Shadow Minister for Planning Cladding Safety Victoria Bill 2020

The Parliament will soon be debating the recently introduced Cladding Safety Victoria Bill 2020.

As readers will be aware, in response to the Neo 200 building fire caused by dangerous combustible cladding, Victorians were shocked to learn that dangerous combustible cladding was used on buildings throughout the State, displaying a failure of the Victorian Building Authority VBA) in regulating the building industry and ensuring the use of safe materials.

The government’s response was to establish the Victorian Cladding Taskforce (VCT) to identify buildings wrapped in this dangerous material, and to rectify this issue through Cladding Safety Victoria (CSV) – a unit within the VBA, that was formed last year.

I have previously called for CSV to be setup as a separate statutory entity, to avoid potential conflicts. For example, a practitioner disciplined by the VBA might appeal that decision based on the conflict of interest where the VBA (via CSV) had acted incorrectly/too quickly etc. to fix the building without giving that original practitioner an opportunity to respond (i.e. a denial of ‘natural justice’). This type of situation would cause enormous difficulty and possible delay to decisions and rectifications.

I fully support that owners who bought in good faith should not have to foot the bill to remove dangerous cladding, as their buildings were signed-off for occupancy through the regulatory framework set up by the Victorian Government, the VBA. Most owners have no capacity to fund these urgent rectification works, and it is unfair to expect them to. People ought to be able to rely on the regulator to ensure that their building is safe for themselves and their families.

Funding of $300million has been allocated by the Andrews government, which intends to double this amount to a total of $600million through additional revenues raised from an incremental Cladding impost to the Building Permit Levy. This could potentially add millions of dollars extra to projects over the next five years. The Opposition opposed this tax increase, it wasn’t necessary and the extra funds for required for rectification should have drawn from consolidated revenue.

This Bill seeks to establish a separate Body Corporate entity, called Cladding Safety Victoria (CSV), to administer the cladding rectification program with improved governance to the current status of CSV as a department within the VBA. CSV will be

Tim Smith Victorian Shadow Minister for Planning

responsible for prioritising of properties requiring cladding rectification work and determine amounts of financial assistance for each project.

The VBA collects the Building Permit Levy and will transfer the Cladding levy portion to CSV.

As stated earlier, the Liberal Nationals opposed this Cladding rectification increment to the Building Permit Levy, which applies the new cladding impost to building works in excess of $800,000 (unless it is in regional Victoria). It is a tax grab to pay for the failure of the VBA. Why on earth would we want to impede developments by imposing a new tax, when we need the property sector to play a leading role in our economic recovery in a postCovid environment?

Further, it concerns us greatly that the Treasurer has the power to transfer “excess” money, beyond what is required to rectify the cladding debacle, back into the Consolidated Fund. We believe that if the Treasurer deems there is “excess” money, it should be returned to those who paid it. Also, under this Bill, the VBA will be permitted to deduct an “administration” fee for handling the money, and there must be clear transparency over what is sure to be a significant money trail. If there is one thing we’ve all learnt through the bungled management of the Covid hotel quarantine program and the hopeless failure of our State’s contact tracing system, it’s that we cannot trust this government to deliver the basics in sound public administration. At the very least, accountability with respect to the apportionment of public funds by electorate should be transparent, to ensure no mis-use of public funds or, to use the vernacular, ‘pork barrelling’.

I continue to be amazed that this shambolic government intends to keep secret the identity and location of buildings that will benefit from public money in rectifying their cladding, just as I have been concerned that there is no transparency of clad buildings to prospective property purchasers. Other jurisdictions have managed without adverse consequences to ensure prospective buyers are informed, and the same should happen in Victoria in a way that protects the building and its inhabitants from the threat of arson..

Then again, competent, transparent and honest government has been absent in the state of Victoria for a long time, and this Covid crisis has shown just how poor, and politicised, the internal processes and the machinery of the state government has become over many, many years.

11 Questions ? for 11 Professionals

People

Editor’s Introduction

Seeking both enlightenment and entertainment, ..and fearing a less-than-full Revue edition (in the absence of the VPELA conference papers),

I decided to approach a ‘cross section’ of members and gain both some career-focused and some lighter responses on who, and how they function. Our responders were ‘randomly’ selected, drawn roughly in the proportions of the membership base. ‘From’ planners, lawyers/ barristers, engineers, and an urban designer; ‘From’ DELWP, Local Government, and private practice, and ‘From’ senior level to mid-level in career.

The 11 questions for 11 professionals explored (in overview), their career paths, asked about the persons who have influenced their careers; asked some views on the planning and development system, and some personal insights.

These answers and the stories behind, provide lessons in finding your passion and thinking long term. In tertiary studies, our 11 professionals have qualifications ranging across law, architecture, chemical engineering, civil engineering, town planning, science, music and business. From those studies they have taken different tracks to where they are today, and where they will go later.

What a delightful set of responses about favorite film, book and music! Some surprising and entertaining revelations about binge watching in the lockdown, which I will leave you to read. (Mine was catching up with The Crown.)

