CitySpeak Australia

Greg and Stephen tackle the pressing issue of climate change and its profound implications for cities and citizens.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into urban environments presents a complex and multifaceted issue that holds both promise and challenges. Striking a balance between harnessing the power of AI for urban development while safeguarding citizen rights and fostering inclusivity remains a pivotal challenge that urban planners, policymakers, and technologists must collaboratively address in the pursuit of smarter and more livable cities.

Mitchell Silver is the former Commissioner for the New York City Parks Department, where he led the transformation of the city’s public spaces with innovative and inclusive projects. He is also an award-winning planner, a fantastic public speaker and the first African American to serve as the president of the American Planning Association.

David Williams has made a wonderful contribution to the Planning Indusry as the CEO of the Planning Institute of Australia.  Greg and Stephen chat with him about the role, his time and the future of the profession…

Stephen was invited to Hastings, New Zealand to provide advice on their current City Centre and the 20 year plan that is driving its transformation. Greg and Stephen discussed his findings to help the Council and community determine "where to from here".

Greg & Stephen attended the Planning Institiute Australian 2023 National Congress in Adelaide and had the privilege of chatting to several speakers about their presentations and ideas.

Understanding Māori culture is a crucial element in city planning in New Zeeland as it enables the incorporation of indigenous perspectives, values, and aspirations, fostering cultural inclusivity, promoting sustainable development, and creating cities that honor and celebrate the unique heritage and identity of the Māori people. Greg and Stephen caught up with Reg Proffitt, the Chairman of the NZ Planning Institute to learn more.

Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, enthralls with its multiculturalism, beautiful harbors, a thriving food and arts scene, and a vibrant blend of urban sophistication and natural wonders. Greg and Stephen caught up with some interesting Urbanists to discuss the city and where it is headed.

Gisborne, located on the stunning East Coast of New Zealand's North Island, fascinates with its rich Māori heritage, world-class surf breaks, renowned vineyards, and the first place in the world to witness the sunrise each day, making it an enchanting and culturally significant city.

Wellington, New Zealand's capital, allures with its vibrant arts scene, picturesque harbor, thriving coffee culture, and a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an endlessly captivating and intriguing city to explore.

Understanding the distinction between hype and hyperbole is crucial in city planning as it allows for informed decision-making, realistic goal-setting, and the avoidance of overpromising, ensuring that urban development strategies are grounded in practicality, feasibility, and long-term sustainability.

Being an elected member of a city holds great significance in urban planning as it enables representation of diverse voices, democratic decision-making, accountability, and the opportunity to shape policies and initiatives that directly impact the community, ensuring inclusive and responsive city development.

Trains play a vital role in urban planning, promoting efficient and sustainable transportation, reducing congestion and emissions, enhancing connectivity, and fostering vibrant, livable cities with improved mobility options for residents and visitors alike.

Gentrification, a critical issue in urban planning, necessitates careful consideration due to its potential impacts on social equity, displacement, cultural identity, and community cohesion, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and sustainable urban development strategies.

Becky Hirst is a well-respected international thought leader in the field of community engagement and lots of fun to talk to!

Hobart, Tasmania's capital city, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich colonial history, a thriving arts scene, and access to stunning wilderness areas such as Mount Wellington and the rugged coastlines, making it an intriguing and enchanting city to explore.

Ludo Campbell-Reid is a renowned urbanist and city planner known for his work in shaping and improving cities around the world. He has held various prominent positions in urban planning and development, including the Design Champion and General Manager of the Auckland Design Office in New Zealand.

Melissa and Chris Bruntlett chronicle their experience living in the Netherlands and the benefits that result from cycling as a core part of their lives and what makes for great urbanism.

Urban diagnostics provide valuable insights into the social, economic, and environmental dynamics of cities, enabling planners to make informed decisions, identify challenges, and implement targeted interventions to improve urban systems, making it an indispensable tool for effective city planning and development.

Steven Burgess is a leading contributor to the planning, design and development of liveable cities. Steven brings 30 years’ experience as an engineer and urban strategist with a flair for storytelling and a great angle of how streets should work for everyone.