The first tram voyage will be a milestone in the city's development, possibly one of the strongest signs that the nation's capital is emerging from its reputation as a good sheep station spoiled into a world-class city.

But a world class city it is not, yet.

In recent weeks the territory government has released a series of key strategies that will help determine the future of the city, its development and public transport systems.

But the government has much work ahead if it is intent on achieving its hopes of creating a world-class city - not least of which is ensuring infrastructure is capable of supporting thousands more residents in the city and along Northbourne Avenue.

While these, mostly upper income residents, will have access to many services, public transport and a vibrant nightlife, parents in many lower income areas still struggle to push prams along poorly maintained footpaths, or will be forced into complex new bus routes to attend basic medical appointments.

The city is changing, though its most basic services often seem to be ignored in favour of trying to create a place in inner city Melbourne's image, with apartment buildings built to poor standards and a regulator absent from the wings.

Promises made are still yet to be addressed; from addressing building quality to ensuring top level schools and hospitals to having the first stage of light rail complete last year.

If those in power look to be treated seriously as governing for all, not simply elected through a combination of complacency and the territory's unique electoral characteristics, it must act on its promises.

Take the NSW government's immediate response to the Opal apartment defects - a swift action to investigate the issues, and a seeming willingness to address the problems identified.

Across the border, the territory government has pledged action repeatedly on such issues since at least 2010, but done little; it will be defined by its actions, not its words, and building quality is just one issue that is a symptom of wider problems.

The government has been vocal that its promises made at the 2016 election will be delivered, and the two years since have been spent planning to ensure those pledges are properly implemented.

Come this time next year, the public will be looking to see those completed, or very close to it: a planning system that is based on community expectations, not the wont of particular developer; a health system that actually works well and a school system that lives up to the funds spent.

The towers will rise, the money spent.

While claims of Canberra being among the world's 'most liveable', that is little consolation to those forced to travel interstate for affordable and timely medical treatment, those living in sub-standard homes or those who live outside the designated precinct.

This year should be a year of achievement, not for the government's re-election, but for the people it claims to represent.