by jbs081509c3 — August 19, 2009—The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the Rudd Government’s plan to establish a Built Environment Sustainability Roundtable, saying the initiative creates a much-needed bridge between government, industry, and NGOs.
“We strongly welcome the announcement today by Minister Garrett to establish a Built Environment Sustainability Roundtable,” Property Council CEO Peter Verwer said on August 12. “The roundtable represents an important bridge between government, industry, and NGOs. It marks a vital step to ensure industry know-how and insight is available to government policy and decision makers on energy efficiency initiatives in the built environment.
“Since its election the Rudd Government has delivered a suite of programs relevant to cities to address infrastructure shortfalls, housing affordability, and climate change. The roundtable will help prevent policy congestion as the government tackles these important, converging issues.
“The Property Council has championed greater consultation between government and industry. Today’s announcement elevates this consultation to a formal footing, which is welcomed. The property industry is shaping the future of our cities and communities.
“The Property Council and other stakeholders are at the pointy end of developing and implementing breakthrough environmental technologies on a daily basis. The roundtable will be able to draw on this knowledge and experience to enrich government policy.”
