By mid-century, Sydney will likely be home to more than 8 million people. This considerable population growth presents an enormous opportunity for Sydney, but comes with an obvious question: how will the city cater for an extra 3 million residents?

This report examines Sydney’s population growth, before ofering seven recommendations for managing Sydney’s growth in an equitable and sustainable way.

First, it recommends major development projects be paired with major infrastructure projects where possible. For too long, Sydney has seen population growth outstrip vital services. Before major developments are approved, an evaluation of existing and planned infrastructure must be undertaken.

Second, this report argues for a re-design of the Greater Sydney Commission’s housing targets. Currently the Commission’s plan orients future growth towards existing high-growth areas, while lower growth, lower density regions are expected to see fewer developments. This should be amended to correct the imbalance.

Third, it is argued that the Medium Density Code be revised. In its current form, the code allows for urban intensification in existing high-growth LGAs while lower-growth LGAs efectively opt-out. This should be addressed to facilitate more even urban intensification across Sydney.

Fourth, it is recommended that Inclusionary Planning is made mandatory. Many projects demonstrate inclusive planning, which sees major developments include afordable housing options. Often, however, inclusionary planning is voluntary. Mandating inclusionary planning would likely increase afordable housing stock across Sydney.

Fifth, this report recommends revising the Afordable Rental Housing Act (2009). Currently the Act permits LGAs to opt out of higher density development. Further, developments under the Act require the inclusion of afordable housing stock for only a 10 year period. This should be extended to increase the availability of afordable housing stock.

Sixth, this report argues for an increase in Government investment in afordable housing stock and build-to-rent initiatives, particularly in low-density areas in the South and North Planning districts.

And finally, it is recommended that the NSW Government develop a ‘liveability compact’ for Sydney. Creating a liveable city requires more than just pairing infrastructure with population growth. The NSW Government should work towards the creation of a compact that allows a range of key determinants to be tracked and monitored, with the intent to create a fairer, more liveable and more prosperous Sydney.