Who owns public space? How can we best engage with it? And how should it be shaped for the future?

Public space is more than just somewhere to sit or wander through – it is an invaluable resource for connection, learning, entertainment, protest, commemoration and celebration. It is a place where community comes together. But as Melbourne transforms, so too should the way we define and use these spaces.

Open House Melbourne has partnered with the City of Melbourne to present the first 2025 Melbourne Conversations event – This Is Public... Space.

Moderated by Walkley award-winning journalist Dr Jeff Sparrow, join OCULUS Associate Director, and passionate public space advocate, Claire Martin; Director and CEO of Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, Katrina Sedgwick; Chair of Architecture and Urban Design at the University of Melbourne, Kim Dovey; and Associate at Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, Sarah Lynn Rees, as they challenge conventional thinking on what makes a space truly public and unpack the ever-evolving role of public space in our city.

This is Public…Space

Monday 24 February | 6pm–7:15pm

The Edge, Fed Square

Free, bookings essential