tag:theconversation.com,2011:/global/topics/cities-and-policy-22873/articlesCities & Policy – The Conversation2023-01-30T21:05:18Ztag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1986542023-01-30T21:05:18Z2023-01-30T21:05:18ZPublicly owned land should be used for affordable housing, not sold to private developers<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/507018/original/file-20230130-24-9z07f6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=111%2C208%2C2779%2C1823&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">When land is publicly owned, it can be used to build the kind of housing the market is unwilling, or unable, to build.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">(Shutterstock)</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>On Jan. 25, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to <a href="https://www.thespec.com/news/hamilton-region/2023/01/25/hamilton-affordable-housing-lrt.html">“ensure” affordable housing is built along Hamilton’s light rail transit (LRT) route</a>. While this is welcome news, there are many uncertainties about how this will actually happen. </p>
<p>Building and maintaining affordable housing near good transit is one of the biggest challenges cities face today. It’s not just Hamilton, Ont.: <a href="https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/streets-parking-transportation/transit-in-toronto/transit-expansion/">Toronto</a>, <a href="https://www.mississauga.ca/projects-and-strategies/city-projects/hurontario-light-rail-transit">Mississauga, Ont.</a>, <a href="https://www.brampton.ca/EN/residents/transit/Projects-Initiatives/Pages/Welcome.aspx">Brampton, Ont.</a>, <a href="https://www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/exploring-the-region/stage2ion.aspx">Waterloo, Ont.</a>, <a href="https://ottawa.ca/en/planning-development-and-construction/major-projects/stage-2-light-rail-transit-project">Ottawa</a>, <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/quebec-city-third-link-tramway-1.6029933">Québec City</a>, <a href="https://dailyhive.com/montreal/rem-light-rail-train-mcgill-station">Montréal</a>, <a href="https://www.calgary.ca/green-line.html">Calgary</a>, <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/8737356/bc-government-legislative-powers-land-transit-hubs/">Vancouver</a> and <a href="https://www.edmonton.ca/projects_plans/transit/future-lrt-projects">Edmonton</a> are all constructing or planning new transit lines. </p>
<p>However, without proactive approaches from all levels of government, <a href="https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262536851/transit-oriented-displacement-or-community-dividends/">gentrification and displacement</a> will accompany these new trains.</p>
<p>Fortunately, there are solutions right in front of us.</p>
<h2>Public vs. private ownership</h2>
<p>Metrolinx, a provincial government agency, has <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/metrolinx-lrt-demolition-1.6207825">acquired large sections of land</a> for the construction of many of these LRTs, including in Hamilton. Once trains are running, most of this land will no longer be needed. Typically, surplus public land is sold on the open market to the highest bidder. But that’s not the only approach.</p>
<p>What happens to publicly owned land along new transit lines will determine whether or not they will be affordable places to live. </p>
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<img alt="A man in a blue dress shirt and suit jackets speaks from behind a podium" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506884/original/file-20230127-25-6v77bq.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
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<span class="caption">Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks to the media at the McMaster Automotive Resource Centre, in Hamilton, Ont., during the Liberal Cabinet retreat on Jan. 25, 2023.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nick Iwanyshyn</span></span>
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<p>If this land is <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ryerson-university-report-affordable-housing-downtown-parcel-sold-1.5115645">sold to private developers</a>, Canadians are unlikely to see significant amounts of affordable housing built for low- or moderate-income households. </p>
<p>This is a triple blow to these communities: new housing is too expensive, existing affordable housing is being lost through <a href="https://acorncanada.org/resources/save-rental-replacement-bylaws-protect-affordable-housing/">demolition</a>, <a href="https://www.homelesshub.ca/sites/default/files/attachments/august-financialization-rental-housing-ofha-en.pdf">renoviction</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2017.04.011">gentrification</a>, and people who rely on transit will have <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/gec3.12203">few housing options</a> along routes.</p>
<p>But if this land is kept in public ownership, the future of affordable housing is brighter. Although Metrolinx has no history of doing so, the pieces are in place to use this publicly owned land to build the kind of housing the market is unwilling, or unable, to build.</p>
<p>The province could retain this land and transfer it to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and use it for social housing. Even if the province wants to sell the land, there are possibilities.</p>
<h2>A culture shift is needed</h2>
<p>In Ontario, provincially owned land — <a href="https://www.metrolinx.com/en/about-us/doing-business-with-metrolinx/development-opportunities/land-opportunities">including land owned by Metrolinx</a> — is subject to the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-realty-directive">Ontario Realty Directive</a>. This directive gives other public entities, like the federal government or municipalities, the right to acquire surplus provincial properties before they are sold on the open market. </p>
<p>Cities <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/9300122/ontario-metrolinx-affordable-housing-surplus-land-criticism/">rarely exercise their option to buy surplus provincial land</a>, partly because it takes time (and money) to do so, but also because of a culture that emphasizes <a href="https://www.versobooks.com/books/2870-capital-city">the role of the private sector</a>, rather than the public, in developing housing.</p>
<p>The federal government could also acquire land under the directive and build housing on it funded by the <a href="https://www.placetocallhome.ca/what-is-the-strategy">National Housing Strategy</a>. So far, this strategy has produced very little affordable housing for households in need. <a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-governments-across-canada-need-common-income-based-definition-of/">A change is clearly necessary</a>.</p>
<p>The provincial government can also be much more proactive. The <a href="https://files.ontario.ca/mmah-housing-affordability-task-force-report-en-2022-02-07-v2.pdf">Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force</a> recommended that all future government land sales have a 20 per cent affordable housing requirement. Unfortunately, this recommendation has not been adopted. </p>
<p>In 2022, <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/provincial-land-transit-hub-private-developer-sale-1.6330555">Metrolinx sold a parking lot in Port Credit</a> — located next to a GO station, right at the start of the Hurontario LRT line — to a private developer for $64.5 million, with no requirement for any affordable housing.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/has-ontarios-housing-plan-been-built-on-a-foundation-of-evidentiary-sand-198133">Has Ontario’s housing 'plan' been built on a foundation of evidentiary sand?</a>
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<p>A culture shift around provincially owned land needs to come from the top — from Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark, and from Premier Doug Ford himself. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-passes-housing-bill-23-1.6666657">With the passing of Bill 23</a>, Ford has an ambitious plan to build new homes in Ontario, but <a href="https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2022/10/26/the-province-is-setting-a-housing-affordability-trap-for-toronto.html">more direction is needed</a> to shape what kind of housing gets built and for whom.</p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="A GO Transit train sits parked at a station" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/506907/original/file-20230127-14-dsg1vf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
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<span class="caption">Building and maintaining affordable housing near good transit is one of the biggest challenges cities face today.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tara Walton</span></span>
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<h2>Genuinely affordable housing</h2>
<p>The private market is <a href="https://theconversation.com/housing-is-both-a-human-right-and-a-profitable-asset-and-thats-the-problem-172846">very good at building a lot of small condo units</a>, especially along new transit lines. In <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoforum.2021.06.013">Waterloo</a>, where I work, more than $4 billion has been invested along the LRT corridor. Most of this investment was made before the line opened, meaning these kinds of conversations need to happen today, not five years from now.</p>
<p>What the private market is not good at is <a href="https://theconversation.com/more-housing-supply-isnt-a-cure-all-for-the-housing-crisis-188342">building genuinely affordable housing</a> and <a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/environment/news/renters-kitchener-waterloo-are-diverse-their-rental-options">family-sized units</a> for households on a range of incomes.</p>
<p>Not all the new housing on publicly owned land has to be social housing, though we do need a lot more of it. A <a href="https://www.scotiabank.com/ca/en/about/economics/economics-publications/post.other-publications.insights-views.social-housing--january-18--2023-.html">recent Scotiabank report</a> noted that even if Canada doubled its percentage of social housing, we would only be at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and G7 averages.</p>
<p>Within our current planning rules, the questions of what to build and for whom are left to the market. One of the few tools cities have to shape private development is <a href="http://justwebsites.ca/inclusionaryhousing/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/10/August-CIP-2018.pdf">inclusionary zoning</a>, which requires a certain percentage of affordable housing be built in new developments.</p>
<p>Most cities have yet to establish their policies, but <a href="https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-23">Bill 23 will restrict affordable housing</a> to five per cent of units for a maximum of 25 years, with rents at 80 per cent of market rates. This approach won’t do anything for families in <a href="https://www.placetocallhome.ca/national-housing-council/media-newsroom/analysis-affordable-housing-supply-created-unilateral-nhs-programs">core housing need</a> — households that spend more than 30 per cent of their income on shelter. It is also a far cry from the <a href="https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/planning-studies-initiatives/inclusionary-zoning-policy/inclusionary-zoning-overview/">City of Toronto’s inclusionary zoning plan</a> which called for 22 per cent of new units to be affordable by 2030.</p>
<h2>Thinking beyond the market</h2>
<p>When land is publicly owned, we can set the terms of development and be much more ambitious and creative. It would be possible, for example, to stipulate that new owner-occupied units be the primary residences of their owners, a model <a href="https://whistlerhousing.ca/">already practised in Whistler, B.C.</a>.</p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="A street car drives down the centre of a two-way street. Condos and apartment buildings are seen in the background" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=401&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=401&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=401&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/507149/original/file-20230130-7092-7ufo5h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
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<span class="caption">Along new transit lines, the private market is good at building a lot of small condo units, not family-sized units for households on a range of incomes.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">(Brian Doucet)</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
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<p>In Ontario, where <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/investors-in-ontario-real-estate-market-1.6258199">a quarter of all homebuyers are investors</a>, this would <a href="https://theconversation.com/want-to-solve-the-housing-crisis-address-super-charged-demand-169809">reduce demand by eliminating speculation</a> on publicly owned land.</p>
<p>Cities could use their land for <a href="https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2023/01/07/why-dont-we-zone-for-rental-apartments.html">purpose-built rentals</a>, with rents set at a ratio of a tenant’s income, rather than a little bit below market rates. They could also lease sites to non-profits to build supportive housing, as <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/blockline-road-new-supportive-housing-erin-kloos-1.6456499">Kitchener recently did</a>. Publicly owned land also plays a key role in <a href="https://www.landbackcamp.com/">reconciliation with Indigenous communities</a>, who disproportionately struggle to find adequate and affordable housing.</p>
<p>In a housing crisis, publicly owned land should never be sold to private developers in the hopes of getting <a href="https://www.ohba.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cur_report_surplus_lands_april2019.pdf">a few crumbs of affordable housing</a> out of the deal. By assuming the private market has a monopoly on housing development, we ignore the genuinely transformative solutions that are hiding in plain sight. </p>
<p>Thinking beyond the market, and using publicly owned land creatively, is the only way Trudeau’s pledge to ensure affordable housing along Hamilton’s LRT corridor will actually result in housing for the people who need it.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/198654/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Brian Doucet receives funding from SSHRC, the Canada Research Chairs program and the Hamilton Community Foundation. Some of his research is conducted in partnership with the Social Development Centre Waterloo Region. He has co-written reports on housing and mobility for local governments in Ontario. . </span></em></p>In a housing crisis, publicly owned land should never be sold to private developers and should instead be used to build the kind of housing the market is unwilling and unable to build.Brian Doucet, Canada Research Chair in Urban Change and Social Inclusion, University of WaterlooLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1384222020-05-21T04:05:02Z2020-05-21T04:05:02ZArchitecture was built on copies – China wants it built on nationalism<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335938/original/file-20200519-83371-1inx865.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=53%2C0%2C6000%2C3979&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">China Academy of Arts, Hangzhou, designed by Wang Shu of Amateur Architecture Studio, 2009</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Shutterstock</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>China has <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-52585684">a new ban</a> on “plagiarising, imitating, and copycatting” building designs for public facilities across the country. </p>
<p>In recent years, developers across China have used the allure of copies in projects such an <a href="https://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/xeroxed-village-chinese-secretly-copy-austrian-unesco-town-a-768754.html">Austrian village</a> in Guangdong, a <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/fake-paris-china/index.html">replica Paris</a> in Hangzhou, a copy of <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/london-tower-bridge-replica">London’s Tower Bridge</a> in Suzhou and a (now dismantled) <a href="https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2014-08/21/content_18460626.htm">Sydney Opera House</a> in Liaoning province.</p>
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<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336240/original/file-20200520-152298-1x70fyh.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
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<span class="caption">The Eiffel Tower replica in Tianducheng, China.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Shutterstock.com</span></span>
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<p>This new ban may seem like an encouragement of greater creativity or independence. But – if taken literally – it will force architects working in China to address a question central to their discipline: what is the status of the copy?</p>
<p>Around the world, architects copy openly and relentlessly, and rarely acknowledge their sources. The free circulation and application of architectural knowledge without credit is default. </p>
<h2>Built on copies</h2>
<p>Architecture may be the creative field with the least regulation of copying. </p>
<p>Architecture has held a <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/101st-congress/house-bill/3990/text">similar legal status</a> to other artistic fields since 1990, yet hasn’t seen challenges like those <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/music-copyright-lawsuits-chilling-effect-935310/">in music</a>, where a number of well-known artists have been successfully sued for the inclusion of someone else’s guitar riff, bassline, or melody.</p>
<p>Intellectual property protections for architecture are underdeveloped and rarely enforced compared to the <a href="https://www.copyright.org.au/ACC_Prod/ACC/Information_Sheets/Fair_Dealing__What_Can_I_Use_Without_Permission.aspx">copyright laws</a> that dictate use of cinema or literature.</p>
<p>Contemporary architectural education was built on copying. <a href="http://www.architecture.org/learn/resources/architecture-dictionary/entry/beaux-arts/">Beaux-Arts</a>, a teaching model named after the school in Paris where it originated in the 1860s, conflates copying, studying and producing architecture.</p>
<p>In the 20th century, <a href="https://web.mit.edu/allanmc/www/benjamin.pdf">mechanical reproduction</a> and the ability to mass-reproduce images increased the accuracy of copies and the speed of circulation. Spread from Europe to America, these copycat references would eventually be labelled <a href="https://www.britannica.com/art/International-Style-architecture">International Style</a>.</p>
<p>From the 1970s, <a href="https://www.architecture.com/explore-architecture/postmodernism">postmodernism</a> saw tens of thousands of office towers, car parks and housing schemes feature columns, balusters and other remixed components of multiple architectures past.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335932/original/file-20200519-83393-hixkdz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Venturi Scott Brown’s Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery, London, was opened in 1991. The postmodern design incorporates modern elements with Italian Mannerism.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/roryrory/2628933731/in/photolist-51iYpD-EhCVXK-svdXE-k7iDYB-6RVA2a-GBYhRS-5Hka9t-e4m9yG-23EVvZE-51obuU-51obnj-51iYwB-51iYrB-aMWTex-aMWTMR-aMWUAH-51iYB8-51obAY-GSshrd-dEGPv-eY4pQN-dEGQ7-suyed-21Zomzj-suxvD-66prY7-Us9366-suy1n-suxE9-5MR3M9-9ugCMX-JQXW9-8bnCYu-67QjVZ-y5w7GB-HcvU1b-UA1SWq-5FZNEn-Z18xUx-6rHBe-5Gwvzz-6SSPy4-Z7HhrA-XVs3py-bWgvvd-7ofonB-bWgx17-7ofTaB-7ojLEy-7ojLmb">Rory Hyde/Flickr</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Today, the architecture books and journals that disseminated architectural knowledge have given way to an avalanche of online material. Designers can find plans, sketches, and technical documents accompanied by an incalculable number of renders and photographs. </p>
<h2>The reproduction tradition</h2>
<p>The importance of the copy to architecture means even literal copies of buildings also form part of a significant architectural tradition. </p>
<p>Around the world, national museum villages mix relocated and copied buildings: <a href="https://www.dengamleby.dk/en/den-gamle-by/">Den Gamle By</a> in Denmark; <a href="https://www.poble-espanyol.com/en/">Poble Español</a> in Barcelona; the completely rebuilt <a href="https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264337">Gyeongbokgung Palace</a> in Seoul. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=590&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=590&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/335931/original/file-20200519-83348-qwbnyf.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=590&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Den Gamle By recreates 75 traditional houses from across Denmark.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rayandbee/5911829146/">RAYANDBEE/flickr</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Every 20 years in Japan, the <a href="https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/">Ise Shrine</a> is completely rebuilt alongside a neighbouring copy, which is demolished in turn in accordance with Shinto rituals. </p>
<p>The arrival of the Austrian architect Harry Seidler in Australia in 1948 bought us a series of exceptional buildings, and we can now study the <a href="https://www.pamono.com.au/stories/midcentury-modern-in-postwar-australia">lessons of Marcel Breuer</a> or Walter Gropius without leaving Sydney. </p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/336244/original/file-20200520-152349-z5hhrw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Rose Seidler House, designed by Harry Seidler in 1950, brought modernist architecture to Australia.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/roryrory/2777432806/in/photolist-5er51w-FPWKTL-5emF4B-5er58W-3exvnc-3exuZD-bUQnu5-6k6Kik-FJ4Qi5-6JLi29-6JGdai-6JLmiq-6JLdT9-6JLh3q-6JGbKT-6JLjRh-6JGfTM-6JLgz3-6JGhp2-6k6Kez-299rZE5-FJ4Ucs-29dGAj2-5er4Vb-299s2dW-5emEWK-3exv5n-6k6JWV-EWZ4AP-EWZ54T-EWN9Ku-EWZ5jx-FSeTjF-FLnJun-5CGCEA-5CGCHQ-nZGqaz-6kaVBu-dUuwi9-5CCkyn-5CGCC5-6kaVPd-6k6JZV-6kaVvu-6k6JL6-M5Zkrf-29dGiHg-29dGnvM-26sZitd-kYbci">Rory Hyde/flickr</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>A national project</h2>
<p>Given these traditions of copying the decision in China seems radical: an effort to curtail one of architecture’s defining characteristics. </p>
<p>But the new ruling must also be read in parallel with a <a href="https://www.dezeen.com/2016/02/25/china-moves-to-prevent-oversized-xenocentric-weird-architecture-news/">2016 directive</a> banning “bizarre architecture” and criticising “oversized, xenocentric, weird” buildings. </p>
<p>The 2020 prohibition also recommends any new architecture should “<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-52585684">display the Chinese characteristics</a>”. </p>
<p>It turns out copies are only a problem when the original is not domestic. </p>
<p>Architecture has played a major role in the construction of national identity. French classicism began with Claude Perrault’s <a href="https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/renaissance-reformation/baroque-art1/france/a/claude-perrault-east-facade-of-the-louvre">deceitful scheming</a> to snatch the Louvre Colonnade commission from the Italian architect Gianlorenzo Bernini. Hitler was obsessed with rebuilding Berlin based on Albert Speer’s <a href="https://www.architectural-review.com/essays/reputations/albert-speer-1905-1981/8637474.article">version of neoclassicism</a> – a vision recently revived in Donald Trump’s call to “<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-so-many-architects-are-angered-by-making-federal-buildings-beautiful-again-131423">make federal buildings beautiful again</a>”. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-so-many-architects-are-angered-by-making-federal-buildings-beautiful-again-131423">Why so many architects are angered by 'Making Federal Buildings Beautiful Again'</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>In singling out “alien” architectures, the Chinese Government acknowledges architecture as a critical form of national self-realisation. </p>
<p>Xenophobic and nationalistic impulses aside, it also shows architecture’s capacity for cultural production still matters – at least to select governments.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/138422/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>China’s ban on ‘copycat’ architecture goes to the heart of architectural traditions.Gerard Reinmuth, Professor of Practice, University of Technology SydneyUrtzi Grau, Senior Lecturer, Director of The Master of Architecture, University of Technology SydneyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1290022020-01-20T19:03:44Z2020-01-20T19:03:44ZUnbuilding cities as high-rises reach their use-by date<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/310805/original/file-20200120-118315-h8cwb8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=247%2C45%2C2755%2C1688&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Implosion is the most dramatic way of demolishing a building but it's also the most wasteful and hazardous.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Luke Schmidt/Shutterstock</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>We are entering a new world where skyscrapers and other huge buildings are becoming redundant and need significant overhaul or replacement. The process is called unbuilding or, if you’re a bit highfalutin, deconstruction.</p>
<p>These so-called <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/spreadsheets-in-the-sky-are-putting-melbourne-s-liveability-at-risk-20191203-p53gek.html">spreadsheet towers</a> populate every major city. They signalled modernity and provided huge profits for those who built them. But these buildings are <a href="https://phys.org/news/2017-06-high-rise-energy-intensive-low-rise.html">profligate users of fuels</a> for light, power and services.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/buildings-produce-25-of-australias-emissions-what-will-it-take-to-make-them-green-and-wholl-pay-105652">Buildings produce 25% of Australia's emissions. What will it take to make them 'green' – and who'll pay?</a>
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</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Most developed world cities started building skyscrapers after the second world war. These buildings were <a href="https://www.britannica.com/art/International-Style-architecture">International Style</a> architecture, unrecognisable is terms of a particular locale, universal in terms of their ubiquitous metal, concrete, glass – and fully air-conditioned. Now they are ageing, their use-by date is up and their balance sheet profitability no longer attracts. </p>
<h2>The challenges of demolition and reuse</h2>
<p>The question is: how do we safely dismantle these high-rise structures, which are generally located in busy cities? </p>
<p>Reminders of the dangers of explosive demolition are tragedies such as the <a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6030620/katie-benders-family-commemorate-20-years-since-royal-canberra-hospital-implosion/">death of 12-year-old Katie Bender</a>. She was struck by flying debris when the Royal Canberra Hospital was razed in 1997 to make way for the new National Museum of Australia. </p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EsPnm43Cjr0?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">A news report of the 1997 Royal Canberra Hospital demolition that resulted in the death of 12-year-old Katie Bender.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A recent demolition, and the <a href="https://www.archdaily.com/889563/soms-iconic-270-park-avenue-at-risk-of-becoming-the-largest-building-ever-to-be-demolished">tallest ever to be unbuilt</a>, is 270 Park Avenue, New York City. Its 52 floors were built in 1960 for the Union Carbide chemical company. The building was for 50 years the tallest ever designed by a female architect (Natalie de Bios of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. Is that another low hit for gender equality?) Its replacement by architects Norman Foster will be <a href="https://gothamist.com/news/270-park-avenue-quintessential-modernist-skyscraper-being-slowly-destroyed-chase-bank">twice as high</a>.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/a-short-history-of-tall-buildings-the-making-of-the-modern-skyscraper-56850">A short history of tall buildings: the making of the modern skyscraper</a>
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</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>The business of disassembling these skyscrapers is just now developing, but it will gain pace as more become obsolete. </p>
<p>Some still get imploded, but usually, in a busy city, demolition techniques must be unobtrusive, as quiet and clean as possible. The <a href="https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780865476752">techniques used for cleaning up the World Trade Centre</a> testify to the wastefulness of a more destructive approach.</p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ufgpFz-dYM4?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">Unbuilding the World Trade Centre: an account by William Langewiesche who reported exhaustively on the work.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>So how best to demolish a high-rise building?</h2>
<p>Plenty of <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/18/science/tricky-ways-to-pull-down-a-skyscraper.html">clever techniques to demolish</a> exist. Some start at the base and work up, others in reverse. </p>
<p>The 40-storey Akasaka Prince Hotel in Tokyo was slowly <a href="https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/1160452/eco-friendly-japanese-demolition-scheme-slashes-dust-and-noise">demolished in 2012-13</a> using a technique where a cap was built on top of the building. It was stripped floor by floor as the cap was lowered, so all the dust, mess and debris was contained and removed with no effect on the environment.</p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/24mvk6zbxO4?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">The Akasaka Prince Hotel shrank floor by floor as it was demolished.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Buildings are wrapped in scaffold and protective fabric then literally dismantled in the reverse order to which they were built. In the process building waste can be recycled and reused rather than dumped.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/how-we-can-recycle-more-buildings-126563">How we can recycle more buildings</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Reverse building involves removing the glass, then the frames, taking off the wall cladding, then scraping away at the concrete and steel frames bit by bit. Concrete is removed to expose the steel reinforcing bars, which are then separately removed and recycled. In the process unwanted material can be uncovered, like asbestos, which needs particular care in handling.</p>
<p>Interiors are unbuilt the same way – remove floor coverings, cupboards, doors and lightweight walls, strip the electrical wiring and pipes, take out air conditioning and lifts, remove stairs and escalators.</p>
<p>These removalists act smartly, as materials and fabric are recycled and often reused for another building. It is a sustainable way of dealing with the issue. Things that might normally have been reduced to dust and mud by destruction are instead usefully salvaged and recovered for an extended life cycle. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/with-the-right-tools-we-can-mine-cities-87672">With the right tools, we can mine cities</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>As part of the benefits of this procedure, unbuilding provides <a href="https://www.huduser.gov/Publications/PDF/deconstruct.pdf">large numbers of construction jobs and associated employment</a> in transportation, waste management and recycling. </p>
<p>It also provides new construction sites. This means cities need not expand beyond existing boundaries and the infrastructure of services, roads and public transport need not be extended.</p>
<h2>Building with an eye to unbuilding</h2>
<p>What has interested those involved with this work is the capacity of building designers (let’s call them architects) to creatively improve their buildings in terms of life after use-by date. Techniques are being developed that assist in unbuilding and salvaging materials, even down to basic principles such as ease of access to pipes and wires, modular components and simplified connection practices.</p>
<p>The logic is that clarity of building structure and services makes retrieval simpler. Less complexity of materials and components means a building can be untangled more efficiently. </p>
<p>Fastening devices can be simplified and mechanical (rather than using glues and sealants), toxic materials avoided, materials selected with an afterlife in mind and structures designed for simplicity and accessibility. Also important is a clear set of as-built documents that map the original building so it can be disassembled.</p>
<p>Clear design thinking will have value for unbuilding and recycling in the future.</p>
<h2>Making construction more sustainable</h2>
<p>The construction industry is a main consumer of fuels, timber, steel and other metals, concrete and plastics. That demand drives the logging of forests, mining and extraction, leading to material production and transport that contributes to emissions and pollution.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/making-every-building-count-in-meeting-australias-emission-targets-126930">Making every building count in meeting Australia's emission targets</a>
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</em>
</p>
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<p>The UK Green Building Council <a href="https://www.ukgbc.org/climate-change/">estimates</a> the construction industry generates about 22% of UK carbon emissions, uses 40% of drinking water, contributes 50% to climate change and over half our landfill waste, and accounts for 39% of global energy use. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also <a href="https://archive.epa.gov/greenbuilding/web/pdf/gbstats.pdf">reports</a> that the industry contributes to asthma and lung cancer by producing radon via contaminated applied finishes (paint). </p>
