The Australian Institute of Architects has unveiled an exciting lineup for its upcoming 2026 Australian Architecture Conference, titled "Together. Or Not at All?" This event promises to be a thought-provoking gathering, bringing together renowned architects and scholars from Australia and abroad to discuss the future of the profession.
The Power of Conversation
One of the key themes of the conference is the importance of conversation in advancing architecture. As the Institute highlights, architecture is often a solitary pursuit, but true progress comes from engaging in dialogue and sharing ideas. This event aims to foster exactly that, creating a space for architects to come together and have the "profession's most important conversation" in a decade.
Shaping the Future
The invited speakers are an impressive bunch, each with their own unique perspective and expertise. Ilze Wolff and Heinrich Wolff, for instance, lead a transdisciplinary research practice in South Africa, exploring the intersection of design, teaching, and heritage consulting. Their work is driven by a philosophical commitment to developing an architectural practice with real impact.
Simon Pendal, an Australian architect based in Fremantle, takes a thoughtful approach to his projects, focusing on small-scale, contextually sensitive designs that leave a lasting impression. Meanwhile, Simon Quilty and Jimmy Frank Jupurrurla bring a crucial Indigenous perspective to the conference. Quilty, as chief operational officer at Wilya Janta, challenges conventional housing models, advocating for Aboriginal-led design that considers the deep connection between land, culture, and the built environment. Jupurrurla, a Warumungu man from Tennant Creek, brings a wealth of knowledge and insight gained from his lived experience, offering a unique and essential perspective on housing and community life.
A Diverse and Dynamic Lineup
The conference also features Carroll Go-Sam, a Dyirbal gumbilbara bama architect from North Queensland, who is currently researching Indigenous social housing and climate resilience. Go-Sam will facilitate a panel discussion between Quilty and Jupurrurla, adding further depth and diversity to the event.
Additionally, Patrick Kennedy and Rachel Nolan, founding partners of Kennedy Nolan, bring their wealth of experience and design expertise to the conference. Kennedy has been actively involved in shaping the Australian Institute of Architects and has taught at the University of Melbourne, while Nolan's contributions to the profession include her design leadership and commitment to creating a positive workplace culture.
A Collaborative Effort
The 2026 program is shaped by a dedicated steering committee, comprising Andrew D'Occhio, Gina Engelhardt, Shaneen Fantin, Jack Gillmer, Blake Hillebrand, Ian Moore, Debjani Sarkar, David Wagner, and Cameron Bruhn. They are supported by a fringe committee, including James Du Plessis, Dr. Ashley Paine, Dr. Cecilia Bischeri, Hudson Smith, Dr. Kirsty Volz, Liehan Janse van Rensburg, Prof. Paul Loh, Sam Bowstead, Senlina Mayer, and Yolande Vorste.
This collaborative effort ensures that the conference program is diverse, engaging, and reflective of the many facets of architecture today.
A Thought-Provoking Experience
The 2026 Australian Architecture Conference promises to be an inspiring and intellectually stimulating event. With a focus on conversation, collaboration, and the exploration of critical issues facing the profession, it is sure to leave a lasting impact on attendees. Personally, I think it's a fantastic opportunity for architects and enthusiasts to come together, learn from one another, and shape the future of their field. It's an event not to be missed!
