“Data improves the management of systems and places. Smarter development is transforming the planning and development process just as much as placemaking – AI, for example, is assisting with expediting approvals by automatic assessment of planning applications. The opportunities are immense.”

The report calls for a dedicated “orchestrator” to unify stakeholders and drive industry-wide engagement, highlighting the need for early planning and alignment among developers, government, and technology providers.

“NBN and Urbis developed Accelerating Smarter Development, to present at a glance, the key touchpoints a developer should consider before taking the leap to make their new development smart,” said Kamie Ang, general manager partnerships, new developments at NBN Co. “The report clearly shows that strategic planning, stakeholder alignment, and early engagement are key to unlocking value.”

The initiative brought together partners including Delos Delta, UNSW’s City Futures Research Centre, the Australian Smart Communities Association, the Planning Institute of Australia, the Urban Development Institute of Australia, and the Property Council of Australia.

“The Property Council of Australia has always promoted new technology as a means of improving workforce efficiency, design capability, planning processes, construction productivity, and the sustainability of the urban environment,” said Mike Zorbas, chief executive of the Property Council.