ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the major strategic plans produced for Melbourne since 2000, and discusses their overall direction, style and means of implementation. It begins with an overview of the city in the early twenty-first century, the pressures experienced and drivers for change. The chapter looks at significant changes to the planning system, and investigates its efficiency and need for reform. Melbourne has attracted accolades for the character of its inner city, its laneways adorned with street art, its 'foodie' culture and its general liveability. The notion that Melbourne should be a city of local neighbourhoods also attracted criticism for ignoring the essential urban nature of cities, where some higher order activities could not be spread throughout suburbs. The great outward spread of Melbourne, combined with growing congestion and inadequate transport services, is clearly exacerbating geographic disadvantage.