My great thanks to the generous contributors, (in alphabetical order) Julia Bell, Lucy Eastoe, Julian Edwards, Jane Homewood, Joseph Indomenico, Hilary Marshall, Carlo Morello, Tim Nicholls, Emma Peppler, Tyrone Rath, and Nick Tweedie.

Dr. Jane Homewood, DELWP

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I studied Architecture and Urban Design, and recently completed a PhD at the University of Melbourne and studied Planning at RMIT. My PhD is called the Authorship of Space – it is about the transformation of inner Melbourne from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s. What stands out is the lessons we can learn from inner Melbourne’s radical transformation over this time and lessons that are relevant today as we need to reimagine and rebuild our capital city. Minister Wynne was a key player over the research period, so it has been invaluable working with him as Planning Minister while I was studying.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

During my career, I have worked in the public and private sectors focusing on urban development and city development. I have been fortunate to work in local and state government in planning, urban development and renewal across metropolitan Melbourne and NSW, and in the private sector on international urban development projects. Highlights have been my role as Director of Planning at the City of Yarra, working with Arup in Singapore, Malaysia, and the UAE, and being part of the Priority Development Panel. Prior to joining DELWP, I worked at Urbis to lead social planning in Melbourne which was a great opportunity and privilege to see how such a highly successful and skilled company operates.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

I have worked with wonderful mentors including Nonda Katsalidis, Geoff Lawler at the City of Melbourne, and Lydia Wilson at the City of Yarra who stand out. All three had an absolute passion for cities, communities and making better places that were prosperous and inclusive, and they encouraged me to strive for better ideas and better solutions. Charlie Perkins sent me to Alice Springs when I was 16. I stayed with Dougie Scott who led Aboriginal housing projects. He took me to Aboriginal settlements and fringe settlements, which had a profound impact on me. I was at school in Canberra, a pristine, clean, and orderly city. I was ignorant that such poverty, racism, and disadvantage existed in Australia. I felt sorry and guilty, and it changed me. Scott said to me, we don’t want pity, that won’t help – if you have skills you can share to help us achieve self-determination, that is important. I have carried that with me ever since, and I have passed the lessons on to my children, two of whom have all lived and worked in Aboriginal communities. It is important we do whatever we can do to empower Aboriginal self-determination. Who better to advise us on how to care for country?

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

The current commitment and response to COVID19 by the Victorian Government to embrace and invest in planning reform are positive. Over the past six months, the government has established the Building Victoria’s Recovery Taskforce and the Minister has approved over $7 billion worth of planning permits where he is the responsible authority. State Planning Services is also managing over 400 planning scheme amendments, 37 Environment Effects Statements, and assessments and referrals for wind farms, quarries and major infrastructure projects including the Suburban Rail Loop. This work is critical in supporting the construction industry and all the Victorians who work in this critical industry to the Victorian economy. I am constantly reassured by the ongoing hard work and commitment of the Planning Group to do the important work they do.

5. Ifyoucouldchangetwothingsabouthowweplanourcities, towns or regions, what would these be?

I would introduce earlier engagement and input from the community in strategic planning, and reforms to minimise delays for refusals and approvals as a result of unclear planning controls and legal disputes.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I am positive for Melbourne. Melburnians love their city and will do whatever they can to recover from the pandemic and ensure that Melbourne prospers again. Managing population growth while maintaining what makes Melbourne so attractive and ensure it is sustainable will be a huge challenge in the future, but I think we can do that.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)intheremote /confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I really miss the interaction with all the staff and planning and industry colleagues. I miss family, friends, swimming with my swimming squad, riding to work and going out. I think we will all spend more time working from home and more people will work remotely and take advantage of great places to live in rural and regional Victoria. I think that will be a good thing. We quickly adapted to new systems and platforms and the paperless office – I will be happy when we can have more face to face meetings and spend less time on Teams.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas? Shaping cities and places is an important and great profession to be in.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work? Family and friends, swimming and going to our farm. I seek experiences in different sectors to broaden my understanding of planning challenges from different perspectives and keep in contact with the Melbourne School of Design

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

Midnight Oil, 1987,’Beds are Burning’.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘binge-watched’anyTV series and if so, what? what was the attraction?

Jane Campion’s Top of the Lake: beautiful landscapes, great actors, and COVID escapism. Phil Jones, the associate producer, is a friend and neighbour.

Dr. Jane Homewood is Executive Director, Statutory Planning Services, DELWP

Nick Tweedie SC, Barrister

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I was born and raised in Western Australia, so I studied at the University of Western Australia. What amazes me in retrospect was how little of what I studied had any relevance to actually working as a lawyer. It was a bit like learning to be a tradie by watching the Block.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

I did my articles at the Crown Solicitor’s Office in Perth, then moved to the Office of the State DPP when it split from the CSO. I then changed course and worked at a community legal centre called the Youth Legal Service doing Children’s’ Court criminal defence work. Then I moved to Melbourne and got a job at Maddocks, before going to the Bar in 1998.

