We’re all familiar with the housing predicament facing Australia. What is often missing from the conversation is the reality that housing delivery is intrinsically linked to the strength and foresight of local strategic plans. Investment decisions - whether by developers or government entities - rely heavily on the direction and clarity set by government strategic plans. These strategies aren’t about box ticking; they are foundational to unlocking housing supply, managing risk, and creating vibrant, sustainable places to live, work and play.

Australia's development landscape is in constant flux, shaped by ambitious policy commitments from the government and a looming federal election. While many existing initiatives aim to address critical issues like housing affordability and sustainability, they also present emerging challenges and opportunities that developers must navigate strategically.

A thriving economy doesn’t happen by chance - it starts with a well-informed strategic policy framework. We explore the strategic planning implications that local economic development plans should consider in order to maximise economic growth.