<p>Driving the need for much greater reuse of old building materials is an awareness of the fragility of our resources and the energy we use to consume them.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/129002/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Norman Day does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>The problems of demolishing high-rise buildings in busy cities point to the need to prepare for unbuilding at the time of building. We’d then be much better placed to recycle building materials.Norman Day, Lecturer in Architecture, Practice and Design, Swinburne University of TechnologyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1270172019-12-16T19:03:03Z2019-12-16T19:03:03ZAustralian cities pay the price for blocking council input to projects that shape them<p>National, state and city governments aspire to increase prosperity through globally competitive and more liveable cities. Through “world class” infrastructure, buildings and public spaces they aim to increase a city’s competitive advantage in attracting investment and talent. <a href="http://www.pmjournal-digital.com/pmjournal/december_2017___january_2018/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1244171#articleId1244171">Research</a> shows city governments, not states, nearly always deliver these projects overseas. The controversies in the Australian examples are largely the result of excluding local government.</p>
<p>Globally, mixed-use megaprojects have increasingly been seen as vehicles to make cities competitive as well as responding to local transport and housing issues. <a href="http://www.pmjournal-digital.com/pmjournal/december_2017___january_2018/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=1244171#articleId1244171">My research</a> for a forthcoming book, Mixed-Use Megaprojects and the Competition for Capital, examines such projects on government land in Sydney, Melbourne, New York and Copenhagen. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/all-the-signs-point-to-our-big-cities-need-for-democratic-metro-scale-governance-92417">All the signs point to our big cities' need for democratic, metro-scale governance</a>
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</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>What do Australian cities do differently?</h2>
<p>The research examined projects in terms of governance, narrative, urban form, connectivity and public benefit. The findings underscore the argument that <a href="https://www.sgsep.com.au/publications/whats-new/sgs-contributes-to-important-new-book-on-metropolitan-governance">state governments lack the structural capacity or nimbleness</a> to manage the subtle interplay of various place-based programs necessary to coordinate enablers of modern competitiveness.</p>
<p>Compared to developments overseas, the Australian examples have several things in common:</p>
<ul>
<li>more property industry influence</li>
<li>less strategic coordination with other land assets and transport projects</li>
<li>less public benefit outcomes</li>
<li>less commitment to legislated planning frameworks</li>
<li>less engagement with local knowledge.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Barangaroo development in Sydney is perhaps the archetype of these patterns.</p>
<p>Despite much <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/barangaroo-4255">controversy over Barangaroo</a>, one thing can be agreed. The poor relationship between the city and state governments has contributed to a loss of trust in planning. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/barangaroo-the-loss-of-trust-10676">Barangaroo: the loss of trust?</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Excluding the city is not good policy</h2>
<p>Firstly, this is a skills mistake. The city council has sophisticated capabilities and consistent place-based planning, design and approvals processes. These have been developed over decades. </p>
<p>The city also has established consultation processes and deep experience dealing with a range of stakeholders involved in inner-city development. </p>
<p>When the state intervenes to deliver a project and excludes the city, these processes and their advantages disappear.</p>
<p>Secondly, this is a political mistake. A sophisticated enemy is created that has working relationships with local stakeholders and constituents. With decades of planning work and expert knowledge disregarded, city governments are compelled to scrutinise the process and criticise the state from the sideline. </p>
<p>The City of Sydney appears to be winning the political, if not material, battle of Barangaroo. The <a href="https://meetings.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=118">lord mayor</a> has outlasted seven state premiers in the project’s lifetime along with numerous measures intended to reduce lord mayoral efficacy. </p>
<p>But the battle is the problem and it’s sure to continue under current patterns of (non)rules. Consider the following examples.</p>
<p>The minister for planning is <a href="https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20110817021058/http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/142226/20130814-1220/www.barangaroo.com/media/43967/barangaroo+review+final+report+31+july+2011+compressed.pdf">free to make major changes to the plan without reference to any process</a>. This includes approving the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/sep/30/the-rise-and-rise-of-barangaroo-how-a-monster-development-on-sydney-harbour-just-kept-on-getting-bigger">hotel-in-the-harbour</a> proposal even though it contravened state planning policy. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/barangaroo-development-interests-counter-the-public-interest-10837">Barangaroo: Development interests counter the public interest</a>
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<p>This ministerial power makes projects highly sensitive to political fluctuations. <a href="https://theconversation.com/all-the-signs-point-to-our-big-cities-need-for-democratic-metro-scale-governance-92417">Longer-term planning objectives</a> can be destabilised as a result.</p>
<p>The unsolicited proposal process has been another trust-breaker. Traditionally, government established the need for infrastructure within a metropolitan plan. It would call for tenders from the private sector, then evaluated those tenders in a competitive process. Now private sector participants are encouraged to approach government with development “ideas”. </p>
<p>A prime example <a href="https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/researchpapers/Documents/unsolicited-proposals/unsolicited%20proposals.pdf">involves the Crown Casino complex</a> at Barangaroo. This proposal required major changes to the approved plan. It more than doubled the allowable floor space of the previous hotel-in-the-harbour proposal it had been encouraged to replace <a href="https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20110817021058/http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/142226/20130814-1220/www.barangaroo.com/media/43967/barangaroo+review+final+report+31+july+2011+compressed.pdf">to restore trust in planning</a>.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/market-led-infrastructure-may-sound-good-but-not-if-it-short-changes-the-public-127603">Market-led infrastructure may sound good but not if it short-changes the public</a>
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<h2>What might city involvement look like?</h2>
<p>The <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/research/copenhagen-port-development/">Copenhagen City & Port Development Corporation</a> is an arm’s length delivery authority, owned 95% by Copenhagen municipality and 5% by the state. It is responsible for delivering a number of mixed-use megaprojects. </p>
<p>As with all city areas, Copenhagen municipality develops the “<a href="https://www.kk.dk/artikel/lokalplaner-trin-trin">Lokalplan</a>” for precincts under standard processes and approves individual buildings and public spaces. <a href="https://byoghavn.dk/nordhavn/">North Harbour</a> has been delivered as adopted in 2009.</p>
<p>In New York, a private developer has delivered the Hudson Yards project above state railyards under the city’s standard planning process (<a href="https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/planning/download/pdf/applicants/applicant-portal/lur.pdf">ULURP</a>). The state’s involvement is limited to the air rights lease. </p>
<p>This did not protect the Hudson Yards project from criticism. Nevertheless, it went through the lengthy standard consultative process and has been delivered according to the rezoning since 2005.</p>
<p>As an aside, the city governments of both European and US cases have adopted mandatory affordable housing laws. They are now delivering 25% in their megaprojects. </p>
<p>As an indulgence, let’s say we were in Copenhagen or New York. The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2015/sep/30/the-rise-and-rise-of-barangaroo-how-a-monster-development-on-sydney-harbour-just-kept-on-getting-bigger">casino complex, hotel-in-the-harbour, or doubling of the site’s floorspace</a> would require revisiting the city’s Lokalplan or ULURP. This process would include public review and approvals by multiple city government agencies. In Sydney, one person, the state minister, decides on major changes to the plan.</p>
<p>This research shows the approaches needed to improve city competitiveness and fairness tend to be done better by city governments than by state governments. Yet in Australia the state has absolute control of these complex, city-based projects. Whether as part of a <a href="https://theconversation.com/metropolitan-governance-is-the-missing-link-in-australias-reform-agenda-55872">new metropolitan sphere of governance</a> or not, it is time to empower local city governments in the transformation of our cities.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/metropolitan-governance-is-the-missing-link-in-australias-reform-agenda-55872">Metropolitan governance is the missing link in Australia's reform agenda</a>
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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127017/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Mike Harris does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>Overseas, city-shaping mega-projects are generally overseen by local government, but in Australia state governments often step in and exclude council and community representatives from the process.Mike Harris, Lecturer in Landscape Architecture and Urban Design, UNSW SydneyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1277222019-12-10T18:55:53Z2019-12-10T18:55:53ZWe’re still fighting city freeways after half a century<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/305779/original/file-20191209-90574-1iu8a5b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=8%2C140%2C2733%2C1629&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Demonstrations against freeway construction in Melbourne included a street barricade erected in protest at the F19 extension of the Eastern Freeway. </span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/9619159?q&versionId=11163258">Barricade! – the resident fight against the F19</a></span></figcaption></figure><p><em>This is the third article in a <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/melbourne-transportation-plan-79828">series</a> to mark the 50th anniversary of the landmark Melbourne Transportation Plan.</em></p>
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<p>Like the modernist plans of its time, the 1969 Melbourne Metropolitan Transportation Plan was bold in ambition. Major motorways have been built across the city <a href="https://theconversation.com/50-years-on-from-the-melbourne-transportation-plan-what-can-we-learn-from-its-legacy-127721">as a result of the plan</a>. For Melbourne, the aspiration of the 1969 plan lives on in our relentless pursuit of new mega-road projects. </p>
<p>From the start, these projects <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/08111148508522585">met with community resistance</a>. And, like the roads of the 1960s and ’70s, the roads proposed in recent times for <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-east-west-link-is-dead-a-victory-for-21st-century-thinking-34914">Melbourne</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/roe-8-fails-the-tests-of-responsible-21st-century-infrastructure-planning-71810">Perth</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/health-impacts-and-murky-decision-making-feed-public-distrust-of-projects-like-westconnex-106996">Sydney</a> can still mobilise communities. As Australian cities continue to build massive urban freeways and toll roads half a century after the heyday of modernist planning, it is time to pause and reflect. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/50-years-on-from-the-melbourne-transportation-plan-what-can-we-learn-from-its-legacy-127721">50 years on from the Melbourne Transportation Plan, what can we learn from its legacy?</a>
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<h2>Still building urban mega-roads</h2>
<p>The building of freeways in the 1960s and ’70s <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/08111148508522585">triggered major protests</a> by urban residents. These citizens were concerned about the loss of public land, established housing and the spatial divisions big roads create. </p>
<p>Today residents of our cities still have these concerns, to which we can add climate change. The transport sector is the <a href="https://www.climatecouncil.org.au/resources/transport-climate-change/">fastest-growing source of emissions</a> that are driving climate change. </p>
<p>There is now substantial international <a href="https://www.citylab.com/transportation/2018/09/citylab-university-induced-demand/569455/">evidence</a> building more freeways does not solve congestion, a principle <a href="https://trid.trb.org/view.aspx?id=694596">evident since the 1960s</a>. Instead, it induces more traffic, entrenching reliance on cars.</p>
<p>Melbourne’s 1969 plan proposed over 1,000 kilometres of freeways and arterial roads in a grid-like network covering the entire metropolitan area. Despite many parts of this network having been completed, the controversies continue. Projects such as the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/east-west-link-battle-lines-still-drawn-over-massive-road-project-20190521-p51pkf.html">East West Link</a>, the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/our-ridiculous-frenzy-of-road-construction-will-swallow-up-resources-for-two-decades-20180105-h0dwd0.html">West Gate Tunnel</a>, the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/big-projects-bigger-bills-massive-construction-boom-comes-at-a-cost-20190610-p51w5d.html">North East Link</a> and the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/traffic-crisis-new-mordialloc-freeway-to-dump-thousands-of-cars-on-local-roads-20181108-p50eqh.html">Mordialloc Freeway</a> have all to varying degrees shown how these projects can mobilise significant community opposition. </p>
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<figcaption><span class="caption">Author Andrew Butt discusses the 1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan and its impacts.</span></figcaption>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/sidelining-citizens-when-deciding-on-transport-projects-is-asking-for-trouble-92840">Sidelining citizens when deciding on transport projects is asking for trouble</a>
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<p>In Victoria, the state government has had a resurgence of <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/our-ridiculous-frenzy-of-road-construction-will-swallow-up-resources-for-two-decades-20180105-h0dwd0.html">road-building frenzy</a>. Melbourne will see the construction of the West Gate Tunnel, North East Link and Mordialloc Freeway projects, despite <a href="https://theconversation.com/transurbans-west-gate-tollway-is-a-road-into-uncharted-territory-89164">significant reservations</a> expressed by transport academics. </p>
<h2>History repeats?</h2>
<p>In 1973, the Hamer government heard the community outcry and cancelled many of the inner-city freeways proposed for Melbourne. This was not so for the F19 extension of the Eastern Freeway. It became the site of sustained fierce protest by the community and <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/old-time-protesters-return-to-fight-construction-of-east-west-link-20131219-2zo1g.html">local government representatives</a>.</p>
<p>Taking heart from successful environmental protests in the late 1960s, such as <a href="http://www.environmentandsociety.org/tools/keywords/protests-against-agricultural-use-little-desert">saving the Little Desert</a>, residents were not going to take the F19 freeway’s threat to their neighbourhood lying down. They went to the barricades (quite literally) to stop the bulldozers and the destruction of the Alexander Parade trees. </p>
<p>In 2013, Melbournians were ready again when this project controversially re-emerged (this time as the East West Link tunnel). Sustained community protest was supported by three local governments (Yarra, Moreland and latterly Moonee Valley) that <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/moonee-valley-third-council-to-launch-legal-action-against-east-west-link-20141015-116nqx.html">funded legal challenges to stop the project</a>. </p>
<p>With eventual support from the Labor Party, then vying for political office in the 2014 state election, the project was <a href="https://theconversation.com/sidelining-citizens-when-deciding-on-transport-projects-is-asking-for-trouble-92840">cancelled</a>. The ALP’s support for the citizen protest movement was arguably a significant factor in winning government. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/how-do-we-restore-the-publics-faith-in-transport-planning-73684">How do we restore the public's faith in transport planning?</a>
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<p>Similarly, the proposed Perth Freight Route (<a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-07-16/why-is-the-debate-over-roe-8-continuing/11310120">Roe 8</a>), <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-do-we-restore-the-publics-faith-in-transport-planning-73684">stopped in 2017</a>, provides an extraordinary example of what a community can achieve when united in a single purpose. Again, it took a change of government.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/three-ingredients-for-running-a-successful-environmental-campaign-72371">Three ingredients for running a successful environmental campaign</a>
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<h2>Are governments listening today?</h2>
<p>The link between public (and increasingly private) investment in mega-road projects and growing emissions appears to have escaped the attention of the processes that oversee public project decisions – panel hearings, ministerial processes and environmental impact assessments. The costs of these transport projects, driven by past decisions and plans, as well as the costs of not pursuing the alternatives, will affect budgets and our environment over decades. </p>
<p>Though the formal planning processes have largely avoided the connection of road projects to increased emissions, many concerned urban citizens recognise the link. </p>
<p>Groups and individuals are making these connections in their submissions to government planning panels, through social media and on the streets in traditional demonstrations. </p>
<p>We see a growing number of protest actions, including <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/little-los-angeles-sydney-s-inner-west-hits-back-at-road-tunnel-plan-20190927-p52vlx.html">WestConnex</a>, the <a href="https://theconversation.com/impending-traffic-chaos-beware-the-problematic-west-gate-tunnel-forecasts-79331">West Gate Tunnel Project</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-kind-of-state-values-a-freeways-heritage-above-the-heritage-of-our-oldest-living-culture-122195">Western Highway widening project</a>, the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/mordialloc-freeway-risks-polluting-water-feeding-to-un-protected-wetlands-documents-reveal-20190224-p50zvn.html">Mordialloc Freeway project</a> and the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/melbourne-councils-join-forces-to-fight-north-east-link-20190615-p51y28.html">North East Link</a>.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/what-kind-of-state-values-a-freeways-heritage-above-the-heritage-of-our-oldest-living-culture-122195">What kind of state values a freeway's heritage above the heritage of our oldest living culture?</a>
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<p>These citizens are alarmed by decisions being made in their name. It would appear citizen action has had success in the past. Electoral risk is a powerful motivator for governments.</p>
<h2>Emissions demand a change of direction</h2>
<p>Taking a leaf out of the backlash against the modernist project vision of the 1969 “free”-way plan for transport based on fossil fuel use, we need to shape a new vision of sustainable, healthy, fair forms of mobility. We can learn from the experience of the 1970s communities that exercised their rights as citizens to participate in civic discussions on a new shared future. </p>
<p>Unless we can stem escalating carbon emissions, catastrophic warming of the planet will be inevitable. The <a href="https://theconversation.com/11-000-scientists-warn-climate-change-isnt-just-about-temperature-126261">impacts are becoming ever clearer</a>, with <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-climate-change-can-make-catastrophic-weather-systems-linger-for-longer-111832">extreme weather events already apparent</a>. We are warned.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-problem-with-transport-models-is-political-abuse-not-their-use-in-planning-127720">The problem with transport models is political abuse, not their use in planning</a>
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<p><em>A public event to mark the 50th anniversary of the Melbourne Transportation Plan will be held on December 12 2019, hosted by RMIT University and supported by Swinburne University, Monash University and the University of Melbourne – <a href="https://cur.org.au/events/looking-back-and-going-forward-the-melbourne-transport-plan-50-years-on/">details here</a>.</em></p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127722/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Andrew Butt is affiliated with Western Connection, a small community group which has been involved in local debates on transport projects affecting Melbourne's inner west, including through submissions and media regarding the West Gate Tunnel Project, which is under construction.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Crystal Legacy has received funding from the Australia Research Council.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Gerry McLoughlin receives funding from CRC for a PhD candidacy.
Co Founder and Vice President of Inner Melbourne Planning Alliance Inc. established as a citizens' group for meaningful engagement in public processes. IMPA Inc. makes submissions to public processes including the West Gate Tunnel Project 2017 currently under construction, the East West Link (cancelled) 2014, the North East Link (under consideration) 2019, Federal Government Committee Hearing on Cities 2018.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Ian Woodcock has received funding from federal, state and local governments, as well as the Australian Research Council, the design industry and community organisations, to support independent academic research. He is affiliated with various sustainable transport and planning advocacy groups, and is a member of the Public Transport Users Association.</span></em></p>Public protests eventually forced the scrapping of some proposed freeways in 1973. Today, we have another round of projects and people are protesting again, with good reason. Government should listen.Andrew Butt, Associate Professor in Sustainability and Urban Planning, RMIT UniversityCrystal Legacy, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, The University of MelbourneGerardine (Gerry) McLoughlin, PhD Candidate, Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of TechnologyIan Woodcock, Senior Lecturer, Director of Urban Design, Swinburne University of TechnologyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1277202019-12-09T19:01:07Z2019-12-09T19:01:07ZThe problem with transport models is political abuse, not their use in planning<p><em>This is the second article in a <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/melbourne-transportation-plan-79828">series</a> to mark the 50th anniversary of the landmark Melbourne Transportation Plan.</em></p>
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<p>Transport models are often singled out as a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0967070X16306606">barrier</a> to providing more sustainable and equitable transport services. However, abandoning transport models would <a href="https://transportfutures.co/in-defence-of-predict-and-provide-1b990a6566fa">most likely weaken planning</a>, not enhance it. But getting the best out of such modelling requires transparency to overcome the increasing problem of its misuse to justify predetermined political decisions.</p>
<p>On the 50th anniversary of the Melbourne Transportation Plan, we review the role of transport modelling as a planning tool. What are models now telling us about the future of Australian cities?</p>
<h2>From rational planning …</h2>
<p>The 1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan was based on the <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0739456X9001000105">Chicago Area Transportation Plan</a>, an approach that other Australian cities then adopted. A feature was the extensive collection of travel data, often for the first time. Newly available computer models were then used to predict travel demand, which the plan sought to accommodate. </p>
<p>This is often referred to as the “rational” or “predict and provide” approach to transport planning. </p>
<p>By today’s standards, the goals of the ’69 plan sound like a utopian dream of free-flowing freeways and frequent, comfortable public transport services. It assumed a population living in detached housing on quarter-acre blocks. </p>
<p>Melbourne’s “solution”, and that of many other cities, was to build an extensive freeway network. The car took over from the rail system as the primary mode of travel. </p>
<p>Today’s reality shows this has been no solution to the seemingly intractable problems of congestion and overcrowding, coupled with inequitable access to services, jobs and other opportunities.</p>
<h2>… to political mandates</h2>
<p>In response, it seems Australian transport agencies have abandoned the preparation of comprehensive transport plans. Gone are the days of foreshadowing projects decades into the future, with land for these road and rail projects being reserved in the planning scheme. </p>
<p>We <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-hardly-ever-trust-big-transport-announcements-heres-how-politicians-get-it-right-101246">operate in an era where political mandates</a> have replaced comprehensive planning. Transport models are no longer used to plan for the future. Instead, they are used to justify the most recent announcement. </p>
<p>The nexus between transport models and the justification of controversial projects results in much critical commentary. The models become guilty by association.</p>
<p>It is true model outputs are far from infallible. One problem is that models depend on key input assumptions such as future population. The ’69 plan, for example, assumed Melbourne would reach a population of 3.7 million by 1985, but this didn’t occur until 20 years later. </p>
<p>The early models also <a href="https://www.audit.vic.gov.au/report/managing-traffic-congestion?section=">ignored the problem of induced demand</a> – the tendency of new transport infrastructure itself to generate additional demand. </p>
<p>Aside from the inherent challenge of predicting the future, models suffer from the problem of “strategic misrepresentation” – more simply, <a href="https://repository.library.georgetown.edu/handle/10822/833099">lying</a>. This can occur when models are called upon to justify a predetermined political decision. </p>
<p>The best safeguard against such behaviour is transparency. This is achieved by making the detailed modelling results available for peer review. Under these conditions, models can provide useful planning intelligence.</p>
<h2>More of the same is a poor plan</h2>
<p>A recent Infrastructure Australia <a href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/urban-transport-crowding-and-congestion">report</a> predicts worsening road congestion and public transport crowding over the coming decades in all Australian capitals. These predictions are the result of the lack of endorsed strategies to deal with population growth coupled with Australia’s dependence on the private motor vehicle. Indeed, the report highlights many examples where major new road projects will worsen congestion by encouraging more car use. </p>
<p>A lesson from the past 50 years is that Australia’s major capitals occupy large areas by world standards and are ill suited to a transport strategy based on <a href="https://chartingtransport.com/2011/08/20/whats-happening-with-car-occupancy/">low-occupancy vehicles</a>. It isn’t surprising “Europeanesque” inner suburbs based around walking, cycling and public transport are increasingly <a href="https://www.pwc.com.au/press-room/2018/citypulse-melbourne.html">valued</a> as preferred places to live. </p>
<p>Can modelling be blamed for our collective failure to devise a realistic plan to accommodate our cities’ growing populations? At what point does the reality of everlasting congestion trump predictions of incremental travel time savings? </p>
<p>US President Dwight Eisenhower once <a href="https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/remarks-the-national-defense-executive-reserve-conference">said</a>: “Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” Intuitively we know the pressure of population growth and the climate emergency demand a considered response. The recent work of Infrastructure Australia provides a prediction of the scale of this challenge. </p>
<p>We urgently need a sensible discussion about developing a realistic plan to deal with this challenge. Doing more of the same, as we have done over the past 50 years, doesn’t sound like a solution to us.</p>
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<p><em>A public event to mark the 50th anniversary of the Melbourne Transportation Plan will be held on December 12 2019, hosted by RMIT University and supported by Swinburne University, Monash University and the University of Melbourne – <a href="https://cur.org.au/events/looking-back-and-going-forward-the-melbourne-transport-plan-50-years-on/">details here</a>.</em></p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127720/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Eric Keys is a transport consultant advising public and private organisations and campaigns for better transport policies and projects.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Chris De Gruyter works at RMIT University. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Traffic Planning and Management (AITPM) and the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE).</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Graham Currie Directs the Public Transport Research Group at Monash University and is a leading international researcher, author, advisor and commentator in the field.</span></em></p>Transport modelling has been tarnished by its use to justify the predetermined projects politicians favour. But, if used more transparently, it’s a valuable tool for planning our future cities.Eric Keys, PhD Researcher, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT UniversityChris De Gruyter, Vice-Chancellor's Research Fellow, RMIT UniversityGraham Currie, Professor of Public Transport, Director Public Transport Research Group, Director Monash Infrastructure, Adjunct Professor, Monash Art Design and Architecture, Monash UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1277212019-12-08T18:51:13Z2019-12-08T18:51:13Z50 years on from the Melbourne Transportation Plan, what can we learn from its legacy?<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/304212/original/file-20191128-178101-188d2x8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C281%2C3914%2C2648&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">The Melbourne Transportation Plan included every freeway and major arterial road built in the city since 1969.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Shuang Li/Shutterstock</span></span></figcaption></figure><p><em>This is the first article in a <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/melbourne-transportation-plan-79828">series</a> to mark the 50th anniversary of the landmark Melbourne Transportation Plan.</em></p>
<hr>
<p>The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1969_Melbourne_Transportation_Plan">1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan</a> was perhaps the most influential planning policy in the city’s history. Every freeway and major arterial road built since then, as well as many current freeway and tollway projects and proposals, stem from this plan.</p>
<p>Given current debates about freeway construction (<a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/east-west-link-battle-lines-still-drawn-over-massive-road-project-20190521-p51pkf.html">East West Link</a>, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/our-ridiculous-frenzy-of-road-construction-will-swallow-up-resources-for-two-decades-20180105-h0dwd0.html">West Gate Tunnel</a>, <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/big-projects-bigger-bills-massive-construction-boom-comes-at-a-cost-20190610-p51w5d.html">North East Link</a>, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-07-16/why-is-the-debate-over-roe-8-continuing/11310120">Roe 8</a> and <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/little-los-angeles-sydney-s-inner-west-hits-back-at-road-tunnel-plan-20190927-p52vlx.html">WestConnex</a>) and <a href="https://theconversation.com/australian-city-workers-average-commute-has-blown-out-to-66-minutes-a-day-how-does-yours-compare-120598">increasing commute times across Australia</a>, it is timely to reflect on the 1969 plan and lessons to be drawn from this experience.</p>
<h2>The post-war boom and the car</h2>
<p>Melbourne boomed after the second world war. The population grew from <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/DetailsPage/3105.0.65.0012016?OpenDocument">1.2 million in 1947 to 2.1 million in 1966</a>. </p>
<p>At the same time, technological changes transformed our way of life. New manufacturing opportunities provided jobs to support families and consumer goods to fill their lives with. The Australian dream of a family home on a quarter-acre block was reinforced in this era.</p>
<p>Cars shaped the post-war suburbs. Estates typified by free-standing dwellings with garages had become the norm by the 1960s. The opening in 1960 of Chadstone, Melbourne’s first modern shopping mall based on the US model, set the pattern for car-based planning.</p>
