Building the Future – a plan for better communities
An ambitious project to encourage architects, planners, builders and policy makers to rethink how they design homes and communities into the future has been launched in Sydney by the Australian Government Minister for Ageing, Julie Bishop.
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27 September 2005
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An ambitious project to encourage architects, planners, builders and policy makers to rethink how they design homes and communities into the future was launched today in Sydney by the Australian Government Minister for Ageing, Julie Bishop.
Speaking at the first National Speakers Series - A Community for All Ages - Building the Future - an initiative of the Australian Government and other partners, Ms Bishop said it was time for Australian planners and designers to re-shape our communities to cater for all age groups.
"Well-designed communities, especially the built environment, can help improve the health, wellbeing and quality of life of all people, but especially Australia’s ageing population," Ms Bishop said.
"The so called baby boomer generation will want to stay in their homes and their communities for as long as possible and the built environment is a major factor in whether older Australians will be able to age actively.
"A community for all ages includes community spaces that encourage social and physical activity, with homes universally designed so they are accessible for people of all ages and abilities."
Ms Bishop said she was strongly committed to ensuring that Australia’s ageing population benefited from fresh and innovative ideas that make it possible for older people to enjoy a healthy active life.
"I a delighted that so many people in the design and building industry are supporting the Building the Future project," she said.
"It is supported by a range of key organisations including the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, the Australian Local Government Association, Planning Institute of Australia, the Master Builders Association and the Building Designers Association of Australia.
The National Speakers Series will travel to capital cities and major centres over the next 12 months.
More information:
Media contact: Kay McNiece 0412 132 585 (Ms Bishop)
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