This seminar will address the topic of smart and sustainable city development based on the experience of Singapore since the 1960s. Since that period Singapore has developed from a newly independent nation to one of the world’s most prosperous and liveable cities that serves as a beacon of inspiration for South East Asia and the world. Singapore is noted for its distinctive approach to housing, land-use and transport planning, with a strong commercial district supported by a network of transit lines and town centres.

Victoria is currently debating changes in Melbourne’s urban strategy, to give greater emphasis to denser urban activity centres focused on the metropolitan rail network. In addition Melbourne is building the suburban rail loop, a 90km orbital metro that will connet middle suburban centres to create new high density activity precincts. As the city’s population grows these schemes will need careful planning and implementation to secure a prosperours and liveable future. Learning from the experiences of Singapore can help to inform the future planning of Melbourne.

This event offers the opportunity to hear from one of the foremost experts on Singapore’s urban development. In this seminar Professor Khoo will provide a history of Singapore’s urban planning, focusing on spatial development and the coordination of land-use and transport networks. The session will identify the key factors that have contributed to Singapore’s success, including governance, institutions, expertise and citizen involvement.

This event is the second in a series of events supported through a collaborative effort between RMIT University’s Urban Futures Enabling Impact Platform and the Planning Institute of Australia.

This event is in partnership with Asia Society Australia.Professor Khoo is the Asia Society 2024 Victoria Distinguished Fellow. Asia Society Australia is the Australian centre of the Asia Society, a global organisation dedicated to understanding Asia an its role in the world. Their mission is to advance Australia’s prosperity and security in Asia.