Experience Sydney’s Architecture at the 2025 Australian Architecture Conference

The Australian Architecture Conference is set to return from 2–3 May 2025, hosted at Sydney’s iconic Opera House and the University of Sydney’s Seymour Centre.

Building on the energy of a remarkable 2024 event in Melbourne, the flagship conference will once again bring together the brightest minds in architecture, design, and urban innovation. The keynote speakers will set the stage for dynamic discussions that will shape the future of the built environment.

“Architecture plays a critical role in shaping identities, building communities and meeting the urgent demands of both the present and our collective futures,” said the 2025 Conference Steering Committee.

“The 2025 Australian Architecture Conference brings together speakers from around Australia and abroad to share stories of Architecture in Action—stories that demonstrate the capacity of design to instigate positive change, regenerate the planet and chart a sustainable and equitable future for humanity.”

“We’re thrilled to invite architects, students, and industry leaders to Sydney for two days of creativity, collaboration, and dialogue,” says Cameron Bruhn, CEO of the Australian Institute of Architects. “This year’s program will showcase both local and international perspectives, reflecting the dynamic, interconnected nature of architecture today.”

The conference will feature keynote addresses by Jing Liu of New York’s SO – IL, Kevin O’Brien of BVN, Andreia Teixeira of SHoP Architects, Neill McClements of Grimshaw in the UK, and more. Together, they will provide a diverse and inspiring array of insights into architecture’s response to pressing global challenges.

Complementing the conference is a Fringe Program of events across Sydney from 29 April – 4 May:

• Studio Soirées (Thursday 1 May): A behind-the-scenes look at Sydney’s leading architectural studios.
• Sydney Unlocked (Friday 2 May): Walking tours led by project architects exploring sustainable and innovative designs across the city.
• Archi-Party (Friday 2 May): At Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, where architecture meets celebration.

Brunches, exhibitions and more designed to engage and inspire attendees.

MEET THE 2025 SPEAKERS

Jing Liu (USA), Co-founder, SO – IL

A New York-based architect and co-founder of forward-thinking practice SO – IL. Jing has led projects addressing socio-political challenges in urban design, such as the Martin Luther King Jr Library in Cleveland, as well as cultural landmarks like the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation.

Vinu Daniel (IND), Founder, Wallmakers

Founder of Wallmakers, an Indian practice renowned for sustainable and cost-effective architecture. The practice has crafted eco-conscious projects for over a decade and was named the only Indian practice in ArchDaily’s 20 Young Practices of 2020.

Kevin O’Brien (AUS), Principal, BVN

An architect and principal at BVN, Kevin is a leading advocate for informed, intersectional design practice. His work integrates cultural influences and technical excellence, with projects including Kith and Kin, Blak Box and Brisbane South State Secondary College.

Andreia Teixeira (USA), Associate Principal, SHoP

An associate principal at New York City-based SHoP Architects, Andreia has led numerous prestigious workplace projects, including the Atlassian Headquarters in Sydney, with a focus on technology-driven design.

Neill McClements (UK), Partner, Grimshaw

A partner at Grimshaw with more than 25 years’ experience in rail, metro, and infrastructure projects. His portfolio includes the prize-winning Elizabeth line in London and offers insights into complex network planning and innovative infrastructure design.

Fatou Kiné Dieye (RWA), Independent Expert Consultant and Advisor

A built environment consultant specialising in Sub-Saharan Africa’s next generation of green and inclusive cities. Fatou has led transformative programs such as Swiss Cooperation’s construction industry transformation program for Africa’s Great Lakes Region.

Dieter Leyssen (BEL), Urban Sociologist & Partner, 51N4E

Partner at Brussels-based practice 51N4E, Dieter has led adaptive reuse projects including the Saint Nazaire submarine base and B401 viaduct in Ghent. He co-founded studio Acte in 2019.

Harold Vermeiren (BEL), Partner, 51N4E

A Brussels-based architect whose work at 51N4E explores design impact through details. He has implemented co-development approaches across projects and programs, and also co-founded studio Acte.

Hugh Tennent and Ewan Brown (NZ), Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects 2024 Gold Medallists

Founders of Tennent + Brown Architects, the Wellington-based duo were awarded the 2024 Gold Medal for their commitment to radical sustainability and bicultural collaboration since establishing their practice in 2003.

More speakers and program updates will be released in the coming weeks.

For full pricing and event details, visit: conference.architecture.com.au/info