<figure class="align-right zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=841&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=841&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=841&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1057&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1057&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303664/original/file-20191126-112526-1wdaba0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1057&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Advertisement for the Holden FC, Australia’s Own Car, in the late 1950s.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Linklater, B. R., lithographer</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The <a href="https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/policy-and-strategy/planning-for-melbourne/melbournes-strategic-planning-history/melbourne-metropolitan-planning-scheme-1954-report">1954 Metropolitan Planning Scheme</a> embraced these trends. It proposed low-density car-based suburban development and a freeway system to serve it. These policies were adopted across the English-speaking world, with the United States its primary advocate.</p>
<p>Notoriously, from the 1920s to the 1950s motor car interests had <a href="https://casetext.com/case/united-states-v-national-city-lines-2">bought up tramway systems</a> that had shaped many US cities, replacing them with buses that were far less popular. The <a href="https://lithub.com/the-car-culture-thats-helping-destroy-the-planet-was-by-no-means-inevitable/">culture of the car was created; it wasn’t inevitable</a>. </p>
<p>This pattern was followed in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia, where trams were ripped out of every capital city except Melbourne. </p>
<h2>The 1969 plan</h2>
<p>This environment was the context for the 1969 plan, which US consultants supervised. <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283809298_Transport_modelling_in_the_context_of_the_'predict_and_provide'_paradigm">Faith in the desirability of a car-based future</a> obscured the flaws in the transport modelling assumptions.</p>
<p>The plan forecast a rise in car usage and laid out an extensive road network to support this. It did not discuss effects on urban form, merely characterising itself as supporting the 1954 Metropolitan Planning Scheme and existing development trends.</p>
<p>The plan proposed 307 miles (494 kilometres) of freeways. This accounted for 64% of the proposed spending. The network was to provide for the predicted 6 million daily car trips by the plan’s scheduled completion in 1985.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303674/original/file-20191126-112499-ggkxmz.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">The recommended freeway system.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A 323-mile (520km) highway and arterial road network – both new and widened roads – was to support the freeway network. Some 80 level-crossing removals would promote free-flowing traffic. Combined, these road proposals were costed at A$2.2 billion (in 1969 dollars) – 85% of the proposed budget.</p>
<p>In contrast to the rest of Australia, the plan proposed retaining and modernising Melbourne’s tram system. There were to be 910 new trams (the system today has about <a href="https://yarratrams.com.au/facts-figures">475</a>). </p>
<p>The plan also included rail improvements, notably the City Loop, electrification to outer areas, rail duplications or triplications, new radial lines to Doncaster and Monash, and suburban loop lines between Huntingdale and Ferntree Gully and between Dandenong and Frankston. Only 13.5% of the plan’s spending was to be on rail.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=533&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=533&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303673/original/file-20191126-112489-1mpon3i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=533&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Proposed general railway development to 1985.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">1969 Melbourne Transportation Plan</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>The community responds</h2>
<p>The plan triggered a backlash against freeways being built through urban neighbourhoods. Residents mobilised against demolitions and what they saw as the destruction of their neighbourhoods. Communities were already opposing the Victorian Housing Commission’s campaign of “slum reclamation” and high-rise tower construction.</p>
<p>The Eastern Freeway (F19) construction, begun in 1970, was <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/08111148508522585">fiercely opposed</a>. Protests increased through the 1970s. </p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=437&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=437&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=437&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=549&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=549&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303656/original/file-20191126-112512-1xisn9b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=549&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Alexandra Parade was barricaded in protest against the F19.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="http://www.ycat.org.au/1977-the-battle-of-alexandra-parade/3/">Barricade! – the resident fight against the F19</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Public opposition was partly responsible for the plan’s scope being reduced in 1973. </p>
<p>The changed social context of the 1970s demanded a more responsive government. As attitudes and expectations change, so too must the plans for cities.</p>
<h2>How might things have been different?</h2>
<p>The 1969 plan laid out a freeway network as a blueprint for subsequent governments to follow. Much of this network has been built, but very few of the public transport projects were implemented.</p>
<p>The City Loop rail tunnels opened in stages from 1981 to 1985, but only the smallest of the rail extensions has been built. Some lines have closed since 1969. This has marginalised the rail system’s usefulness to most people except those travelling to and from the central city.</p>
<p>The effects on Melbourne have been profound and far more biased towards cars than even the plan intended, yet things could have been otherwise. <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ahr/article/112/4/1210/13728">Washington DC</a> and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/may/09/story-cities-38-vancouver-canada-freeway-protest-liveable-city">Vancouver</a> both proposed extensive freeway networks in the 1960s. In these cities, governments responded to community opposition by shifting the focus towards public transport, cycling and walking.</p>
<p>Rising transport emissions are the <a href="https://www.who.int/sustainable-development/transport/health-risks/climate-impacts/en/">largest single contributor to global heating</a>. Melbourne is at a tipping point, needing to embrace transport options that lower emissions and support sustainable urban development. </p>
<p>Victoria’s 2010 <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwib0eXG84vmAhVFT30KHSq5BXgQFjADegQIARAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legislation.vic.gov.au%2FDomino%2FWeb_Notes%2FLDMS%2FPubStatbook.nsf%2Ff932b66241ecf1b7ca256e92000e23be%2F800014F6404488AACA2576DA000E3354%2F%24FILE%2F10-006a.pdf&usg=AOvVaw31Nb6HixOp7K9o_ducUfO_">Transport Integration Act</a> has a progressive vision that includes minimising long commutes and reducing reliance on cars. Arguably, <a href="https://theconversation.com/stuck-in-traffic-we-need-a-smarter-approach-to-congestion-than-building-more-roads-84774">a continued emphasis on road development will frustrate these objectives</a>. </p>
<p>Current rail projects are largely <a href="https://www.audit.vic.gov.au/report/developing-transport-infrastructure-and-services-population-growth-areas?section=30958--audit-summary">playing catch up</a>. If all of the lines proposed in the 1969 plan, along with its level-crossing removals, had been completed as planned by 1985, Melbourne would be quite different today, and for much less than the cost of all of the roads built or <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/plan-for-hundreds-of-kilometres-of-new-freeways-20101010-16e04.html">planned in the foreseeable future</a>.</p>
<p>We should plan now for the future city we want to live in. Melbourne doesn’t need to tear down its suburbs and <a href="https://www.ptua.org.au/myths/density/">rebuild them at high densities before better public transport can be justified</a>. The city needs to <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/we-can-afford-better-public-transport-if-we-stop-building-freeways-20180419-p4zaj0.html">focus on better alternatives to cars</a> to give its citizens choices as <a href="https://www.farandwide.com/s/public-transit-systems-ranked-c5d839d8a48d4da3">many other cities</a> have done. </p>
<p>This is an immense challenge, but we should look back on 1969 to see the long-term impacts such a plan can have. Despite its name and breadth of content, it was a road plan rather than a comprehensive transport plan. Yet we need the type of long-term city-shaping thinking that underpinned that plan, but directed in ways that fit a <a href="https://theconversation.com/victoria-needs-a-big-picture-transport-plan-that-isnt-about-winners-v-losers-65567">genuinely sustainable, smart and fair 2019 vision for 2069 that we can all support</a>. </p>
<hr>
<p><em>A public event to mark the 50th anniversary of the Melbourne Transportation Plan will be held on December 12 2019, hosted by RMIT University, supported by Swinburne University, Monash University and the University of Melbourne – <a href="https://cur.org.au/events/looking-back-and-going-forward-the-melbourne-transport-plan-50-years-on/">details here</a>.</em></p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127721/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Liam Davies receives funding from an Australian Government Research Training Program Stipend Scholarship, and an AHURI Housing Postgraduate Scholarship Top-up. He also works with the Institute for Sensible Transport. He is a member of PIA Victoria. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Ian Woodcock has receive funding from federal, state and local governments, industry and community organisations to support independent academic research. He is affiliated with various advocacy groups for sustainable transport and planning, and is a member of the Public Transport Users Association.</span></em></p>While called a transportation plan,
it was heavily skewed towards roads. We need the type of city-shaping thinking that underpinned the plan, but today’s plans must match 21st-century priorities.Liam Davies, PhD Candidate, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT UniversityIan Woodcock, Senior Lecturer, Director of Urban Design, Swinburne University of TechnologyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1266782019-12-04T18:35:31Z2019-12-04T18:35:31ZTo restore public confidence in apartments, rewrite Australia’s building codes<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/305784/original/file-20191209-90562-cc69up.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=415%2C53%2C2202%2C1103&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Compliance with the National Construction Code provides no guarantee that an apartment won't leak.</span> </figcaption></figure><p>A prestige apartment building in Sydney built by a well-known developer is undergoing a second replacement of a terrace waterproof membrane five years after replacement of the first one, which had leaked from completion. </p>
<p>The second membrane almost certainly complied with the <a href="https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/ncc-online/About">National Construction Code</a> (NCC) and was certified as compliant; the first one might also have complied. Yet, for 15 years, owners and tenants living under the terraces have put up with mouldy walls, carpets and ceilings because the code does not adequately control waterproofing materials and methods. </p>
<p>A key assumption made by governments and regulators has been that confidence will return to the market if apartments are built to meet National Construction Code requirements. As the story above shows, complying with the code alone will not be enough to fix many common defects. Public confidence will still be lacking.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/lack-of-information-on-apartment-defects-leaves-whole-market-on-shaky-footings-127007">Lack of information on apartment defects leaves whole market on shaky footings</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>In 2017, the <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/regulations-and-standards/building-and-construction/building-ministers-forum">Building Ministers’ Forum</a>, the group of federal, state and territory ministers responsible for building regulation in Australia, commissioned a report from Peter Shergold and Bronwyn Weir. Their <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/sites/default/files/July%202018/document/pdf/building_ministers_forum_expert_assessment_-_building_confidence.pdf?acsf_files_redirect">report said</a> there was “… diminishing public confidence that the building and construction industry can deliver compliant, safe buildings which will perform to the expected standards over the long term”.</p>
<p>Since then, the high-profile structural failure and <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-big-lesson-from-opal-tower-is-that-badly-built-apartments-arent-only-an-issue-for-residents-109722">evacuation of Opal Tower</a> on Christmas Eve 2018, the <a href="https://theconversation.com/cladding-fire-risks-have-been-known-for-years-lives-depend-on-acting-now-with-no-more-delays-111186">cladding fire at Neo200</a> in February 2019 and the structural failure and <a href="https://theconversation.com/buck-passing-on-apartment-building-safety-leaves-residents-at-risk-119000">evacuation of Mascot Towers</a> in June 2019 have kept this issue in the media spotlight. If anything, the public <a href="https://www.afr.com/news/politics/national/the-apartment-building-crisis-explained-20190716-p527k0">crisis of confidence</a> has deepened. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/housing-with-buyer-protection-and-no-serious-faults-is-that-too-much-to-ask-of-builders-and-regulators-113115">Housing with buyer protection and no serious faults – is that too much to ask of builders and regulators?</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Part of the problem is the code itself</h2>
<p>The National Construction Code originated as a minimum standard to deliver structural integrity and fire safety. It was never intended to provide effective control over all the aspects of building work that make houses or apartments liveable and durable. This might come as a surprise to many people, including those in government, but it is inherent to the “minimum standard” approach that underpins the structure and objectives of the code. </p>
<p>The objectives on page 9 of volume 1 of the code, which covers apartments, are instructive:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>1) ensure requirements have a rigorously tested rationale; and </p>
<p>2) effectively and proportionally address applicable issues; and </p>
<p>3) create benefits to society that outweigh costs; and</p>
<p>4) consider non-regulatory alternatives; and</p>
<p>5) consider the competitive effects of regulation; and</p>
<p>6) not be unnecessarily restrictive.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>In attempting to consider “competitive effects”, avoid being “restrictive” and by encouraging “non-regulatory alternatives”, including self-certification and self-regulation, the code has opened the door to an “anything goes” mentality on many fronts. </p>
<p>Waterproofing requirements for houses and apartments under section F of the code are clearly ineffective, for a start. </p>
<p>The relevant Australian Standards, <a href="https://infostore.saiglobal.com/preview/315369811573.pdf?sku=120285_SAIG_AS_AS_252122">AS 4654.1</a> and <a href="https://infostore.saiglobal.com/preview/315378204076.pdf?sku=120284_SAIG_AS_AS_252120">AS 4654.2</a>, were written with a lot of input from the building materials supply industry. The standards permit the use of unsuitable waterproofing membranes in many situations, particularly where ceramic tiles are directly bonded to an inappropriate liquid-applied membrane. As the example at the start of this article shows, this solution rarely lasts longer than four or five years and considerably less in some cases. </p>
<p>Rectification is expensive and inconvenient. It involves hacking up and replacing all the tiles. </p>
<p>In addition, every apartment building built without a step in the slab at the junction between walls and floors will probably develop leaks within a similar timeframe. </p>
<p>These practices are driven by the desire to save a few dollars in construction cost, not by a commitment to deliver a required standard of durability. Durability is not part of the code objectives. </p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/would-you-buy-a-new-apartment-building-confidence-depends-on-ending-the-blame-game-122180">Would you buy a new apartment? Building confidence depends on ending the blame game</a>
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</p>
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<h2>How can the code be fixed?</h2>
<p>We could improve the code in a number of simple ways:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Class 1 (houses) and class 2 (apartments) buildings should both be in volume 2, which would be dedicated to housing intended for sale. Houses and apartments should be required to be “fit for purpose” with a clearly stated objective to provide protection to the buyer. These should include a mandatory minimum statutory warranty of seven to ten years, backed by government. </p></li>
<li><p>The required durability of waterproofing membranes and details for all housing, and class 2 apartments in particular, must be clearly stated. Waterproofing should be required to last at least 25 years without significant maintenance, and perhaps 40 years for buildings where access to the waterproofing element requires demolition or is fundamentally difficult. Details that are not durable, including slabs without steps at wall junctions, or terrace and balcony tiles directly bonded to liquid-applied waterproof membranes, should be banned. </p></li>
<li><p>The structure of an apartment should be required to last with no substantial maintenance for at least 50 to 60 years. The minimum expectation for durability for any envelope component and associated finishes on buildings over three storeys should be 25 years, and perhaps 40 years for taller buildings. </p></li>
<li><p>The “performance requirements” of section F of the code, “Health and Amenity”, should be expanded to ensure apartments are comfortable, economical to maintain and <a href="https://theconversation.com/dont-forget-our-future-climate-when-tightening-up-building-codes-113365">sustainable</a>. </p></li>
</ol>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-has-a-new-national-construction-code-but-its-still-not-good-enough-113729">Australia has a new National Construction Code, but it's still not good enough</a>
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<p>Some developers are already delivering well-designed apartment buildings that are durable and fit for purpose. They are to be commended. The <a href="https://theconversation.com/lack-of-information-on-apartment-defects-leaves-whole-market-on-shaky-footings-127007">problem for buyers is identifying these</a> amid a sea of dross. </p>
<p>For new houses and apartments, we need to ensure the National Construction Code matches community expectations on fitness for purpose and durability. This requires a return to more active and interventionist regulatory framework, including putting independent “eyes on the site” to inspect work during construction.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126678/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Geoff Hanmer has received research funding from the Building and Construction Council (BACC) NSW. </span></em></p>Governments and regulators assume compliance with building regulations will restore public confidence. But complying with the National Construction Code won’t fix many common defects.Geoff Hanmer, Adjunct Lecturer in Architecture, UNSW SydneyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1265152019-12-03T18:35:29Z2019-12-03T18:35:29ZHomes can be better prepared for cyclones. But first we must convince the owners<p>Most Australians know cyclones can cause serious damage to housing. Insurance premiums in cyclone-prone regions are <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/system/files/Northern%20Australia%20Insurance%20Inquiry%20-%20First%20interim%20report%202018.PDF">among the highest in the country</a>. Unfortunately, things are likely to get worse before they get better.</p>
<p>Some predict as many as <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-03-13/climate-data-reveals-australias-worst-affected-regions/10892710">10% of houses in Australia may become “uninsurable” by 2100</a>. However, the good news is home owners can do many things to reduce cyclone risk. Even better, this will <a href="https://ajem.infoservices.com.au/items/AJEM-31-04-12">help reduce their insurance premiums</a>.</p>
<p>The start of <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/cyclones/australia/">cyclone season</a> should remind many Australians to start preparing. Home owners are usually told to trim their trees and prepare their <a href="https://www.qld.gov.au/emergency/dealing-disasters/prepare-for-disasters/emergency-kit">emergency kits</a>. While these activities can help keep people safe during and after a cyclone, it’s just as important to improve resilience for the long term. Consider adding cyclone shutters, upgrading older roofs, etc.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, it often takes a disaster to motivate change. Following Cyclone Tracy, which devastated Darwin in 1974, Australia developed a much stronger building code. As a result, all houses built in cyclone-prone regions after 1982 have cyclone-ready roofs. This has <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/321993/Technical-Report-57-Tropical-Cyclone-Yasi-Structural-damage-to-buildings.pdf">reduced damage</a> to these newer houses in cyclones.</p>
<p>But many houses still do not have cyclone-ready roofs – <a href="https://researchonline.jcu.edu.au/45863/1/JCU%201%20-%20FINAL%20for%20publication%20150715.pdf">up to 60% in Queensland</a>. In addition, <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/321993/Technical-Report-57-Tropical-Cyclone-Yasi-Structural-damage-to-buildings.pdf">post-cyclone damage surveys have shown</a> all houses – not just older ones – are vulnerable to broken windows and damage when water gets inside (e.g. wind-driven rain).</p>
<p>Thankfully, a range of other structural upgrades can reduce this damage. For example, cyclone shutters protect windows from being smashed by flying debris. However, the <a href="https://www.suncorpgroup.com.au/uploads/JCU-Cyclone-Mitigation-Survey-Report-final.pdf">uptake of voluntary structural upgrades like cyclone shutters has been low</a>.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=374&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=374&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=374&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303385/original/file-20191125-74584-c0h6db.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=470&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Cyclone shutters would have protected this window from being smashed by flying debris when Tropical Cyclone Marcia hit Yeppoon.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299487064_Modelling_cyclone_loss_mitigation_using_claims_analysis">Image courtesy of Smith, Henderson & Terza (2015)</a>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our research recently examined how Queensland home owners think about these measures and how to get more people to implement them. The main findings (see full reports <a href="https://www.suncorpgroup.com.au/uploads/JCU-Cyclone-Mitigation-Survey-Report-final.pdf">part 1</a> and <a href="https://www.suncorpgroup.com.au/uploads/JCU-North-Queenslanders-Perceptions-of-Cyclone-Risk.pdf">part 2</a>) suggest a need to improve both messaging and policy.</p>
<h2>How can we improve messaging?</h2>
<p><strong>1. Think and talk about cyclones more often</strong></p>
<p>One way to encourage preparedness is to get people to think and talk about cyclones more often – not just once a year when the cyclone season starts.</p>
<p>Installing structural upgrades takes time. It is too late to upgrade a roof when a cyclone is approaching.</p>
<p><strong>2. Provide location-specific wind-speed information</strong></p>
<p>Cyclone wind speeds differ greatly depending on distance from the eye of the storm. So while the same cyclone may affect people living in different towns, not everyone will experience the same wind speed.</p>
<p>For example, while people in Townsville experienced Cyclone Yasi (a category 5 cyclone), the wind speed in Townsville was equivalent to a category 2 cyclone. But this information was not easily accessible. This may explain why 74% of the people we surveyed recalled that wind speeds from Cyclone Yasi were at least one category higher than what they experienced in their location.</p>
<p>We should, instead, provide people with location-specific information about cyclones. This will allow people to make more informed decisions about their own level of risk.</p>
<p><strong>3. Show structural upgrades are effective</strong></p>
<p>Acknowledging cyclones as a threat is one thing, but home owners need to be convinced that structural upgrades are useful. Without experiencing a broken window, for example, it is difficult to imagine why cyclone shutters would be useful.</p>
<p>We need to show people structural upgrades reduce damage and keep them safe. A video, like the one below, is one way of showing this.</p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YuipPwAsCpc?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">A demonstration of the force of a cyclone’s winds.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>What can better policy achieve?</h2>
<p>Improved messaging is only one side of the story. Although measures to reduce cyclone damage are <a href="https://www.suncorp.com.au/content/dam/suncorp/insurance/suncorp-insurance/documents/home-and-contents/protect-the-north/suncorp-attachment-4-urbis-cyclone-mitigation-report.pdf">cost effective overall</a>, many home owners see structural upgrades as too expensive. For example, a <a href="https://www.suncorpgroup.com.au/uploads/JCU-Cyclone-Testing-Station-Phase-2-Report.pdf">full roof upgrade can cost around A$30,000</a>.</p>
<p>Our research found owners are more likely to install structural upgrades if they consider it a worthwhile investment. Subsidising the price of these upgrades is one way to help with the upfront costs.</p>
<p>The Queensland government’s recent <a href="https://www.qld.gov.au/housing/buying-owning-home/financial-help-concessions/household-resilience-program">Household Resilience Program</a> was one example of a policy that promoted structural upgrades. Under this program, lower-income homeowners could receive grants of up to A$11,250. It was so popular that it created market competition among builders, which lowered the price of roof upgrades.</p>
<p>Many Queensland insurance companies also offer reduced premiums for structural upgrades. But home owners must still pay the upfront costs. Regardless of the incentive program, insurance companies need to make it clear to customers that they value structural mitigation.</p>
<p>Like most campaigns to change behaviour, promoting structural upgrades will require both policy and messaging changes. If we want to reduce damage in the North, we need to think about cyclones as a long-term threat and remember that preparation starts before the cyclone season begins.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126515/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Daniel Smith receives funding from the Queensland government and Suncorp for the research discussed in this article. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Mitchell Scovell does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>Most homes are not as cyclone-ready as they could be. It seems lower insurance premiums aren’t enough of an incentive for owners to upgrade their homes, but a new study points to some solutions.Mitchell Scovell, PhD candidate, James Cook UniversityDaniel Smith, Research Fellow, James Cook UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1276032019-12-02T18:13:24Z2019-12-02T18:13:24ZMarket-led infrastructure may sound good but not if it short-changes the public<p>The privatisation of services in Australian cities has weakened public control of key infrastructure. This is likely to accelerate as governments look to market-led proposals to provide infrastructure. </p>
<p>For nearly three decades, the <a href="http://ncp.ncc.gov.au/">rationale for privatisation has been competition</a>. Competition was expected to keep costs down, foster innovation and ensure the public interest was preserved. </p>
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<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/stumbling-into-the-future-living-with-the-legacy-of-the-great-infrastructure-sell-off-73850">Stumbling into the future: living with the legacy of the great infrastructure sell-off</a>
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<p>Now, the increasing resort to market-led infrastructure proposals means even the minimal safeguard of “competition” is disappearing. These unsolicited proposals by private firms have not been subject to competitive assessment. </p>
<p>Market-led proposals present a risk for how our cities function. If infrastructure is built in the interests of private actors, the outcomes will favour them, not citizens. Privatising key public assets that are <a href="https://www.economicshelp.org/blog/glossary/natural-monopoly/">natural monopolies</a>, such as railways, opens the door to <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/rentseeking.asp">rent-seeking</a>.</p>
<p>While allowing governments to conveniently avoid the capital costs appearing on public balance sheets, market-led proposals seem engineered to deliver monopoly rents from users to private interests. </p>
<p>To stop this exploitation, governments need to reassert the public interest in procuring and operating key infrastructure. This includes ensuring new infrastructure is integrated with existing networks and meets the needs of all citizens. Governments must explicitly guard against financial or user-charging arrangements that disguise exploitative rents to private operators.</p>
<p>A lack of transparent government oversight will result in even more public <a href="https://theconversation.com/sidelining-citizens-when-deciding-on-transport-projects-is-asking-for-trouble-92840">protest and resistance</a> in the planning of cities. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/sidelining-citizens-when-deciding-on-transport-projects-is-asking-for-trouble-92840">Sidelining citizens when deciding on transport projects is asking for trouble</a>
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<h2>Who plans the future city?</h2>
<p>Concerns about market-led proposals are important because the planning of Australian cities and regions is no longer the sole domain of government. Often market-led proposals emerge where governments have vacated policy and planning by simply not having a plan. </p>
<p>At the national scale, a consortium of property interests has proposed the <a href="http://www.clara.com.au/the-clara-plan.html">CLARA</a> (Consolidated Land and Rail Australia) project to build high-speed rail between Melbourne and Sydney. The scheme would give the consortium the monopoly right to develop land, building new “CLARA” cities along the route.</p>
<p>In the capital cities, private consortia are filling voids in government planning by proposing, planning and building “city-shaping” infrastructure. We see this in Melbourne, where market-led proposals to build an airport rail link and the <a href="http://westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/about/west-gate-tunnel-authority">West Gate Tunnel</a> have appeared in the absence of a metropolitan transport plan.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/victoria-needs-a-big-picture-transport-plan-that-isnt-about-winners-v-losers-65567">Victoria needs a big-picture transport plan that isn't about winners v losers</a>
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<p>Although the Victorian government has been considering preferred options for an airport rail line, a private consortium has produced an unsolicited proposal along an alternative route.</p>
<p>Comprising Melbourne Airport, Southern Cross Station, Metro Trains Australia and IFM Investors, <a href="https://www.airrailmelbourne.com.au/#about">AirRail Melbourne’s</a> A$5 billion bid is being assessed under the Victoria government’s <a href="https://www.dtf.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2018-03/Market-led-Proposals-Guideline-November-2017%20%282%29.pdf">market-led proposal guidelines</a>. </p>
<p>If approved, the AirRail model would hand <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/airport-rail-tunnel-could-come-with-extra-tolls-for-taxpayers-20191113-p53a8f.html">control of a key link in Melbourne’s metropolitan rail network</a> to a private company, allowing monopoly pricing and servicing that puts profit before public interest. The consortium is proposing a fare of up to A$20, thus placing the link outside the zone-based public transport ticketing system. Currently, travel is viewed as a public service available to all passengers at a uniform fare.</p>
<p>In both Sydney and Brisbane, privatised airport rail lines operate on separate fare structures that reflect their private financing.</p>
<h2>Lack of transparency is a problem</h2>
<p>According to the Victorian <a href="https://www.dtf.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2018-03/Market-led-Proposals-Guideline-November-2017%20%282%29.pdf">guidelines</a>, unsolicited proposals are meant to follow “a transparent and fair process while maintaining the highest level of probity and public accountability”. </p>
<p>But there are plenty of examples of problems wrought by market-led proposals. </p>
<p>For instance, just last week the state auditor-general was <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/6-7-billion-west-gate-tunnel-not-value-for-money-says-state-auditor-20191127-p53ehx.html">highly critical</a> of the A$6.7 billion West Gate Tunnel project, which was approved in 2017. This project has been criticised before for <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/costing-of-west-gate-tunnel-is-far-from-transparent-20190314-p5148c.html">lacking transparency about the financial benefits – more than A$37 billion in additional toll revenue – reaped by its proponent</a>, Transurban. </p>
