Urban Exchange Podcast Episode 31 – Resilient Sydney: 33 local governments, one resilience strategy

Dive into the latest episode of the Urban Exchange Podcast, where hosts Paul Wilson and Lina Liakou are joined by Yvette Andrews, strategy and engagement manager for Resilient Sydney, and a key architect of the newly released Resilient Sydney Strategy 2025-2030. Together, they explore what it takes to build a truly resilient city in the face of climate change, natural disasters, and social challenges.

Discover how Sydney’s journey toward resilience has evolved over the past decade, moving from a focus on the built environment to a holistic approach that embraces the natural world, digital innovation, and the diverse voices of its five million residents. Learn about the collaborative process that brought together 33 councils, state and federal governments, and communities from all walks of life – including First Nations peoples and young people – to shape a strategy that addresses both immediate shocks and long-term stresses.

The conversation delves into the importance of inclusive engagement, the integration of traditional knowledge, and the role of digitalisation in modern resilience planning. Hear inspiring case studies, from cultural burning projects to youth-led climate initiatives, and discover how Sydney’s approach offers valuable lessons for cities worldwide.

Whether you’re a city leader, urban practitioner, or simply passionate about the future of our cities, this episode offers a masterclass in building consensus, fostering hope, and creating strategies that stand the test of time. Tune in to find out how Sydney is setting the standard for urban resilience – and why their story matters now more than ever.

Thanks to our sponsors, Sand Technologies, for their support on this episode. To find out more, click here.