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Conference theme: "Transformation"
Embracing Transformation in Planning
Planning is more about managing change, planners play a key role in the transformation of our towns, regions and communities – from the early social reforms of the 19th Century, through the economic reforms of the 20th Century and to environmental reforms of the 21st Century. People look to us planners to lead this transformation in a way which we all benefit, and no one is left behind.
The 2024 NSW State PIA Conference will focus on elements of transformation and explore the sub-themes of adaptability, diversification, and negotiation. We will also look at how this transformation affects our youngest Australians and our First Nation’s People.
And there is no better setting to explore these themes than the thriving coastal city of Wollongong on Dharawal Country. A city that has had its fair share of transformation, from the early timber getters, through coal miners, farmers, early settlers, industrialists, transport systems, and our health, education and governance.
Wollongong as the Capital City of the Greater Illawarra and Shoalhaven Region is a city transformed. The Greater Region is quickly approaching half a million people with an important knowledge services centre, a globally connected international trade hub and home to a world-class university with a focus on encouraging innovation. Wollongong is a looking glass for what is happening across many other regions of Australia.
Come along and see for yourself…
PIA NSW is looking forward to receiving abstracts from speakers around the 3 following streams:
Adaptability is a cornerstone in planning. The challenges of the future that we face are complex and uncertain, therefore we need to be prepared to plan to be able to adapt our built forms, be flexible to consider different land uses in built forms and plan for future adaptable environmental and infrastructure outcome. Planners can be positive influencers to that effect.
In planning, diversification is our strength. Just as diverse ecosystems thrive, our communities flourish when we celebrate varied perspectives. By blending different voices—cultural, generational, and experiential—we create harmonious and vibrant spaces. Inclusivity becomes our compass.
Negotiation is our bridge across challenges. We balance stakeholder needs, find common ground, and craft collaborative solutions. From land use disputes to infrastructure planning, negotiation skills transform conflicts into progress. Diplomacy becomes our toolkit.
| Key Dates |
| Call for Abstracts open: Monday 18 March 2024 |
| Call for Abstracts close: Monday 22 April 2024 |
| Successful presenters notified: Friday 31 May 2024 |
| Presentations due to PIA: Friday 2 Aug 2024 |
Interested in presenting at the PIA NSW State Conference?
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