City transformation for sustainable change
Thursday 23 July 2026 | 12:30 PM
Surfers Paradise
Hear from Rob Adams on the transformation of Melbourne's CBD and how incremental change, guided by a clear long-term vision can have a transformative effect.
In the 1980s, central Melbourne was a CBD (Central Business District) languishing as its vitality drained into the suburbs. Its Council recognised that, if the city was to regain its place amongst the world's great cities and become more resilient, it needed to transition from a CBD to a CAD (Central Activities District). That was the vision, and 40 years later, it is the reality.
This transformation was not achieved through grand projects, but through a process of incremental change - small interventions, based on pragmatic policies and consistently applied over a long period of time.
This seminar will explore how that transformation occurred, the principles that underpinned it, and why these lessons remain relevant to cities seeking to improve their public realm and strengthen their centres over time.
Presented by Rob Adams, Director at Adams Urban.
Rob Adams (AM, LFRAIA, HFPIA) is a multi-award-winning architect and urban designer who, over more than 40 years, helped shape the City of Melbourne into one of the world’s leading examples of best practice in urban design.
Getting there
Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with Translink's journey planner.
Parking may be limited. For metered parking, use the EasyPark app to start, end, and extend your parking direct from your phone to avoid fines. For more information visit City of Gold Coast's Parking page.