<p>This lack of transparency raises questions about the impacts market-led proposals have on the integrity and effectiveness of infrastructure planning. How can the public interest be defended if the mechanisms in place to ensure this are compromised?</p>
<p>An earlier auditor-general’s <a href="https://www.audit.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/20150819-HVHR-process.pdf">report</a> concluded:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>In terms of transparency, government has yet to finalise how it communicates the costs, funding, rationale and expected benefits of committed unsolicited proposals. Current approaches to reporting on infrastructure projects do not adequately convey this information to the community.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The auditor-general’s <a href="https://www.audit.vic.gov.au/report/market-led-proposals">report on market-led proposals</a> last week also raised doubts about the assessment process for the West Gate Tunnel. The project was nominally “bundled” with the Monash Freeway widening, with the latter gifting its higher benefits to the tunnel project. </p>
<p>Concerns have also been raised at the national level. </p>
<p>In 2016, the chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Rod Simms, <a href="https://www.afr.com/opinion/rod-sims-says-government-greed-risks-privatisation-mandate-20161010-gryzvs">warned</a> against a model of privatisation that gives monopolies and oligopolies control over pricing the maintenance of what are really public assets. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/making-sense-of-the-global-infrastructure-turn-73853">Making sense of the global infrastructure turn</a>
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<h2>Public interest planning must be restored</h2>
<p>We haven’t yet lost all public control of our cities. But if we are not paying attention, the path we are on is a worrying one. </p>
<p>A sure way to avoid further erosion of the public good in infrastructure planning is to abandon the approach of market-led projects. These shadowy, inequitable processes are surely undermining public confidence in the governance of cities, and in government in general. </p>
<p>We urge governments not to further privatise more public, especially monopoly, assets, as proposed in the airport rail bid. Governments must ensure infrastructure is built in the public interest, not shaped by the needs of private capital.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127603/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Crystal Legacy has received funding from the Australian Research Council.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Brendan Gleeson receives funding from the Australian Research Council.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>RMIT University currently receives funding from AHURI, the European Commission and the Department of Environment to support Jago Dodson's research. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>John Stone has received funding from State agencies for contract research and from the ARC. </span></em></p>Unsolicited market proposals are not transparently assessed. Infrastructure should be built to serve the public interest, not shaped by its private backers, but the checks to ensure this are broken.Crystal Legacy, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, The University of MelbourneBrendan Gleeson, Director, Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute, The University of MelbourneJago Dodson, Professor of Urban Policy and Director, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT UniversityJohn Stone, Senior Lecturer in Transport Planning, The University of MelbourneLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1269272019-12-01T18:59:10Z2019-12-01T18:59:10ZComeback city? Lessons from revitalising a diverse place like Dandenong<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301985/original/file-20191115-66953-egwvm9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C97%2C3264%2C2203&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Greater Dandenong Civic Centre was completed in 2014 with new council chambers, a library and Harmony Square.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Photo: Hayley Henderson</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>In the 1990s, central Dandenong in Melbourne’s southeast was in decline. But, over the past decade and a half, this trend has been halted and in some areas reversed. Our <a href="https://sustainable.unimelb.edu.au/research/research-projects/collaborative-governance-under-austerity">research</a> has identified key elements in this revitalisation, including strong roles for both public sector and non-government participants. </p>
<p>Importantly, the approach has delivered new opportunities for the culturally diverse local community.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/kebab-urbanism-melbournes-other-cafe-makes-the-city-a-more-human-place-112228">Kebab urbanism: Melbourne's 'other' cafe makes the city a more human place</a>
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<p>At the time these efforts began, a shrinking manufacturing sector and poor urban planning decisions had drained vitality from the centre. New shopping malls and suburban estates enticed people to live and shop elsewhere. Public spaces were dilapidated. Many retail buildings were vacant. </p>
<p>Unsurprisingly, local population levels were stagnating. Affordable rents and a community with strong networks of support attracted some new residents, most from <a href="https://www.communityprofile.com.au/greaterdandenong/">culturally and linguistically diverse</a> backgrounds. However, once settled, many people faced barriers to employment, training and adequate public facilities.</p>
<h2>Who is behind the project?</h2>
<p>The Victorian government and the City of Greater Dandenong were keen to reverse these trends. They wanted to reinstate the neighbourhood as Melbourne’s second-most-important urban centre. The state government funded the <a href="https://www.development.vic.gov.au/projects/revitalising-central-dandenong">Revitalising Central Dandenong</a> project from 2006. </p>
<p>Since then, and particularly since 2011, the process has also been propelled by local government action and the coordinated efforts of local leaders. They represent business, education, faith communities and social services. These interlinked activities across sectors have arguably been effective in kick-starting the project. </p>
<p>However, some important shortcomings have limited the potential for revitalisation. In particular, the benefits have not reached all of the community.</p>
<p>For example, many female migrants have not had access to suitable employment opportunities. Services are lacking for some marginalised community members, including asylum seekers. </p>
<p>Other concerns include persistent barriers to retail activation (including rising rents and parking costs), emergent threats of gentrification and a lack of major private investment in residential and office development.</p>
<p>Our <a href="https://sustainable.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/3227267/Dandenong_final_web_26112019.pdf">research briefing</a> explains our findings in detail, including some of these problems.</p>
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<p>
<em>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/new-creatives-are-remaking-canberras-city-centre-but-at-a-social-cost-97322">New creatives are remaking Canberra's city centre, but at a social cost</a>
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<hr>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303151/original/file-20191122-74580-1dgrwou.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">The development of central Dandenong is continuing.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Photo: Hayley Henderson</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>What are the key elements that work?</h2>
<p><strong>1. A commitment to redistributive policy</strong></p>
<p>A significant one-off Victorian government investment of <a href="https://www.development.vic.gov.au/projects/revitalising-central-dandenong">A$290 million</a> was the cornerstone of the project, and it has been carefully designed. Experienced professionals appointed to the government development agency, then known as <a href="https://www.thefifthestate.com.au/articles/vicurban-is-now-places-victoria/">VicUrban</a>, crafted the program.</p>
<p>The early focus was on catalyst projects and the removal of roadblocks to the considered development to follow. These actions included:</p>
<ul>
<li>special zoning</li>
<li>transferring planning powers to the state government</li>
<li>acquiring about 150 sites for reconfiguration and development. </li>
</ul>
<p>Given the entrenched decline, revitalisation was unlikely to occur without significant public commitment. </p>
<p>Following the state government’s energetic program start, the local government has taken the reins since 2011. The council gave priority to revitalising works in the centre (see the table of major project spending below) and to covering gaps in the original strategy. This included a housing strategy in response to emerging gentrification. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=474&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=474&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=474&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=595&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=595&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303601/original/file-20191125-74584-1bqh99m.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=595&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption"></span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Data source: City of Greater Dandenong annual reports, 1999-2016</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Because macro-policy in urban planning often fluctuates, local communities cannot depend on secure, long-term funding for discretionary renewal projects. To achieve revitalisation through redistribution, local government leadership is vital for maintaining focus on one area over others. </p>
<p>Refined skills in urban planning strategy and financial management have also been indispensable to the project.</p>
<p><strong>2. Strong local networks</strong></p>
<p>The public program was enhanced because community leaders already knew each other and were predisposed to work together. They ranged from education providers (such as Chisholm TAFE and Deakin University) and faith groups (such as Interfaith Network) to trade associations (such as South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance) and private sector groups (such as the Committee for Dandenong). These groups worked both together with and separately from the publicly funded program.</p>
<p>Active and organised local leaders provided vital input on strategy design, partnered or led delivery of specific initiatives and put their organisations to work on gaps in the program. They also powerfully advocated for governments to remain focused on revitalisation.</p>
<p>Overall, these strong local networks enabled smoother policy development and delivery. Having an organised and receptive community to engage with was important. </p>
<p>Our research underscores the value of acknowledging the effectiveness of existing local strategies and community capacities. It highlights the need to work collaboratively. This includes a focus on the “soft side” of practice – that is, building relationships. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/create-to-regenerate-cities-tap-into-talent-for-urban-renewal-63992">Create to regenerate: cities tap into talent for urban renewal</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p><strong>3. A focus on pluralism</strong></p>
<p>Enhanced opportunities have been created for many culturally and linguistically diverse communities. How so? </p>
<ol>
<li><p>Policies generally support cultural pluralism, as diversity is accommodated and promoted.</p></li>
<li><p>Affordability across diverse housing types has been maintained. This supports social mixing between people and a place identity based on cultural diversity. </p></li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Diversity in housing types in Dandenong and Greater Melbourne</strong></p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=326&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=326&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=326&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=410&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=410&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303397/original/file-20191125-74572-25iy13.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=410&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Changes in housing diversity in Dandenong and Melbourne (% houses versus units/terraces), 2001-2016.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Source: developed from ABS Census data 2001, 2006, 2011 & 2016</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<ol>
<li>The well-curated mix of land uses in the centre brings in many people and activates public spaces. This approach supports safety, casual encounters and understanding between people. </li>
</ol>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/304030/original/file-20191127-112539-1hf8ov.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Dandenong Market has been refurbished by the City of Greater Dandenong.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Photo take by Hayley Henderson</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<ol>
<li><p>We found some local services also provided opportunities for people to make lasting connections – for example, language courses run by churches and neighbourhood houses.</p></li>
<li><p>Many migrants took up local education, training and employment opportunities (with some important exceptions, especially female migrants).</p></li>
</ol>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/when-neighbourhoods-become-dangerous-look-to-local-strengths-for-a-lifeline-94418">When neighbourhoods become dangerous, look to local strengths for a lifeline</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Our forthcoming analysis on <a href="https://www.policyforum.net/">Policy Forum</a> further explains the ethic of cultural pluralism in policy and society. </p>
<p>Overall, urban centres cannot avoid fallout from broader economic restructuring, nor are they immune to poor strategic planning decisions or funding cuts that affect their prospects. Central Dandenong shows revitalisation can occur despite significant disadvantage. It has been achieved through a combination of public sector leadership and an interconnected and active local community.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126927/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>The authors received funding to conduct this research from the Economic and Social Research Council, UK under Grant (Ref: ES/L012898/1)—Collaborative Governance Under Austerity: An Eight-Case Comparative Study.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Brendan Gleeson receives funding from the Australian Research Council.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Helen Sullivan receives funding from the Australian Research Council. </span></em></p>A major investment in renewing the urban centre of Dandenong is starting to pay dividends. But while research has found three keys to success, the benefits haven’t reached everyone.Hayley Henderson, Postdoctoral fellow, Australian National UniversityBrendan Gleeson, Director, Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute, The University of MelbourneHelen Sullivan, Professor and Director, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1261112019-11-27T18:42:19Z2019-11-27T18:42:19ZDriverless vehicles and pedestrians don’t mix. So how do we re-arrange our cities?<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303676/original/file-20191126-112512-2id8ki.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C5%2C4000%2C2568&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Autonomous vehicles can only travel at speed at close quarters in the absence of human drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/search">posteriori/Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>Videos showing autonomous or self-driving vehicles weaving in and out of crossroads at speed without colliding suggest this technology will solve traffic problems. You almost never see pedestrians or cyclists in these videos. The reality is that they don’t fit.</p>
<p>The vision of autonomous traffic is either of a large convoy of vehicles just a metre apart moving along road corridors at 100km/h, or of vehicles in an urban setting where their sensors are picking up every pedestrian movement and slowing or stopping. In the first case, the vehicles form an impenetrable barrier to pedestrians or cyclists (who, like on a freeway, will probably be banned). In the second case, pedestrians and cyclists are able to ruin traffic flow and are <a href="https://theconversation.com/nothing-to-fear-how-humans-and-other-intelligent-animals-might-ruin-the-autonomous-vehicle-utopia-114504">likely to just take over streets</a>. </p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4pbAI40dK0A?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">What’s missing from the demonstration of autonomous vehicles flowing through an intersection is the human element of cyclists and pedestrians.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/nothing-to-fear-how-humans-and-other-intelligent-animals-might-ruin-the-autonomous-vehicle-utopia-114504">Nothing to fear? How humans (and other intelligent animals) might ruin the autonomous vehicle utopia</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>It occurs to me this is a really good thing for our cities. I worried that the vision some had (mostly car makers, I suspect) was of a city completely taken over by self-driving vehicles.</p>
<p>All public transport would be gone as thousands of these vehicles scattered along every street looking for on-demand passengers. Historic centres and tram corridors would be ruined and we would no longer be able to appreciate their walkable character.</p>
<p>However, we may instead be able to take the best features of autonomous mobility technology to create cities that are more productive, liveable, inclusive and sustainable.</p>
<h2>How would we do this?</h2>
<p>The first thing is to realise that for 20-30 years cities around the world have been <a href="https://islandpress.org/books/end-automobile-dependence">getting rid of cars in their centres</a> and subcentres, drawing on the ideas of urban designers like <a href="https://islandpress.org/books/cities-people">Jan Gehl</a>. This trend includes Australian cities. These centres are where the knowledge economy workers who drive innovation want to live and work. </p>
<p>Cities are not going to easily give up their cherished walkability to thousands of self-driving vehicles. Cities mostly are planning more walkable centres with even more public transport and fewer cars; they are unlikely to yield to autonomous vehicle ideology. </p>
<p>It’s more likely cities will ban self-driving vehicles from these centres, with just one small entry and exit point to enable vehicle access. Cities will not want to kill off the economic and social golden goose of walkable centres, let alone abandon climate change plans to reduce car use.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-driverless-vehicles-should-not-be-given-unchecked-access-to-our-cities-102724">Why driverless vehicles should not be given unchecked access to our cities</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>The second thing is that these active walkable centres are being heavily supported by quality public transport. Fortunately, autonomous technology is also being applied to transit services such as the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-trackless-trams-are-ready-to-replace-light-rail-103690">trackless tram</a>. These are guided but not driverless, like <a href="https://urbantransportnews.com/worlds-fastest-high-speed-driverless-bullet-train-starts-service-in-china/">high-speed rail</a> and <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-05-31/driverless-trains-embraced-around-the-globe-what-could-go-wrong/11155858">metros</a>, as they need drivers at times. </p>
<p>Not only could autonomous technology improve transit services, it could also take over some major road corridors that are failing at peak times. This could create an alternative rapid transit route <a href="https://theconversation.com/going-down-the-same-old-road-driverless-cars-arent-a-fix-for-our-transport-woes-50912">carrying the equivalent of six to eight lanes of traffic</a>.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=233&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=233&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=233&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=292&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=292&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/303670/original/file-20191126-112512-11owrk3.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=292&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption"></span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Data source: author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>The ‘movement and place’ approach</h2>
<p>Around the world and in Australia, cities are looking to make roads into combined “<a href="https://www.governmentarchitect.nsw.gov.au/guidance/movement-and-place">movement and place</a>” sites – some places will remain highly walkable and some will be just for movement but special corridors will be for both so they<a href="https://transport.vic.gov.au/our-transport-future/movement-and-place-in-victoria">keep people and goods moving and are places for people to live, work and enjoy</a>. This approach gives priority to fast public transport using light rail or trackless trams combined with higher-density development around their stations.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/trackless-trams-v-light-rail-its-not-a-contest-both-can-improve-our-cities-125134">Trackless trams v light rail? It's not a contest – both can improve our cities</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>The big issue on such corridors is how to get rid of cars so mass transit services have a fast, free lane to travel along as well as walkable station precincts to enter. Such a system would be much more efficient in traffic terms, but car users don’t easily give up their right to space.</p>
<p>However, the inherent problem with self-driving vehicles is that they will make a corridor impenetrable and travel through a dense precinct ridiculously slow and unpredictable. The politics will therefore shift towards a fast transit corridor along main roads together with walkable, car-free station precincts. </p>
<p>Self-driving cars can help make the fast corridor work as they are ideal for bringing on-demand passengers to the precincts where people can access local services and transfer to the fast transit line. This integrated service enables the best of both mobility solutions: fast and effective access, without destroying either the corridor or centres, and an on-demand local service as shown below.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=336&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=336&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=336&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=422&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=422&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299399/original/file-20191030-154675-qyah35.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=422&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption"></span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Each centre will have micro-mobility options feeding into the transit system and the station precinct services. These options will provide “first mile-last mile” connectivity on demand. They include walking, electric bikes, scooters, skateboards and autonomous shuttles or cars that travel to and from the centre along a specific isolated route. </p>
<p>Certain main roads would have to be declared as clearways for autonomous electric transit, with a set of stations serving high-density centres for urban regeneration. Autonomous vehicles could reign supreme out in the suburbs that were built around the car, but would not interfere with existing or new transit corridors as well as the historic and new centres where pedestrians would reign supreme. Such is the vision of the City of Liverpool for a <a href="https://www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au/development/major-projects/fifteenth-avenue-smart-transit-fast-corridor">trackless tram route to Western Sydney Airport</a>.</p>
<figure>
<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dowlQaebqRQ?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">Liverpool City Council’s vision of an autonomous transit link to Western Sydney Airport.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This vision is not anti-autonomous vehicles. It is enabling innovations to serve us rather than being our master. We cannot simply give up our cities to cars just when we are learning to overcome such dependence. </p>
<p>To make the most of autonomous vehicles’ advantages and avoid the disadvantages, we must choose to shape our cities. Autonomous transit services with feed-in autonomous cars and micro-mobility can achieve the walkability and civility we need for a good city in the future. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/utopia-or-nightmare-the-answer-lies-in-how-we-embrace-self-driving-electric-and-shared-vehicles-90920">Utopia or nightmare? The answer lies in how we embrace self-driving, electric and shared vehicles</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126111/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Peter Newman receives funding from the Sustainable Built Environment national research centre (SBEnrc) that works with some local and state governments on these issues.</span></em></p>Self-driving vehicles that constantly roam the streets looking for passengers could overwhelm cities. But, if kept in check, these vehicles could be useful for improving urban transport.Peter Newman, Professor of Sustainability, Curtin UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1270102019-11-26T18:40:37Z2019-11-26T18:40:37Z‘New Bradfield’: rerouting rivers to recapture a pioneering spirit<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/303353/original/file-20191125-74567-1lshtdu.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C205%2C4031%2C2776&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Waters from the Herbert River, which runs toward one of northern Australia's richest agricultural districts, could be redirected under a Bradfield scheme.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Patrick White</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>The “<a href="https://www.deb2020.com.au/newbradfield/">New Bradfield</a>” scheme is more than an attempt to transcend environmental reality. It seeks to revive a pioneering spirit and a nation-building ethos supposedly stifled by the <a href="https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/townsville/townsville-enterprise-to-receive-24m-for-hells-gates-dam-case-after-months-of-bureacratic-delay/news-story/492dba14afd4ce71ffd08f12d38c15a6">bureaucratic inertia</a> of modern Australia.</p>
<p>This is not a new lament. Frustrated by bureaucracy, politicians in North Queensland have long criticised the slow pace of northern development. </p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/you-cant-boost-australias-north-to-5-million-people-without-a-proper-plan-125063">You can't boost Australia's north to 5 million people without a proper plan</a>
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<p>In 1950, northern local governments blamed urban lethargy. <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/63184273?searchTerm=concern%20at%20drift%20in%20north%27s%20population&searchLimits=">One prominent mayor</a> complained:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>… these young people lack the pioneering spirit of their forebears, preferring leisure and pleasure to hardships and hard work.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>These sentiments were inspired by an agrarian nostalgia that extolled toil and toughness. Stoic responses to the challenges of life on the land are part of the <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/9284258">Australian legend</a>.</p>
<p>With drought devastating rural and urban communities and a state election looming in Queensland in 2020, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/queensland/leaders-tout-bradfield-scheme-options-in-queensland-election-fight-20191101-p536o2.html">both sides of politics</a> have proposed a “New Bradfield” scheme.</p>
<h2>An idea with 19th-century origins</h2>
<p>Civil engineer John Bradfield devised the original scheme in 1938. His plan would <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/97050378?browse=ndp%3Abrowse%2Ftitle%2FQ%2Ftitle%2F379%2F1939%2F05%2F04%2Fpage%2F10280686%2Farticle%2F97050378">swamp inland Australia</a> by reversing the flow of North Queensland’s rivers. Similar proposals go back to at least 1887, when geographer <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/35590102?q&versionId=44284267+219718360+231090219">E.A. Leonard recommended</a> the Herbert, Tully, Johnstone and Barron rivers be turned around to irrigate Australia’s “<a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/13361128">dead heart</a>”.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302057/original/file-20191117-66921-mj64sz.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Blencoe Falls, on a tributary of the Herbert River, North Queensland, during the dry season.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Patrick White</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>As the “dead heart” became the “<a href="http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/finlayson-hedley-herbert-14881">Red Centre</a>” in the 1930s, <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/6707892?q&versionId=7723963">populist writers</a> revived the dreams of big irrigation schemes. </p>
<p>These schemes have always been contested on both <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-06-18/fact-file-bradfield-scheme-drought-relief/11216616">environmental and economic grounds</a>. A <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/20252029">compelling history of Bradfield’s</a> proposal reveals many errors and miscalculations. But what the scheme lacked in substance it made up for in grandiose vision.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/the-water-dreamers">Water dreaming</a> has been a powerful theme in Australian history. The desire to transform desert into farmland retains appeal and <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/97099323?searchTerm=bradfield%20AND%20%22Nimmo%22&searchLimits=exactPhrase=Nimmo%7C%7C%7CanyWords%7C%7C%7CnotWords%7C%7C%7CrequestHandler%7C%7C%7CdateFrom=1944-01-01%7C%7C%7CdateTo=1948-01-01%7C%7C%7Cl-advstate=National%7C%7C%7Cl-advstate=New+South+Wales%7C%7C%7Cl-advstate=Queensland%7C%7C%7Cl-advstate=Victoria%7C%7C%7Csortby">discredited</a> schemes like Bradfield keep reappearing.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-keys-to-unlock-northern-australia-have-already-been-cut-69713">The keys to unlock Northern Australia have already been cut</a>
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</em>
</p>
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<h2>Contempt for nature and country</h2>
<p>While less ambitious than the original plan, the “New Bradfield” scheme still engineers against the gradient of both history and nature. It would have irreversible consequences for Queensland’s <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/am/experts-dismiss-new-drought-proofing-bradfield-scheme/11666006">environment</a>, society and culture.</p>
<p>What’s more, the new scheme manifests much the same mindset as the old. </p>
<p>It’s an attitude that privileges the conquest of nature: in this case literally up-ending geography by turning east-flowing rivers westward. Its celebration of the human struggle against defiant nature reprises the pioneering ethos.</p>
<p>Like many pioneers, “New Bradfield” proposals disregard the interests and land-management practices of Indigenous people. The bushfires ravaging the eastern states show the folly of <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-14/traditional-owners-predicted-bushfire-disaster/11700320?sf223598160=1&fbclid=IwAR2UkvGj_wyO4s6tbRqyI5sI6UgEI6SvqkoMwxCFEkKEV6FO7ZGJfGMP3Kc">ignoring traditional ways of caring for country</a> . </p>
<p><a href="http://www.hcourt.gov.au/cases/case_d1-2018">Overlooking native title realities</a> can also cost governments and communities.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/remote-indigenous-australias-ecological-economies-give-us-something-to-build-on-123917">Remote Indigenous Australia's ecological economies give us something to build on</a>
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</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Polarising debate neglects more viable projects</h2>
<p>“New Bradfield” is promoted as “<a href="https://www.deb2020.com.au/newbradfield/?utm_source=Digitaliyf&utm_medium=GSearch&utm_campaign=NBradfield&gclid=CjwKCAiA8K7uBRBBEiwACOm4d-0xBRkgojO1Wykl937_rMhWhPhAb2ZsKhcKHOqdM2OuG11V34XdHBoCxBMQAvD_BwE">an asset owned by all Queenslanders for all Queenslanders</a>”. But <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-darling-river-is-simply-not-supposed-to-dry-out-even-in-drought-109880">environmental destruction</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/drought-and-climate-change-are-driving-high-water-prices-in-the-murray-darling-basin-119993">disputes over water sales</a> in the Murray-Darling Basin sound a warning.</p>
<p>The Queensland Farmers Federation has <a href="https://www.qff.org.au/media-releases/qff-welcomes-lnp-commitment-new-bradfield-scheme/">cautiously welcomed</a> the new scheme. Others have dismissed it as a “<a href="https://www.queenslandcountrylife.com.au/story/6479100/cold-water-poured-on-bradfield-mark-ii/">pipe dream</a>”. </p>
<p>Thus, northern Australia again sits amid a polarised debate about its utility to the nation. Such polarising contests diminish the likelihood of more viable projects being implemented.</p>
<p>Extravagant expectations of “untapped” northern resources have been <a href="https://scholarly.info/book/northern-dreams/">proffered for nearly two centuries</a>. Distant governments have fantasised the Australian tropics as a land of near-limitless potential. Northern communities have many times been disappointed by the results.</p>
<p>Today’s promises to “<a href="https://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/news/opinion/flow-of-jobs-water-vital-for-nq-says-lnp-leader-deb-frecklington/news-story/053bb635b9cb86461ead6eedd39756ca">drought-proof</a>” large areas of Queensland rely on similar images. “Drought-proofing” aims to keep people on the land but often defies economic and social reality.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/we-cant-drought-proof-australia-and-trying-is-a-fools-errand-124504">We can’t drought-proof Australia, and trying is a fool's errand</a>
