2024 PIA WA Awards for Planning Excellence

The 2024 PIA WA Awards for Planning Excellence presentation was held on Friday, 8th November, at The Westin Perth to celebrate with the winners of awards and commendations. Thank you to those who attended and helped celebrate the achievements of their colleagues and the planning profession.

Download the Awards E-Book View the photo gallery

Great Place

St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Element Advisory, ASPECT Studio, Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects and Josh Byrne and Associates

The St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway project revitalises the heart of Kalgoorlie, transforming it into a vibrant community hub deeply rooted in the area’s distinctive historical, cultural, and environmental context.

This project is part of a broader revitalisation of Kalgoorlie’s City Centre, guided by rigorous economic and place studies. These studies informed the driving vision for the development, encapsulated in the statement: “Shaped by Kalgoorlie’s people and potential, our city centre pulses with the energy of a strong region; uniting community and commerce through new experiences, attractions, and special places for ‘Kal life’ to unfold.”

Aspect played a key role in delivering the culturally informed ‘Creative Template’, ensuring that the project was authentically shaped by local stories and heritage. The urban installations are bold and iconic, whimsical yet layered, reflecting the rich tapestry of Kalgoorlie’s identity.

The design integrates innovative features and utilises endemic, climate-appropriate plant species. Additionally, an integrated Aboriginal public art programme has resulted in the creation of a captivating First Nations Public Art Gallery, adding another layer of cultural significance to the space. The space’s colour, life and vitality highlight the potential of regional community revitalisation through a collaborative context-driven design approach.

St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway, ability to foster social cohesion and contribute to a sustainable, culturally rich urban environment cements its status as a Great Place.

Sponsored by Lavan

Strategic Planning Project

Jindee Coastal Village Structure Plan

Estates Development Company and City of Wanneroo

Driven by a vision to create a unique housing estate responsive to its heritage and natural landscapes in the north west corridor of the Perth Metropolitan Region, the Estate Development Company (EDC) undertook a fourteen year journey to not only sell its vision of an integrated “coastal village” but more importantly, gaining the ‘buy-in’ of local and State authorities and builders to deliver a unique planning framework and build form outcomes together with its team of both local and international design consultants.

In this regard, the entrant created its own Form-Based Code based on an urban profile of the transect principles, the Jindee Code, endorsed through an extensive collaboration with authorities and community, including the City of Wanneroo, the Western Australian Planning commission, and Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage. The result is the rezoning of the land to ‘Smart Growth Community’ under the City of Wanneroo District Planning Scheme and more significantly embedded in its structure plan, a Form-Based Code replacing the Residential Design Codes.

Its success is a testament on the ground with development commencing in 2016 and continues to be constructed today. Through its Jindee Architectural Standards which take the place of the Residential Design Codes, the importance of the project is its ability to demonstrate the implementation of the planning framework.

This achievement is well-deserved recognition for a project that has tirelessly pursued a vision that has been evaluated and successfully implemented.

Sponsored by WAPC

Climate Change & Resilience

Empowering Sustainable Development: Insights from Local Planning Policy 1.3

City of Subiaco

Climate Change is affecting everyday life for residents and property owners. The City of Subiaco has tackled this head on and established a local planning policy framework that facilitates and enables its residents to adapt to climate change at a grass roots level. The framework uses an approach which is first in Australia, identifying 14 sustainability measures whilst allowing residents to nominate alternatives. The outcomes include community ownership of local sustainability, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reduced utility costs, urban greening and increased community education on sustainable development.

Sponsored by DevelopmentWA

Stakeholder Engagement

Walmanyjun Cable Beach Foreshore Redevelopment

Shire of Broome

The judges were impressed by the targeted engagement sessions undertaken by the Shire of Broome with the Yawuru people and the youth-specific visioning exercises, including a focus on First Nations children.

Walmanyjun Cable Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Western Australia, with a rich tapestry of interlinking cultural, environmental, coastal, community, tourism and economic factors.

Understanding all the challenges, opportunities, and non-negotiables in depth required the Shire of Broome to implement an original and innovative multilayered engagement process. The judges felt that the Shire's approach to balancing these competing interests for the optimal outcome was an outstanding achievement.

The innovative steps of including traditional owner representatives, the Nyama Buru Yawuru, on the Steering Committee overseeing the project created a high level of transparency. They also ensured First Nations input into determining a balanced, holistic outcome.

The Shire of Broome is congratulated on this innovative exemplar in community engagement and planning.

Community Wellbeing & Diversity

Calista Bike Skills Track

City of Kwinana

This project inspires young community members to experience active travel, such as cycling and scootering. The facility enhances kids' bike riding skills in a safe and fun place. It serves as an educational platform for them to learn basic road rules, empowering them to explore their neighbourhood in later years by cycling.

