Urban design in central Sydney 1945-2002: Laissez-Faire and discretionary traditions in the accidental city

Questions are raised as to whether this policy transformation is evidence of a 'design fetish' perceived to be characteristic of neo-liberal planning regimes in Australia and Anglo America. A more generous interpretation of recent events is presented, and a positive assessment made of the recent achievements. Even if Sydney's design review system, when tested against internationally derived criteria, is found wanting in many areas, there has been progress away from the 'Accidental City' to a much more sophisticated approach to design in a city whose setting, and new economy, demands it.