Vision and themes

Canberra 2045 – sustainable, competitive and equitable

This vision takes account of the social, economic and environmental dimensions of change. It aligns with the vision for Canberra under the Minister for Planning's Statement of Planning Intent (2015) and other related government policies such as for transport, climate change and housing.

There is an opportunity to review this vision in the future. The Planning and Development Act 2007 requires us to consider every five years whether a review of the Planning Strategy is necessary.

To meet the needs of a growing and changing city, the vision seeks to harness our potential by focussing delivery in five key themes, each representing a policy area.

Compact and Efficient City

• Grow mostly within our urban footprint or in areas close to our footprint
• Maintain environmental values
• Use infrastructure effectively to support an efficient, sustainable and liveable city

Diverse Canberra

• Celebrate our culture, uniqueness and difference
• Be innovative and continue to diversify
• Support a city structure that strengthens our economy, and the economy of the region

Sustainable and Resilient Territory

• Adapt to a changing climate and establish resilience in our built forms, infrastructure and natural assets
• Look after natural resources
• Support the transition to net zero carbon emissions by 2045

Liveable Canberra

• Create cohesive communities through good design, amenity and connectivity
• Be socially and culturally inclusive
• Support housing diversity for greater choice

Accessible Canberra

• Provide equitable access to all that the city has to offer
• Include more options to move around in a connected and fair city
• Better integrate land use and transport planning