Planning has never been more important, or more misunderstood.

From housing affordability and planning reform to artificial intelligence and workforce pressure, planners are increasingly at the centre of public debate. But too often, that debate is shaped by assumptions rather than the people working within the system every day. Myth vs Reality in Planning 2026 brings together insights from 123 planning professionals across Australia and New Zealand to challenge common perceptions and reveal what the profession believes needs to change.