We are, in many ways, still planning 21st century economies with 19th century land-use logic. While planning systems continue to rely on separating land uses, the structure of the economy has changed fundamentally.

Part 2 of our two-part series exploring the evolving role of employment and industrial lands — and how these areas are being reshaped by a changing economy.

There is an ongoing discussion about the distinction between industrial and employment lands. At one level, this is a question of terminology. At a deeper level, it goes to the foundations of how planning systems organise cities and manage economic activity.

This article is part one of a two-part series exploring the evolving role of employment and industrial lands — and how these areas are being reshaped by a changing economy.

Greater Western Sydney (GWS) has become the centre of Sydney’s growth story, with both data and advocacy pointing to an economy reshaping around housing, infrastructure and business expansion. NAB’s Horizons 2025 report highlights record levels of investment and property activity across the west, while Business Western Sydney has been pushing governments to match that momentum with reforms and infrastructure delivery. Together, these perspectives underline a region at a critical turning point for landowners, asset holders and developers.

In a world reshaped by changing lifestyles and the aftershocks of the pandemic, cities must evolve to stay relevant. Enter the vibrant precinct — an urban strategy that blends community, commerce, culture, and connectivity to create thriving, inclusive spaces. A vibrant precinct is more than just a place, it's an experience.

The recent release of Plan Victoria was a welcome step toward a long-term and holistic planning vision for Victoria. But almost immediately, it felt like time for an update. While Plan Victoria sets bold goals, it lacks an explicit economic strategy to support, or underpin, those ambitions. What’s missing is a serious discussion about how planning will contribute to economic growth, productivity and prosperity over the medium to long term.