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. This announcement marks the first four keynote speakers, setting 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, and Neill McClements of Grimshaw in the UK. Together, they will provide a diverse and inspiring array of insights into architecture’s response to pressing global challenges.
MEET SOME OF THE 2025 SPEAKERS
Jing Liu is a New York-based architect and co-founder of forward-thinking practice SO – IL. She has led projects that address 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.
Kevin O’Brien is an architect, a principal at BVN and a leading advocate for informed, intersectional design practice. Known for his multi-disciplinary practice, he integrates cultural influences and pursues technical requirements as a matter of excellence, shaping iconic projects such as Kith and Kin, Blak Box, and Brisbane South State Secondary College.
Andreia Teixeira is an associate principal with the New York City-based practice SHoP. She has led numerous prestigious workplace projects, including the Atlassian Headquarters in Sydney, focusing on technology-driven design.
Neill McClements is a partner at Grimshaw with over 25 years of experience spanning rail, metro, and high-profile infrastructure projects, including the prize-winning Elizabeth line in London. Neill’s insights on complex network planning offer a unique perspective on innovative infrastructure design.
More speakers and program updates will be released in the coming weeks. View the full list of first release speakers at https://conference.architecture.com.au/
Complementing the conference is a Fringe Program of events across Sydney from 29 April-4 May:
- Studio Soirées: A behind-the-scenes look at Sydney’s leading architectural studios.
- Sydney Unlocked: Walking tours led by project architects exploring sustainable and innovative designs across the city.
- Archi-Party: at Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, where architecture meets celebration.
- Brunches, exhibitions, and more designed to engage and inspire attendees.
- Formal learning opportunities, with attendees able to earn formal CPD points during the Conference.