Planning with Country

Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges Project

Causeway Link Alliance comprising Main Roads WA, Civmec Construction and Engineering, WSP Australia, Seymour Whyte and partner organisations, Department of Transport, 361 Degrees Strategic Engagement and Communications, Hassell, Element Advisory, Indigenous Economic Solutions, Aboriginal Land Services

This exemplary co-designed project which from the outset is based on engagement with the Traditional Owners of the land and waters. From pre-feasibility through site selection to final design and construction, the cultural significance and interpretation of the place has been paramount. The is, demonstrated through every aspect of design. The inclusion boomerang and digging stick pylons and limiting the bridge to only three piers to minimise spiritual disturbance of this important site demonstrates the remarkable scale Causeway Link Alliance’s commitment to interpreting the Noongar culture and history, reversing the usual subservience of culture to budget.

The innovative procurement methodology which permitted stakeholder engagement during the tender phase, enabling proponents to better understand the cultural significance of the project and the site, further demonstrates lengths to which the Alliance has gone to ensure that the local Noongar culture and the significance of the place is integral to the completed project. The completed project includes co-designed public art by leading and emerging Noongar artists, a corroboree space and interpretive signage explaining the significance of the site and sharing site-specific stories, passed from generation to generation. This project is a guiding light for others, demonstrating excellence in Planning with Country for all others to emulate.

Sponsored by Lavan

Planning Research

Improving Australian climate change adaption strategies: learning from international experience.

Dr Francesca Perugia, Professor Steven Rowley, Associate Professor Mohammad Swapan

This AHURI research report is a deserving winner of the Planning Research Award. It addresses a critical aspect of planning essential to the health and safety of our future communities and landscapes. The report presents a pathway for improving the resilience of urban and regional settlements to natural disasters, identifying three key strategic approaches and a framework for adoption across Australia.

By drawing from international case studies and supported by interviews with local stakeholders, this research illustrates how both immediate and long-term planning interventions can greatly enhance the resilience of Australian communities and infrastructure. Congratulations to the AHURI team, Dr Perugia, Professor Rowley, Associate Professor Swapan!

Tertiary Student Project

Liam Page

Broome North Case Study: How the interests and knowledge of First Nations communities can be implemented into urban planning processes.

This research moves beyond simply asking how the knowledge and interests of First Nations communities can be incorporated into planning processes. It illustrates how Aboriginal knowledge has successfully influenced the design and added meaningful value to the outcomes of a master-planned development.

The conclusions and recommendations are grounded in a thorough research methodology, set within well-defined local contexts, allowing for comparison and adaptation to other regions. This well-documented case study sets a benchmark for the engagement and empowerment of First Nations communities in future strategic planning. It is hoped that the findings will significantly influence planning policy and practice across the State.

Young Planner of the Year

Farida Farrag PIA (Assoc.)

Just three years after completing her degree, Farida has become a quietly emerging leader in the industry. Since joining the PIA WA Young Planners Committee in 2021, she has significantly contributed to the position of young planners by mentoring recent graduates, speaking at state conferences, organising networking events, and serving on the UDIA WA Outlook committee, all while managing her daily commitments at Taylor Burrell Barnett Consultancy. The selection panel wishes her the best in her future endeavours in the planning industry.

Sponsored by Department of Planning Lands & Heritage

Planning Champion

Mark Irwin

Mayor Mark Irwin's leadership, advocacy, and innovative approach to supporting planning have been instrumental in the City of Stirling's success in delivering positive outcomes for its community. His commitment to encouraging innovative planning practices has resulted in improved planning outcomes across the city.

His approach models how non-planners in leadership positions can effectively champion the planning profession and contribute to better outcomes for their communities. Notably, he has taken significant steps to promote the role of local government planners, including publicly advocating for their respectful treatment.

Mayor Irwin’s ability to bridge the gap between planners and the public and his dedication to sustainable and efficient urban development makes him the 2024 PIA Planning Champion.

Eric Lumsden Award

Stephanie Tan

Stephanie’s essay comparing planning governance in two Australian jurisdictions, showcased a sound conceptual framework, and the ability to engage in the discipline of systematic, comparative substantive presentation, which is so essential in planning practice. It comes on the back of solid and ascending academic performance, complemented by international exposure and commencement of work in the planning profession.

Performance and Innovation in Development

ONE Subiaco

City of Subiaco, Blackburne Group, Hames Sharley & Planning Solutions

Delivering much needed inner-city density, the Nominees’ collaboration with the City of Subiaco on community benefits and design outcomes have resulted in both a significant high-quality example of density done well, and an outstanding result for the community of Subiaco and West Australians more broadly.

This application demonstrates a vision to bring the Subi Markets back in a modern interpretation, setting the stage for many events for the benefit of the community at large.

