The Centre for Flourishing Cities enables cities, institutions and communities to flourish by recognising the interdependence of human and natural systems. We advance regenerative, evidence-based solutions that strengthen placemaking, restore urban nature and improve population and planetary health.
Through research co-design, collaboration and capacity strengthening, we generate measurable improvements in healthy environments while ensuring no one is left behind.
Our work aligns with the strategic vision of the School of Architecture, Design and Planning and supports Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities, particularly healthy and thriving communities and the protection and restoration of the environment.
We stand at a critical juncture. Our urban environments are currently navigating a "polycrisis"—the simultaneous collision of climate change, biodiversity collapse, and systemic health inequality. To meet this moment, we cannot rely on incremental change. We need a powerhouse for transformation.
At Flourishing Cities, we define a flourishing city as one that enables people and the planet to thrive together. This means strengthening social foundations — ensuring health, equity and opportunity — while operating within ecological limits. Although there is significant work ahead, I am confident that our collective expertise and partnerships can drive meaningful change.
Our Centre brings together architecture, design and planning to address complex urban challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. We work across sectors to co-design regenerative infrastructure, develop intelligent digital interventions, and generate robust evidence to inform policy and practice. Our goal is to translate research into measurable improvements in health, equity and environmental sustainability.
Aligned with Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities, our work supports thriving communities and the protection of natural systems. We are committed to positioning the University of Sydney as a global leader in evidence-based urban transformation.
I invite students, researchers, industry partners and community members to join us. Together, we will move beyond "business as usual" to generate evidence, advocacy and action that creates cities where individuals, institutions, and ecosystems can truly flourish.
