Housing affordability, climate resilience, productivity, infrastructure and the future of Australian cities will be at the centre of discussion as the nation's architects gather in Brisbane for the Australian Institute of Architects' 2026 Australian Architecture Conference later this week.
Bringing together leading Australian and international voices, the conference provides an opportunity to examine the major forces shaping the built environment and the communities that depend on it.
Australian Institute of Architects CEO Cameron Bruhn said the issues facing the profession are increasingly the same issues facing the broader community.
"The built environment touches almost every aspect of our lives, from the homes we live in and the schools our children attend to the transport networks, public spaces and infrastructure we rely on every day,"said Dr Bruhn.
"Many of Australia's biggest challenges are design challenges. They require long-term thinking, collaboration and a focus on public value."
With housing supply, climate adaptation and major infrastructure investment all high on the national agenda, architects will discuss how design can contribute to better economic, social and environmental outcomes.
The conference will feature leading Australian and international speakers, including urban innovator Indy Johar, OMA partner and author Reinier de Graaf, and Barcelona architects Marta Peris and José Toral, whose work explores new housing models and sustainable construction. Their perspectives will help inform discussions about the future of Australian cities and communities.
Dr Bruhn said the conference theme, "Together. Or Not At All?", reflects the growing need for governments, industry and communities to work together on increasingly complex challenges.
"No single profession, industry or level of government can solve these issues alone."
"The best outcomes happen when different disciplines come together with a shared focus on creating places that improve people's lives."
At a time of significant change across Australia's cities and regions, the conference will provide a forum for discussing how design can help shape a more sustainable, prosperous and equitable future.
