The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) has announced the winners of the 2024 ACT Awards for Planning Excellence.
This year’s awards celebrated three exemplary projects that highlight the profound impact of strategic planning, urban design, and community engagement as well as five highly commended projects and Young Planners.
The Institute says the projects not only showcased the excellence of individual achievements but also reflected broader themes and insights into the value of urban planning.
“This year, the nominations for the PIA ACT Awards have been outstanding. We have seen strong examples demonstrating innovation, resilience, and adaptability within the ACT’s professional practice. These projects truly reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of urban planning in our region,” said 2024 PIA ACT Awards Convenor, Anne Moroney MPIA (Fellow).
“Every day, planners are stretching the boundaries of contemporary best practice, pushing forward with innovative solutions that address the complex challenges of our urban environments.
“The awarded projects this year are a testament to the dedication and creativity of our planning professionals’’.
Award for Planning Excellence for Strategic Planning – East Lake Place Plan (pictured) by Development and Implementation Division within the Environment Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government, Tait Network, Hill Thalis, Lockbridge and Right Angle Studio.
The East Lake Place Plan, awarded for Planning Excellence in Strategic Planning, exemplifies how urban planning can guide the transformation of key precincts.
By integrating the Ngunnawal ‘Story of Place’, this project demonstrates the importance of cultural heritage in shaping future urban landscapes. The plan’s comprehensive framework balances existing features with opportunities for revitalisation, transport-oriented design, and innovation precincts.
This project underscores the planner’s role in creating cohesive, culturally respectful, and forward-thinking urban spaces.
Award for Planning Excellence for Great Place – Salthouse Community Centre by The City Renewal Authority
The Salthouse Community Centre, recognised with an Award of Excellence, highlights the planner’s ability to adaptively reuse historical sites to meet contemporary needs.
This project addresses heritage and ecological challenges while promoting accessible and inclusive design.
The centre has become a beloved community hub in Haig Park, fostering connections and interactions without barriers.
This project illustrates how strategic planning can transform historical buildings into vibrant, multifunctional spaces that serve the community.
Award for Planning Excellence for Planning with Country – Maliyan Park Section 76 Watson by the Development and Implementation, Environment Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, ACT Government
Maliyan Park, awarded for its excellence in Planning with Country, showcases the integration of Ngunnawal culture through design, planting, interpretative signage, and public art.
The engagement process involved Ngunnawal Elders and community members from the project’s inception, ensuring that cultural heritage is honored and integrated into the urban environment.
This project highlights the planner’s role in facilitating meaningful engagement and co-design processes, creating spaces that celebrate cultural connections and community identity.
The Institute congratulated all the winners for their exceptional contributions to the planning profession.
“These projects set a high standard for future developments and underscore the critical role of planners in shaping sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities,” the organisation said in a statement.
