As communities continue to evolve, many individuals are disengaging from traditional participation models delivered through sports clubs, leisure centres, and aquatic facilities. To increase physical activity and community engagement, we need to rethink how we design and activate our spaces.

“Active Places” focuses on creating inclusive, equitable, and engaging environments—across cities, towns, schools, workplaces, and recreational spaces—that encourage movement, participation, and healthier lifestyles. At NSC25, this stream will bring together global thought leaders, architects, urban designers, health professionals, planners, and local government agencies to explore innovative approaches to creating active environments that enhance community health and wellbeing.

Keynote Sessions:

Place-Based Strategies to Activate Communities

Jean-François Laurent (Secretary General, TAFISA) shares the global Active Cities Framework, paired with Sport New Zealand’s national initiatives to transform local places into vibrant hubs of activity.

Active Urban Design and Policy Impact

Featuring the Heart Foundation’s 4th Blueprint for an Active Australia, presented by global expert John Cairney, Director, Queensland Centre for Olympic and Paralympic Studies. This keynote emphasizes the critical role of urban planning in promoting active lifestyles.

Panel Discussions:

Reimagining Western Sydney

With insights from Western Sydney Moving, this panel includes Lori Modde (Chair, WSYD), Lauren Nicholls (Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue), and Scott Walters (Western Sydney PHN), who explore place-making, infrastructure investment, and inclusive community development.

Designing Active Urban Spaces

Leading architectural voices including Sarah Slattery (AJC Architects), Pete Spence (Carabiner Architects), and Dr Georgina de Bejeau (Tract Consultants) share best practices in urban design for activity, accessibility, and public engagement.

Workshops and Deep Dives:

From Policy to Provision – A Systems Approach

John Oxley (CEO, Life Leisure UK) and Dr Louise Baldwin (Health and Social Change Australia) explore how collaborative, cross-sectoral planning leads to sustainable active infrastructure and positive social outcomes.

Parks and Open Spaces – The Lungs of Community Wellbeing

Hear from Golf Australia and community experts on how parks, golf courses, and green open spaces are vital assets in supporting mental health, physical activity, and social connection.

PitchFEST: Innovation Meets Real-World Challenges

Four solution providers pitch their ideas to answer the question: “What innovative strategies can create more active places with lasting impact?”

Facilitated by Sue McGill, Places & Spaces Lead at the Australian Sports Commission.