Australia’s suburban landscape is changing, but not for the better. In a revealing interview, former Senator Bob Day sits down with Jeremy Cordeaux during the live stream of ‘The Court Of Public Opinion‘ and explains how modern urban planning has led to the creation of “sardine suburbs,” where people are crammed together with little space to breathe. Could this be why so many Australians are feeling the pressure?
The Loss of Space
Day reflects on a time when suburbs like Colonel Light Gardens and Prospect were developed without the stringent town planning laws we see today. Back then, people had space—space to live, space to relax, and space to thrive. But as Day points out, modern urban planning has squeezed homes into smaller lots, leaving residents with little room to enjoy their lives.
The Social Impact
Living in tight quarters isn’t just uncomfortable—it can have serious social consequences. Day likens it to an experiment where rats, when overcrowded, become aggressive and antisocial. Could the same be happening to us? As Day suggests, it’s time to rethink how we design our communities before the suburbs become places of tension and conflict.
If you’ve noticed that your suburb doesn’t feel quite as welcoming as it used to, you’re not alone. Bob Day’s insights offer a compelling argument for why space matters more than ever. Discover what can be done to bring back the charm of Australia’s suburbs before it’s too late.
