Property industry plays key role in resilient NSW

“Resilience” is a term we will hear more of as it increasingly becomes part of conversations as the effects of climate change and increased global political instability take hold.

Resilience is defined as a city’s ability to survive, grow and prosper despite pressure from acute shocks such as earthquakes or terrorist attacks, or chronic stresses such as droughts, unemployment or food shortages.

Key to the success of developing a resilient city is a central forum to ensure cross-sectoral dialogue and early engagement among government and industry bodies.

Sydney is part of the 100 Resilient Cities program which includes cities from across the globe.  It was pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation. The program encourages cities to consider and adopt measures for resilience across planning, emergency services and communities.

Sydney has a lot to offer – with its beautiful landmarks surrounding a natural harbour, large immigrant population, and bustling economy.  In 2017, Sydney is thriving. The heart of Sydney’s metropolitan area is home to a population over 4.6 million. But as the city continues to grow, the issue of the city’s aging and sometimes obsolete utilities infrastructure will become ever more serious.

This has been particularly problematic in relation to its power grid; older energy sources are more polluting and many are nearing retirement. And while greener options are becoming more available, there is a lack of clear political direction in clean energy which is hindering industry investment.

The City of Sydney has recently undertaken a risk assessment to respond to the increasing frequency of heat waves. Planning is underway to alleviate the magnified impact of concurrent problems, such as power disruption, public health needs, and lost productivity during such disasters.

Sydney has had success with proactive engagement in other areas, such as planning to develop a world-class transportation system focused on public transport access and developing a decentralized water management plan to avert flood risk.

The Property Industry has a key role to play in this narrative. Engagement with communities and government bodies at an early stage can facilitate the development of a built environment that is socially cohesive, sustainable – and resistant to acute shocks and chronic stresses.