"From debates about housing to the role of art and culture in placemaking or the possibility of rewilding our cities, this year's Festival of Urbanism program delivers evidence-based insights and diverse perspectives on the major challenges facing cities and regions today," said Professor Nicole Gurran , Director Henry Halloran Research Trust and Professor of Urbanism, Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning .
Rather than simply reducing harm, regenerative urbanism is about creating cities that actively heal and restore the environment and communities. It looks at the whole system - from food, water and energy to housing, waste, transport and land use - and asks how each can be reimagined to improve life for people and the planet.
A highlight event will be a debate on one of Australia's most pressing issues: housing.
"Housing is one of the most contested issues in Sydney and across Australia."
Professor Nicole Gurran
Director Henry Halloran Research Trust and Professor of Urbanism, Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning.
"Our debate about solutions to the housing crisis features expert economists, analysts and thought leaders from across the generational and tenure divides.
"Our audience can expect to be informed and challenged - come with an open mind and leave with a fuller understanding of the housing crisis and ways to fix it."
This year's festival will also highlight First Nations leadership in landscape design and architecture, urban agriculture projects transforming how we grow food in cities, and innovations in circular industries, restorative infrastructure and the creative economy.
The Festival will spotlight Parramatta and see how the city is being reimagined for the future, take audiences on a tour of Waterloo's Danks Street South Precinct, and showcase the Living Lab Northern Rivers bold new projects tackling housing and boosting local manufacturing. In Canberra, a talk will ask what really helps - or holds back - the Bush Capital's regenerative future, from community wellbeing to AI, human rights and ecosystems.
"The Festival of Urbanism aims to elevate the quality of public debate about cities and regions by bringing researchers together with industry leaders, community advocates, creative practitioners and more."
Professor Nicole Gurran
The program includes lectures, panel discussions, debates, walking tours and exhibitions at venues across the city, the University of Sydney and Parramatta as well as events in Melbourne, Canberra, and regional NSW.
"Our diverse speakers are committed to engaging with wide audiences passionate about the threats and opportunities facing their communities and future environments," Professor Gurran said.
"The festival offers a chance to explore what our cities could look like if we design them to be not just sustainable, but truly regenerative - places that support thriving ecosystems, healthy communities and a fairer future."
