WEDNESDAY 20 MAY 2026
Before the formal Congress program begins, delegates will have the opportunity to explore planning in action through a series of immersive Study Tours across Canberra. These experiences will bring the city’s story to life, from its iconic design origins and heritage landscapes to the contemporary precincts shaping its future.
Study Tours are an exclusive offering and available only for those registered to attend Congress. Tours are not included in full registration fees and are available to purchase within the registration process.
Limited places are available and tend to book out quickly. Please stay tuned for the full program release and secure your spot early.
Please note that some tours will involve walking between sites. If you have any mobility requirements, we kindly ask that you contact the Congress team at congress@planning.org.au in advanced to support your needs.
Timings and program subject to change due to tour or venue changes
FULL DAY TOURS
Full day tours will take place on Wednesday 20 May, running approximately from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Full day tours include morning tea and lunch for all participants.
Inside Canberra's Housing Future - $175
A behind-the-scenes look at the ideas, projects and partnerships shaping the next chapter of housing in the nation’s capital.
Inside Australia's Political Capital - $175
Step inside the places and systems that influence how Australia is governed, planned and shaped at a national level.
The Griffins' Plan for Canberra - $175, proudly sponsored by GML Heritage
This bus tour explores the planning legacy of Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin, tracing how their bold vision for Australia’s national capital evolved from an ambitious design into a lived and continually changing city. Canberra offers a rare opportunity to see a twentieth century planning vision implemented at scale revealing both the successes and challenges of translating big ideas into place.
Travelling through the central national area, participants will experience key milestones in the plan’s implementation, from major vistas and elevated lookouts that reveal Canberra’s geometric structure to lesser-known sites that speak to adaptation and evolution. By reflecting on more than a century of planning and practice, the tour offers valuable insight into how foundational visions become real places and continue to shape planning decisions today.
The tour will be led by Canberra Modern’s founders Rachel Jackson, Edwina Jans and Amy Jarvis, and is supported by GML Heritage.
HALF DAY TOURS
Half day will take place on Wednesday 20 May, running approximately from 12.00pm to 3.00pm. More information will be released shortly. Half day tours include afternoon tea for all participants.
She Shapes History - $75
An intimate exploration of the women, places and decisions that have quietly shaped Canberra’s history and identity. The She Shapes History tour will be held from 10.00am - 12.00pm.
On Country - $95
A guided experience grounded in Country, offering insight into First Nations knowledge, and connection.
The Capital Uncovered: Canberra City - $95
Discover the layers and design of Canberra’s City Centre and civic spaces.
For any questions, please contact the team at congress@planning.org.au.