PIA VIC EMERGING PLANNERS SUMMIT 2026
Planning for What's Next
Whether you are just starting out or a few years into your career, the future of planning is not something that happens around us - it is shaped by those willing to help lead it.
The PIA Victoria Emerging Planners Summit will bring together planning students, recent graduates and early-career planners from across Melbourne and Victoria for a full day of learning, connection and future-focused discussion.
In a period of regulatory changes where the industry is coming under attack, it’s easy to reflect and ask yourself “What’s Next”. In this context, we thought it was important that the Summit 2026 not only look into the current state, and the future of our profession, but also investigate what career opportunities may present themselves as we move towards the future.
The day will include study tours, plenary sessions, and tailored concurrent sessions designed for students, recent graduates and for those who are looking to up-skill as they become an 'emerged' planner.
Whether you're just starting out in your career, a few years in, or beginning to ask what your next step is after you've learned the ropes, the VEP Summit is an opportunity to connect with peers, hear from industry leaders, and think boldly about what the future of planning, and your career looks like.
We cannot wait to host you at our inaugural Emerging Planners Summit.
Study Tours
To attend a study tour, you will need to reserve your spot when registering.
Metro Tunnel Tour
Fri 31 July | 8:30AM - 10:00AM
Join a guided tour of Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel stations, travelling from Town Hall to Arden, Parkville and Anzac. Hosted by City of Melbourne.
Wesley Place Precinct Walking Tour
Fri 31 July | 8:30AM - 10:00AM
Join us for a guided tour of Melbourne's Wesley Precinct.
This tour explores the rich history and heritage of the precinct, alongside the planning and development mechanisms that have supported its evolution into a vibrant mixed-use destination. Hear directly from the consultants involved in shaping the precinct, including Hansen Partnership (planning), Lovell Chen (heritage) and COX Architecture (130 Lonsdale Street).
Participants will gain rare access to the historic School House, one of the precinct's significant heritage buildings, while learning about the opportunities and challenges of integrating heritage conservation with contemporary city development.
Hosted by Hansen Partnership.
Birrarung Marr Walking Tour
Fri 31 July | 9:00AM - 10:00AM
Join a guided walking tour of Birrarung Marr - Site One of the Greenline Project. This project seeks to rehabilitate Melbourne’s famous Birrarung -Yarra River by strengthening the ‘Ecological Edge’ and embracing connections with the river as a living entity.
Hosted by Tract Consultants.
Planners in the Pub
The VIC Emerging Planners will be heading to Planners in the Pub at Morris House after the summit, and the rest of the planning profession is warmly invited to join.
Thank you to our Sponsors
Venue Partner
Terms & Conditions
Registrations cancelled more than 14 days prior to the event date will not incur any fees and a full refund will be granted.
If you cannot attend and you are within 14 days of the event date, you can transfer your ticket to another person.
In all other situations we cannot issue a refund or credit.
By registering for a PIA event (including online, hybrid, and in-person), you consent to:
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(b) PIA using the Recordings after the event; and
(c) releasing PIA from any liability that may arise from PIA using the Recordings.
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