</strong>
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</p>
<hr>
<h2>Dam developments have an underwhelming record</h2>
<p>The “New Bradfield” rhetoric echoes the inflated expectations of myriad disappointing northern development plans in the past. The <a href="https://www.palgrave.com/gp/book/9781349905737">Ord River project</a> was touted as an agricultural wonder that would put hundreds of thousands of farmers into the Kimberley. Its success lies forever just over the horizon.</p>
<p>Much closer to the present proposal is the Burdekin Falls Dam. It sits in the lower reaches of the same river earmarked for the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-01/bradfield-scheme-is-moving-water-from-north-to-south-feasible/11662942">Hells Gates Dam that would feed</a> the “New Bradfield” scheme. Damming Hells Gates has been advocated since at least the 1930s and has <a href="https://www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au/news-media/news-centre/advocacy-alert-hells-gates-funding-agreement-signals-boots-on-the-ground/">new supporters</a>.</p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302055/original/file-20191117-66921-zna3a6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">The proposed site for Hells Gates Dam is on Gugu Badhun country on the Burdekin River.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Dr Theresa Petray</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Back in the 1950s, damming the Burdekin was expected to generate hydro-electric power and irrigate vast swathes of farmland. After decades of political squabbling, the dam was completed in 1988. It does not generate hydro power. Although it irrigates some land downstream, the anticipated huge agricultural expansion never happened.</p>
<p>The Burdekin Falls Dam has helped the regional economy and could help to overcome the water shortages of the nearby city of Townsville. But it has not met the inflated expectations widely proffered decades earlier. The benefits that would flow from another dam further upstream are likely to be even more meagre.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/damming-northern-australia-we-need-to-learn-hard-lessons-from-the-south-53885">Damming northern Australia: we need to learn hard lessons from the south</a>
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</p>
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<p>Grandiose visions of northern development have a habit of <a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/8505121?selectedversion=NBD660057">failing</a>. A “New Bradfield” scheme, animated by an old pioneering ethos, is unlikely to be different. </p>
<p>Drought-affected communities would derive more benefit from sober proposals that acknowledge the past, integrate Indigenous knowledge and incorporate agricultural innovation.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127010/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Patrick White receives funding from an Australian Government Postgraduate Award.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Janine Gertz’s PhD Doctoral research was funded by a JCU Australian Postgraduate Award and a JCU Prestige Indigenous Research Award. Janine provides administrative support to the Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC. Gugu Badhun Aboriginal Nation is participating in a Nation-Building research project “Prerequisite conditions for Indigenous nation self-government” which is funded by an ARC Discovery Grant, led by the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, University of Technology Sydney. Gugu Badhun is also a research partner on a native food project with the ARC Training Centre for Uniquely Australian Foods, University of Queensland. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Russell McGregor does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>The ‘New Bradfield’ scheme seeks to revive a nation-building ethos supposedly stifled by bureaucratic inertia. But there are good reasons the scheme never became a reality.Patrick White, PhD Candidate in History and Politics, James Cook UniversityRussell McGregor, Adjunct Professor of History, James Cook UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1273182019-11-25T19:09:56Z2019-11-25T19:09:56ZGeographical narcissism: when city folk just assume they’re better<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302817/original/file-20191121-542-brsel3.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C0%2C4751%2C3276&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">It isn't just that city dwellers assume superiority, some Australians living in rural and regional areas also internalise a sense of inferiority.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/proud-confident-businessman-calling-on-cell-1467753617">Mangostar/Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>A self-proclaimed “farmer’s wife” triggered a groundswell of activity on Twitter this month from frustrated rural professionals across Australia. Kirsten Diprose is an ABC metropolitan journalist turned regional reporter. In an <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-10/stigma-of-working-in-regional-australia-couldnt-cut-it-in-city/11672266">article</a> for the ABC, she declared she always felt the need to play up her city-based credentials and experience to justify her professional worth. She wrote:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Many people in the country feel they have to justify their careers, whether it’s in the media, health, education or business. Some people think if you’re not working in the metropolitan centre then you must not be good enough at what you do. You never ‘cracked the big time’ or you were too afraid to try.</p>
</blockquote>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/bust-the-regional-city-myths-and-look-beyond-the-big-5-for-a-378b-return-79760">Bust the regional city myths and look beyond the 'big 5' for a $378b return</a>
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<p>As academics with professional backgrounds in health care and media respectively who work in regional Victoria, we couldn’t agree more with Diprose’s observations. What she describes is known in academic scholarship as “geographical narcissism”. Swedish clinical psychologist Malin Fors <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2018-24924-001.html">used the term</a> to explain the rural-urban interactions she encountered while working in a small town north of the Arctic circle in Norway. </p>
<p>The concept has also been described in other terms such as “urban splaining” – rural people are “talked down to” by their city counterparts – and “geographical judgment” as journalist Gabrielle Chan puts it in her book Rusted Off.</p>
<p>Academic literature, from <a href="https://web.mit.edu/esd.83/www/notebook/WorldSystem.pdf">Immanuel Wallerstein’s world systems theory</a> to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Country_and_the_City">work of cultural theorist Raymond Williams</a>, has long discussed the economic and cultural causes of the rural-urban divide. Geographical narcissism looks at the psychological consequences. </p>
<h2>Anyone outside the city is ‘camping out’</h2>
<p>When big cities are seen as the centre of everything, it gives rise to a narcissistic view in city dwellers that subtly, often unconsciously, devalues rural knowledge, conventions and subjectivity. It fosters a “<a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2018-24924-001.html">belief that urban reality is definitive</a>”.</p>
<p>For example, rural health-care professionals are often asked by their urban contacts why they left the city. And when will they be going back? It’s assumed nobody would voluntarily move to a country town for professional work, especially if they have no family or social ties to the area. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/should-i-stay-or-should-i-go-how-city-girls-can-learn-to-feel-at-home-in-the-country-124579">Should I stay or should I go: how 'city girls' can learn to feel at home in the country</a>
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<p>There is also a suspicion, as Fors <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2018-24924-001.html">points out</a>, that people with ethical or personal problems are banished to the country. It is a classic film and television trope for the brilliant city specialist to be obliged to work as a rural GP because of alcoholism, cocaine addiction, fear of blood, or crime punished by community service. (A favourite example is the French-Canadian film La grande séduction/The Grand Seduction where a plastic surgeon must work in a small fishing village while coping with the twin deviations of cocaine use and a love of cricket.)</p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z61XwqxI8hM?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">La grande séduction/The Grand Seduction epitomises the trope of a flawed medical specialist who has to work outside the city.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This year we have each been invited to speak at regional professional conferences and events about this topic. It’s clear many rural professionals who encounter this urban mindset struggle to be identified (or see themselves) as equals.</p>
<p>Take this tweet responding to <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-10/stigma-of-working-in-regional-australia-couldnt-cut-it-in-city/11672266">Diprose’s article</a>:</p>
<p><div data-react-class="Tweet" data-react-props="{"tweetId":"1193679230397104128"}"></div></p>
<p>And another:</p>
<p><div data-react-class="Tweet" data-react-props="{"tweetId":"1193334879175331840"}"></div></p>
<p>It’s also our personal observation in health care and higher education that geographical narcissism affects professional life by warping perceptions of time and distance. It always seems longer for city-based professionals to travel to the country to visit regional campuses and hospitals than for their regional colleagues to travel to the city. </p>
<p>Many rural workers will identify with the expectation that they travel both ways in a day to attend a meeting in the city. As for employees of the city office, they need a night’s accommodation and a little narcissistic praise for their intrepid travel to the country. </p>
<p>This lack of appreciation can also interfere with the effectiveness of well-meaning urban professionals who want to improve rural practice. An urban professional seeking to reorganise an area of rural practice may feel bewildered at the passive-aggressive behaviour of their rural colleagues. As Fors observed, they are mistrusted as colonisers when they had expected to be welcomed as rescuers.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/settling-migrants-in-regional-areas-will-need-more-than-a-visa-to-succeed-114196">Settling migrants in regional areas will need more than a visa to succeed</a>
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<h2>Stereotypes are internalised too</h2>
<p>Rural professionals often laugh with recognition when hearing of geographic narcissism. But it’s confronting when they realise they themselves have internalised and ultimately reinforce the same stereotypes. </p>
<p>As Diprose experienced, many rural professionals will legitimise their skills to an urban colleague by listing their urban education and work credentials – as if these are the experiences that matter. This leads to a rural dialectic, where rural professionals hold the seemingly opposing views that rural work is, and is not, of high quality. </p>
<p>Juggling these polarised views can lead to unhelpful psychological compromises. One of these is to split elements of rural practice into good and bad. Of particular concern is the belief that an individual professional is of high quality, but the rest of the rural organisation is not, so they must leave to progress their career.</p>
<p>There are, of course, social spaces and professional fields where geographical narcissism is not apparent. It’s less of problem when those who work and live regionally have their key economic, professional and social connections within one location. But when one competes with or is exposed to resources based at the “centre” – so often in the big cities – you can’t miss it. </p>
<p>The rise of digital technology – with its promise to eradicate issues of distance – has perhaps exposed the prevalence and unspoken acceptance of geographical narcissism.</p>
<p>Rural and urban environments bring different challenges for working professionals. Good and bad practices can occur in both. But it is narcissistic to believe geography is a key determinant of quality.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127318/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Timothy Baker receives funding from the Department of Health and Human Services Victoria and Alcoa of Australia</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Kristy Hess receives funding as lead investigator on an Australian Research Council's Linkage project examining the future of local news in Australia (LP180100813) and is a chief investigator on the Australian Research Council's Discovery Project examining the role of media in the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (DP190101282)</span></em></p>Big cities are seen as the centre of everything, which creates an attitude that often devalues the work and skills of rural professionals. And sometimes even they subconsciously buy into this.Timothy Baker, Associate Professor and Director, Centre for Rural Emergency Medicine, Deakin UniversityKristy Hess, Associate Professor (Communication), Deakin UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1275152019-11-22T00:36:11Z2019-11-22T00:36:11ZWhat do Sydney and other cities have in common? Dust<p>Sydney and its suburbs have been <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-21/sydney-smoke-from-fires-unlikely-to-clear-today-authorities-warn/11723876">enveloped in haze</a> over the past few days. The haze is a <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-21/sydney-smoke-from-fires-unlikely-to-clear-today-authorities-warn/11723876">mixture of bushfire smoke and dust</a> blown in from western New South Wales. As particles move from rural locations, like Gospers Mountain in this case, they make grey cities.</p>
<p>In Australia, dust blurs the distinction between the bush and the city. Elsewhere it blurs the farmlands with the concrete jungles, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/indonesias-huge-fires-and-toxic-haze-will-cause-health-problems-for-years-to-come-124556">nation-states with regions</a>.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/explainer-how-a-dust-storm-and-hazardous-air-quality-can-harm-your-health-107499">Explainer: how a dust storm, and hazardous air quality, can harm your health</a>
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<p><a href="http://societyandspace.org/2019/03/17/spiral/">Spiralling dust</a> challenges our usual ways of thinking about bush, farm, industry, rich city and poor city divides. It travels across geographical and socioeconomic boundaries. There is no easy way to stop it.</p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NzjGyOcENcE?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">A dust storm hit Mildura in northwestern Victoria this week.</span></figcaption>
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<p>Dust’s composition and unfettered mobility <a href="https://www.stateofglobalair.org/health/sources">make it a global epidemic</a>. Once airborne, dust spares no one in its path. It sits in the lungs of cities and citizens. It is stubbornly difficult to eradicate. </p>
<h2>The harms of dust</h2>
<p>The dust brings with it old and new anxieties about life, death and disease. Air pollution caused <a href="https://www.stateofglobalair.org/health">2.4 million deaths in India and China</a> in 2017.</p>
<p>Last week, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia-pacific/delhi-is-engulfed-by-toxic-pollution-why-isnt-anyone-wearing-masks/2019/11/14/bb4adfe4-0643-11ea-9118-25d6bd37dfb1_story.html?outputType=amp">Delhi</a> and <a href="https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/haze-singapore-unhealthy-range-november-nea-12088930">Singapore</a> reported serious air pollution from agricultural fires and industrial emissions. <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/diu/story/stubble-burning-dips-in-north-india-satellite-data-show-1619716-2019-11-16">Particles from crop burning</a> in the neighbouring states of Haryana and the Punjab and <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/energy/power/finance-commission-likely-to-reject-12-billion-package-to-help-utilities-cut-pollution/articleshow/72136898.cms?from=mdr">power plants</a> took Delhi’s air quality index to <a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/diu/story/stubble-burning-dips-in-north-india-satellite-data-show-1619716-2019-11-16">dangerously high levels</a>.</p>
<p>Dust is also generated from within cities, particularly from construction sites. Regulatory bodies seek to <a href="https://societyandspace.org/2019/07/11/breaking-the-ground/">contain these sites within enclosures</a>. Where the regulatory frameworks are weak, environmental bodies impose fines. </p>
<p><a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/construction-dust-open-waste-dumping-top-polluting-activities/articleshow/67445201.cms">Construction dust adds significantly to air pollution</a> in Indian cities. In Kolkata, <a href="https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/west-bengal/building-materials-add-to-air-pollution-in-calcutta/cid/1699147">construction materials are stored on sidewalks and roads</a>. Even with fines, it is nearly impossible to make barriers that can contain dust.</p>
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<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302846/original/file-20191121-479-i4bqwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
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<span class="caption">Workers spray water as a dust control measure at a construction site in Parramatta, Sydney.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Malini Sur</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
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<p>Haze can be seen, but the threats of dust are often invisible. Dust plumes <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/sep/27/dust-storms-diseases-sydney">can carry bacteria and viruses</a>. Dust can <a href="https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/bb145a804f951ad6ab5bab0ba45b835a/Port+Augusta+Dust+and+your+health+information+2017.FINAL.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE-bb145a804f951ad6ab5bab0ba45b835a-mN5ShjC">cause a variety of respiratory and circulatory diseases</a>.</p>
<p>In Singapore, dust mites have been claimed to be the <a href="https://www.asianscientist.com/2014/02/health/dust-mites-main-allergies-singapore-2014/">main cause</a> of respiratory allergies. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/increased-deaths-and-illnesses-from-inhaling-airborne-dust-an-understudied-impact-of-climate-change-96625">Increased deaths and illnesses from inhaling airborne dust: An understudied impact of climate change</a>
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<h2>The colours of dust</h2>
<p>Dust gathers colour. In Australia, <a href="https://www.news.com.au/technology/environment/natural-wonders/massive-red-dust-storm-sweeps-over-new-south-wales/news-story/1eb304c90ccfa8842f2bb553bb65de70">dust storms are typically red</a>. </p>
<p>The so-called “Asian dust storms” are yellow. <a href="https://asiasociety.org/korea/hwang-sa-yellow-dust">Originating in the deserts of Northern China and Mongolia</a>, strong winds carry yellow dust all the way to the Korean Peninsula via the jet stream. </p>
<p>These storms have increased in China, and the levels of industrial pollutants in the dust often have too. Yellow dust also <a href="https://asiasociety.org/korea/hwang-sa-yellow-dust">carries viruses, fungi, bacteria and even heavy metals</a>, none of which is good for respiratory health.</p>
<p>Earlier this year, Thailand was affected by yellow dust. Authorities in Bangkok used <a href="https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1611010/bangkok-fires-water-cannon-into-the-air-to-fight-pollution">water cannons</a> and even <a href="https://www.thaipbsworld.com/cloud-seeding-results-in-brief-rain-over-parts-of-bangkok/">cloud seeding</a> in attempts to limit the dust’s effects. </p>
<p>Singapore is periodically <a href="https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/air-quality-eastern-singapore-enters-unhealthy-range-haze-due-particulate-matter">enveloped in grey</a> dust.</p>
<h2>The history of dust</h2>
<p>Today, talk of smoke, haze and smog is common to the world’s cities. Once dust settles, we become habituated to it. Dust resides in landscapes and humans.
And dust tells stories about historical wrongs. </p>
<p>Australia has a long history of death from exposure to asbestos dust. Dust <a href="https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/wa/when-dust-ends-in-death-how-asbestos-devastated-wittenoom-ng-b88930946z">wiped out the town of Wittenoom</a> in Western Australia. </p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.asbestos.com/asbestos/history/">first documented asbestos death</a> was recorded in the UK in 1906. Although asbestos has been known since then to be deadly, it continues to be a stubborn presence around the world. Worldwide consumption of asbestos is <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20131021061734/http:/www.silverdell.plc.uk/images/downloads/Silverdell_History_of_Asbestos.pdf">nearly as high as it has ever been</a>.</p>
<p>In the early 1930s, overcultivation of wheat on the Great Plains of the US created the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Dust-Bowl">Dust Bowl</a>. Overploughing, poor land management and severe drought left the topsoil exposed. Spring winds picked up this loose soil, resulting in “<a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Dust-Bowl">black blizzards</a>”. </p>
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<figcaption><span class="caption">‘Black blizzards’ added to the misery of inhabitants of the impoverished Dust Bowl.</span></figcaption>
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<p>The dust affected <a href="https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/dust-bowl">huge swathes of the country, including the cities of Chicago and New York</a>. It deepened the economic crisis of the Great Depression and caused mass migration. </p>
<p>Haze from forest fires has been a regular occurrence in Singapore <a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/attachments/2015/10/02/haze_covers_whole_island_oct_28_1977.pdf">since at least the 1970s</a>. These have originated in the south of Malaysia, Borneo and Sumatra. In the 1990s, transboundary pollution became the subject of two regional summits, leading to the <a href="http://haze.asean.org/?wpfb_dl=32">ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution</a> in 2002. </p>
<p>In 2014, Singapore passed the <a href="https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/THPA2014">Transnational Haze Pollution Act</a>. This law enables regulators to prosecute companies and individuals, even <a href="https://www.wri.org/news/2014/08/statement-singapore%E2%80%99s-new-haze-pollution-law-%E2%80%9C-new-way-doing-business%E2%80%9D">beyond the nation-state’s borders</a>, that cause air pollution.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/we-built-an-app-to-detect-areas-most-vulnerable-to-life-threatening-haze-122388">We built an app to detect areas most vulnerable to life-threatening haze</a>
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<h2>A pervasive challenge for cities</h2>
<p>Our bodies create dust and dust enters our bodies. <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/house-dust-mite">Species emerge that live off dust</a>.</p>
<p>What makes dust harder to reckon with in our imaginations is that its particles are almost invisible and its source is generally unknown. It is an amalgam of an uncountable number of sources, often from many different countries and producers.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/african-dust-storms-double-air-particle-concentration-in-texas-18423">African dust storms double air particle concentration in Texas</a>
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<p>Whether resulting from geological events, deforestation, construction or some indeterminate combination of each, our inability to pinpoint dust’s source makes climate accountability extremely difficult.</p>
<p>A key focus for cities now and in the future is to think about how we manage dust, the plans and practices we put in place to limit dust creation and contain its spread.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127515/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>The haze now engulfing Sydney isn’t an isolated problem. Cities around the world struggle to manage the many sources of tiny airborne particles and the discomfort and illnesses these cause.Malini Sur, Senior Research Fellow, Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney UniversityEric Kerr, Lecturer, National University of SingaporeLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1269222019-11-21T19:32:46Z2019-11-21T19:32:46ZHow 1 bright light in a bleak social housing policy landscape could shine more brightly<p>In the year since the Australian government created the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (<a href="https://www.nhfic.gov.au/">NHFIC</a>), its <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/policy/ahuri-briefs/bond-aggregator-model">bond aggregator</a>, AHBA, has raised funds for affordable housing providers, allowing them to refinance loans under better conditions. Its <a href="https://www.communityhousing.com.au/nhfic-issues-first-social-bond-of-315-million/">first, A$315 million bond issue</a> was in March. The <a href="https://www.nhfic.gov.au/media-resources/media-releases/nhfic-bonds-exceed-600m-with-second-bond-issuance/">second A$315 million bond issue</a> this week offers providers 2.07% for ten-year interest-only loans.</p>
<p>The NHFIC has released its first <a href="https://www.nhfic.gov.au/our-organisation/reporting-and-disclosures/">annual report</a>. So what progress has been made? And what could be done better? </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/australias-social-housing-policy-needs-stronger-leadership-and-an-investment-overhaul-119097">Australia's social housing policy needs stronger leadership and an investment overhaul</a>
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<h2>Providers get better loans</h2>
<p><a href="https://communityhousing.org.au/about_us/what-is-community-housing/">Community housing providers</a> are certainly getting finance through the NHFIC on much better terms than their previous short-term bank loans. An example is <a href="https://bluechp.com.au/">BlueCHP’s</a> $A70 million ten-year loan. </p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kd5z632Mm1Y?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">BlueCHP CEO Charles Northcote talks about the benefits of borrowing through the NHFIC.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Borrowers’ terms should improve further as the market for quality, government-guaranteed bonds grows. This has been the experience of Swiss government-backed intermediary <a href="http://www.egw-ccl.ch/fileadmin/files/pdf/dokumente/globalkostenabrechnung/EGW_Globalkostenabrechnung_62_d.pdf">EGW</a>. This month, its 62nd bond issue of CHF195 million (A$289 million) had all-in borrowing costs of 0.32% p.a. (only slightly more than the government bond) over 20 years. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/government-guarantee-opens-investment-highway-to-affordable-housing-88549">Government guarantee opens investment highway to affordable housing</a>
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<h2>A good time to invest directly in new housing</h2>
<p>To be even more effective the NHFIC needs to go beyond refinancing loans to support long-term investment in building much-needed affordable and green housing. With <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Latestproducts/8731.0Main%20Features2Sep%202019?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=8731.0&issue=Sep%202019&num=&view=">construction in the doldrums</a>, <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/29439/PES-306-Developing-an-investment-pathway-for-social-housing.pdf">experts</a> <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/20482/AHURI_Final_Report_300_Inquiry_into_increasing_affordable_housing_supply_Evidence_based_principles_and_strategies_for_Australian_policies_and_practice.pdf">are</a> <a href="https://blog.grattan.edu.au/2019/09/learning-from-past-mistakes-lessons-from-the-national-rental-affordability-scheme/">calling</a> for a second <a href="https://www.dss.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/11_2013/social_housing_initiative_fact_sheet.pdf.docx">Social Housing Initiative</a> to meet critical housing needs and <a href="https://providencehousing.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Housing-and-Economic-Development-Report-2011.pdf">provide jobs</a>. The first initiative <a href="http://www.nwhn.net.au/admin/file/content101/c6/social_housing_initiative_review.pdf">stimulated the construction sector and the wider economy</a>, secured 14,000 skilled jobs and inspired innovative design. </p>
<p>With <a href="https://qz.com/1683976/why-are-interest-rates-low-and-how-long-will-it-last/">interest rates for government borrowing near zero</a>, the NHFIC’s impact could be maximised if coupled with long-term public investment – tied to performance targets – as exemplified by <a href="https://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/105204.aspx">Scotland</a>. </p>
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<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=453&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=453&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=453&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=569&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=569&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/302597/original/file-20191120-515-l80qn4.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=569&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
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<span class="caption">Government bond yields – effectively the rates at which governments can borrow money – are close to zero.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Data: Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis</span></span>
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<p>Many countries – including Finland, the UK, Austria and France – have long-term programs that bridge the funding gap to make green <a href="https://www.housing.vic.gov.au/social-housing">social housing</a> a reality. Clear guidelines and responsible oversight guide direct equity investment. </p>
<p>AHURI has helped develop the <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/16110/PES_002_Assessing_how_to_best_fund_affordable_housing.pdf">Affordable Housing Assessment Tool</a> to estimate the <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/29439/PES-306-Developing-an-investment-pathway-for-social-housing.pdf">number and location of dwellings required</a>, as well as the most effective ways of funding affordable housing. </p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-needs-to-triple-its-social-housing-by-2036-this-is-the-best-way-to-do-it-105960">Australia needs to triple its social housing by 2036. This is the best way to do it</a>
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<p>The approach taken by the <a href="https://www.ara.fi/en-us/About_ARA">Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland</a> is widely considered <a href="http://www.housingeurope.eu/resource-1024/why-housing-policy-in-finland-is-a-success-story">Europe’s most effective</a>. It’s an “expert partner, developer and moderniser of housing and promotes ecologically sustainable, high-quality and reasonably priced housing”.</p>
<p>Finland has a clear national strategy in response to well-researched market challenges. The <a href="https://www.ara.fi/en-us/">Finnish model</a> provides tailored grants and interest rate subsidies and selectively applies a government guarantee to drive long-term investment in affordable housing. This ranges from homelessness prevention, student housing and shared ownership for young starters to affordable home ownership and supported accommodation for the aged. </p>
<h2>Not all social landlords qualify</h2>
<p>Only registered not-for-profit providers that comply with the <a href="https://www.nrsch.gov.au/">National Regulatory System for Community Housing</a> can get a loan through the NHFIC. A <a href="https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/about/reforms/NRSCH/review-of-the-national-regulatory-system-for-community-housing/">review</a> of the system is under way.</p>
<p>In Europe, social bonds are open to providers that satisfy basic criteria: be not-for-profit and for a social purpose, meet local needs, promote social inclusion and apply affordable rent-to-income ratios. </p>
<p>Despite the obvious need in Australia, NHFIC funding excludes public housing, which is also constrained by caps on public investment.</p>
<p>In the UK, public investment has been lifted after decades of constraint. This has generated a flurry of social house building, particularly in <a href="https://www.gov.scot/policies/more-homes/housing-infrastructure-fund">Scotland</a>. </p>
<h2>Good regulation is vital</h2>
<p>Scotland, Finland, Switzerland and Austria are particularly careful to ensure only not-for-profit organisations with a social purpose can use special purpose funds. Australia’s regulatory system also needs to ensure social bonds serve a social purpose. For instance, the Water Bank <a href="https://www.nwbbank.com/sustainable-bond-sdg-housing-bond-3">Affordable Housing Bond</a> has very specific guidelines on the type of provider, rent regime, household eligibility and income allocation.</p>
<p>Most importantly, regulation protects funds from extraction by shareholders – public or private.</p>
<p>Revolving funds are the lifeblood of well-maintained and growing social housing. Operating surpluses (such as savings from NHIFC refinancing or sales of social dwellings) are used for maintaining and renovating housing, or building more of it, as in Scotland and the Netherlands. They also ensure rent increases are manageable for tenants following renovations and improvements, as in Denmark and Austria.</p>
<p>Governments can also revolve public loan repayments to sustain supply programs, as in Austria and Finland. Even in Slovakia, the scene of mass housing privatisation in the 1990s, far-sighted policymakers established a revolving fund to ensure owners and tenants live in the best-maintained former Soviet housing today.</p>
<h2>Board expertise matters too</h2>
