Mega-size timber buildings for public and commercial use are commonplace in Europe and North America. This tradition had been pursued in Australia until the 20th century and only recently has there been the suggestion of a re-emergence. This subject sets out to justify reconsideration of timber construction in present-day Australia and to participate in the global dialogue. Resources in literature, including the Internet, will be made evident and students have an opportunity to meet and hear from professionals involved in the field. The influence of timber use in the design of substantial buildings is examined through a study of the typology of existing ancient and modern timber constructions, with an emphasis on leading-edge timber technologies.