PlanTech

Definition: PlanTech is simply defined as the digital tools that planners use.

Understanding PlanTech

The impact of rapid advances in digital technologies such as artificial intelligence are being felt across all sectors of society.

Planners need to be actively engaged in the technology conversations as they becomes an ever-greater part of the ways we interact and make decisions.

PIA is committed to leading the profession towards enhanced knowledge and influence over PlanTech decisions and skills, including digital systems, GIS, AI and all other technology that will impact to way the profession works now and in the future. 

PlanTech Briefing Series 2026 - Now Live

Join us for this monthly online event series which explains real tools and technologies shaping planning practice today. Each monthly session brings together a practitioner grounded in planning principles and professional standards, followed by on the ground examples of best practice, their experiences and what they’ve learned along the way. The series is practical, reflective and focused on helping planners build confidence in using digital tools responsibly. 

More details available here

PlanTech Vision Strategy

This document sets out PIA’s vision for a plausible and positive digital future, and importantly, outlines the role PIA will play in supporting members and engaging with industry to help shape this digital transformation over the next two years.

Read here

Urban Data Network

Community of practice for planners interested in PlanTech.

Learn more

PlanTech Principles

To steer the strategy, we developed a set of ten principles.

PlanTech Abstract 

PlanTech Resources

Designed to support planners in integrating technology and innovation into their practice

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PlanTech Briefings

Check out PIA OnDemand to find PlanTech related topics.

Explore now

PlanTech National Working Groups

The PIA PlanTech National Advisory Committee, consisting of 13 volunteer PIA members, has played a pivotal role in addressing these concerns. We extend our thanks to these individuals for their work on the committee.

Claire Daniels – Scientia PhD Scholar (UNSW)
Nicholas Temov – Associate Director, Hames Sharley
Cassia Byrne – PlanSA Lead – Planning and Land Use Services, Department for Trade and Investment
Chris Pettit – Director, City Futures Research Centre, UNSW Sydney
Christopher O’Dell – Analytics Director
Jan Christopher Quing – Senior Consultant at SGS Economics and Planning
Julia Thomson – Senior Policy Planner, City of Adelaide
Lou Hawkins – Manager Planning Services, Victorian Planning Services
Andrew Curthoys – Chair Australasian BIM Advisory Board
Negar Yazdi – Assistant Director, ACT Government
Awais Piracha – Director Academic Programs – Geography and Planning, Western Sydney
Melissa Hensley – Director at Digital Twin
Adam Beck (QLD PlanTech Group Chair) – Head of Digital Urbanism, ENE HU