The City of Melbourne is taking a leading role to tackle global challenges with local action – to end poverty, protect the planet and support peace and prosperity.
In an Australian-first, Council has assessed its progress against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, enabling a comparison of greater Melbourne to cities across the globe.
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the voluntary local review provides an important benchmark for Council as it continues to make Melbourne a more prosperous, safe and environmentally friendly city.
“We’re committed to pursuing a better future for all, and this voluntary review presents us with a unique opportunity to reflect on the vital work Council does,” the Lord Mayor said.
“The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals are an ambitious, universal set of goals which speak to some of the greatest challenges the world is facing – everything from economy growth, safety, clean energy, water and sanitation to innovation, inequality and responsible consumption.
“The voluntary review shows Melbourne is a city with plenty to proud of – from affordable housing programs tackling homelessness, to boosting renewable energy through the Melbourne Renewable Energy Project and Power Melbourne.
“We’re holding ourselves accountable to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our world to build a stronger city.”
Examples of progress made across the municipality include:
- Declining numbers of people living in poverty
- Above average student literacy and numeracy
- Reduced residential water consumption
- Increasing rates of public transport usage
Finance, Governance and Risk Portfolio lead Councillor Philip Le Liu said the local review shows global development starts with local leadership.
“As the first city in Australia to assess its progress against the Sustainable Development Goals, we’re setting the example for other cities to think more deeply about transparency, collaboration and action on sustainability,” Cr Le Liu said.
“By working with other cities across the globe, we can also learn what is best practice and collaborate on projects which benefit everyone. We know there’s more work to do and we’re committed to making Melbourne a major participant on the global stage in the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
The voluntary review is the first in a series of regular updates to assess Melbourne’s progress against the Sustainable Development Goals and inform Council strategy and planning.
The voluntary review will be considered by Councillors at the Tuesday 15 March 2022 Future Melbourne Committee meeting.
The City of Melbourne will virtually present its review at a United Nations political forum on Sustainable Development in mid-2022.
