info@gcc.nsw.gov.au
The shocks and stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic have tested personal and community resilience in a way we have not seen in our lifetimes.
The pandemic has impacted the health system, individuals and families and is changing how many people work and interact with Greater Sydney. These impacts have been particularly acute, following the catastrophic 2019-20 summer bushfires, recent drought and floods.
The Greater Sydney Commission is working with our partners across government to try to build an understanding of what effect the pandemic will have on Greater Sydney.
This report is an early indication of the city-shaping impacts that will influence how we plan for Greater Sydney. It looks at the emerging challenges and opportunities that we need to address or harness to support Greater Sydney's productivity, liveability and sustainability.
The analysis shows that the digital elements of cities will also shape the physical aspects of cities. These impacts differ across Greater Sydney - we may be at risk of increasing already existing inequities, particularly for young people.
We have also found that people have embraced their local neighbourhoods and that these have been essential to people's wellbeing during the pandemic.
I thank everyone who has contributed to the development of this report including State agencies, councils, peak groups and industry representatives who shared their data, knowledge and perspectives.
I particularly want to acknowledge our close partnership with the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.
We remain committed to building a resilient Greater Sydney and working with the community to achieve the vision of a metropolis of three cities.
Geoff Roberts AM
Chief Commissioner