The Federal Government has released its State of Australian Cities 2011 report, finding that residents of Australia’s major cities are using less electricity, leaving their car in garage more often in favour of catching public transport, producing less household waste and raising children who are staying at home until an older age.

 

Compiled by the Major Cities Unit within the Department of Infrastructure, the report builds on last year’s inaugural publication.

 

The report also identifies the specific initiatives of local councils and state planning authorities which are proving effective at promoting more productive, sustainable and liveable urban communities.

 

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese announced the opening of the new round of funding under the Liveable Cities Program, which will trial potential solutions o urban sprawl, congestion and issues surrounding affordable housing and carbon pollution.

 

The Program, initially worth $20 million, offers up to $500,000 for innovative planning and design initiatives and up to $4 million for demonstration projects.

 

The full report can be found here