Town planning involves a wide range of different aspects, including transportation and infrastructure, sustainability, urban design and architecture, public health, and safety. In addition to these elements, town planners also need to consider the needs of local residents and businesses when they're creating new urban developments. 

Here are four innovative town planning techniques used in Australia.

1. Transit-Oriented Development

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a type of development that maximises the use of public transportation. It involves building residential and commercial developments in close proximity to busy transit stations. This arrangement allows people to live without the need for cars and encourages them to use public transport.

TOD has become popular in Australia due to its ability to reduce traffic congestion and pollution as well as provide affordable housing options for people who cannot afford cars or parking spaces. Some Australian cities have also introduced incentives such as reduced rates on property taxes and parking fees if developers build TODs near train stations.

2. Mixed-Use Zoning

This town planning technique is used to develop a balance between residential and commercial zones. The mixed-use zoning allows for the development of residential dwellings along with small businesses. This technique encourages people to live in the same area where they work, thus reducing travel time and other expenses. It also promotes social interaction among residents and business owners. This helps foster a sense of community in towns.

3. Incentivising Green Spaces

Many local governments in Australia provide incentives like tax rebates, grants, and rebates for residents and developers to create more green spaces. This could include parks, community gardens, landscaped walking/cycling tracks, etc. This town planning helps make suburbs more sustainable and livable. In addition to incentivising green spaces, some cities have been building more parks and trails for residents to enjoy as well. This can help encourage people to get out of their cars and walk or bike instead – helping reduce traffic congestion, pollution, and carbon emissions in the process.

4. Adaptive Reuse Of Infrastructure

Instead of demolishing old buildings and infrastructure, many planners opt to repurpose and reuse them for new needs. This could include converting old warehouses into apartments, using abandoned rail lines as cycling tracks, or reusing civic buildings for commercial use. This town planning approach is more sustainable and helps retain historical character. 

To find out more about town planning and how it can affect you and your business, chat with a local town planner today.