Supporting infrastructure delivered in the pavilion and adjoining public realm will make event planning easier, concessions for public and adjoining property accessibility will pave the way for others to also contribute to the space, and other public amenity delivered will provide the community with more options to stay and enjoy one of our longest standing growth centres.

The Judges recognise the nomination for its commitment to collaboration, good design and the design review process, and the delivery of some excellent community-oriented spaces and amenity.

WA Regional Project

St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Element Advisory, ASPECT Studio, Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects and Josh Byrne and Associates

Regional communities, and particularly inland communities, face the constant challenge of high community turnover and the specific loss of young people and families that often create the energy and vibrancy of centres.

In this project the project team have worked over nearly a decade to methodically deliver a community led vision. The vision was carefully developed, with a notable mention to this nomination for its extensive First Nations collaboration.

The outcome, now on the ground and creating a vibrant local space, will ensure children and young people, First Nations people, and broader community have a space to come, enjoy, sit and play, building social cohesion and contributing to community well-being.

In recognising this nomination, the judges want to recognise the hard work that many regional communities face with ever increasing centralisation of services, and the resulting departure of supporting services and industry. The nominees have delivered an impressive revitalisation that will encourage new development and business growth; and a place for the community to call their own.

Sponsored by Urbis

Small Consultancy of the Year

Rise Urban

Rise Urban has consistently proven its ability to manage and deliver multi-disciplinary projects, achieving high-quality planning outcomes rarely associated with small consultancies in Western Australia. The company’s strong focus on relationships, integrity, service, and excellence forms a solid foundation, empowering them to make a positive impact.

Their leadership’s unwavering support for both the planning profession and their staff is truly commendable. Rise Urban is not only an exceptional consultancy but also a fantastic place to work. We wish them continued success in the future!

Large Consultancy of the Year

Taylor Burrell Barnett

Taylor Burrell Barnett pioneered advancements in planning in Western Australia during the 1960s and 70s, and it is evident that while their methods have evolved, their commitment to curiosity, deep thinking, and problem-solving remains steadfast. Their creative and knowledgeable team is empowered to explore every opportunity, ensuring their work makes a meaningful impact today and supports a sustainable, thriving future.

Team members are encouraged to pursue continuous learning and growth in a culture where curiosity is encouraged. Collaboration keeps the team dynamic, while ongoing professional development, mentoring, and feedback create a supportive environment where talent can flourish.

Taylor Burrell Barnett’s professionalism is outstanding, and the breadth and depth of their corporate citizenship are exemplary.

They are worthy winners of the 2024 PIA Large Consultancy of the Year

Local Government Team Bands 2-4

City of Vincent Strategy & Development Team

This nomination exemplifies an innovative and collaborative approach to progressive urban development projects that contribute towards sustainable outcomes and vibrant urbans paces, as well as a demonstrated commitment to improving statutory planning processes and staff training and development.

Furthering sustainable urban design outcomes, the future redevelopment of Leederville’s carparks will inject $300million of investment into the town centre. In addition to this investment in the private realm, the city also supported economic growth and improved our public spaces by contributing over $114,000 in funding for business enhancement projects.

The nomination demonstrates improvements to the administrative processes achieving a 25% reduction in development application processing timeframes over the past 12 months, while ensuring high quality design outcomes are achieved. The implementation of a Green Track priority assessment service has acted to incentivise and improve the sustainable design of homes.

A commitment to staff development is demonstrated through leadership and training programs, mentorship, and growth opportunities within the City.

Sponsored by The Western Australian Local Government Association

Local Government Team Band 1

Town of Port Hedland Planning and Economic Development Team

The Town of Port Hedland's planning team exemplifies outstanding achievement in local government through exceptional innovation and leadership in regional planning. Their pioneering approaches to workforce accommodation and community engagement are models for local government practice. This is particularly evident in their successful negotiation of Community Contribution Agreements to secure vital infrastructure investment. The team's establishment of a regional Design Review Panel and their role in transformative projects like the Hedland Hotel redevelopment demonstrate exemplary professional standards. Their commitment to multidisciplinary collaboration, combined with a strong focus on staff development and workplace culture, has created a highly effective and respected planning service. Through transformational leadership and community-focused solutions, they have significantly elevated the standard of regional planning practice, making them worthy recipients of this award for excellence.

Sponsored by The Western Australian Local Government Association

Leadership and Service Award

Kathy Bonus RPIA (Fellow)

Kathy’s exhibited exceptional leadership in delivering the State Government’s significant planning reform agenda.

Kathy’s ability to lead her team to exceptional results is evident in the outcomes she achieves with and through others. Throughout this reform process, Kathy has enhanced relations and support for planning across all levels of government, industry, and professional organisations by effectively informing and listening to all parties involved.

