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Australia's Cities: World Leaders in Urban Sprawl
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Australias major cities, including Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, have been named the world leaders in urban sprawl and low population density. A UN study found Perth to be the least dense city globally, with fewer than two thousand people per square kilometer. This preference for low-density living, shared by English-speaking nations, is attributed to cultural values emphasizing home privacy and single-family housing. However, this characteristic has significant implications for Australias housing crisis. Small increases in urban density could substantially boost housing supply and affordability. A recent report from CEDA proposes a gentle increase in density, advocating for more dual occupancies, townhouses, and low-rise apartments in well-located areas, which could bring economic benefits without sacrificing quality of life.
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