Special Interest Networks

PIA brings together a diverse membership with varied backgrounds, perspectives, and areas of expertise. PIA fosters and supports grassroots networks formed around shared interests or regional focus, encouraging collaboration and connection among members.

Emerging Planners

Emerging Planners are professionals with less than five years of post-graduate experience in planning or a related field. They’re new to the industry and need our support now more than ever.

To connect, support, and empower these professionals, we established Emerging Planners Groups across every state and territory. Through professional development opportunities, specialised networks, social events, and representation on our committees, we’re ensuring Emerging Planners have the foundation they need to shape the future of planning.

ACT NSW QLD SA TAS VIC WA

Three young planners smiling at the camera at a pub.
Women at table eating breakfast at a networking event.

Women in Planning Network

This network creates a supportive space for all women in the planning profession to connect with like-minded peers, discuss key issues, and access professional development resources.

Together, members advocate for greater gender equity across all levels of our field, strengthening our profession through diverse voices and perspectives.

Check out your local group:

ACT NSW QLD SA TAS VIC WA

 

Branches and Regional Planners Network

 

Branches are based on geographically distinct areas and currently operate in the following regions:

NSW:

  • Hunter & Central Coast 
  • Northern
  • Riverina
  • Southern

QLD:

  • Central Queensland
  • Darling Downs/Lockyer Valley
  • Gold Coast
  • North Queensland
  • Sunshine Coast
  • Tropical North Queensland
  • Wide Bay Burnett
  • South East Queensland

WA:

  • Regional Planners Network
Bushland vista in Western Australia regions.
International Planners Network group at an events, standing in a meeting room.

International Planners Network (VIC)

PIA's International Planners Network (IPN) advocates for, represents, and supports international professionals within the planning industry. Acting as a bridge between international planners and Australian planning practices, the IPN fosters a more culturally diverse and inclusive planning sector. It provides a welcoming community for international planners to connect, socialise, and engage within PIA’s professional network.

Email IPN

Urban Data Network

The Urban Data Network (UDN) is a community of practice for planners interested in the intersection of planning and technology. As an initiative of the PIA PlanTech National Working Group, the UDN provides a collaborative space for knowledge sharing, skill development, and professional growth in areas such as spatial data science, GIS, analytics, digital twins, and artificial intelligence.
 
To get involved with the UDN – Join the conversation on LinkedIn and participate in upcoming events. Whether you are data-curious or a technical expert, the UDN offers opportunities to connect and grow, including:

- Quarterly national online meetups,

- State-based in-person events,

- A LinkedIn group for ongoing discussion and networking.

At present, in-person events are concentrated in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, thanks to the commitment of local volunteer PIA members.

For national events you may have missed, such as the launch national event that hosted an expert panel and lively conversation, head to PIA's OnDemand platform.

Get involved

Transport Network (NSW)

The purpose of the PIA NSW Transport Network is to provide a conduit for a groups of members with a shared professional interest in transport planning. The network is a supportive environment to share knowledge, experience and provide a collective group of knowledgeable members on transport planning to support the Division Committee and PIA staff. They help deliver regular topical webinars and briefings and program the bi-annual NSW Transport Symposium. 

The network is also happy to connect with any interstate members with an interest in transport planning. 

Contact the NSW Office to get involved

Establish a network

If you’ve identified a shared interest with fellow members, PIA can facilitate the formation of a special interest network group. To get started contact your local Division Office.