McCrindle Research has released their top 8 expected 2024 trends (https://mccrindle.com.au/article/the-trends-of-2024/). Looking at trends is a helpful way to anticipate what we need to keep adjusting to. However, no future trend is inevitable.
We can impact trends if we actively pay attention to them.
One important trend is the demand that we focus on the ‘real environment’ in 2024; moving beyond buzzwords and dubious claims to engage people in very tangible and practical ways. We have to be able to talk about ‘what does reducing emissions mean for me?’ and then activate things people can do in response. Look out for Whitehorse’s year-long (not a ‘conference week’) sustainability emphasis; and help us collectively to be real about it.
Another trend is the redefining of community taking place through the loneliness epidemic. Micro-communities will continue to emerge digitally and physically; let’s be curious about increasing human connection for all.
In local government we are seeing a trend known as ‘the growth reckoning’ (balancing the upsides and downsides of population growth) land squarely in planning reform. Let’s be in this debate as communities, with an open mind. Housing availability/affordability and infrastructure pain are complex problems requiring far more than politically popular responses.
There will be Blackburn South residents aware of disputes relating to the Scouts-owned property in McCracken Avenue, and its use as a musical rehearsal space. There are hearings before VCAT in recent months and continuing.
Council’s statement on this matter is at https://www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/blackburn-sth-scouts-feb-2024.
