8.1  Transforming social infrastructure to enhance quality of life

Key messages

 During the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia's social infrastructure adapted quickly to meet Australians' health, educational and social needs.

 This transformation must continue, using technology and innovative delivery models to improve the accessibility, quality and efficiency of services.

• New service delivery models (such as virtual health) are improving choice and access, providing patient-centred health care closer to home and alleviating pressure on hospitals and other health facilities.

 With sustained investment and sustainable infrastructure planning, governments can continue digitally transforming the health system and building the digital capacity of citizens and the health workforce.

 Pandemic health infrastructure response planning must be kept current.

• Education infrastructure must continue to adapt to contemporary educational needs, embracing technology and digital learning and optimising its use through high-quality, flexible design.

 Training and higher education infrastructure should be strategically located to maximise learning and Job creation opportunities.

• Australia's governments must address the growing shortfall of social housing. Government agencies should work with the sector to harness new investment options and provide high-quality social and affordable rental housing in the right configurations and locations.

• To create more liveable local areas, people should have increased access to high-quality green and blue public infrastructure and spaces

• Better alignment across arts, cultural and recreational planning will create new avenues for innovation, investment and growth, and build resilience in the face of future challenges.

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