I had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Engagement Conference in Melbourne — always one of the most energising events on the engagement calendar. Alongside catching up with colleagues from across the sector, I particularly enjoyed Bernard Salt’s keynote on demographic change and Australia’s emerging “next normal.” His reflections on population shifts, urban renewal, and community identity were spot on for anyone working in place-based engagement.

It was inspiring to see the breadth of projects being delivered across Australia, each one showing how thoughtful engagement shapes better outcomes. And of course, it was a proud moment to watch Cumberland’s Guildford Laneway project recognised with an IAP2 Core Values Award during the conference.

A terrific few days all round — and plenty of ideas I’m bringing back into my work with ERIS Consulting as we head toward 2026.

Keynote speaker Bernard Salt addressing the audience at the 2025 Engagement Conference in Melbourne, sharing insights on Australia’s demographic future.

In November 2024, the Westmead Master Plan Engagement project received a Highly Commended award in the Stakeholder Engagement category at the Planning Institute of Australia’s NSW Awards for Planning Excellence. I was part of the engagement team at Cumberland City Council during this project, and it was a real privilege to be there on the night as the work was recognised.

The SMART Cumberland Program was also acknowledged with a Highly Commended award in the Technology and Digital Innovation category – a great reflection of the talent, creativity and collaboration across the Place and Economy and Urban Strategy and Planning teams.

Image: PIA NSW Awards for Planning Excellence 2024 – official event photography.

Cumberland Staff at the PIA NSW Awards 2024