Are virtual Conference's still worth attending in a post-COVID era? We think yes.

Several years ago, like the rest of the world we moved our popular Rural, Regional & Remote Conference (you guessed it) online. Turns out, it was a hit.

Given the nature of the content of this Conference it made sense to deliver this online. The audience are planners (and those in related fields) who operate in and for Australia's rural and regional communities. Rather than having to travel for this two day Conference, everyone could now learn and interact with fellow planners from across the Australia all from the comfort of their couch.

Now, several years on from the peak COVID era, we're still delivering this innovative Conference in a virtual setting.

So, why should you attend this year's #PIARuralRegional24?

This year's theme 'Reinvention: Planning in a time of change' will explore how the planning profession can seize opportunities and lead change in our communities. We'll focus on some of the latest rural planning trends and thought leadership from across regional Australia alongside...

Robust, innovative & interactive presentations

Presenters will be shining a light on both the day-to-day and big picture planning issues impacting regional planners. The program will examine everything from regional centres to wineries; PlanTech to climate change; and resilience to rural development.?

7 keynote sessions

We've got 7 keynote sessions where you'll hear from leaders in the field including Michael McKeown , Jenson Plus, Liz Ritchie , Regional Australia Institute (RAI) and Duncan Sheppard , Insurance Council of Australia. And more!

12 Concurrent sessions

You've got choice! Attendees can select from a fantastic array of topics during the concurrent session streams to learn more about the ones that spark their interest the most (and if you can't decide, you'll be able to watch recordings of those that you miss out on live anyway!). Check out all the concurrent speakers you can look forward to hearing from.

Power of virtual connection

The sense of community within the planning profession is second to none. We know connecting with like-minded individuals is an important part of being a planner, so the Conference provides attendees with unique chance to connect virtually with fellow planners nation-wide and exchange insights. It'll be a melting pot of lessons and ideas from across the country.

No-commute attendance

Being virtual means a no-commute professional development opportunity where you can learn from the comfort of your office, or even the couch! All attendees will have access to the full Conference recording for up to three month's post-event, so you can revisit your favourite sessions. Or, if you are unable to make the full program days and times work, you can still catch up in your own time following the event.

Professional Development - Gain up to 10 CPD points

You are eligible for 1 CPD per hour of the program. Have an office pass? Don't worry, we got you! Have the main contact for the office pass get in contact with the PIA team post conference to advise which staff members attended which session, and we can organise CPD points to be added to individual accounts.

The choice is yours

There's Full 2 Day, 1 Day and Office Passes available across all PIA membership and non-member rates, so pick the registration option that best fits your needs.

But the questions is...WHO should be attending?

The program has been curated to ensure there is content for planners nation-wider. So, whether you're an emerging planner, a seasoned professional or working within an allied field, there's topics that will benefit your day-to-day.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions and interact with presenters and fellow attendees to ensure no matter what area of planning you work in - you'll walk away with some insightful takeaways and actionable learnings.?

So...will you meet us online?

Registrations will be open right up until Day Two of the Conference (21 March), so whether you want to join us online live or be able to access the recordings post-program, be sure to secure your front row (virtual) seat now.

Loved the offer of an Office Pass so colleagues could come and go to sessions of most relevance. It was good to know?there would be recordings afterwards as well!"

- 2023 Attendee feedback