<p>The <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/publication/p2019-fsrc-final-report/">Hayne Royal Commission</a> stressed the vital role of boards in ensuring the good conduct of their organisations and quality outcomes for stakeholders. In the case of the NHFIC, its board <a href="http://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/stuart-robert-2018/media-releases/morrison-government-strengthens-nhfic/">must</a> have a range of relevant skills. </p>
<p>Land development, infrastructure and real estate experts dominate the relatively small NHFIC board. It lacks capabilities in the corporation’s core tasks of banking (credit risk assessment), treasury management, housing policy, not-for-profit regulation and development finance. The term of the only member experienced in social housing expires in 2021. </p>
<p>The boards of similar bodies overseas, such as <a href="http://www.egw-ccl.ch/de/portrait/">Switzerland</a>, <a href="https://www.hfa.ie/hfa/Live/Release/WebSite/HomePage/index.html">Ireland</a> and <a href="https://www.thfcorp.com/_uploads/downloads/254649THFCweb.pdf/">the UK</a>, have capabilities in affordable housing policy, not-for-profit housing provision, public banking and treasury management.</p>
<p>Most boards also include representatives of governments and regulators. Both are missing from the NHFIC board. </p>
<h2>Missing pieces of the puzzle</h2>
<p>AHURI and the <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-03/170921-AHWG-final-for-publication.pdf">Affordable Housing Working Group</a> have long argued that, beyond efficient financing, social housing requires other key conditions for growth. The working group recommended:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>… the Commonwealth and State and Territory governments progress initiatives aimed at closing the funding gap, including through examining the levels of direct subsidy needed for affordable low-income rental housing, along with the use of affordable housing targets, planning mechanisms, tax settings, value-adding contributions from affordable housing providers and innovative developments to create and retain stock. </p>
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<p>AHURI <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/final-reports/293">research</a> has found the most effective policy levers are pro-social land policy (involving purposeful land banking and regulatory planning), needs-based direct equity investment (nuanced to match needs, land and construction costs), efficient revolving loans and not-for-profit management.</p>
<p>Without these features, the government will miss its <a href="https://www.pc.gov.au/research/ongoing/report-on-government-services/2019/housing-and-homelessness/housing">own targets</a> and underinvest in this <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0027/29439/PES-306-Developing-an-investment-pathway-for-social-housing.pdf">much-needed social infrastructure</a>. Both the precariously housed and productivity growth in the wider economy will suffer.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/is-social-housing-essential-infrastructure-how-we-think-about-it-does-matter-110777">Is social housing essential infrastructure? How we think about it does matter</a>
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<h2>3 recommendations</h2>
<p>We suggest the following:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Develop key indicators focused on the number of additional affordable dwellings and the discount to market rents achieved across different submarkets. Targets should be derived from a national housing strategy to guide the NHFIC, its corporate plan and the board’s KPIs. </p></li>
<li><p>Design a nuanced capital investment program to drive construction of green, social housing together with NHFIC loans that deliver more than refinancing. </p></li>
<li><p>Benchmark NHFIC performance against similar guaranteed bond issues, all-in loan costs and intermediary running costs and governance expertise. This would reassure government and the affordable housing sector about its cost-effectiveness. </p></li>
</ol>
<p>The NHFIC is an innovative and promising initiative. It is one bright light in an otherwise bleak policy landscape. It could shine even more brightly when combined with complementary funding and land policies to end homelessness and ensure access to affordable housing for all.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126922/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Julie Lawson receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI). She was involved in an evaluation of six guarantee and intermediary schemes in Europe and North America. Her work with Mike Berry concerned the design of an intermediary and guarantee scheme for Australia, based on international best practice and the Australian context. She has also given advice to the review of the national law regulating community housing. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Mike Berry has received funding from AHURI and the Australian Research Council. He was a member of the board of a non-profit housing association.</span></em></p>The government-backed body set up to help finance social housing providers is providing longer-term, cheaper loans. What’s still missing in Australia is direct public investment in new housing.Julie Lawson, Honorary Associate Professor, Centre for Urban Research, RMIT UniversityMike Berry, Emeritus Professor, RMIT UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1270072019-11-20T19:16:32Z2019-11-20T19:16:32ZLack of information on apartment defects leaves whole market on shaky footings<p>The litany of <a href="https://theconversation.com/australia-has-a-new-national-construction-code-but-its-still-not-good-enough-113729">defects, poor building standards</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/ministers-fiddle-while-buildings-crack-and-burn-120592">regulatory failures</a> has serious implications for apartment owners, occupiers and buyers alike. Fears of a <a href="https://www.afr.com/news/politics/national/the-apartment-building-crisis-explained-20190716-p527k0">loss of confidence in the sector</a> have unfortunately come true. Our research suggests a lack of reliable information about building defects is a critical factor in the crisis.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/would-you-buy-a-new-apartment-building-confidence-depends-on-ending-the-blame-game-122180">Would you buy a new apartment? Building confidence depends on ending the blame game</a>
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<p>About a year ago, we started a research project with <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/documents/536/defects_project_overview.pdf">six industry partners</a> in New South Wales entitled <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/research/projects/defects-strata/">Cracks in the Compact City: Tackling Defects in Multi-Unit Strata Housing</a>. The context is compact city planning policies and a rapid shift towards apartment living in Australian cities. </p>
<p>The urban development strategies of NSW and other states rely on higher-density cities with many more multi-unit strata title dwellings. The <a href="https://theconversation.com/its-not-just-the-building-cracks-or-cladding-sometimes-uncertainty-does-even-more-harm-120662">human</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/flammable-cladding-costs-could-approach-billions-for-building-owners-if-authorities-dither-118121">economic</a> impacts of the building defects crisis could undermine these strategies. </p>
<p>Even with our resources, obtaining data on the extent and nature of defects in NSW apartment buildings has been a challenge. Individual buyers and owners must face even greater obstacles. </p>
<p>This lack of access to information poses a clear challenge to the principle of “buyer beware” that underpins property sales. The imbalance it creates between buyers and sellers is a prime example of what economists call “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_asymmetry">information asymmetry</a>”. </p>
<h2>Why does this matter for the whole apartment market?</h2>
<p>Nobel laureate George Akerlof <a href="https://www2.bc.edu/thomas-chemmanur/phdfincorp/MF891%20papers/Ackerlof%201970.pdf">explained</a> how the price and quality of goods traded in a market affected by information asymmetries tend to gradually reduce to the point where only lowest-cost “lemons” remain. When buyers can’t tell the difference between products of good and bad quality, they typically prefer the cheapest available. This forces higher-quality products out of the market. </p>
<p>Sellers can also exploit this situation to hide poor-quality products from consumers. They might even charge the same as competitors selling higher-quality products. </p>
<p>While some unscrupulous sellers might profit in the short term, overall profits fall for everyone as confidence and links between price and quality are undermined. Ultimately, the entire market can collapse.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/its-not-just-the-building-cracks-or-cladding-sometimes-uncertainty-does-even-more-harm-120662">It's not just the building cracks or cladding – sometimes uncertainty does even more harm</a>
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<p>The risks are highest in markets with these two features:</p>
<ul>
<li>sellers are not rewarded for delivering information to buyers or cannot disclose it effectively</li>
<li>buyers cannot discriminate between the quality of different products, as is often the case in apartment developments. </li>
</ul>
<p>These problems are more likely when buyers cannot easily inspect products at the time of sale – as with apartment units bought off the plan.</p>
<p>When a vendor sells a product to multiple buyers, again typical in apartment developments, that can multiply the impact of information asymmetries. </p>
<p>The buyer of a standalone house might be able to make the sale conditional on an independent inspection of the entire building. But such clauses are very difficult to negotiate in off-the-plan sales for apartments in multi-unit buildings. </p>
<p>It would also be too costly for each buyer to commission such an inspection. Buyers are unable to organise a joint inspection of the building until after they have settled, which greatly increases their risk. While NSW’s new <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/strata-building-bond-and-inspections-scheme">defects bond scheme</a> does require an inspection, it happens after ownership is transferred.</p>
<p>The negative impacts for buyers have spill-over effects as information asymmetries mean risks are perceived to increase across the entire apartment housing sector. <a href="https://www.afr.com/property/residential/the-opal-tower-effect-sydney-high-rise-site-sales-crash-50-per-cent-20191024-p533t4">Negative publicity</a>, such as the <a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/stalemate-leaving-fireprone-ticking-time-bombs-around-australia/news-story/7b26701bd6a690238a98e590c7d9a76a">flammable cladding</a> and <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/we-ve-had-ceilings-collapse-sydney-s-30-million-in-defect-payouts-revealed-20190705-p524kq.html">defects</a> scandals, can cause values to fall market-wide, regardless of the quality of individual developments. At the same time, <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/berejiklian-calls-for-national-solution-amid-building-crisis-20190715-p527gj.html">finance and insurance costs increase</a>.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-big-lesson-from-opal-tower-is-that-badly-built-apartments-arent-only-an-issue-for-residents-109722">The big lesson from Opal Tower is that badly built apartments aren't only an issue for residents</a>
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<p>The issue persists for subsequent buyers too. Information about defects is often unavailable due to <a href="https://www.afr.com/property/residential/a-bigger-problem-than-building-defects-20190724-p52a6g">poor record-keeping</a> or <a href="https://cityfutures.be.unsw.edu.au/documents/424/Case_Study_Poster_-_Defects_3.pdf">confidentiality agreements</a>. Ironically, this adds to the information asymmetries that contributed to the problem in the first place.</p>
<h2>What can we do about the problem?</h2>
<p>To reduce information asymmetries, sellers and buyers tend to engage in two main types of behaviour: <a href="https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Job-Market-Signaling-Spence/c63c6222735629d0e232d5b2532152bf3b0880a8">signalling and screening</a>.</p>
<p>Signalling involves sellers flagging the higher quality of their products to buyers indirectly. For example, a reputable developer may use warranties and brands or quality marks, certificates and awards as a sign of their high-quality work. Buyers may well be prepared to pay more for higher-quality products that won’t cost more in the longer term.</p>
<p>Crucially, signalling only works if the signal is credible. At present, there are no construction-specific quality certifications and warranties, only <a href="https://www.iso.org/standard/62085.html">generic standards such as the international ISO 9001: 2015</a>. And the administrative burden and costs of independent third-party certification make it unviable for many small companies. So instruments like ISO 9001 are likely of very limited value for effective signalling in the apartment sector.</p>
<p>The NSW Building Commissioner is supporting an industry rating system that will enable better signalling. Data mining will be used to identify risky players and <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/phoenixing-in-crosshairs-amid-crackdown-on-dodgy-building-operators-20191028-p5351a.html">phoenix operators</a>. It should take effect in the apartment sector by 2021.</p>
<p>Screening involves buyers investing time and resources to uncover the likelihood of defects. This includes examining available records and the behaviours of sellers and their representatives. But this adds to buyers’ costs, which disadvantages them in the marketplace. </p>
<p>Stakeholders in the building development process should be compelled to release this information. NSW’s <a href="https://www.registrargeneral.nsw.gov.au/news/new-requirements-for-off-the-plan-contracts-from-1-december-2019">new law</a> on off-the-plan contract sales will increase sellers’ disclosure obligations and provide stronger protections for buyers. Importantly, sellers will have to identify material changes made during the development process at least 21 days before settlement. </p>
<p>A similar requirement involving an independent expert building inspection would help buyers better understand the risk of defects before they finalise their purchase.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/housing-with-buyer-protection-and-no-serious-faults-is-that-too-much-to-ask-of-builders-and-regulators-113115">Housing with buyer protection and no serious faults – is that too much to ask of builders and regulators?</a>
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<p>Another positive move is the requirement in the new <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/consultation-tool/design-and-building-practitioners-bill-2019">Design and Building Practitioners Bill</a> for declared designs and as-built drawings to be lodged with the government. The Building Commissioner has said these will be made available on an easy-to-access platform. </p>
<p>This would enable buyers to check information as the development progresses, before the crucial building handover. It’s a step towards creating a “<a href="https://www.thefifthestate.com.au/columns/spinifex/new-nsw-building-legislation/">digital twin</a>” for everyone licensed to perform construction work, making it easier for the public to check their record. </p>
<p>While the devil is likely to be in the detail, the NSW government is on the right track in tackling the information asymmetry problem. However, the various information gatekeepers will still have to be persuaded – or required – to release information they have long withheld in their own interests.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127007/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Martin Loosemore receives funding from The Australian Research Council.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Bill Randolph receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, South Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils, the Community Housing Industry Association and various strata industry organisations.
He is a Director of Shelter NSW, a Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia and a member of the Australasian Housing Institute. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Caitlin Buckle receives funding from the Australian Research Council. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Hazel Easthope receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, Strata Community Association and the City of Sydney.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Laura Crommelin receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute. </span></em></p>The difficulty of finding out about building defects creates an information deficit that threatens public confidence and stability in the apartment market. NSW has begun work on a solution.Martin Loosemore, Professor of Construction Management, University of Technology SydneyBill Randolph, Director, City Futures Research Centre, Faculty of the Built Environment, UNSW SydneyCaitlin Buckle, PhD Candidate in Human Geography, UNSW SydneyHazel Easthope, Associate Professor, City Futures Research Centre, UNSW SydneyLaura Crommelin, Research Lecturer, City Futures Research Centre, UNSW SydneyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1271262019-11-19T19:30:52Z2019-11-19T19:30:52ZPutting homes in high-risk areas is asking too much of firefighters<p>The impacts of the <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/spring-2019-bushfires-78555">bushfires</a> that are overwhelming emergency services in New South Wales and Queensland suggest houses are being built in areas where the risks are high. We rely heavily on emergency services to protect people and property, but strategic land-use planning can improve resilience and so help reduce the risk in the first place. This would mean giving more weight to considering bushfire hazards at the earliest stages of planning housing supply.</p>
<p>The outstanding dedication of emergency agencies such as the NSW Rural Fire Service and Queensland Fire and Emergency Service is obvious in their efforts to save lives and properties despite the increasing intensity of fires. However, strategic land-use planning could help reduce the risks by being more responsive to such changes in hazards. </p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-when-the-firies-call-him-out-on-climate-change-scott-morrison-should-listen-127049">Grattan on Friday: When the firies call him out on climate change, Scott Morrison should listen</a>
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<p>Comprehensive management of bushfire risk should include a strategic planning focus on reducing the pressures on emergency services and communities. We may have to rethink land-use planning approaches that <a href="https://www.planning.org.au/documents/item/9341">prove inadequate</a> to deal with the <a href="https://theconversation.com/explainer-are-natural-disasters-on-the-rise-39232">increasing intensity and unpredictability of natural hazards</a>.</p>
<p>Strategic planning policies and practices provide the opportunity to be more attentive to changes in bushfire hazards in particular. Planning decisions that fail to do this may leave communities exposed and heavily reliant on emergency services during a disaster.</p>
<h2>Planning to build resilience</h2>
<p>The Australian government has <a href="https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/media/1958/manual-7-planning-safer-communities.pdf">identified land-use planning as a key step</a> in managing natural hazards. In 2011, the <a href="https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/emergency/files/national-strategy-disaster-resilience.pdf">Council of Australian Governments</a> declared:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Locating new or expanding existing settlements and infrastructure in areas exposed to unreasonable risk is irresponsible.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The increasing intensity of hazards associated with <a href="https://outlook.ndcs.undp.org/">climate change</a> makes strategic planning even more relevant. Land-use planners could help greatly with building <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221242091630070X">resilience</a> by placing natural hazards at the top of their assessment criteria.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/drought-and-climate-change-were-the-kindling-and-now-the-east-coast-is-ablaze-126750">Drought and climate change were the kindling, and now the east coast is ablaze</a>
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<p>Coordinating land-use planning reforms is itself a challenge. Planning in Australia involves many policies, institutions, professions and decision-makers. Policies and processes <a href="https://www.planning.org.au/documents/item/9341">differ</a> depending on the state or territory. </p>
<p>Furthermore, planners must reconcile the demand for residential land from <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/latestProducts/3222.0Media%20Release12017%20(base)%20-%202066">population growth</a> and the need to protect the environment. Deciding where to locate housing is often fraught with complexity, so the process needs expert early input from relevant <a href="https://gar.unisdr.org/sites/default/files/reports/2019-05/full_gar_report.pdf">scientific communities</a> and <a href="https://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/Pages/for-the-community/community-service-workers/how-emergencies-are-managed-in-NSW/how-emergencies-are-managed-in-nsw.aspx">emergency services</a>. </p>
<h2>Anticipate risk to reduce it</h2>
<p>Land-use planning offers an opportunity in the earliest phase of development to manage the combined pressures of population growth, urban expansion, increasing density and risks of natural hazards.</p>
<p>When rezoning land for residential development, many issues have to be considered. These include environmental sustainability, demand for housing and the location of existing buildings and infrastructure, as well as natural hazards. It’s a <a href="https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/media/1958/manual-7-planning-safer-communities.pdf">complex and intricate process</a>, but clearly the strategic planning stage is the first opportunity to minimise exposure to bushfire risk. </p>
<p>Existing policy and processes may defer the detailed review of bushfire risk and other natural hazards to development stages after land has been rezoned. There’s a case for policy to increase the importance attached to bushfire hazards at this early stage. </p>
<p>Ultimately, strategic planners aim to locate settlements away from risk of natural hazards. However, bushfires continue to have disastrous impacts on people and properties. Ongoing demand for housing may add pressure to build in areas exposed to risk.</p>
<p>Settlements are pushing into undeveloped areas that are more likely to be exposed to bushfire risk. The role of strategic land-use planning then becomes even more critical. The devastation we have seen this month shows why this risk must be given the highest priority in land-use planning, particularly when zoning land as residential. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/natural-hazard-risk-is-it-just-going-to-get-worse-or-can-we-do-something-about-it-84286">Natural hazard risk: is it just going to get worse or can we do something about it?</a>
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<h2>Key steps to reform planning</h2>
<p>The increasing intensity of bushfires points to a need to rethink planning processes and mitigation strategies to reduce exposure to such hazards before they arise. This will help ease the burden on emergency services of managing a disaster when it happens. We can’t ignore the opportunities to minimise the risks at the early stages of land-use planning. Key steps include:</p>
<ul>
<li>a policy review to mandate natural hazards, including bushfire risk, as one of the highest priorities in policy, with an objective framework for making land-use decisions</li>
<li>mandatory consultation with relevant science disciplines to model natural hazard risks when land is considered for rezoning</li>
<li>involve emergency services in the strategic planning phase to help minimise future risk.</li>
</ul><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/127126/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Mark Maund receives a tuition fee scholarship under the Australian government's Research Training Program (RTP) for his PhD research. He is a consulting environmental scientist and planner in private practice and formerly for the NSW government.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Kim Maund does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Thayaparan Gajendran does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>Land-use planning should give more weight to the increasing risks of natural hazards like bushfires as the first step in reducing the impacts.Mark Maund, PhD Candidate, School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of NewcastleKim Maund, Discipline Head - Construction Management, School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of NewcastleThayaparan Gajendran, Associate Professor, School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of NewcastleLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1262042019-11-17T19:21:49Z2019-11-17T19:21:49ZGOD save us: greenspace-oriented development could make higher density attractive<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301887/original/file-20191115-47161-17e0y5r.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=62%2C0%2C5114%2C3119&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">The lure of suburbia clearly remains strong. To deal with sprawl, planners need to increase urban density in a way that resonates with the leafy green qualities of suburbia that residents value. </span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Julian Bolleter</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>Around the world, the vast majority of people are flocking to cities not to dwell in their centres but to live in the new suburbs expanding their outer limits. Reflecting this, from 2000 to 2015, the <a href="https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2017/goal-11/">expansion of urbanised land worldwide outpaced urban population growth</a>. The result is <a href="https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2017/">unprecedented urban sprawl</a>. </p>
<p>Expansive suburbs of single-family, freestanding housing are ubiquitous in countries such as Australia, the US and the UK. Most Australians still <a href="https://theconversation.com/becoming-more-urban-attitudes-to-medium-density-living-are-changing-in-sydney-and-melbourne-84693">aspire to own a large detached house</a> in the suburbs. </p>
<p>Public resistance to so-called infill development is unlikely to be overcome without a major change in how cities approach urban densification. We <a href="https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783030296001">advocate greenspace-oriented development</a>, or GOD, which provides substantial, public green spaces to serve surrounding higher-density neighbourhoods. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299805/original/file-20191101-187907-jwuiia.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Greenspace-oriented development correlates urban densification with significant, upgraded public green spaces.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/becoming-more-urban-attitudes-to-medium-density-living-are-changing-in-sydney-and-melbourne-84693">Becoming more urban: attitudes to medium-density living are changing in Sydney and Melbourne</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>We love our leafy suburbs</h2>
<p>The “Australian dream” of owning your own home is often automatically associated with a detached house on a block of land. It’s seen as a mark of having “made it”. </p>
<p>For instance, a <a href="http://www.dhw.wa.gov.au/News/Pages/hwc.aspx">study in Perth</a> found that, if they had the money, 79% of people would prefer a separate dwelling and 13% a semi-detached option. Only 7% preferred flats, units or apartments. </p>
<p>Evidently, the suburban dream runs deep in the Australian cultural psyche. Australia is not alone in this. As a result of widespread preference for suburban living, globally we are not in the age of urbanisation but rather the age of suburbanisation. </p>
<p>Despite the enduring popularity of suburban life, several emerging crises threaten its dominance. These include the <a href="https://theconversation.com/to-protect-fresh-food-supplies-here-are-the-key-steps-to-secure-city-foodbowls-114085">destruction of agriculturally productive</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/squandering-riches-can-perth-realise-the-value-of-its-biodiversity-63933">biodiverse land</a> around expanding cities, <a href="https://theconversation.com/australian-city-workers-average-commute-has-blown-out-to-66-minutes-a-day-how-does-yours-compare-120598">ballooning commuting times</a> and service and public transport <a href="https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2019/08/australian-infrastructure-expensive/">infrastructure costs</a>, and the <a href="https://theconversation.com/private-renters-are-doing-it-tough-in-outer-suburbs-of-sydney-and-melbourne-120427">concentration of socio-economic vulnerabilities</a> in outer suburbs. These areas also <a href="https://theconversation.com/living-liveable-this-is-what-residents-have-to-say-about-life-on-the-urban-fringe-111339">have poorer access</a> to jobs.</p>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=423&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299804/original/file-20191101-187938-1d9yuix.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=531&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">The problems of sprawl: contractors clear once biodiverse land on the edge of Perth for a new suburb.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Author provided. Photo courtesy of Donna Broun, Richard Weller</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/living-liveable-this-is-what-residents-have-to-say-about-life-on-the-urban-fringe-111339">Living 'liveable': this is what residents have to say about life on the urban fringe</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Why infill efforts are failing</h2>
<p>To limit urban sprawl, the emphasis in most cities worldwide is on increasing urban density. In pursuit of infill development, planning strategies have focused mostly on <a href="http://www.tod.org/">transit-oriented development</a>. This approach focuses on higher-density development around public transport nodes and corridors. </p>
<p>Despite the widespread adoption of this ideology in Australia, many cities are <a href="https://dusp.mit.edu/publication/infinite-suburbia">not achieving</a> their <a href="https://uwap.uwa.edu.au/products/made-in-australia-the-future-of-australian-cities">infill targets</a>. In part, this is because transit-oriented development strategies suggest an “<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1745-5871.2006.00374.x">inflexible, over-neat vision</a>” of cities at odds with their “increasing geographical complexity”. </p>
<p>Much of the infill that has been achieved is through indiscriminate and opportunistic subdivision of individual suburban lots by “mum and dad” investors. This “<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07293682.2016.1245201">background infill</a>” fails to achieve infill targets, does not reduce car use, erodes urban forests, and aggravates local communities. This has led to community resistance (the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Not-in-My-Backyard-Phenomenon">NIMBY</a> factor) and what one council official referred to as a “<a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/city-limits-why-australias-cities-are-broken-and-how-we-can-fix-them/">public sullenness</a>”.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/to-cut-urban-sprawl-we-need-quality-infill-housing-displays-to-win-over-the-public-63930">To cut urban sprawl, we need quality infill housing displays to win over the public</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Higher density with a green focus</h2>
<p>The principles of transit-oriented development are well established and valid. However, we <a href="https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783030296001">contend</a> that we need a complementary strategy, greenspace-oriented development, for achieving infill development. This approach would correlate urban densification with substantial, upgraded public green spaces or parks that are relatively well served by public transport.</p>
<p>Greenspace-oriented development builds upon the now well-recognised <a href="https://theconversation.com/higher-density-cities-need-greening-to-stay-healthy-and-liveable-75840">array of benefits</a> of green spaces for urban dwellers. Most importantly, it underpins approaches to making our cities more sustainable and liveable. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/higher-density-cities-need-greening-to-stay-healthy-and-liveable-75840">Higher-density cities need greening to stay healthy and liveable</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Australian suburbs do generally contain a reasonable number of parks. But these are typically underdesigned and underused. Many parks offer minimal amenity, often little more than large stretches of irrigated lawn and a scattering of trees. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299807/original/file-20191101-102207-1w2nlod.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Before and after: in greenspace-oriented development, density and natural amenity are interwoven. Images courtesy of Robert Cameron.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We suggest redesigning parks to increase the naturalness, ecological function and diversity of active and passive recreational uses, which in turn can support higher-density urban areas. Indeed, it should increase the value of neighbouring real estate. With rezoning, this should enable greater local densification that is both commercially viable for developers and more attractive for residents. </p>
<p>Residents would then have an incentive to support well-designed infill development. When completed, each of these upgraded parks operates as a multifunctional, communal “backyard” for residents of a surrounding higher-density urban precinct.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=845&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299806/original/file-20191101-102182-1ncjsyg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1062&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Before and after: parks become multifunctional communal ‘backyards’ for people living at a higher density around the park.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The lure of suburbia clearly remains strong for people around the world. If planners are to deal with the problems of sprawl, they need to increase urban density in a way that resonates with the leafy green qualities of suburbia that most people desire (at very least in Australia). </p>