Kathy’s approach to stakeholder engagement has been exemplary, significantly enhancing the credibility and reputation of the Department of Planning Lands and Heritage and the Western Australia Planning Commission. Her ability to build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders is a clear indicator of her leadership qualities and commitment to service. Kathy is also dedicated to good governance and integrity in the practice of public administration.

In recognition of her outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to service excellence, Kathy deserves to be honoured with this award.

W E Bold Memorial Medal

David Caddy RPIA (Life Fellow)

David has made a significant contribution to the WA planning system over the last 40+ years.

David has been a passionate, confident and highly effective leader and role model to many in the profession. He has been instrumental in the evolution of the State’s planning system and processes to facilitate better outcomes which benefit both the community and industry.

David’s leadership, quiet determination and motivation for improving outcomes seeing him well-respected by professionals in both the private and public sector and establishing him as an excellent role model and educator to all professionals in the industry.

David has always been absolutely committed to the profession and elevating the role of planning in the State and supported the growth of many planners within Western Australia.

He has dedicated his career to the pursuit of planning excellence and the growth of the profession, going about his work with a quiet modesty but innate leadership and determination to achieve results. David contributions have been recognised when he was made a Life Fellow of PIA and awarded the Outstanding Leadership and Service Award for Planning Excellence in 2022.

David embodies the vision of the planners everywhere to create better places to live and work for all Western Australians and is a very worthy recipient of the W E Bold Memorial Medal.

PIA WA President’s Award

Liam Page

Broome North Case Study: How the interests and knowledge of First Nations communities can be implemented into urban planning processes.

This exemplary project embodies the essence of what we cherish in planning, creating better outcomes for all. It goes beyond merely exploring how to incorporate the knowledge and interests of First Nations communities into planning processes. Instead, it demonstrates tangibly how Aboriginal knowledge has successfully influenced design and added meaningful value to the outcomes of a structure planning process.

The strength of this research lies in its comprehensive methodology and well-defined local contexts, which allow for comparison and adaptation to other regions. By providing a well-documented case study, it establishes a benchmark for the engagement and empowerment of First Nations communities in future strategic planning projects.

This Project sets a new standard for inclusive and culturally sensitive planning, showcasing the immense value that can be derived from meaningful collaboration with First Nations communities. It represents a significant step forward in creating more equitable, sustainable, and culturally rich environments.

Minister’s Award

St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway

The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Element Advisory, ASPECT Studio, Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects and Josh Byrne and Associates

The St. Barbara’s Square and Laneway project exemplifies exceptional vision, innovation, and collaboration in the revitalisation of one of Western Australia’s most iconic regional centres.

This transformative redevelopment has breathed new life into the city centre, creating a new opportunity for local business growth and community pride.

Vibrant precincts that attract people to live, work and play are critical to the ongoing success of both urban and regional town centres, and I congratulate everyone involved in this project.

Commendations

Secondary Student Project

Ruth Ann - Rossmoyne Senior High School | Cecil Avenue, Lot 97

Shuen Chan - Rossmoyne Senior High School | HAVEN - CECIL AVENUE, CANNINGTON

Tertiary Student Project

Perth Autonomous Rapid Transit (A.R.T) Corridor

Wilson Holmes

Eric Lumsden Award

Vivienne Ong

Strategic Planning Project

Ashfield Flats Master Plan

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Urbaqua, Shape Urban, MP Rogers & Associates, PGV Environmental and South West Kinships, with the support of the Town of Bassendean, Department of Planning Lands and Heritage, Department of Water and Environment Regulation and the Water Corporation

Stakeholder Engagement

Ashfield Flats Master Plan

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Urbaqua, Shape Urban, MP Rogers & Associates, PGV Environmental and South West Kinships, with the support of the Town of Bassendean, Department of Planning Lands and Heritage, Department of Water and Environment Regulation and the Water Corporation

Improving Planning Processes

Development Application Exercise of Discretion Guidelines

Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, Rise Urban and KO&Co

Climate Change & Resilience

Tree Protection and Management Approach

City of Swan

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City of Vincent Link and Place Guidelines

Hames Sharley in association with UDLA, ARUP, and the City of Vincent

Stakeholder Engagement

Ashfield Flats Master Plan

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Urbaqua, Shape Urban, MP Rogers & Associates, PGV Environmental and South West Kinships, with the support of the Town of Bassendean, Department of Planning Lands and Heritage, Department of Water and Environment Regulation and the Water Corporation

Community Wellbeing & Diversity

City of Vincent Link and Place Guidelines

Hames Sharley in association with UDLA, ARUP, and the City of Vincent

Planning with Country

Subi East: How A New Approach to "Planning With Country" Is Empowering Careers

DevelopmentWA in partnership with Apparatus and Karrda on behalf of the Noongar People through the Subi East Whadjuk Elders Group

Minister's Award

ONE Subiaco

City of Subiaco, Blackburne Group, Hames Sharley & Planning Solutions