The inaugural Treasurers’ Forum on Population saw all levels of government meet to discuss plans for Australia’s future population growth as part of the Council on Federal Financial Relations.
Australia’s growing population is set to put increasing pressure on urban and transport infrastructure in the coming decades, particularly in city centres.
Federal Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population, Alan Tudge, said the issue requires governments to cooperate and coordinate if they are to deliver the right outcomes.
The forum agreed to work together to develop a national population and planning framework, for consideration by Councils of Australian Governments (COAG) later this year, which will set out a practical approach to improve population planning and management.
As a first step, the forum agreed to immediately establish two working groups on Regional Analysis, and Data and Forecasting.
These working groups will consider issues including greater data sharing, population growth projections and skills requirements.
This will provide an opportunity for all levels of government to improve the way we work together and ensure that Australia can continue to enjoy the benefits of population growth while addressing the challenges it raises.
Mr Tudge thanked the State and Territory Treasurers and the President of the Australian Local Government Association, David O’Loughlin, for their constructive contributions to the forum.
