Work is underway to incorporate feedback received on City of Darwin’s draft Place and Liveability Plan 2050 (Plan) and Liveability Platform (Platform). The updated Liveability Platform will be launched alongside the final Plan in late October/early November.

Community feedback
We collected over 600 responses through the Engage Survey, including face-to-face feedback at the Darwin Show and other community events. There was strong local representation, with 86% of respondents being Darwin residents. These 600 responses are in addition to the 1,200 community contributions received during the initial development of the Plan.

Community views on what would make Darwin more liveable
Within the Engage Survey, there were 478 responses to the question on what would make Darwin more liveable. Common themes included expanding open space and recreation opportunities, such as BMX and skate facilities, pump tracks, playgrounds, and water fountains; improving physical connectivity with better pedestrian links, bike and e-scooter infrastructure, and shaded bus stops; enhancing safety through upgraded facilities, regular cleaning, improved lighting, and activation of unused spaces; and enriching arts and culture through more community events, expanded markets, public art, intergenerational programs, and activation of local shops. Other priorities highlighted by the community included amplifying First Nations voices, addressing climate change, supporting vulnerable youth and families, and protecting biodiversity.

Stakeholder engagement
City of Darwin also presented the draft Plan and Platform face-to-face with numerous stakeholder groups, including the Department of Education, Charles Darwin University, Darwin Festival, Browns Mart, NT Shelter, St Vincent de Paul, Darwin City Retailers Association, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, CSIRO, Planning Institute of Australia, and the Department of Lands Planning and Engineers Australia. All stakeholder groups expressed support for the draft Plan and Platform, and their feedback has been invaluable in guiding the next steps.

Future youth engagement
As part of engaging the community, we are excited to introduce the Plan and Platform to future generations. We are finalising discussions with Sanderson Middle School and Essington School to run a Place and Liveability Program in October, November, and December with their Year 7 students. The program will teach Darwin youth about place and liveability and what that means for them and the future of our community.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their feedback and ideas, helping to shape a Plan and Platform that reflects the aspirations of our community. We look forward to sharing the updated Place and Liveability Plan 2050 and Liveability Platform with you. Your input will continue to guide how we make Darwin a more liveable, connected, and inclusive city for everyone by 2050.