Elly Mackay
27 November 2025: The University of Canberra welcomed academics, industry leaders and government representatives from around the world as it hosted the opening of the 48th Australasian Universities Building Education Association (AUBEA) International Conference – the first time the national event has been held in the ACT.
More than 150 delegates from Africa, Asia, Europe and Oceania arrived on campus for the three-day conference running from 26–28 November.
Hosting rights were awarded following a competitive national application process, with the University selected following a successful bid last year.
This year’s theme, ‘Innovation, Collaboration, and Sustainability in the Built Environment’, sets the tone for an ambitious program of keynote speeches, research presentations, thematic sessions and industry discussions, exploring the future of construction, education and digital transformation.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design, Professor Julian Knowles, said hosting the conference is a major milestone for the University.
“It is an extraordinary opportunity for UC to showcase the strength, depth and global relevance of our work in construction education and research,” Professor Knowles said.
“AUBEA brings together the most influential thinkers and practitioners shaping the future of the built environment, and we are proud to welcome them to Canberra.”
The conference opened last night with a welcome reception in the city, where attendees networked ahead of today’s formal proceedings.
Delegates gathered on campus this morning for registration and a Welcome to Country delivered by Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Della Fraser, followed by opening remarks from AUBEA President Professor Srinath Perera.
ACT Minister Chris Steel MLA addressed the audience during the opening ceremony, alongside representatives from the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, and Massey University. Delegates also heard from keynote speakers Professor Robert Whittaker AM (RMIT University), Distinguished Professor Vivian Tam (Western Sydney University), and sustainability innovator Andrew Crimston.
Professor Knowles said the themes explored throughout the program closely align with the University’s strategic focus on sustainability, digital innovation and industry-engaged teaching and research.
“The built environment is undergoing rapid change – from new digital tools and AI-driven systems to evolving models of sustainable design,” he said.
“Universities play a critical role in preparing the workforce, advancing innovation and supporting industry transformation. AUBEA 2025 allows UC to lead those national conversations.”
Several University of Canberra-led thematic sessions will run across the conference, including panels on women in the built environment and the impact of artificial intelligence on construction education and practice. Parallel paper sessions across all three days will spotlight emerging research in hazard resilience, low-carbon design, smart technologies and innovative teaching approaches.
The University’s commitment to developing the next generation of construction professionals is also reflected in the program. Eight Honours students received grants to attend the conference, while 10 students are volunteering across the event.
The University will also promote its Graduate Certificate in Building and Construction Information Management and highlight its cohort of up to 15 HDR students researching in relevant areas such as Building Information Modelling.
Professor Knowles said student participation demonstrated the strength of the University’s built environment programs.
“We are especially proud that so many of our students are contributing to the conference,” he said.
“Their involvement showcases the real-world impact of our teaching and research, and the collaborative spirit that defines our Faculty.”
One of the anticipated highlights of the event is the gala dinner at the Ann Harding Conference Centre, where Vice-Chancellor The Honourable Bill Shorten will address attendees and six Best Paper Awards will be presented.
As the sector continues to grapple with challenges such as housing demand, climate resilience, skills shortages and technological disruption, Professor Knowles said the conversations taking place at AUBEA 2025 were timely and necessary.
“This conference is not just about sharing research – it is about shaping the future of an industry that underpins every community,” he said.
