<P> The first examples of town planning in Australia occurred during the early phases of the Colonial era, where critical decisions locked in' path dependency' for the future form of cities . Typically this involved colonial Governors undertaking surveying for land grants and subdivisions, and making executive decisions on the location and construction of roads, rail transport, water supply and other basic infrastructure to support early penal and military settlements . Primacy was given to the functional and practical needs of Colonial administration, as opposed to more lofty civic or aesthetic ideals . </P> <P> Despite these humble, utilitarian beginnings, there were places where clear planning and design for settlements occurred . One of the earliest forms of a planned settlement in Australia involved the work of Colonel William Light, a Colonial Surveyor and the Surveyor - General for the colony of South Australia, in planning and designing the original city centre grid for Adelaide in 1837 . While Light's plan was not entirely realised, it is widely regarded as a fine achievement of colonial era civic design . </P> <P> Rapid colonial expansion in the 19th century, matched by economic growth, resulted in Australia becoming one of the most highly urbanised nations in the world . For example, by 1861, 40% of Sydney's residents lived in suburbs . This trend towards urbanisation was established early and continued into the 20th century . </P> <P> Australia's rapid urbanization meant urban planning became an increasingly important issue . </P>

When did australia experience most of its urbanisation