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Integrating Technology and Urban Resilience: A Comprehensive Analysis of Smart City Initiatives in Sydney

Author

Listed:
  • Shabnam Varzeshi

    (School of Architecture & Urban Design, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia)

  • John Fien

    (School of Architecture & Urban Design, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia)

  • Leila Irajifar

    (School of Architecture & Urban Design, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia)

Abstract

This study explores the integration of smart city and resilience strategies in Sydney, focusing on the relationship between technological advancements and urban resilience. By analysing strategic documents and key projects—specifically the NSW Spatial Digital Twin, Land iQ, and SIMPaCT—this research identifies important synergies and gaps in Sydney’s urban planning efforts. The findings indicate that these projects improve urban functionality through real-time data integration, predictive planning, and adaptive infrastructure. However, there are inconsistencies between strategic objectives and actual implementation, particularly concerning stakeholder inclusivity and equity considerations. The study concludes that utilising technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), along with equitable stakeholder engagement, has the potential to significantly enhance Sydney’s ability to address environmental, social, and economic challenges. These insights offer practical recommendations for policymakers and urban planners who aim to balance innovation with inclusivity in smart city development.

Suggested Citation

  • Shabnam Varzeshi & John Fien & Leila Irajifar, 2024. "Integrating Technology and Urban Resilience: A Comprehensive Analysis of Smart City Initiatives in Sydney," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-22, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:24:p:10967-:d:1543549
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jan Fagerberg & Gernot Hutschenreiter, 2020. "Coping with Societal Challenges: Lessons for Innovation Policy Governance," Journal of Industry, Competition and Trade, Springer, vol. 20(2), pages 279-305, June.
    2. Mora, Luca & Deakin, Mark & Reid, Alasdair, 2019. "Strategic principles for smart city development: A multiple case study analysis of European best practices," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 142(C), pages 70-97.
    3. Juhyun Lee & Julia Babcock & Thai Son Pham & Thu Hien Bui & Myounggu Kang, 2023. "Smart city as a social transition towards inclusive development through technology: a tale of four smart cities," International Journal of Urban Sciences, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 27(S1), pages 75-100, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Ming Guo & Yang Zhou, 2025. "Boosting Sustainable Urban Development: How Smart Cities Improve Emergency Management—Evidence from 275 Chinese Cities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-27, July.

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