Melbourne-based professionals are invited to take part in a ‘Missing Maps Map Party’ on Monday, 1 December.

The event, run by the Planning Institute of Australia’s (PIA) Urban Data Network (Victoria) and sponsored and hosted by AURIN, will bring together urban planners, data enthusiasts and others to help put vulnerable communities on the map.

When disasters strike areas around the world that lack reliable maps, it can hard or almost impossible for emergency responders to deliver timely aid.

The Missing Maps initiative gives volunteers the skills to trace roads, buildings, and infrastructure on OpenStreetMap, producing open data that can be used by humanitarian organisations.

Monday’s session (starting 5:45pm) will focus on mapping to support response efforts and help recovery teams reach isolated communities.

Those taking part will be given a tutorial on using GIS tools with assistance from mentors.

Participants should bring their own laptop and charger, set up an OSM and HOTS task manager account beforehand and undertake a short tutorial before attending. Pizza will be provided.

Registration can be done online. The cost is $10 for PIA members and $20 for non-members.