1 Place-based outcomes for communities

Key messages

• Infrastructure identification and prioritisation should reflect a place-based approach that takes a cross-sectoral view of the interrelated infrastructure and amenity needs of a location.

• A lack of consistent national guidelines for infrastructure needs assessments and place-based model agreements has created inconsistencies in planning and delivery.

• Governments need a process that supports strategic planning for future liveability, informed by better spatial data on the impact of population changes.

• A place-based approach to infrastructure planning that engages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities can help meet Closing the Gap targets.

• Fast-growing Cities need to provide a high standard of living to remain globally competitive, which is complicated by uneven access to services between suburbs.

• To play their critical connecting role, Smaller Cities and Regional Centres need infrastructure that links them to Fast-growing Cities and their catchment area.

• Minimum infrastructure standards should be applied to Small Towns, Rural Communities and Remote Areas facing significant infrastructure deficits.

• Targeted infrastructure investment in Northern Australia will ensure the next wave of development supports economic growth, security and natural resource exports.