Urban Design

Politics & Society
The stories hidden in maps
Maps tell stories, help discovery, provoke discussion and can change the way we understand our world. Welcome to Map of the Month

Environment
If Australia wants high-speed rail, it must take regions along for the ride
Even after four decades of studies and debate, Australia is yet to develop a plan that integrates regional cities into a high-speed rail network

Environment
These maps tell us we need to cool our sweltering streets
Our Map of the Month shows the impact of asphalt and concrete on city temperatures, and why we need to ‘de-pave’ and ‘re-plant’ in a warming climate

Sciences & Technology
When it’s hot in the city, let green spaces do the sweating for you
Everyone needs access to urban green spaces, not just those in more affluent areas

Politics & Society
The future of our public housing towers
Instead of demolishing Melbourne’s ageing public housing towers, clever refurbishments could save millions of dollars and provide high-quality public housing

Politics & Society
Bendigo Street and occupation as protest
The Bendigo Street occupation shows that housing activists and local governments can better work together to pursue housing justice

Sciences & Technology
Creating digital twins to save our cities
Digital technologies that allow experts to better predict future city environments may be a key tool in sustainable urban design

Health & Medicine
Australian cities failing on walkability
The World Heath Organization has set targets to promote physical activity but an international study shows Australian cities are built around cars rather than encouraging walking

Environment
Despairing about climate change?
Education is playing a key role in inspiring cities and communities to create better, more resilient places for our climate future

Environment
Liveable Melbourne a blessing amid weary lockdowns
Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns have been among the longest in the world, but Melburnians can be grateful for and protective of their highly liveable city