If you’ve been in the planning game for a while, you’ll know this: Change never waits for us to catch up.
It’s constant, and right now, it’s accelerating. That’s why the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA)—our peak body for planning professionals—has put together its Foresight Report. Think of it as a roadmap for what’s coming, and more importantly, what we need to do today to prepare.
The report isn’t just theory. It’s practical, forward-looking advice drawn from research, industry insights, and the lived experience of planners across the country. It highlights five big trends that are shaping the way we design, consult, and deliver projects. These aren’t distant possibilities—they’re here, and they’re reshaping our work right now.
As planners, we often juggle competing priorities: housing demand, environmental protection, infrastructure delivery, community expectations. The Foresight Report reminds us that these challenges are interconnected—and that the solutions need to be too. So, let’s break down the five trends that matter most and why they should be on your radar.
1. Climate Resilience Isn’t Optional
Extreme weather events are no longer rare—they’re routine. Planning for resilience means embedding climate adaptation into every decision, from bushfire risk assessments to water-sensitive urban design. It’s not just about compliance; it’s about safeguarding communities.
2. Demographic Shifts Are Changing the Game
Australia’s population is ageing, diversifying, and urbanising. This means new housing models—think build-to-rent, social housing, and mixed-use precincts—must be part of the conversation. Planning isn’t just about land; it’s about people.
3. Crisis Response: Housing Affordability
Housing affordability is at breaking point. The report urges planners to adopt a systems approach—linking land use, infrastructure, and finance. It’s time to move beyond piecemeal solutions and think holistically.
4. Electrified Infrastructure
The shift to renewable energy and electrification isn’t just an engineering challenge—it’s a planning one. Where do we put charging stations? How do we design precincts for low-carbon living? These questions need answers now.
5. Digital Twins & Data-Driven Decisions
Technology is transforming planning. Digital twins, GIS, and predictive analytics can help councils model future scenarios and make smarter decisions. The future of planning is not just physical—it’s virtual.
These trends aren’t abstract—they’re shaping the projects we work on every day. When we help councils future-proof their communities or guide developers through complex approvals, these forces influence every decision. They affect timelines, budgets, and ultimately, the quality of life for the people who call these places home.
Whether you’re a council officer, a developer, or a community advocate, the challenge is clear: adapt, innovate, and collaborate. Planning isn’t just about land use—it’s about creating neighbourhoods where people feel connected, safe, and supported. These trends remind us that planning is a living discipline, and if we act now, we can lead change rather than chase it.
Want to dive deeper?
Read the full PIA Foresight Report – Anticipating Future Trends Shaping Planning and explore how these trends can inform your next project.
