University of Newcastle Hosts Symposium on Nature-Based Regenerative Building Design at First Steps Count
First Steps Count Child and Community Centre was proud to host a half-day event celebrating nature-based regenerative building design on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The event brought together a diverse group of local and international guests, including council members, Indigenous participants, community representatives, and sustainability experts, to explore innovative approaches to building and design through the nature-inspired design of our award-winning building.
The symposium featured keynote presentations, collaborative workshops, and cultural exchanges. Attendees were treated to insights from 15 international experts in sustainability, construction, ecology, and communication, hailing from Malaysia and India, who shared their expertise and perspectives on regenerative design.
The day began with a tour of the First Steps Count building, showcasing its innovative and eco-friendly features. Following this, keynote presentations delved into the importance of nature in design, and the unique approach of First Steps Count integrating biophilic design and community wellbeing, health and healing.
Morning tea, catered by Dundaloo Enterprises, provided an opportunity for attendees to network and reflect on the presentations. The collaborative workshops that followed allowed participants to break into facilitated groups, exploring practical applications of nature-inspired approaches to building design and planning. The event concluded with closing remarks, the presentation of the Biophilia award, and the sharing of resources among participants.
The symposium was supported by a consortium of organisations, including First Steps Count, PIDCOCK, Duber Construction, The University of Newcastle, and the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Media Enquiries:
Clare Brennan, Centre Director
clare.brennan@firststepscount.org