<p>Transit-oriented development ideology relies on a false presumption that residents will trade the benefits of nature for the benefits of urbanity. We require a new vision of urban densification that responds to the urban, societal and ecological challenges of the 21st century and aligns with people’s preference for suburban living near nature.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126204/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Julian Bolleter receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Healthways, The Western Australian Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, Department of Communities and Landcorp.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Cristina E. Ramalho receives funding from the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program through the Clean Air and Urban Landscapes Hub.</span></em></p>Residents of the ‘leafy suburbs’ will continue to fear what they might lose to increasing urban density without an explicit planning approach that enhances green space in affected neighbourhoods.Julian Bolleter, Deputy Director, Australian Urban Design Research Centre, The University of Western AustraliaCristina E. Ramalho, Research fellow, The University of Western AustraliaLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1261082019-11-14T19:06:32Z2019-11-14T19:06:32ZPublic places through kids’ eyes – what do they value?<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301057/original/file-20191111-194650-3glne3.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=275%2C32%2C4951%2C3392&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">One nine-year-old chose his local supermarket as a place he valued because he could "spend time with mum and help decide what goes in our trolley".</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/boy-his-mother-choosing-fresh-pears-1514711468?src=55a14a64-403b-4a09-b6b1-46bd98ffd0a5-1-28">Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>Children are too rarely asked their perspectives on public spaces. Traditionally, <a href="https://epubs.scu.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1029&context=ccyp_pubs">adults make choices for children</a>, particularly about how they live and play.</p>
<p>In yet-to-be-published research* on behalf of a local council, we asked 75 children aged 7-12 from ten primary schools in a disadvantaged area of Sydney to map what they value in their local area. Using iPads, children pinned images of their choices to specific locations on a digital map of the local government area. Some of their choices may surprise you. </p>
<p>Places children selected revealed the importance to them of sharing decision-making power. Placing a drawing of his local supermarket on the map, a nine-year-old boy explained his choice of “grocery shopping” because he could “spend time with mum and help decide what goes in our trolley”. </p>
<p>The children typically mapped places of leisure, such as parks, swimming pools and community centres, used outside school time when adults usually have most authority over children. Here children had more autonomy to be decision-makers and exercise agency. Mapping his local park, a ten-year-old boy commented:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I can do what I want here, and there are lots of different playthings to choose from.</p>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/bang-bang-bang-the-shock-of-a-boy-playing-with-a-gun-on-a-suburban-street-85815">'Bang, bang, bang!': the shock of a boy playing with a gun on a suburban street</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Pathways for change and belonging</h2>
<p>Some children chose to map their school, seeing it as a pathway for change; they could imagine alternative futures with greater choices. An 11-year-old boy observed: </p>
<blockquote>
<p>School will help me get a good job.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Others selected their school for the opportunities it offered them now. An eight-year-old girl, pressing sparkles around the clock on her drawing of her school before positioning it on the map, explained that there are:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>…lots of good things you can do at school. Read stories, have lots of space and a big play area. </p>
</blockquote>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=608&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=608&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=608&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=763&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=763&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300391/original/file-20191106-88387-1oh1wvv.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=763&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Some children chose their school, where there are ‘lots of good things you can do’.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Children's digital map</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Children’s choices also exposed the significance of places that promoted belonging and where they could make connections with others. A ten-year-old girl, mapping her local nature reserve, said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>There is lots of space to play and I can make new friends there.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Similarly, an 11-year-old girl explained the importance of her community centre: </p>
<blockquote>
<p>It’s special because I have friends there. </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Countering a dominant story about belonging and identity that gives little recognition to original Indigenous land ownership in Australia, a ten-year-old Aboriginal girl used the map to draw an Aboriginal flag onto her local park. She observed:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>This is our land and I have fun here with my family.</p>
</blockquote>
<figure class="align-center ">
<img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=605&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=605&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=605&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=761&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=761&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300392/original/file-20191106-88382-1h669um.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=761&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px">
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">One girl chose her local park and drew an Aboriginal flag to show it’s ‘our land’.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Children's digital map</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Her claim on her local park is arguably not only about her own and her family’s belonging and identity but could also be read as referring to a broader body of Aboriginal people. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/refugees-in-their-own-land-how-indigenous-people-are-still-homeless-in-modern-australia-55183">Refugees in their own land: how Indigenous people are still homeless in modern Australia</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Children advocate for their families</h2>
<p>By mapping their territory, children expressed their culture and sense of community through images, text and stories, recounting their valuable experiences and developing an alternative account of the public space. </p>
<p>Children experiencing disadvantage can be most reliant on what their urban environment offers. We were especially keen to unearth their viewpoints. </p>
<p>We found many of these children advocated for their families, not only themselves. Being able to access civic amenities free or at minimal cost was significant for their capacity to make choices and have spaces to connect with others. </p>
<p>A 12-year-old girl observed:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>For us to do things as a family, they have to be free.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>And a nine-year-old boy said:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>We (speaking of his family) can do it if it’s free and we can go places if they are free. </p>
</blockquote>
<h2>A desire to take risks and explore</h2>
<p>Children are increasingly watched and kept safe by adults. Many children mapped places where they represented themselves as risk-takers and explorers. They frequently connected their choices with mastering skills. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/why-kids-need-risk-fear-and-excitement-in-play-81450">Why kids need risk, fear and excitement in play</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Urban spaces along with bushland were repeatedly selected. These areas were, for some, bound up with “risk”, adventure and imagination. A ten-year-old boy mapping a nature reserve explained:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>That’s where I ride my motorbike. You get to see cows and pigs and horses and I’ve seen a crocodile in the dam. </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Listing all the things she valued on her drawing of her local pool, a nine-year-old girl wrote:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Has deep end and slide, good swimming teacher, try to swim butterfly to improve. </p>
</blockquote>
<p>Her choices illustrated the children’s desire to experience their competency and capacity in environments where there are elements of risk. </p>
<h2>Why digital mapping? Why not just ask children?</h2>
<p>Children are a digital generation. Given the unequal power between adults and children, digital mapping helped us minimise adult intrusion, inviting children to present their spatial narratives. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/dont-use-technology-as-a-bargaining-chip-with-your-kids-85599">Don't use technology as a bargaining chip with your kids</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Their age, socio-economic status, race and other intersecting factors mean <a href="http://theconversation.com/working-out-what-makes-a-good-community-where-young-children-can-thrive-104933">some children are more likely than others to have their perspectives heard</a>. Digital mapping promised a more inclusive approach than traditional research methods provide. </p>
<p>The digital map gives children an opportunity to add their viewpoints to community planning rather than just reinforcing adult views. As local councils and planning authorities <a href="https://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Services/Children-and-Families/Child-friendly-city">engage more with children</a> to plan urban space, the perspectives of all children, including disadvantaged children, need to be heard.</p>
<hr>
<p><em>*The data will be published in 2020. People interested in learning more about the research may contact the authors directly.</em></p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126108/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>When primary school children in a disadvantaged part of Sydney were asked to map what they valued in the area, their choices were revealing and sometimes surprising.Fran Gale, Senior Lecturer, Social Work and Community Welfare, School of Social Science and Psychology, Western Sydney UniversityMichel Edenborough, Lecturer, Social Work and Community Welfare, Western Sydney UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1261882019-11-13T19:04:00Z2019-11-13T19:04:00ZSonic havens: how we use music to make ourselves feel at home<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301409/original/file-20191113-37420-9kj5vy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=159%2C234%2C4929%2C3437&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Music played through headphones can immerse the listener in a more intimate experience.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-woman-headphones-relaxing-home-late-704548654?src=a0b9e394-590f-4e1f-842d-bc66b7086854-1-5">Stokkete/Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>The concept of “home” refers to more than bricks and mortar. Just as cities are more than buildings and infrastructure, our homes carry all manner of emotional, aesthetic and socio-cultural significance.</p>
<p>Our research investigates music and sound across five settings: home, <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=zcMuMglzyzkC&oi=fnd&pg=PA190&ots=atQw4trFNS&sig=35Ok_TO3mJYXgm3mGRt_8bFfZ0Q#v=onepage&q&f=false">work</a>, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/soin.12232">retail spaces</a>, private <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/S0163-2396(2010)0000035015/full/html">vehicle travel</a> and <a href="https://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=200907280;res=IELAPA;type=pdf">public transport</a>. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/contested-spaces-you-cant-stop-the-music-the-sounds-that-divide-shoppers-72644">Contested spaces: you can't stop the music – the sounds that divide shoppers</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>We found our interview subjects often idealised home along the lines of what <a href="http://www.losquaderno.professionaldreamers.net/?p=1106">Rowland Atkinson terms an “aural haven”</a>. He suggests, although “homes are … rarely places of complete silence”, we tend to imagine them as “refuge[s] from unwanted sound” that offer psychic and perceptual “nourishment to us as social beings”. </p>
<p>We explored the ways in which people shape and respond to the home as a set of “<a href="http://www.professionaldreamers.net/images/losquaderno/losquaderno10.pdf">modifiable micro-soundscapes</a>”. Through 29 in-depth interviews, we examine how people use music and sound to frame the home as a type of “<a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2095141?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents">interaction order</a>”. Erving Goffman coined this term to capture how people respond to the felt “presence” of an other. </p>
<p>That presence can be linguistic or non-linguistic, visual or acoustic. It can cross material thresholds such as walls and fences. Goffman <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?id=EM1NNzcR-V0C&printsec=frontcover&dq=behaviour+in+public+places&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwic9JaW6-XlAhV-73MBHRilB4oQ6AEIKDAA#v=onepage&q=work%20walls%20do&f=false">wrote</a>: </p>
<blockquote>
<p>The work walls do, they do in part because they are honoured or socially recognised as communication barriers.</p>
</blockquote>
<h2>Cultivating sonic havens through music</h2>
<p>As we detail in our recent <a href="https://tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14036096.2019.1686060">essay in Housing, Theory and Society</a>, the type of listening that most closely matches the idea of the home as an aural haven is bedroom listening – by young people in particular. We found that, as well as offering “control” and “seclusion”, the bedroom gave listeners a sense of “transcendence” and immersed them in “deep” listening. One interview subject said: </p>
<blockquote>
<p>When I get a new album … I like to experience [it] by … lying down on the floor… I’ll turn the lights off and I’ll just be engaging with the music, my eyes won’t be open. </p>
</blockquote>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301405/original/file-20191113-37415-16ig9wd.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">For young people in particular, listening to music in their bedroom is the classic ‘sonic haven’.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/beautiful-afro-american-girl-denim-overall-706404091?src=b0cd3d30-c466-4099-b826-deed348e47cc-1-6">George Rudy/Shutterstock</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Another reported putting on headphones to listen to special selections of music, despite not needing to. “Headphones… [is] a more intimate … kind of thing”, even in a bedroom setting.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/our-brain-computer-interfacing-technology-uses-music-to-make-people-happy-119496">Our brain-computer interfacing technology uses music to make people happy</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>When it came to music in shared spaces and in relation to neighbours, our interview subjects seemed both aware of music’s visceral powers and keen to respect the territorial or acoustic “preserves” of others. One young female sharing a house with her mother carefully curated the type of music played, and what part of the house it was played in. Her choices depended on whether her mother was home and whether she had shown interest in particular genres. </p>
<p>All respondents who lived in shared households expressed some kind of sensitivity to not playing music at night. </p>
<p>Another lived by herself in an apartment complex of five. She took deference towards neighbours seriously enough to “tinker away” on her piano only when she was sure her immediate neighbour wasn’t home. She “didn’t play the piano much” inside her flat and was only prepared to “go nuts” playing the piano in halls and other non-domestic settings.</p>
<h2>Music as a bridging ritual</h2>
<p>Another of our findings accorded with the microsociological focus on how people organise <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0226981606/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i10">time</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0029344204/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i6">space</a> in everyday life. We found evidence, for example, of how music was used to wake up, or to transition to the weekend, or as a “bridging ritual” between work and home. </p>
<p>One interview subject remarked that he is “dressed casually anyway” when he returns from work, so his mechanism for shifting to home mode is to listen “to music … pretty much as soon as I get home … unless I’m just turning around and going straight somewhere else”. In other words, he associated the boundary between home and non-home with music and the listening rituals of returning home.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/like-to-work-with-background-noise-it-could-be-boosting-your-performance-119598">Like to work with background noise? It could be boosting your performance</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<figure class="align-right zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=899&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=899&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=899&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1130&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1130&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301414/original/file-20191113-37410-1qk05zt.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1130&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">For adults, playing their favourite music in the car can create the legitimate equivalent of a teenager’s bedroom.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/hand-woman-touching-screen-turning-on-1121411759?src=b1598cf2-76dc-48d6-8c72-b13052c02c04-1-2">Shutterstock</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>One of the themes in academic literature about media and the home is that electronic and digital media <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/no-sense-of-place-9780195042313?cc=au&lang=en&">blur the boundary between the inside and outside of the home</a>. There is no doubt radio, television and now various digital platforms bring the world “out there” into the immediacy and intimacy of our own domestic worlds. But, as <a href="https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/e/9780203033142/chapters/10.4324/9780203033142-8">Jo Tacchi noted of radio sound</a>, those sounds can also be used to weave a sonic <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0038026118825233">texture</a> of domestic comfort, security and routine. </p>
<p>We also found interesting sonic continuities between our homes and how we make ourselves at home in non-domestic settings. As <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?id=KEHjTYnT-MUC&q=Locked+in+our+cars#v=snippet&q=Locked%20in%20our%20cars&f=false">Christina Nippert-Eng writes</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Locked in our cars, commutes offer the working woman or man the legitimate equivalent of a teenager’s bedroom, often complete with stereo system and favourite music.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>In short, sonic havens are simply “places where we can retreat into privacy”, inside or outside our literal homes.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126188/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>The music we choose to listen to not only allows us to retreat into a place of peace and privacy, but also helps frame our daily routines and interactions with others.Michael James Walsh, Assistant Professor Social Science, University of CanberraEduardo de la Fuente, Honorary Fellow, School of Humanities and Social Inquiry, University of Wollongong, University of WollongongLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1261122019-11-12T19:02:28Z2019-11-12T19:02:28ZOwn a bike you never ride? We need to learn how to fail better at active transport<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301018/original/file-20191111-194641-1we0h1.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=542%2C709%2C2360%2C1506&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Many rarely used bikes end up languishing in the shed.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/dirty-old-wooden-garage-shed-filled-703109386?src=4529fe86-5c3a-43de-85b0-9de9688e9b08-1-0">peace baby/Shutterstock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>Once upon a time when something was simple to do we said: “It’s as easy as riding a bike.” But switching from driving a car to riding a bike as one’s main means of transport is anything but easy. </p>
<p>The well-documented obstacles holding people back from cycling include a lack of <a href="https://theconversation.com/ride-to-work-youll-need-a-bike-barrier-for-that-19111">proper bike lanes</a>, <a href="http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/cms/downloads/DeterminantsofBicycleCommuting.pdf">secure parking arrangements, end-of-trip facilities</a> and bike-friendly public transport, as well as lack of convenient storage space. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-problem-isnt-dockless-share-bikes-its-the-lack-of-bike-parking-102985">The problem isn't dockless share bikes. It's the lack of bike parking</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Despite these obstacles, people continue to try to make cycling a central part of their lives, with varying degrees of success.</p>
<p>While we know broadly what the impediments are, we don’t know how individuals confront them over time. We tend to approach this issue as an “all or nothing” affair – either people cycle or they don’t. Research is often <a href="http://www.istiee.unict.it/europeantransport/papers/N69/P04_69_2018.pdf">framed in terms of cyclists and non-cyclists</a>. </p>
<p>But, for most people, <a href="https://cyclingculture.org/">our research</a> tells us it is a gradual process of transformation, with setbacks as well as small victories. The hesitant maybe-cyclist of today is potentially the fully committed cyclist of tomorrow. Unfortunately, the reverse is also true.</p>
<p>We have taken a lead from <a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/6/6/e011045">research into smoking</a>, which sees failed quit attempts not as failures but as necessary steps on the road to success. Part of <a href="https://cyclingculture.org/">our research</a> is interested in the faltering starts people make in transitioning from motor vehicles to bikes. Our aim is to help identify new intervention points for cycling policy. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jul/10/10-best-cycling-books-tour-de-france">Cycling enthusiast Samuel Beckett</a> aptly summed up this in <a href="https://genius.com/Samuel-beckett-worstward-ho-annotated">Worstward Ho</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Try again. Fail again. Fail better. </p>
</blockquote>
<h2>Where the bike is kept is telling</h2>
<p>Our question is: how can we fail better? Building on research with 58 cyclists in the Wollongong region, we recently shifted our emphasis to another local government area, the City of Sydney. </p>
<p>We focused on people who want to cycle but have mostly failed so far. We carried out in-depth qualitative interviews with 12 participants, following up each with a go-along, where participants guide us through their regular travel routes. </p>
<p>To date, all participants convey good intentions to incorporate cycling into their lives. All say they want to resume cycling, yet none have succeeded.</p>
<figure class="align-right zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301019/original/file-20191111-194656-1acnhyw.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">These bikes near the front door of a student share house are almost certainly ridden often.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/cbamber85/2438675638">cbamber85/Flickr</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Their attempts were inhibited by commonplace issues: lost confidence in their abilities, less enjoyment of cycling because of congestion, and experiences of a car accident or a near miss. </p>
<p>Our research has found that where bicycles are stored is a reliable indicator of the changing value of the bicycle in an individual’s everyday life. One can pinpoint where someone is in the course of their starting-to-cycle journey by locating where their bike is kept. </p>
<p>When things are going well the bike is near the front door ready for immediate use. As things get difficult, the bike migrates from the front to the back of the house, to languish in a spare room or the shed, before finally being put out on the curb as hard rubbish (or for “freecycling”). </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/people-take-to-their-bikes-when-we-make-it-safer-and-easier-for-them-82251">People take to their bikes when we make it safer and easier for them</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<h2>Storage is a key obstacle</h2>
<p>Contrary to interpretations of <a href="https://ijbnpa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12966-015-0294-1">data indicating inner-city residents are the most likely to cycle</a>, we have found participants who live in small, inner-city dwellings face daunting storage issues that all too often defeat them. They have told us about storing the bicycle inconveniently inside the house, wedged in dining rooms, hallways and bedrooms. </p>
<p>The search for a place to store the bike increased the inconvenience of using it for transport until finally the bike was locked away, kept only as a sign of ongoing intention and hope. This inconvenience defeats successive start attempts before they’re seriously able to be revived. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=803&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=803&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=803&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1010&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1010&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301012/original/file-20191111-194641-hy2sku.jpeg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1010&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Lack of convenient storage is a serious obstacle to becoming a regular bike rider.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>For example, Greg (37) confirms the “pain” of poor storage options discourages him from riding more regularly:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>So it’s called the room under the stairs, according to the real estate agent. I don’t know how … And that’s partly the pain of taking it out. I would take it out more often, but every time I have to take it out I have to delicately wheel it here where you are. And sometimes scratch the wall, and then out through the door and gate … I would keep it outside, but my partner won’t let me because he thinks it will be stolen. I would ride more if it was just there, and I’d hop on and off.“ </p>
</blockquote>
<h2>Urban design for convenience matters</h2>
<p>The languishing bike prompts us to ask questions about the urban design of convenience. It’s a key element of any active transport policy that aims to promote cycling and walking. </p>
<p>Something as simple as lockable bike hangars on residential streets might liberate intentions into actions. Such facilities would be everyday visual reminders to cycle and an added symbol that cars are not the only way of occupying roads. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/301020/original/file-20191111-194641-1y1rbhl.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Bicycle lockers on the street, like these ones in Dublin, Ireland, are a visible sign of a cycle-friendly culture.</span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/dublin-ireland-july-26-2019-cyclok-1464823145?src=d0ff2874-fe00-4e52-84b1-face4a160961-1-0">Arnieby/Shutterstock</a></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/cycling-and-walking-are-short-changed-when-it-comes-to-transport-funding-in-australia-92574">Cycling and walking are short-changed when it comes to transport funding in Australia</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p><em>We invite others who have started this journey to share and celebrate their stories of failing better, particularly those in the City of Sydney, by <a href="https://cyclingculture.org/2019/11/11/cycling-participation-and-cessation-research/">participating in our research</a>.</em></p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/126112/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Glen Fuller receives funding from the Australian Research Council Discovery Grant program for the project Pedalling for Change.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Gordon Waitt receives funding from the Australian Research Council Discovery Grant program for the project Pedalling for Change </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Ian Buchanan receives funding from the Australian Research Council Discovery Grant program for the project Pedalling for Change.</span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Tess Lea receives funding from the Australian Research Council Discovery Grant program for the project Pedalling for Change. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Theresa Harada does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.</span></em></p>Where bikes are kept is a strong pointer to the place of cycling in the owner’s life. Effective active transport policy starts with understanding what stops people using their bikes instead of cars.Glen Fuller, Associate Professor Communications and Media, University of CanberraGordon Waitt, Professor of Geography, University of WollongongIan Buchanan, Professor of Cultural Studies, University of WollongongTess Lea, Associate Professor, Gender and Cultural Studies, University of SydneyTheresa Harada, Research Fellow at Australian Centre for Culture, Environment, Society and Space, University of WollongongLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1251372019-11-11T18:59:51Z2019-11-11T18:59:51ZWhen a tree dies, don’t waste your breath. Rescue the wood to honour its memory<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300371/original/file-20191106-88387-so4u3w.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&rect=0%2C127%2C1936%2C1446&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Turning a street tree into timber is much more respectful and useful than mulching it all.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure><p>Trees die. You don’t have to like it, but they do. And this comes as a surprise to some. A senior public servant once told one of us (Brack): “Trees don’t die; people kill them.” </p>
<p>Of course sometimes we kill trees, especially in urban areas where trees are regularly removed for reasons of <a href="https://theconversation.com/our-cities-need-more-trees-but-that-means-being-prepared-to-cut-some-down-53819">safety or urban development</a>. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/our-cities-need-more-trees-but-that-means-being-prepared-to-cut-some-down-53819">Our cities need more trees, but that means being prepared to cut some down</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>But more concerning than the death of a tree is how we waste them afterwards. In municipalities around the world, the trees are chipped into mulch. Not just the leaves and skinny branches and bark, but the whole tree. </p>
<p>It’s the least valuable, indeed least respectful, thing you can do with a tree. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300373/original/file-20191106-88409-8ggszz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Turning a whole tree into woodchips for mulch is the least valuable and least respectful thing you can do to it.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In contrast, the wood can be rescued and used to craft furniture and other unique objects that honour the trees and their legacy of timber. </p>
<p>For those more poetically inclined, trees are literally made of our breath. By chipping them, we are wasting the breath of our past and making it harder to breathe in the future. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/trees-are-made-of-human-breath-99368">Trees are made of human breath</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>Chipping trees means releasing carbon to the atmosphere as the mulch breaks down. It’s also a waste of high-quality timbers such as oak, ash, elm and cedar, which, ironically, Australia <a href="http://www.agriculture.gov.au/abares/research-topics/forests/forest-economics/forest-wood-products-statistics/trade-in-wood-products#imports--of-wood-products">imports by the shipload</a>. </p>
<p>When made into furniture, for example, the tree is transformed, the carbon stays bound and we have something both functional and beautiful. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=399&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=399&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=399&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/298712/original/file-20191025-173558-kw83p0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=502&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Katalin Sallai’s Witness Tree Bench of Kingston (2016), 600 x 450 x 2000mm, <em>Cedrus deodara</em> (Himalayan cedar) from Kingston, mild steel.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Photo by Martin Ollman</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>Urban forests can keep on giving</h2>
<p>Salvaging quality timber is such an obvious win-win, you’d think everyone would do it. Sadly, there are many obstacles, including the difficulties of coordinating multiple public and private stakeholders and agencies. </p>
