BOOKINGS OPEN: 9AM, FRIDAY 4 SEPTEMBER

What makes a place truly welcoming? Great places are designed for everyone. Inclusive design is about far more than accessibility, it is about creating homes, buildings and public spaces that enable people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to participate fully in community life. By combining sustainability with inclusive thinking, we can create environments that are not only environmentally responsible but also welcoming, adaptable and enriching for all.

Join an outstanding panel of architects, urban designers and industry leaders as they explore how thoughtful design can shape healthier, more connected and resilient communities. Through inspiring case studies and practical examples, the forum will examine how inclusive design influences housing, public spaces, neighbourhoods and everyday experiences, demonstrating that good design benefits everyone.

Presented as part of Sunshine Coast Open House 2026, this special community forum celebrates the festival's 2026 theme of Sustainable Inclusive Design. Whether you are a design professional, community leader, student or simply passionate about the future of the Sunshine Coast, this is an opportunity to engage in an important conversation about creating places where everyone belongs.

Speakers include:

  • Christopher Kerrisk, Co-founder, Cerge
  • Tina Kordrostami, architectural designer, policy advocate, and elected Councillor for the City of Ryde
  • John Mainwaring, LFRAIA, Hon PhD UniSC, B Arch (UQ), Director, HMArchitecture
  • Omar Suleiman, Founder and director of Lifestyle Supports
  • Dr Melissa Innes, Associate Lecturer in Management & Human Resource Management, as moderator and MC.