QUT High-Density Liveability Study

Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and Port of Brisbane Northshore Development Group undertook a four-year project (2006-2009) funded by the Australian Research Council, to investigate the triple bottom line sustainability impacts  (social, economic, ecological) experienced by residents living in high-density urban areas in sub-tropical Brisbane, Australia.

Data was collected from residents living in six inner-city neighbourhoods in Brisbane, Australia, via 636 surveys and 24 qualitative interviews. Additionally, temperature monitoring and public place observations were undertaken in three selected case-study locations: South Brisbane, Highgate Hill and Hamilton. Topics investigated in the study included residential satisfaction dwelling design features, climate, sustainability practices, noise, community, access and linkages to services, walkability and transport. Results from this project have formed the basis of this on-line High Density Liveability Guide.

Findings from this study relate to the sub-tropical environment of Brisbane, Australia. However, while our survey data include findings relating to the specific climate of South-East Queensland (e.g. ventilation, thermal comfort in dwellings located in Brisbane inner-urban areas), many of the results can be applied to a broad range of inner-urban regions, particularly within Australia.


References:

  1. Queensland Department of Infrastructure and Planning, South East Queensland Regional Plan 2009 - 2031. 2009, Queensland Government: Brisbane.

  2. Australian Greenhouse Office. Reducing greenhouse emissions through planning and urban design: what local government can do.  2002  [cited 1 September 2005]; Available from: http://www.greenhouse.gov.au/local/
    reduction/planning/index.html    .

  3. Freeman, L., The effects of sprawl on neighbourhood social ties. Journal of the American Planning Association, 2001. 67(1): p. 69-77.

  4. Burton, E., The compact city: just or just compact? A preliminary analysis. Urban Studies, 2000. 37(11): p. 1969 - 2006.

  5. Troy, P.N., The perils of urban consolidation. 1996, Sydney: Federation Press.

  6. Collie, M., The case for urban consolidation. Australian Planner, 1990. 28: p. 26-33.

  7. Australian Government Department of Environment and Heritage, Australia State of the Environment 2006: Independent report to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment and Heritage. 2006, Australian State of the Environment Committee: Canberra.