs and protect the environment.  These are founding documents and much more is to come as new infrastructure and suburbs are planned and built.  As major centres of population and business, everyone has a stake in the outcome. 
Sydney: city of cities plan (2005)
Melbourne 2030

The Debate
Business says we face an infrastructure supply crisis and traffic congestion is causing significant economic costs. Green groups say our infrastructure is becoming increasingly unsustainable with water and energy wastage. Efficiency, pollution and financial viability of water and energy investment are key issues.  Both business and environment groups have called for improved public transport.

Governments are reluctant to fund big ticket infrastructure. Business is reluctant to take on the risks and uncertainty. Community groups are sceptical about either group's ability to provide a sustainable, equitable solution.

What is the role of business in the governments' plans:

-provide jobs in the 'activity centers'?
-contribute to affordable housing?
-build 5 star homes and offices?
-be involved in infrastructure PPPs?

What safeguards are needed to protect the public interest?

TEC Position
TEC is calling for a limit to urban sprawl, protection of green spaces and significant reductions in city and individual environmental footprints through sustainability targets - and is working with business and government to achieve this.  We are part of a Sydney alliance of business, social welfare and environment groups who have agreed to key principles and are reviewing Sydney's Metro Plan.
Alliance Metro principles
Review of Sydney Plan