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Australia’s Growth Areas are home to over 5.8 million people and represent more than a fifth of the country’s population. These outer metropolitan councils are experiencing some of the fastest population growth in the country, largely driven by strong net overseas migration and internal movement. Yet, this growth is not evenly matched with investment in infrastructure, housing, and services, placing increasing strain on councils already grappling with limited planning and delivery capacity.
Despite a commitment under the National Housing Accord to deliver 1.2 million new homes by 2029, building approvals and completions are falling short - especially in growth areas expected to deliver up to 50% of this target. Rising house prices, lack of affordable rental listings, and declining supply of social housing are major issues. At the same time, the economic footprint of the NGAA is substantial, contributing over $330 billion in Gross Regional Product, but employment land shortages and a lack of local job diversity threaten future productivity.
To sustainably meet housing and economic targets, the presentation outlines key investment levers including workforce skilling, planning system reform, integrated infrastructure delivery, and private sector certainty. It calls for a national shift in thinking: growth areas should not just be where people live, but where economic, social, and environmental opportunity is actively built. With the right coordination and resources, these communities can lead the charge in "Building Australia’s Future Economy."
