Introduction > The basis for Melbourne 2030 > How has Melbourne 2030 developed?

How has Melbourne 2030 developed?

Work began on Melbourne 2030 in December 1999. It is the result of combined input from government, the private sector, and the people of metropolitan Melbourne and the other communities in the surround-ing region.

Figure 7. The Strategy process - click for more detail

An important body of research lies behind it, and experts within and outside government have contributed in-depth studies. The main technical reports have been published and made available to the public in print (see Appendixes). Summary reports are on the Government’s Metropolitan Strategy web site at www.doi.vic.gov.au/melbourne2030

A number of options have been investigated for managing Melbourne’s growth, ranging from more concentrated development in established areas through to a substantially increased role for the regional cities and towns that surround metropolitan Melbourne.

Thousands of interested Victorians have expressed their views and concerns through public forums, small group workshops and direct submissions (see Appendixes). They include representatives of local government and of special interest groups, including youth, women, the elderly, and the development and investment communities. They have told us about their hopes and fears for the future, their aspirations for themselves, their businesses and their children, and what matters most to them about the places in which they live, work, invest and play.

Feedback was given on their views, through print and electronic media, as a vital part of the public consultation process. Important messages from the process have informed the development of the principles that underpin Melbourne 2030.

A reference group has contributed to the development of important concepts and provided a sounding board for many ideas about content and the processes for community consultation This group was made up of representatives from local government, peak industry bodies and community-based organisations, and people with acknowledged expertise in a variety of professional fields. A separate group of peer reviewers, expert in planning and related fields, has provided important comment on an early draft of this document.

Figure 8. Urban growth options - click for more detail

What kind of future do we want?
More than 5,500 people came to a forum or workshop, or made a submission or contacted the web site. They want:

• A quality urban environment – with heritage and local character protected
• More and better public transport and less road congestion
• Car dependency reduced and walking and cycling encouraged
• A sustainable environment, with less sprawl and protection of environmental assets
• Shared growth and benefits with regional Victoria
• A strong economy and jobs growth, support for existing businesses and industries and encouragement of ‘knowledge age’ jobs
• Reduction of resource use and improved air quality
• A strong sense of community, social equity, appreciation of diversity, and increased personal safety