Practice reflections on the pandemic from South East Queensland

After three years of global economic, health and social disruption, we all breathed a sigh of relief when the World Health Organisation ended of the Global Health Emergency (COVID-19 pandemic) declaration in May 2023. How did this event impact urban planning policy and practice in South East Queensland? What lessons can the planning profession take away from this global event? Have post-pandemic practices translated into new ways of working in our cities and regions? In June 2023, semi-structured interviews were held with three practising planners drawn from different technical and professional backgrounds in South East Queensland. In these interviews, participants were asked to reflect on their experience during this period of global and local change, and share their observations, insights and learnings. The findings are compelling and identify an appetite by practitioners to re-examine fundamental underpinnings of urban policy and practice. The interview process also highlights the need to draw ideas and suggestions on the future of our cities and regions from early career as well as established professionals.

Automated summary

The global pandemic has had significant impacts on urban planning policy and practice in South East Queensland. The findings from interviews with practicing planners indicate a desire to re-examine the fundamental aspects of urban policy and practice, and emphasize the importance of involving both early career and established professionals in shaping the future of cities.