The Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) celebrated the nation’s most outstanding landscape projects at its annual Festival of Landscape Architecture, held in Lutruwita/Tasmania on Tuesday, 21 October 2025.
This year, 36 awards across 17 categories highlighted visionary designs that emphasise community engagement, respect for Country, and climate-positive outcomes.
AILA National Jury Chair Kate Luckraft praised the winning teams for their innovative collaborations that seamlessly integrate landscape architecture with community voices, First Nations wisdom, and academic research.
She noted: “Across the board, projects enriched by First Nations collaboration and interdisciplinary thinking exemplify how landscape architects are shaping resilient, climate-conscious places that reflect a deeper understanding of Country and community.”
The Living Lab Northern Rivers (LLNR) project, developed by the University of Technology Sydney in partnership with local stakeholders, was honoured with the Award of Excellence for Community Contribution — the highest accolade in that category — as well as a Regional Achievement Award.
Established on Bundjalung Country after the devastating 2022 floods, LLNR facilitates sustainable and resilient opportunities through a permanent shopfront and a mix of reports, exhibitions, design studios, and workshops.
The jury celebrated LLNR as a “groundbreaking hybrid model of research, co-design and practice” setting a new standard for climate adaptation and community-driven transformation.
The Wagonga Inlet Living Foreshore in Narooma, NSW, designed by REALMstudios with leadership from Eurobodalla Shire Council, earned dual honours with the Climate-Positive Design Award of Excellence and the Land Management Award of Excellence.
This project pioneers nature-based coastal protection by replacing a failing seawall with strategies such as living shorelines, saltmarsh rehabilitation, oyster reef restoration, and bank stabilisation.
The jury hailed the initiative as “an outstanding example of coastal protection in harmony with nature, culture and community,” noting that it restored over 3,000 square metres of habitat and bolstered Indigenous ranger empowerment through strong partnerships.
Dominating the gardens category, two Victorian projects received accolades for their exemplary design and environmental sensitivity.
Green Our Roof by Hassell Studio and Hedge House by Emergent Studios (Bush Projects) each received a Landscape Architecture Award, showcasing innovative approaches to urban greening and sustainable garden design.
List of Winners
Award of Excellence – Community Contribution
- Living Lab Northern Rivers (University of Technology Sydney and Living Lab Northern Rivers)
Regional Achievement Award
- Living Lab Northern Rivers (University of Technology Sydney and Living Lab Northern Rivers)
Climate-Positive Design Award of Excellence
- Wagonga Inlet Living Foreshore (REALMstudios / Eurobodalla Shire Council)
Land Management Award of Excellence
- Wagonga Inlet Living Foreshore (REALMstudios / Eurobodalla Shire Council)
Landscape Architecture Awards – Gardens
- Green Our Roof (Hassell Studio)
- Hedge House (Emergent Studios / Bush Projects)
AILA’s Festival once again confirmed landscape architecture’s vital role in fostering resilient environments that honour culture, strengthen community ties, and respond proactively to climate challenges.
