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Over three days, the best planners and industry leaders from across Australia - and beyond, will come together to inform, inspire and influence, exploring how planning continues to shape the cities and communities of tomorrow. 

Led by Master of Ceremonies Tim Ross - comedian, broadcaster and design enthusiast - the Congress will tackle the defining issues of our time. From housing, infrastructure and population pressures to embedding planning with Country, building resilience and climate action into every system, and strengthening the skills, technology and leadership that will guide planning into the future.

Together we will reflect on the vision that built our planned city of Canberra and the milestones that have shaped our cities and regions, drawing lessons from the past to inform the choices ahead. Grounded in respect for Country and a commitment to sustainability, the Congress invites bold conversations about how planners can drive meaningful change and lead Australia confidently into its next chapter.

OUR CONGRESS MC

Tim Ross is a celebrated comedian, presenter and storyteller and a passionate advocate for architecture and design who promotes its value across multiple forums. 

Known for his early success in broadcast media, he built a loyal audience through award-winning comedy, radio and TV shows before expanding into design-focused work that bridges culture, creativity and the built environment.

A passionate champion for thoughtful and accessible design, Tim has performed his acclaimed Man About the House and other live shows in architecturally significant places across the world, blending humour, nostalgia and design insight. 

His popular ABC seriesStreets of Your Town and Designing A Legacy, alongside exhibitions, books and speaking engagements, have helped spark meaningful conversations about the places we live.

With a unique ability to entertain while provoking thought, Tim continues to highlight why our built environment matters.






CONGRESS VENUE

 NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE CANBERRA

 31 Constitution Ave, Canberra ACT 2601
 T: 02 6276 5200 | W:
 nccc.com.au






The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) is the only national organisation representing urban and regional planners in Australia. 

At the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) we believe that good planning has the power to improve people’s lives. We live this by advocating for good planning to decision makers and demonstrating how planning can achieve a positive difference to people’s lives and their communities. 

PIA nurtures and supports the development of high-quality planning professionals through education and comprehensive professional development so that they can deliver good planning outcomes. PIA is the national voice for planning and the planning profession with over 5,700 members nationally.





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