Newport Lakes Stories and Contributive Practice

Australia is embracing regenerative placemaking, with cities like Brisbane and Sydney spearheading urban renewal projects that integrate ecological sustainability with community development. The Regen Places Network strengthens this movement by connecting local initiatives to global expertise, enabling communities to create vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable spaces.

Brisbane: revitalising suburban spaces

Brisbane is revitalising its suburban areas to enhance liveability and environmental resilience.

• Urban regeneration in Chermside and Moorooka: Brisbane is redeveloping suburbs like Chermside and Moorooka into business hubs while preserving their suburban character. These efforts balance increasing housing demand with sustainable urban growth.
• Sustainable growth strategy: The city’s Sustainable Growth Strategy focuses on accommodating a growing population through initiatives that prioritise sustainable development and community engagement.

The Regen Places Network adds depth to these initiatives by promoting local collaboration and leadership. This ensures that suburban regeneration aligns with the cultural and ecological identity of Brisbane’s neighbourhoods.

Sydney: transforming Green Square

Green Square, just 3.5 km south of Sydney’s CBD, exemplifies regenerative placemaking as it transitions from an industrial zone to a sustainable urban precinct.

• Sustainable infrastructure: the 278-hectare redevelopment incorporates green infrastructure, such as parks, rain gardens, and green roofs, which enhance urban liveability while managing stormwater.
• Community-centric design: Emphasising community involvement, the project fosters shared spaces designed to encourage social connections and a sense of belonging.

The Regen Places Network plays a crucial role by offering frameworks and resources that integrate local ecosystems and cultural elements into the redevelopment of urban areas like Green Square.

Lessons in regenerative placemaking

Brisbane and Sydney illustrate key principles of regenerative placemaking:

• Prioritise nature: restoring ecosystems through green infrastructure boosts urban resilience.
• Engage communities: inclusive planning ensures developments meet the needs of residents.
• Think long-term: designs that account for climate challenges and population growth build future-proof communities.

The Regen Places Network enhances these principles by fostering a deep understanding of place through initiatives like the Story of Place program. This approach connects communities with their natural and cultural heritage, ensuring that regeneration efforts reflect the unique identity of each area.

Looking ahead

The revitalisation of Brisbane’s suburbs and the transformation of Sydney’s Green Square showcase how thoughtful, regenerative planning can turn urban spaces into vibrant ecosystems where both people and nature thrive. The Regen Places Network is instrumental in fostering collaboration among local stakeholders, practitioners, and nature to co-create sustainable spaces.

As more Australian cities embrace regenerative placemaking, the network’s role in promoting shared learning and supporting systemic change will remain essential in shaping a resilient and sustainable future.