Rudd forgets that population is about the people (and planning)

These challenges and more are confronting Kevin Rudd and his Government.

So what have they done so far?

Well, Kevin Rudd announced a Minister for Population who is in charge of developing a Population Strategy 12 months from now. After the election.

So Mr Rudd’s plan is a plan for a plan.

Early this year it was reported that the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimated that if our current fertility rate was maintained, along with zero net migration, Australia’s population could reach about 26 million by 2050. This shows the important role that migration plays in terms of future population growth.

Therefore, decisions about migration numbers need to take into account updated advice on future population projections and whether infrastructure can cope.

Last week the Coalition released its population policy directions paper which outlines real action that a Coalition Government would take to ensure a sustainable future for Australia, whatever sized population we have.

The Coalition would expand the scope of the Productivity Commission within three months of taking office, making it the Productivity and Sustainability Commission. It would be tasked with an annual review of Australia’s infrastructure needs based on future population projections for the short, medium and long term.

The Commission would also undertake an inquiry into community attitudes on population growth, asking Australians what they think. The Coalition is already listening to Australians about population issues through its Population Policy Forums, something that the Rudd Government neglected to do.

Kevin Rudd just talks about the population – the Coalition is listening to the population.

Australia’s future productivity, sustainability and liveability need to be considered as part of responsible population planning. We need to keep our economy strong to support growth, we need to protect and conserve our environment and resources and we need to uphold the quality of life that we currently enjoy.

Achieving this is a lot harder than just casually throwing out a comment on Lateline about a "big Australia". It requires consideration, consultation and planning.

This is our future we’re talking about – it’s not something that should be taken lightly.