This course provides an overview of contemporary approaches to landscape and visual impact assessment, and an understanding of why these methods are essential in modern planning practice.
To achieve this, the course will review the philosophy, history and context underpinning landscape and aesthetic appraisal. We will also explore the differences between Australian (state-based) and international guidance.
Participants will compare different types of landscape and visual reports, enabling practitioners to effectively scope and review assessments. Through case studies and a practical workshop, we will apply assessment guidelines in real world scenarios.
A key element of the course is developing a critical perspective on current approaches to landscape and visual impact assessment, including its future development and role in planning. Participants will gain an understanding of the importance of landscape and visual considerations within the planning context, and how planning practitioners can better utilise these assessments in their work.
Designed
For
Local government and consultant planners responsible for scoping, preparing or assessing applications and seeking clarity on landscape and visual impact assessment.
This course is also suitable for urban designers, developers, solicitors and others involved in design, impact assessment or planning-related decision-making.
Learning
Outcomes
Participants will be able to:
• Describe the nature of landscape and visual impact assessment, including its philosophy, history and planning context.
• Summarise the differences between Australian and international guidance for landscape and visual impact assessment.
• Compare different types of landscape and visual impact assessment reports.
• Scope and review landscape and visual impact assessments effectively.
• Evaluate the influence of VCAT decisions on landscape and visual impact assessment practice.
• Contrast case studies demonstrating the application of landscape and visual impact assessment in industry.
• Apply landscape and visual impact assessment guidelines in real-world settings.
• Critique current Australian guidance for landscape and visual impact assessment.
• Evaluate when and how landscape and visual considerations should be applied within the planning context.
Presenter
Laura Farrell is a Technical Director in Landscape Planning with 20 years of international experience in Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA). Laura’s career spans major infrastructure and development sectors, including transmission networks, renewable energy projects, highways, mining and large-scale commercial developments. She is recognised for her ability to translate complex landscape and visual constraints into clear, defensible assessments that support robust planning outcomes.
Laura has a strong foundation in spatial analysis and evidence-based assessment. She holds a Master’s degree in Spatial Information Management and an Honours degree in Landscape Architecture. Her postgraduate research focused on the use of spatial datasets to generate Zones of Theoretical Visibility, contributing to a deeper understanding of how digital modelling can inform LVIA processes.
Across her work, Laura is committed to advancing best practice in landscape and visual assessment in Australia. She brings a critical and forward-looking perspective to the evolution of LVIA guidance and its integration into planning systems.
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.
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