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10 July 2026
The built environment is entering another period of profound change. As climate risks intensify, housing pressures continue to grow, digital infrastructure expands, and expectations around regenerative and circular design evolve, the questions facing our industry have become increasingly complex.
The 2026 Sustainability Summit brings these challenges together in one day of expert discussion, debate and practical insight.
Held on 12 November 2026 at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, the Summit will feature eight expert panel discussions and two keynote presentations, giving delegates the opportunity to earn 10 Formal CPD points while engaging with some of Australia’s leading voices in sustainable architecture, design and construction.
Presented alongside the 20th anniversary Sustainability Awards, the Summit has become one of Australia’s leading forums for professionals committed to shaping a more resilient, regenerative and sustainable built environment.
Explore the issues shaping the next decade at the Sustainability Summit
This year’s program has been developed around the issues currently transforming practice across architecture, planning, engineering, development and construction.
Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Resilience
How can our cities work with nature rather than against it? This session explores green infrastructure, urban waterways, biodiversity restoration and nature-based approaches to improving resilience against heat, flooding and climate impacts.
Waste Reduction as an Economic Opportunity
Circular economy principles are rapidly moving from aspiration to commercial reality. This panel examines how waste minimisation, material recovery and smarter procurement can unlock economic value while reducing environmental impact.
Normalising Regenerative Design in the Built Environment
As sustainability evolves, regenerative design is emerging as the next frontier. This discussion explores how projects can move beyond reducing harm to actively restoring ecological systems and creating lasting environmental and social value.
The Expansion of Data Centres: Implications for Suburbs and Sustainability
Australia’s digital economy is driving unprecedented demand for data centres. This session examines the challenges surrounding energy consumption, water use, urban planning and balancing technological growth with environmental responsibility.
NSW Housing Pattern Book: 12-Month Review
One year after its introduction, what impact has the NSW Housing Pattern Book had? This panel evaluates its role in improving housing affordability, sustainability and delivery while considering opportunities for refinement.
Community Engagement and the Renewable Energy Transition
Community support is becoming critical to the success of renewable energy projects. This session explores why opposition occurs and how meaningful consultation can help deliver a more equitable energy transition.
Designing for Fire Resilience in a Changing Climate
As bushfire risk continues to evolve, so too must our buildings and communities. This discussion considers how design, planning and construction practices are adapting to increasing climate-driven fire risks.
Skills, Supply Chains and Capacity in Sustainable Construction
Can industry deliver on growing sustainability expectations? This session examines workforce capability, material supply, procurement and the practical constraints influencing sustainable construction across Australia.
Two keynote presentations from industry leaders
The Summit will also feature two keynote presentations that explore both the evolution and future direction of sustainable design.
One keynote traces the journey from passive solar design through sustainability, decarbonisation, circularity and regenerative thinking, examining how the industry’s priorities have evolved over the past five decades and asking what comes next. Presented by last year’s Lifetime Achievement winner Professor Deo Prasad.
The second keynote, Design for Climate, Design for Change, presented by architect Carol Marra, explores how architecture can respond to an increasingly volatile climate through resilient, place-based design. Drawing on vernacular precedents and contemporary case studies, the presentation examines practical responses to bushfire, flooding, heat and extreme weather.
Each keynote presentation is accredited for 1 Formal CPD point.
Earn 10 Formal CPD points in one day
Attendance at the full Summit provides delegates with the opportunity to earn 10 Formal CPD points:
- 8 accredited panel sessions
- 2 accredited keynote presentations
For architects and design professionals approaching annual CPD requirements, the Sustainability Summit offers one of the most comprehensive single-day CPD opportunities available.
Flexible access after the event
The 2026 Sustainability Summit will be delivered exclusively as an in-person event and will not be livestreamed. However, every session will be professionally recorded. Registered delegates will receive post-event access to the recordings, allowing them to revisit presentations or catch up on sessions they may have missed during the day – plus claim formal CPD points.
Register now
The conversations shaping tomorrow’s built environment are happening now.
Join Australia’s sustainability leaders on 12 November 2026 at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney for a full day of insight, debate and practical learning—and earn 10 Formal CPD points while you’re there.
Registrations are now open. Secure your place today.
About the Sustainability Summit
Now in its 10th year, the Sustainability Summit is a day-long formal CPD education program covering the entire sustainability spectrum within the built environment. Presented by industry experts and professionals who aim to educate, inspire and ignite learning within the Australian Architecture and Design community, the Summit will be hosted at The Fullerton Hotel, Sydney on 12 November 2026. Book your ticket here.
Originally published on Architecture and Design: https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/editorial/industry-news/the-2026-sustainability-summit-program-has-been-announced
