Permaculture Matters offers an internationally recognised Permaculture Design Course (PDC) over twelve days in 2026:

Autumn PDC

March. 21/22 and 28/29

April. 18/19 and 25/26

May. 2/3 and 16/17

You will need to complete at least 80% of the course in order to attain a PDC certificate.

Permaculture Design Course (PDC): Who's it for

Whoever you are, wherever you live, whatever your age, whatever your background, learning about permaculture will give you a new and inspired way to live within your means and the means of the world. Permaculture Matters is offering a Permaculture Design Course (PDC) - a rich, connected, creative course that is for you!

Permaculture: What's it all about

"Permaculture is a philosophy of working with rather than against nature; of protracted and thoughtful observation .... of looking at systems and people in all their functions ..... and of allowing systems to demonstrate their own evolutions." Bill Mollison (2028-2016): researcher, author, scientist, naturalist,

It’s not all about gardening! On our Permaculture Design Course you will:

learn the foundations of permaculture – ethics and principles, - which provide a framework for living your life ethically and sustainably, and providing the best possible outcome for our grandchildren.
cover in depth core competencies (reading the landscape, contour mapping, energy cycling, nutrient cycling, patterns in nature, water harvesting and management, community strategies, permaculture design principles) and their practical application.
complete an individual design, on your “home”, or another place important to you.
work together in a team to produce a group design of local space.
increase your understanding of natural patterns and how to use them to create beautiful and resilient systems in your life.

The benefits

change the way you see the world
strengthen your sense of community
have a positive impact on your mental health
save money! (for example, it cuts down your food costs)
increase the quality of what you eat (organically grown herbs and vegetables are higher in nutrition)
reduce your carbon footprint, which is a gift not only to you, but also to future generations
brings flow and structure to your gardening and your home life
certification in Permaculture Design
have fun
build deep connections with community

Testimonial

Sonya Forrest, a participant of the current PDC says the course is "...an enriching and transformative experience"and provides an "..opportunity to create new connections with like-minded individuals in the community. Permaculture Matters has crafted an exceptional learning experience that goes beyond traditional education."

Scholarships

Up to two places will be made available at no charge.

Eligibiilty: Aboriginal, Torres Straight Islander, Refugee, or Youth (18-22)

Please contact us for more information.

cost and discounts

Standard rate $1450, concession card holders $850.
Early bird, before 20th January, 2026 10% discount: Standard $1305, concession $765
10% discount for up front cash payment.
Payment plans available, please enquire.