The Consequences of Economic Restructuring for Melbourne's Metropolitan Policy

Recent economic statistics, studies and policy douments relating to metropolitan Melbourne are reviewed and three points argued. First, although growth in the service sector is driving the development of Australian cities, only those metropolitan areas which have both a diversified manufacturing base and an information-oriented tertiary sector will be able to take full advantage of pressures for national restructuring. Second, the efficient operation of metropolitan economies is now a vital influence on the overall performance of the national economy. Third, it behoves governments to inject an explicitly spatial dimension into their industry, technology and restructuring policies, and support the development of complementary urban infrastructure.