Vision for the future

Health: People want to be more proactive in their health care. The increased use of digital health (see Figure 8.1) creates opportunities to improve access, equity and quality. New models of patient- centred care and greater consumer choice will affect the form, use and location of health facilities.

Education: Facilities will be multi-use and highly accessible. TAFEs, universities and Vocational Education and Training (VET) facilities will be planned, designed and strategically repurposed in industry-centric locations. This will enhance their quality, adaptability and functionality while delivering more flexible learning that is aligned with contemporary teaching practices.

Social and affordable rental housing: There will be a larger stock of well-maintained dwellings. They will be better suited to different household types and located in accessible areas that connect people with employment opportunities, health services, education and recreational spaces.

Arts and culture: These facilities will become more accessible and affordable across cities, towns and regional and remote locations. There are opportunities to harness digital experiences and include arts and culture when planning new precincts or renewal projects.

Public spaces: Highly valued public spaces such as parks and urban spaces (including green space around hospitals, justice and educational facilities) will be more durable and multi-purpose. They will also be better connected through walking and cycling paths and public transport so more people can enjoy them.

Government agencies will strategically and collectively plan, fund and deliver this social infrastructure.

To help ensure investment optimises the social, economic and environmental outcomes for all Australians, it will be supported by effective social infrastructure valuation frameworks and governance models.

Figure 8.1: What is digital health?