our projects

Projects in the public interest

Working alongside not-for-profit organisations, community groups or individuals seeking assistance with not for profit and community-led projects or public interest cases, we provide assist with:

Projects generated by community organisations or not-for-profits aimed at public good or public interest outcomes
Supporting disadvantaged and marginalised communities with little access to planning and allied professions
Assisting individuals and groups on planning cases that seek an outcome for the public good and in the public interest
Working with and supporting international counterparts across the Indo-Pacific and beyond by sharing knowledge and experience, as invited

Types of Projects we engage in (examples)

Provide project team to assist with design and planning permit application for community housing project for a not-for-profit housing provider
Assist a community group to engage with a strategic plan that their local Council is preparing
Provide technical assistance to assist community to advocate for community infrastructure
Provide technical heritage advice and planning assistance to convert a heritage-listed building for a community use
Prepare a landscape plan for a local school or kindergarten
Provide experts, planning and legal advocacy regarding development proposals of concern to the community
Engage in sharing knowledge with planners and allied professionals across the Indo-Pacific in spatial planning, processes and development proposals

Who Can Register a Project or Case

Not-for-profit organisations, community groups or individuals seeking assistance with not-for-profit and community-led projects or public interest cases can register with us. We also support international counterparts who wish to collaborate or are seeking assistance with projects.

All applications for support from Pro Bono Planners Australia will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and will depend on the availability of an appropriate pro bono planner and/or allied professional.

While the category of public interest is not closed, it is distinguished from purely private or personal concerns and will always involve matters of broader community concern.

As a general guide, Pro Bono Planners Australia has developed a list of potential public interest outcomes that are used to help determine which projects are supported with pro bono assistance. The list is extensive and obviously, no project will cover all criteria listed.

Prospective clients, projects, and/or cases are encouraged to address the following criteria to engage with our service.

Project Criteria

1. Community Need

A demonstrated and significant need within the community for the proposed urban planning or environmental project.

2. Positive impact on vulnerable communities

A direct benefit to vulnerable communities, supporting equitable access to resources and opportunities.

3. Community-centric approach

Prioritises the active engagement and empowerment of diverse community members that is inclusive, equitable, and sensitive to the intersectionality of identities.

4. Locally-led development

The project is driven and guided by local priorities, contexts and understanding of place.

5. Sustainability goals

An alignment with sustainability goals that contribute to the long-term environmental health and resilience of the community.

6. Public health Impact

A positive impact on public health by addressing environmental issues that may affect the well-being of residents.

7. Educational and capacity building opportunities

Opportunities for community education and awareness that provide communities with the knowledge and skills to actively participate in urban planning and environmental initiatives.

8. Collaboration with stakeholders

Active collaboration with various stakeholders, including local residents, community organisations, and government agencies, to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach.

9. Improved urban design

Supporting urban design that promotes accessibility, active lifestyles and quality design.

10. Legal and regulatory compliance

Demonstrated compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring that the pro bono work is conducted ethically and responsibly.

11. Environmental and climate justice

Opportunities to prevent or rectify disproportionate climate change impacts and environmental burdens on marginalized communities.

12. Demonstrable positive environmental impact

Demonstrated measurable positive impacts on the local environment, such as improved air or water quality, increased green spaces, or biodiversity conservation.

13. Innovation and best practices

Does the project incorporate innovative urban planning or environmental practices that could serve as a model for future initiatives.

14. Community involvement in decision-making

Ability to actively involve the community in decision-making processes related to urban planning and environmental improvements.

15. Measurable outcomes

Demonstrated ability to measure quantifiable outcomes, such as reductions in pollution levels, increased green space, or improved community resilience.

16. Community net benefit

A clear understanding of the costs associated with the project and a belief that the benefits to the community outweigh these costs.

17. Long-Term Viability

Demonstrated potential for long-term viability, ensuring that the positive impacts are sustained over time.

Pro Bono Planners Australia respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Country on which we work.

Phone: +61 0459774624

Email: contact@probonoplanners.org.au

ACN 671 335 872 , ABN 82 671 335 872

Featured artwork by Lisa Gervasoni with artist's permission - https://www.gallery247.com.au/lisa-gervasoni 'Aerial oblique view of Hamilton, Victoria' and 'Willaura wetlands to the Grampians'

our projects

Projects in the public interest

Types of Projects we engage in (examples)

Who Can Register a Project or Case

Project Criteria

Register a Case or Project

Pro Bono Planners Australia

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