Event description as provided by Urban Land Institute Melbourne:

As Australia heads into its next phase of urban maturity it finds itself challenged by the quest for housing and places to live, not just a little bit, but at scale. This is an emerging worldwide discussion.

In Australia a large proportion of its population live within proximity to its coastal edge. Other than Canberra and a handful of inner cityscapes the Australian condition is one of association with its coast and immediate hinterland.

The ULI and event partner Hatch Roberts Day bring to you an insight into landmark models that have informed urban planning and community development over decades and in particular the coastal condition.

The case study of Seaside, Florida, holds a unique place in the recent evolution of town planning and coastal architecture and has had a notable impact globally in the resurgence of timeless town founding and town planning practices.

Seaside is often considered the archetype of the New Urbanism movement, a design philosophy that emerged in the late 20th century as a reaction to conventional suburban development and a desire to create more walkable, mixed-use, sustainable and vibrant communities.

Larry Davis (visiting from the US) who is the Seaside Institute Board of Governors Treasurer and has played an influential role in the shaping of the urban and architectural layout of Seaside, will provide the keynote at this forum. 

Larry will be joined at the forum by several leading Australian town founders who have been inspired by Seaside and/or were recently hosted at Seaside by Larry and Christy Milliken, the Director of the Seaside Institute. 

Following Larry’s presentation, Architect Roger Nelson, will moderate a panel discussion with Larry and the Australian urban development industry leaders on the challenges and possibilities ahead for Australia as it heads towards the challenges of the times.