A VISION THAT REACHES BEYOND THE ELECTION CYCLE

OUR COMMITMENT Introducing a Future Generations Act that requires the development of a community-led vision for the Canberra we want to create for generations to come, and establishes a Future Generations Commissioner tasked with ensuring government decisions align with that vision. The Act will require all public institutions to ensure current needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It will give teeth to the ACT Wellbeing Framework, empowering the new Future Generations Commissioner to push for greater action and accountability on the part of decision-makers. Increasing ongoing funding, and providing greater long-term funding certainty, to unleash the environment and sustainability volunteer workforce supported by key local organisations SEE-Change, Conservation Council ACT Region and Canberra Environment Centre. Protecting the Western Edge from development, focusing instead on habitat preservation and biodiversity restoration opportunities to the west of our city’s current footprint. WHAT WE STAND FOR Prioritising the wellbeing of current and future generations by tackling root causes of the housing, climate, mental health and biodiversity crises. Ensuring our youth see a future for themselves where they can grow, learn and thrive in alignment with their own views and aspirations. Establishing a culture of responsible stewardship over our bush capital, drawing on First Nations perspectives and knowledge about Caring for Country. Creating a beautiful, sustainable, liveable built environment that’s respectful of nature and fosters a feeling of pride among residents.

WHY WE NEED CHANGE

Canberra's future is at a crossroads. The current focus on short-term gains and election cycles hinders our ability to plan for long-term, sustainable development that prioritises the wellbeing of current and future generations. This approach limits our potential for enduring prosperity and fails to capture the needs and aspirations of young people.

Young people are particularly affected by climate change, mental health issues and the housing crisis. The Headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey 2022 reveals that more than 50 per cent of young people fear the future due to climate change, with many experiencing eco-anxiety on a daily basis. While the ACT has experienced fluctuating rates of teenage mental illness over the years, we regularly fare worse than the national average.
Recent researched by the Australian National University shows that many politically engaged young Australians feel disillusioned by politics and lack confidence in politicians’ ability to create meaningful change
EveryGen’s Intergenerational Justice Policy Survey 2024 found that 81 per cent of young people believe Australian politicians think too short-term, 78 per cent support establishing a Commissioner for Future Generations, and 97 per cent believe that policies today should take into account the interests of future generations.
Over 65 local species are facing extinction and environmental groups report insufficient funding is available to the sector to protect the natural biodiversity of our Bush Capital.
Planning issues like poor canopy cover and public transport connectivity in new suburbs further highlight the need for a longer-term view of what we want for Canberra.
By adopting a longer-term vision for our city, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future focused on maximising the wellbeing of all current and future Canberrans.