Councils across Melbourne have joined together, along with community organisations and the Victorian Government, to plan for a more resilient city.
The Resilient Melbourne Strategy – released last month – aims to ensure the city stays sustainable, liveable and prosperous and prepares itself against 21st Century challenges such as climate change.
The strategy was designed as part of the 100 Resilient Cities (100RC) network – spearheaded by the Rockefeller Foundation in the U.S.
Melbourne was selected from 372 applicant cities around the world to be among the first wave of 32 cities to join 100RC.
The project is led by the City of Melbourne and brings together the 32 councils across Greater Melbourne.
Peter Hemphill Mayor of Hobsons Bay City Council – situated in Melbourne’s southwest – said his council endorsed the strategy, which aims to protect communities against current and future risks.
“The challenge may be complex, but it can be summarised quite simply: what can we do to protect and improve our communities, both now and in the future?” said the Mayor.
“We know our communities band together in times of disaster, but this is about working together when times are good so that we are best prepared when things do go wrong.”
Mayor Hemphill said the Resilient Melbourne Strategy had so far involved more than 1000 people from 230 organisations – including representatives of Melbourne’s 32 councils and many Victorian Government departments.
The strategy has so far identified three key objectives: supporting urban greening and nature initiatives; coordinating emergency management agencies and activities across the area; and collaborating with citizens and transport bodies to establish a metro-wide bicycle path network.
Hobsons Bay will now incorporate any actions stemming from Resilient Melbourne into future Council strategies and plans, said Mayor Hemphill.
“We will focus on community wellbeing, safety and health, a dynamic economy that provides local employment opportunities, a healthier environment and offering facilities and activities that encourage participation and social cohesion.
“Working in partnership with other Councils across metro Melbourne on shared initiatives is essential and will ensure we are on the same page and working towards the common goal of boasting a thriving and connected community.”
