Introduction

I am delighted to present the South District Plan, which sets out planning priorities and actions for improving the quality of life for residents as the District grows and changes.

The Plan recognises that the District's natural waterways and bushland are great assets and attractors, sustaining and supporting a diverse and multicultural community and bringing visitors from Greater Sydney and beyond. We know that as the South District accommodates a growing population, the Sydney Metro City & Southwest rail system will reinforce its connections to the Harbour CBD.

Collaboration is the key to transparent and informed decision-making on our city's future growth. The Greater Sydney Commission will continue to bring together all parties with an interest in the District's future and channel the collective energy into improved planning outcomes.

By taking a leadership role, we are bringing together public resources and expertise to create a more liveable, productive and sustainable city.

We will continue advocating for effective infrastructure to keep pace with population growth and demographic changes such as increases in the number of children and frail aged in the community. We will be supporting the coordination of government activity and delivery - transport, infrastructure, land use, housing, health, education, heritage and environment. We will continue working positively with the private sector and councils to make sure the South District is liveable and prosperous.

Finally, on behalf of the Greater Sydney Commission, I acknowledge the important work of councils whose submissions and feedback on the needs of their neighbourhoods and centres have been invaluable. Together with community and other stakeholders, your expertise and interest have helped to produce an inspiring and practical plan.

The South District offers something for everyone. It is home to beaches, bushland and parks; a range of vibrant multicultural communities and cultural events; and is close to the nation's trade gateways of Port Botany and Sydney Airport. The District includes the Royal National Park - the world's second oldest national park, and Australia's oldest.

These environmental, social and economic assets contribute to a highly liveable and sustainable district. As the District grows, there is enormous potential in the development of economic assets. These include an innovation and research precinct based around the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation at Lucas Heights; the growth and diversification of businesses at Bankstown Airport; and the growth of knowledge-intensive jobs at Kogarah's health and education precinct.

The South District Plan builds on the District's assets to make it easier for residents to access more of the jobs, services and places that create a high quality of life. We will continue to prioritise the protection of our natural areas and our heritage, and will do so while boosting the number and types of jobs in the District. The Plan will lead to more people working in the District, in 21st century jobs that build skills and economic resilience.

This District Plan is part of a continuing conversation between all of us who live and work here, about how we can come together to create the District we aspire to. I'm eager for as many people as possible to get involved as we implement the Plan. It's an important step in helping to shape the decisions that will drive the District's future.