Urban planning in Australia faces challenges due to poor metropolitan governance. Calls for reform are conflicting, with some wanting more certainty for developers and others seeking flexibility and social justice. The lack of planning at the metropolitan level is a problem, as most power lies with State and Territory governments. The study examines issues like spatial scale, identity, and efficiency in urban policy debates. In South East Queensland, improvements in planning are possible but radical changes may be needed to enhance the Australian planning system.