Politics of Public Space Volume 3

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The Politics of Public Space is a quarterly publication that explores urban discourse through transcripts reflecting on the city. Edited by the nonprofit design and research practice OFFICE, it began in 2018 with informal lectures in contentious public spaces across Melbourne. Every Wednesday, students and the public gathered for discussions themed around the Politics of Public Space. Thirty-one speakers from diverse fields—architecture, law, activism, urban design, and more—have contributed varying perspectives on the city. Each issue delves into new investigations stemming from these discussions. In July, a second wave of the virus and subsequent restrictions brought Melbourne to a standstill, exposing the vulnerabilities of the state, city, and its residents. This volume addresses these challenges by compiling talks held before the pandemic with recent interviews. Kate Shaw highlights the government's attitude towards public housing tenants through the lockdown of housing towers. Tony Birch discusses the Indigenous protest movement at the Shrine of Remembrance, while Nicole Kalms presents data on women's experiences in public spaces. Sarah Lynn Rees emphasizes the importance of respectful engagement with Traditional Owners in urban interventions. Additionally, Andy Fergus and Brighid Sammon critique planning failures in Melbourne's development, and Philip Brophy addresses broader shortcomings in the built environment profe