<p>To better understand the challenges and opportunities for urban timber rescue in Australia, we hosted a <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/events/wood-from-the-city-the-future-of-urban-forestry">symposium</a> at Australian National University in September 2019. Forestry researchers, public officials, craftspeople, teachers, students, conservation activists and city parks employees attended. They <a href="https://www.responsiblewood.org.au/life-and-death-in-a-city-of-trees-the-urban-wood-conundrum/">identified key values and concerns</a> critical to reclaiming and distributing urban timber. </p>
<p>The symposium included a demonstration of how a portable (<a href="https://www.nzffa.org.nz/farm-forestry-model/resource-centre/tree-grower-articles/august-2013/lucas-portable-sawmills/">Lucas</a>) mill could be quickly set up near a tree to cut it into useful timber. Operators can minimise waste by using bespoke cutting patterns to get the most valuable timber from each tree.</p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=445&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=445&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=445&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=559&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=559&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300416/original/file-20191106-88387-1xbnxa6.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=559&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Street trees can provide valuable hardwood timber that, unlike woodchips, doesn’t release their stored carbon.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<figure class="align-left zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=800&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300420/original/file-20191106-88414-18ae7f0.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1005&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Wood from a street tree is sawn and dried before the timber is given new life as a piece of fine furniture or other useful object.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Participants from California described the Sacramento Tree Foundation’s <a href="https://www.urbanwoodrescue.com/">Urban Wood Rescue</a> program. Arborists, residents and the city work together to intercept logs from the waste stream. The timber is then made available to the public. </p>
<p>This program benefits from public trust that stems from decades of active tree planting across the city and genuine concern for the health of the urban forest. Recognising that the recovered wood is too good to waste is a natural extension of residents’ respect for their living trees. </p>
<p>Craftspeople and teachers from Canberra and other Australian cities discussed how providing quality timber to school students supports their love of making and develops their skills. One participant spoke of high school students being thrilled to work with such beautiful timber. They normally make do with cheap construction pine or broken-down pallets. </p>
<p>Rescuing and transforming the timber can bring people together to teach, learn and create. The object then captures not just carbon but a sense of the history of the tree and the place where it lived. </p>
<p>This is what the <a href="http://www.woodreview.com.au/news/the-act-witness-tree-project">Witness Tree Project</a> in Canberra, spearheaded by Eriksmoen, set out to do. Wood was rescued from just six of hundreds of trees scheduled for removal. The timber was distributed to <a href="https://soad.cass.anu.edu.au/highlights/witness-tree-project">six local woodworking artisans and furniture makers</a>. </p>
<p>Their task was to creatively reconstruct a narrative of each tree and its neighbourhood. They transformed the trees into unique objects that delivered anecdotes and collective memories of local history and culture, culminating in a <a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6050547/gang-gang-canberras-sweetest-smelling-art-exhibition/digital-subscription/">public exhibition</a>.</p>
<figure class="align-right zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=237&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=599&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=599&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=599&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=752&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=752&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300382/original/file-20191106-88403-13srntm.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=752&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">The bench references the dimensions of the Himalayan cedar used for its timber.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Photo by Martin Ollman</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Katalin Sallai created the Witness Tree Bench of Kingston from a Himalayan cedar. The circular planter, containing a sapling of the same species, is the diameter of this tree when it was felled in 2013. The unfurling spiral arc of the bench seat describes the potential diameter of Himalayan cedar in ideal natural conditions. </p>
<p>Many references to Kingston, one of Canberra’s oldest suburbs, are embedded and engraved in the surface, including coins commemorating the queen’s 1954 visit. The bench is both an educational tool, describing the differences between a city tree and a rural tree, and a celebration of its own tree’s life and provenance as a witness to local history. </p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/loving-emails-show-theres-more-to-trees-than-ecosystem-services-37983">Loving emails show there's more to trees than ecosystem services</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
<hr>
<p>The recent symposium was also told of the positive effects of having living trees in our surroundings, including <a href="https://theconversation.com/increasing-tree-cover-may-be-like-a-superfood-for-community-mental-health-119930">improved mental health</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/greening-cities-makes-for-safer-neighbourhoods-62093">reductions in crime</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-calculated-how-much-money-trees-save-for-your-city-95198">better air quality</a>. But this isn’t lost when the trees die. <a href="https://makeitwood.org/healthandwellbeing/wellness-study.cfm">Recent research</a> has shown wooden furniture and fittings in offices or homes can benefit mental health and reduce stress and sick days.</p>
<p>Seeing urban trees given a second life can also help ease <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-rise-of-eco-anxiety-climate-change-affects-our-mental-health-too-123002">eco-anxiety</a>. Every tree removal can add to the sense of helplessness, but putting those trees to good use may create feelings of empowerment. </p>
<h2>Four steps you can take</h2>
<p>So don’t despair or whine when a tree is removed. Instead, make sure the wood isn’t squandered. Otherwise you are wasting your breath – twice! </p>
<p>Here’s what you can do:</p>
<ul>
<li><p><strong>raise awareness:</strong> tell people trees <em>do</em> die naturally, and city trees have shorter lives than their rural kin </p></li>
<li><p><strong>demand action:</strong> tell your local representative that community trees are squandered on woodchips</p></li>
<li><p><strong>buy local:</strong> buy products made from locally salvaged wood, not imported timber </p></li>
<li><p><strong>get radical:</strong> if you’re the protesting type, chain yourself to a log to stop it being chipped.</p></li>
</ul>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/where-the-old-things-are-australias-most-ancient-trees-65893">Where the old things are: Australia's most ancient trees</a>
</strong>
</em>
</p>
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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/125137/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Cris Brack has received funding from the Australian Research Council. He is a Member of the Institute of Foresters of Australia and the ACT Climate Change Council as well as a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Ashley Eriksmoen has received past funding from the Australia Council for the Arts and the ACT government. </span></em></p><p class="fine-print"><em><span>Rod Lamberts has received funding from the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science and the Australian Research Council in the past.</span></em></p>City trees are often short-lived and many others get cut down in their prime. Turning them into mulch both wastes timber and releases stored carbon. A wood rescue program creates a more fitting legacy.Cris Brack, Associate Professor, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National UniversityAshley Jameson Eriksmoen, Senior Lecturer, School of Art & Design, Australian National UniversityRod Lamberts, Deputy Director, Australian National Centre for Public Awareness of Science, Australian National UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1257182019-11-10T18:55:38Z2019-11-10T18:55:38ZSmart tech systems cut congestion for a fraction of what new roads cost<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/298795/original/file-20191027-113980-130djx3.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=496&fit=clip" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Smart transport solutions make better use of existing infrastructure and reduce the need to build expensive new roads. </span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://stock.adobe.com/ee/images/traffic-lights-on-bridge/544070">AdobeStock</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>The <a href="https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects">new transport projects</a> governments are constantly announcing are <a href="https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2019/08/australian-infrastructure-expensive/">expensive</a>. In the recent <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-the-nsw-election-promises-on-transport-add-up-112531">New South Wales</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-much-will-voters-pay-for-an-early-christmas-eight-charts-that-explain-victorias-transport-election-106782">Victorian</a> elections, the returned state governments’ transport infrastructure promises added up to A$165 billion. What’s mostly missing from the promised transport solutions is smart technology that provides higher benefits at a fraction of the cost – when retrofitting existing roads in particular. The benefit-to-cost ratio can be more than a dozen times greater than for a new road. </p>
<p>Clearly, infrastructure spending helps to drive the economy. These projects also deliver benefits to the community, including increased road safety, shorter travel times and fewer delays. </p>
<p>The economic merit of these projects is usually captured using a benefit-to-cost ratio (BCR). For example, the BCR of the <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/big-projects-bigger-bills-massive-construction-boom-comes-at-a-cost-20190610-p51w5d.html">A$15.8 billion</a> <a href="https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/north-east-link">North East Link</a> road project in Melbourne is estimated to be <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/north-east-link-at-risk-of-becoming-financial-disaster-economist-20190726-p52b6a.html">1.25</a> – for every A$1 invested, A$1.25 is returned in benefits to the economy and community. For the Melbourne Metro rail tunnel, a best-case <a href="https://metrotunnel.vic.gov.au/about-the-project/faq">BCR of 3.3</a> has been reported.</p>
<p>But are we getting good value for money? Could cheaper alternatives deliver more benefits? </p>
<h2>Technology offers smarter, cheaper solutions</h2>
<p>Technology offers transport solutions that provide higher benefits at a fraction of the cost of building new infrastructure. Collectively known as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOMamTXK5T8">intelligent transport systems</a>, these are widely recognised today as better answers for smart transport outcomes. </p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XOMamTXK5T8?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">Intelligent transport systems can have positive impacts on the safety, efficiency and environmental performance of transport.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>When <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/capital-projects-and-infrastructure/our-insights/infrastructure-productivity">comparing</a> different “congestion-busting” options, “building more roads” provides, on average, a BCR of 3.0. This is dwarfed by the much higher BCR values of tech solutions. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=367&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=367&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=367&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=461&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=461&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300779/original/file-20191107-10952-17um5x0.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=461&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption"></span>
<span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Low_Carbon_Mobility_for_Future_Cities.html?id=g8NIDgAAQBAJ&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y">Source: Low Carbon Mobility for Future Cities: Principles and Applications (Dia, H. ed, 2017), adapted from Infrastructure Productivity: how to save $1 trillion a year (McKinsey, 2013)</a>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
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</figure>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/our-new-pm-wants-to-bust-congestion-here-are-four-ways-he-could-do-that-102249">Our new PM wants to 'bust congestion' – here are four ways he could do that</a>
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<p><a href="https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/innovation/everydaycounts/edc-1/asct.cfm">Adaptive traffic signal control</a> allows <a href="https://youtu.be/lZtOgqbNMVE">traffic signals</a> to change based on actual traffic demand. This yields, on average, a BCR of 40. </p>
<p>Traffic signals along a route can be coordinated to create “<a href="https://youtu.be/PQ-HBC6QGHo?t=12">green waves</a>” for platoons of vehicles to travel without stopping. These solutions are effective for congested cities that experience rapid traffic growth and changing traffic patterns. </p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OSL1dS8rqdk?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">A simulation of adaptive traffic signals</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="https://www.itsinternational.com/sections/nafta/features/integrated-corridor-management-to-enhance-travel-efficiency/">Corridor management systems</a> use technology to control networks of motorways and urban roads. The average BCR is 24.</p>
<p>On <a href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/traffic-management/managed-motorways">managed motorways</a>, <a href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/traffic-management/managed-motorways/coordinated-ramp-signals">ramp signals</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aUyMJwZ8_s">variable speed limit signs</a> and <a href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/traffic-management/managed-motorways/traveller-information-for-motorists">traveller information systems</a> are <a href="https://youtu.be/iFL2CZfJZD8">proven tools</a> to respond in real time to changing traffic conditions. In <a href="https://www.transmax.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Case-Study_Smart-Motorways-.pdf">one case</a>, a managed motorway reduced travel times by 42% and accidents by 30%. </p>
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<iframe width="440" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pahIsJEFEMU?wmode=transparent&start=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">Active motorway management improves the performance of existing roads.</span></figcaption>
</figure>
<p><a href="https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/traffic-and-road-use/traffic-management/managed-motorways/lane-and-speed-management-for-incidents">Traffic incident management</a>, which has a BCR of 21, includes technologies that aid quick detection and removal of crashes. They also detect other incidents such as broken-down vehicles or spilled loads that reduce road capacity. The systems rely on smart <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0968090X97000168">software</a> that analyses sensor data in real time. </p>
<p><a href="http://ntimc.transportation.org/Pages/NTIMCPublicationsandProducts.aspx">Benefits</a> include a 40% reduction in time to detect incidents. The technology also <a href="http://ntimc.transportation.org/Documents/Benefits11-07-06.pdf">reduces incident duration by 23%</a> and <a href="https://trid.trb.org/view/481658">road crashes by 35%</a>.</p>
<h2>Combining tech solutions magnifies benefits</h2>
<p>When solutions are combined, benefits are amplified. The <a href="https://sunguide.info/annual-reports/district-six-its-annual-report/">Florida Department of Transportation</a> implements a transport technology program on its networks. The solutions include incident management, ramp signalling, traveller information and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdVDEU5UVb4&feature=youtu.be&t=50">express lanes</a>. Reduced incident duration and traffic delays are among the key benefits. </p>
<p>In 2018, the benefits of this program totalled almost <a href="https://sunguide.info/reports/annual-reports/District-Six-ITS-Annual-Report/2018-District-Six-ITS-Annual-Report.pdf">US$3.1 billion</a> (A$4.5 billion). The costs were <a href="https://sunguide.info/reports/annual-reports/District-Six-ITS-Annual-Report/2018-District-Six-ITS-Annual-Report.pdf">US$70.3 million</a> (A$102 million). That’s a BCR of 43.7. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=434&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=434&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=434&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=545&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=545&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/300555/original/file-20191107-12506-jk28cf.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=545&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Benefit-cost ratios of transport technology solutions implemented over a decade by Florida Department of Transportation.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In the UK, the <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/%7E/media/McKinsey/Industries/Capital%20Projects%20and%20Infrastructure/Our%20Insights/Infrastructure%20productivity/MGI%20Infrastructure_Full%20report_Jan%202013.ashx">cost</a> of implementing technology solutions on the <a href="https://www.roads.org.uk/motorway/m42">M42 motorway</a> was US$150 million (A$218 million) and took two years to complete. Widening the road to produce the same outcome would have taken 10 years and cost US$800 million (A$1.16 billion).</p>
<h2>A shift in priorities is needed</h2>
<p>Considerable investment in transport infrastructure is still required. It should be guided by strong business cases and aligned with community values and expectations.</p>
<hr>
<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/a-closer-look-at-business-cases-raises-questions-about-priority-national-infrastructure-projects-94489">A closer look at business cases raises questions about 'priority' national infrastructure projects</a>
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<p>However, technology is getting to the point where it’s making a serious difference in tackling the mega challenges facing our cities. Its role must be prioritised. </p>
<p>The benefits are compelling. Intelligent technology systems improve the use of existing assets and increase their operational life. They enhance traveller experience and reduce reliance on building new roads. And they deliver superior value for money.</p>
<p>But widespread deployment of these technologies is still limited. To spur change and unlock value, we must move beyond a project-by-project approach. </p>
<h2>Learn from the best</h2>
<p>Governments can be guided by <a href="https://itif.org/publications/2010/01/09/explaining-international-it-application-leadership-intelligent">leading nations</a> in this field such as South Korea, Japan and Singapore. Their citizens experience the benefits every day. Smart transport solutions improve their quality of life through easier travel, less congestion and more reliable services. </p>
<p>The recurring policy themes in these countries include a national vision of smart infrastructure and commitment to funding. They prioritise investment in research and trials, standards development and partnerships with industry. These are key factors in the success of their tech-driven transport solutions. </p>
<p>These are the policies and investments Australia should prioritise. They will modernise our transport systems in innovative ways that lift our economy and living standards.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/125718/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre, Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, and Transport for New South Wales.</span></em></p>Faced with the eye-watering costs of building infrastructure, it makes sense to turn to much more cost-effective smart technology to get traffic flowing.Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of TechnologyLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.tag:theconversation.com,2011:article/1239172019-11-07T19:02:36Z2019-11-07T19:02:36ZRemote Indigenous Australia’s ecological economies give us something to build on<p>Land titling in Australia has undergone a revolutionary shift over the past four decades. The return of diverse forms of title to Indigenous Australians has produced some semblance of land justice. About <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=45675035-0fd3-4698-b1a6-0e3883f82369&subId=669953">half the continent</a> is now held under some form of Indigenous title. </p>
<p>Forms of title range from inalienable freehold title to non-exclusive (or shared) native title. Much of this estate is in northern Australia, as this recent map shows. </p>
<figure class="align-center zoomable">
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img alt="" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=601&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=601&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=601&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=755&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=755&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/299083/original/file-20191029-183132-1uvwvw6.PNG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=755&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px"></a>
<figcaption>
<span class="caption">Status of Indigenous title across Australia.</span>
<span class="attribution"><span class="source">K. Jordon, F. Markham and J. Altman, Linking Indigenous communities with regional development: Australia Overview, report to OECD (2019)</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span>
</figcaption>
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<p>Another <a href="https://theconversation.com/remote-indigenous-communities-are-vital-for-our-fragile-ecosystems-38700">map</a> from 2014 shows over 1,000 discrete Indigenous communities and the division between north and south.</p>
<h2>What’s different about these lands?</h2>
<p>These lands and their populations have some unusual features.</p>
<p>First, the lands are extremely remote and relatively undeveloped in a capitalist “extractive” sense. These are <a href="https://press-files.anu.edu.au/downloads/press/p34501/pdf/book.pdf">the largest relatively intact savannah landscapes</a> in Australia — and possibly the world. </p>
<p>Much of this estate is included in the <a href="https://www.environment.gov.au/land/nrs">National Reserve System</a> as <a href="https://www.environment.gov.au/land/indigenous-protected-areas">Indigenous Protected Areas</a> because of its high environmental and cultural values, according to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/categories-and-criteria">criteria</a>.</p>
<p>These areas still face threats from <a href="https://theconversation.com/invasive-species-are-australias-number-one-extinction-threat-116809">invasive animal and plant species</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/climate-change-is-bringing-a-new-world-of-bushfires-123261">bushfires</a> and <a href="https://www.climatechangeinaustralia.gov.au/en/climate-projections/future-climate/regional-climate-change-explorer/super-clusters/">increasingly extreme heat</a>. These threats will lead to further species extinctions. </p>
<p>Indigenous Protected Area management plans address these threats to ensure biodiversity and cultural values are at best restored or maintained, at worst not eroded.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/churches-have-legal-rights-in-australia-why-not-sacred-trees-123919">Churches have legal rights in Australia. Why not sacred trees?</a>
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<p>Second, parts of these lands in the <a href="https://www.environment.gov.au/science/supervising-scientist/publications/eriss-notes/wetlands-australias-wet-dry-tropics">wet-dry tropics</a> are valuable as sources of emissions avoidance and carbon storage.</p>
<p>Many groups are paid through offset markets and voluntary agreements to reduce overall emissions. There are <a href="http://www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/ERF/Choosing-a-project-type/Opportunities-for-the-land-sector/Permanence-obligations">emerging options</a> for payment for long-term carbon storage – between 25 and 100 years.</p>
<p>These lands have <a href="https://solargis.com/maps-and-gis-data/download/australia">some of the world’s highest solar irradiance</a>. Multi-billion-dollar <a href="https://www.katherinetimes.com.au/story/6285081/plans-for-worlds-biggest-solar-farm-at-tennant-creek/">solar</a> and <a href="https://asianrehub.com/">wind/solar/green hydrogen</a> facilities are being developed.</p>
<p>Third, the Indigenous owners and majority inhabitants are among the poorest Australians. <a href="https://www.5050foundation.edu.au/assets/reports/documents/8117041e.pdf">Only 35% of Aboriginal adults</a> in very remote Australia are formally employed. <a href="https://openresearch-repository.anu.edu.au/bitstream/1885/145053/1/CAEPR_Census_Paper_2.pdf">Over 50% of Indigenous people</a> in these areas live below the poverty line.</p>
<p>Such poverty is explained partly by past colonisation and associated social exclusion and neglect, geographic isolation from market capitalism and labour markets, and different priorities.</p>
<p>Having legally proven continuity of customs, traditions and connection to reclaimed ancestral lands, landowners generally look to care for their country. They use its natural resources for domestic non-commercial purposes as allowed by law.</p>
<p>But Indigenous people continually struggle to inhabit these lands. Their dispersed small settlements range from townships to homelands. Government support is minimal and policy intentionally discouraging.</p>
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<p>
<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/building-in-ways-that-meet-the-needs-of-australias-remote-regions-106071">Building in ways that meet the needs of Australia’s remote regions</a>
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</em>
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<h2>The problem with official development models</h2>
<p>Since federation, many government policy proposals to “develop the north” have sought to replicate the economic growth trajectory of the temperate south. Such plans are based on state-sanctioned, often environmentally damaging, market capitalism.</p>
<p>The latest version is the 2015 <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and-publications/our-north-our-future-white-paper-on-developing-northern-australia">Our North, Our Future</a> white paper, released after a <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Former_Committees/Northern_Australia/Inquiry_into_the_Development_of_Northern_Australia/Tabled_Reports">parliamentary inquiry</a>. In <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Former_Committees/Northern_Australia/Inquiry_into_the_Development_of_Northern_Australia/Submissions">submission 136</a>, Francis Markham and I asked, “developing whose north for whom and in what way?” We pointed out 48% of the north’s <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Products/1308.7%7EMar+2009%7EMain+Features%7ENorth+Australia+Unit+Update?OpenDocument">3 million square kilometres</a> was under Indigenous title at that time, and Indigenous ideas about the land are often very different from those of the government and corporate, mainly extractive, interests.</p>
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<em>
<strong>
Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-keys-to-unlock-northern-australia-have-already-been-cut-69713">The keys to unlock Northern Australia have already been cut</a>
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<p>Four years on, a <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/NorthernAustraliaAgenda/NorthernAustraliaAgenda/Terms_of_Reference">Senate select inquiry</a> is examining how the Our North, Our Future agenda is progressing. A specific reference to First Nations people has been added. In <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/NorthernAustraliaAgenda/NorthernAustraliaAgenda/Submissions">submission 13</a>, we highlighted four fundamental changes over the past five years.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>the Indigenous land share of northern Australia has <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=45675035-0fd3-4698-b1a6-0e3883f82369&subId=669953">grown to 60%</a></p></li>
<li><p>Indigenous people are living in deeper poverty partly <a href="https://openresearch-repository.anu.edu.au/bitstream/1885/145053/1/CAEPR_Census_Paper_2.pdf">due to punitive changes to income-support arrangements</a> </p></li>
<li><p>growing scientific consensus that global warming will have escalating <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=45675035-0fd3-4698-b1a6-0e3883f82369&subId=669953">negative impacts on northern Australia</a> </p></li>
<li><p><a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/DocumentStore.ashx?id=45675035-0fd3-4698-b1a6-0e3883f82369&subId=669953">slowing population growth</a> suggests the white paper’s <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and-publications/our-north-our-future-white-paper-on-developing-northern-australia">goal of a population of 4–5 million by 2060</a> (from just over 1 million now) lacks realism.</p></li>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/you-cant-boost-australias-north-to-5-million-people-without-a-proper-plan-125063">You can't boost Australia's north to 5 million people without a proper plan</a>
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<p>We are at a critical crossroads in policy thinking about northern Australia.</p>
<p>The dominant approach sees it as ripe for capitalist development, extraction and associated economic growth, irrespective of environmental consequences. Corporate pressure to undertake <a href="https://theconversation.com/expanding-gas-mining-threatens-our-climate-water-and-health-113047">risky fracking</a> for oil and gas and to develop <a href="https://www.industry.gov.au/data-and-publications/our-north-our-future-white-paper-on-developing-northern-australia">industrial-scale agriculture and aquaculture projects</a> epitomises such thinking.</p>
<h2>The zero-emissions alternative</h2>
<p>The holistic focus of ecological economics informs an alternative approach. It’s based on the tenet that everything connects to everything else: the economy is embedded in society and society is embedded in the environment, the natural order.</p>
<p>This line of reasoning resonates with the focus of many Indigenous landowners on the need to nurture kin, ancestral country and living, natural resources.</p>
<p>Ecological economics distinguishes between economic growth that depletes non-renewable resources irrespective of environmental harm, and forms of development that focus on human well-being, cultural and environmental values.</p>
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Read more:
<a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-ecological-economics-and-why-do-we-need-to-talk-about-it-123915">What is ‘ecological economics’ and why do we need to talk about it?</a>
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<p>Development in the north might take many transformational forms as we strive for a <a href="https://vimeo.com/337193985">zero-emissions economy</a>.</p>
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<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/337193985" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
<figcaption><span class="caption">Economist Ross Garnaut discusses the potential of a zero-emissions economy in Australia.</span></figcaption>
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<p>Indigenous-titled and peopled lands are well positioned to drive this in three proven ways:</p>
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<li>by intensifying projects that reduce emissions and sequester carbon</li>
<li>by increasing efforts to conserve biodiversity by managing and potentially reversing impacts of invasive species</li>
<li>by becoming key players in the renewables sector through massive projects for domestic energy use and export.</li>
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<p>The same landscapes can be used for sustainable wildlife harvesting for food and diverse forms of cultural production for income. These uses accord with Indigenous tradition and leave minimal environmental footprints.</p>
<p>Policy and practice must be informed by the environmental perspectives of Indigenous landowners, which are highly compatible with the core concepts of ecological economics.</p>
<p>In these ways, the North could emerge as a powerhouse region beyond current imaginaries. The climate crisis makes this transformation essential. </p>
<p>As ecological economies, remote Indigenous lands could deliver sustainable livelihoods to Indigenous people and contribute significantly to a zero-emissions economy of critical benefit to national and global communities.</p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/123917/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />
<p class="fine-print"><em><span>Jon Altman if a director of a number of not-for-profits including the Karrkad Kanjdji Trust and Original Power. He is the chair of the research committee of The Australia Institute. </span></em></p>Expanding on sustainable practices in remote parts of Australia can deliver great benefits to both local Indigenous owners and national and global communities.Jon Altman, Emeritus professor, School of Regulation and Global Governance, ANU, Australian National UniversityLicensed as Creative Commons – attribution, no derivatives.