Recent comparative metrics that rank different cities based on selected criteria have yielded interesting and sometimes varied results, depending on what is being measured, how it is being measured and why it is being measured. This paper explores the efficacy of such ranking systems for Australia’s largest cities, focusing on the links between ranking outcomes...

In this paper, it is argued that the recognition of changing urban contexts, awareness of environmental issues, fair processes and a comprehensive redevelopment plan are essential to garner community support and to avoid piecemeal redevelopment.

Sydney is Australia’s largest vortex city, sucking in resources for production and consumption and using other parts of the planet to assimilate wastes. This paper analyses the strengths and weaknesses of competing definitions and measuring techniques to identify sustainable cities.