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Smart Cities event

  • June 06, 2018

Smart Cities Event

Held in conjunction with the Council of Mayors (SEQ), the Property Council’s ‘Thinking Smart’ Lunch, held on Friday 16th March, saw an exploration of how four of SEQ’s local governments are utilising smart technology to deliver the smart cities of the future.

Guests heard from: Cr Mark Jamieson, Mayor of the Sunshine Coast; Cr Karen Williams, Mayor of Redland City; Cr Mike Charlton, Deputy Mayor of Moreton Bay and Cr Luke Smith, Mayor of Logan City, who discussed their plans and procedures to create smart cities of the future.  

When defining a ‘Smart City’, the panel agreed thinking ahead was the essential element; preparing cities for the next twenty years and tailoring developments that will provide long term benefits. 

Transport and improved infrastructure was considered vital to the development of smart cities, due to the increased congestion that accompanies population growth.
Cr Mark Jamieson explained the Sunshine Coast is in the process of improving its transport network. Feasibility studies are already underway for a new light rail network and the Sunshine Coast is exploring the potential for autonomous vehicle initiatives, subject to legislative changes. 

Cr Mike Charlton highlighted the practical use of data lakes to create smart cities. Information on public habits and preferences can be used to modify shopping centres, restaurants and transport systems to suit public needs. “It is a very exciting time for local government,” Cr Karen Williams added. 

When discussing funding strategies, Cr Charlton suggested South East Queensland needs further support from State Government to identify real costs, noting that local governments receive only 3 cents out of the national tax dollar. 

The panel also explained their collaboration was a major benefit, “The world is going to look at us because we have tremendous power together,” Cr Luke Smith stated.  
The Property Council would like to thank the Mayors for sharing their insights, the Council of Mayors SEQ for partnering to deliver the event. 

Photos from the event can be viewed here.