Along the sidelines of ASBEC’s Council meeting and on the eve of World Cities Day (31 October 2026), eight national peak organisations* are coming together in Canberra to spark a conversation with federal government decision makers about the future of Australia’s urban and regional cities.
As the National Urban Policy approaches its second anniversary, there’s plenty to discuss about how we plan for growth, deliver housing and infrastructure, and create great places for people. Urban Week presents an important opportunity for ASBEC and members to advance our ambition for a more integrated approach to shaping Australia’s cities and towns.
The Urban Week events program presents a range of opportunities to advance the policy priorities identified in Building Australia’s Next Urban Chapter.
Held from 26-30 October, Urban Week 2026 will explore how Australia can build more resilient, prosperous and liveable communities for future generations.
Designing Better Growth: Canberra’s Urban Renewal in Action
Monday 26 October | Urban Week Launch | 1:30pm to 3pm
Explore Canberra’s urban renewal on a guided study tour, followed by the official launch of Urban Week.
Register here: Designing Better Growth: Canberra’s Urban Renewal in Action
Resilience by Design: A Vision for Urban Australia
Thursday 29 October | World Cities Day Public Lecture | 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Join Honorary Professor Barbara Norman at ANU for the World Cities Day Public Lecture, followed by a panel discussion.
Register here: World Cities Day address: Resilience by design – A Vision for Urban Australia
Both events are free, but registrations are essential.
*Urban Week is a shared initiative of the Australian Institute of Architects, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC), Committee for Capital Cities, Council of Capital City Lord Mayors, National Shelter, Planning Institute of Australia and Property Council of Australia.