Data site for the future

THE outer east region’s progress towards sustainability targets has been measured on a new database which could serve to focus community concerns and influence future action.
The Cities of Knox and Maroondah and the Shire of Yarra Ranges joined Swinburne University of Technology to launch the www.sustainableoutereast.com website on Thursday, 23 February.
The website presents a suite of indicators that reflect a sustainability framework for the region which aligns the visions of the three municipalities.
It is the result of a collaborative two-year study with Swinburne’s Centre for Regional Development.
The indicators were developed by surveying residents and measuring progress towards social, environmental and economic sustainability.
Sustainability is defined by the website as ensuring the actions of today do not limit the range of economic and environmental options open to future generations.
Critical issues identified by the study include developing proactive attitudes towards education and lifelong learning, energy usage, a strong regional economy, good physical and mental health and community wellbeing, willingness to participate in community volunteering, community safety and perceptions of safety, waste management, accessibility and commutability and vibrant cultural life.
Knox mayor David Cooper said the objective of the project was building strong, supportive, sustainable communities.
“We aim to achieve a forward-thinking, vibrant region living in a sustainable environment.
“The project aims to help the community to accept the findings and understand the benefits if we all contribute to making the vision a reality,” he said.
Cr Cooper said the project reflected local government’s determination to show true leadership in key areas of community life that were in essence individual and collective community responsibilities.
“Local government can provide information about the issues but at the end of the day the project relies on personal commitment to achieving sustainable future outcomes for our community,” he said.
Cr Cooper said some of the trends that impact on a community’s sustainability are already improving.
“One of the most significant issues relates to education and the urgent need to improve our school retention rates. Current figures compare poorly with other parts of Victoria. They are also a red flag to the community that we must focus on community actions and track progress,” Cr Cooper said.
Swinburne pro vice chancellor for community engagement professor Barbara van Ernst saw the project as an excellent example of the benefits of university and community working together.
Shire of Yarra Ranges mayor Monika Keane added that the region’s organisations had already benefited from working together on the project. “These indicators give us a great opportunity to engage with our community about our long-term future and build on our strengths,” said Cr Keane.
Data for the site was provided by Victoria Police, Melbourne Water, TXU, Centrelink, Turning Point, Leastwaste, the Department of Victorian Communities and The Department of Human Services, and will be updated as more information become available.