I have been there ever since.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional , and why?

Both Stuart Morris and Chris Canavan have been very strong influences on me, as well as being great friends. They are both incredible advocates.

When I was just starting out as a lawyer, I also had the opportunity to work for 6 months as the Associate to former High Court Judge Sir Ronald Wilson when he was conducting the Royal Commission into “WA Inc”. He was probably the kindest, most unpretentious and smartest person I have ever met. I would like to claim that he influenced me as a lawyer, but that is a bit like trying to claim that Jimi Hendrix influenced my guitar playing.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

I think the system is generally pretty effective, but I don’t think it is getting better. I think that the current trend is to favour prescription and complexity in planning controls. It seems that some people don’t believe that you can make good decisions based on experience, expertise and a careful consideration of the individual circumstances of each case. I disagree with these people.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

I think we need to be less concerned with heritage (or at least the current narrow view of what represents our heritage) and existing character, and more concerned with building for the future. I would also try and minimise the degree to which local policy can be used to dilute or eliminate all together the ambitions of State policy.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

In structural terms I remain positive. I think our cities can, and will, get better as places. My major concern is the people who will live in them. I am less positive about the ability of humans to evolve and adapt and become better.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I was initially very sceptical about remote hearings, but I am actually quite positive about them now. I think that they encourage (indeed demand) a better use of technology and in many cases allow for the more effective and efficient conduct of some cases (provided everyone has a good internet connection). I hope that they remain a tool that can be used in the post-Covid world because they could allow for more cost-effective hearings to be conducted.

I like working at home as well, but I think that it is far too distracting for me to do regularly in the long term. It is just too tempting to go and grab a guitar or one of my other many toys in preference to doing actual work.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

I would tell them it’s a great area to work in. The opportunity to engage with people of the quality you find in planning and environmental law is pretty rare. As a person who spent a great deal of time working in criminal law, it’s a great relief to have clients and witnesses who are not violent, drug addled lunatics (at least in the majority).

I would also encourage people to be themselves. While it is important to learn from other people, you don’t need to try and be something or someone you are not.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

My wife, my twin boys, our dog, my family (most of whom are in Perth) and my friends. Playing and listening to music also helps keep me sane. I also love to travel. Finally, I have an unhealthy and unjustifiable obsession with the Fremantle Dockers, whose antics tend to heavily influence my mood (usually negatively it must be said).

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

This could be a very long answer. I still remember the first time I read “Blood Meridian” by Cormac McCarthy and being astounded at how good a writer he was. That started a life-long obsession with his work. I could say the same about everything Michael Ondaatje has ever written. And most of what James Elroy has written.

In terms of movies, I maintain that the 1982 version of Conan the Barbarian (starring the incomparable Arnold Schwarzenegger) is one of the finest works of art produced in the 20th century and I am fully prepared to justify this position loudly and at length (and with reference to diagrams and charts) if you dare to disagree with me.

I can also remember watching “Life of Brian” at age 13 and being unable to work out how anything could possibly be that funny and still be legal.

I don’t know where to start (or finish) with music. But there is a song by the group Television called Marquee Moon which has a guitar solo that I consider to be as close to perfect as any passage of music can hope to be, and it gives me goosebumps every time I hear it.

Otherwise, all I can do is to suggest that everyone go home tonight, pour themselves a nice big drink, turn down the lights and settle into their comfiest, available seating option and play the following songs loudly (in whatever order you desire) on your (hopefully good quality) sound system:

Once in a Life Time – Talking Heads; Dirty Work – Steely Dan; Jailbreak – AC/DC; The Mercy Seat– Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds (or anything by them actually); If I Had a Hammer –American Music Club; Read About it – Midnight Oil; Ol’ 55 – Tom Waits; Last Goodbye – Jeff Buckley and Duel by Swervedriver. If at the end of that you don’t feel like the world is suddenly a much better place, then I’m afraid that I can’t help you.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

I don’t tend to watch a lot of TV because I prefer to play video games where I get to shoot aliens and use space magic to save the universe, but my family and I recently watched seasons 1 and 2 of the Umbrella Academy on Netflix and thoroughly enjoyed it. Its’ about a dysfunctional group of individuals with superpowers who were taken from their families at birth by an eccentric billionaire and raised by him, a cyborg nanny and a hyper intelligent chimpanzee in the hope that they will one day save the world.

If that sort of thing floats your boat (and you are not squeamish about violence) I would recommend you check it out.

Nick has been a barrister since 1998, and does mostly planning work. He was appointed Senior Counsel in 2013.

Joseph Indomenico, Tract

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

My planning journey started in an Environmental Science degree where I took an elective in land use planning. The topic struck a chord pretty quickly and before I knew it, I was looking for further opportunities in the field.

Towards the end of my Environmental Science degree, I managed to secure a 6 month stint at Maribyrnong City Council where I was lucky enough to work alongside some really knowledgeable and kind people, some of which are still in the system. I was told on my first day by the manager of the department that ‘planning was the best job in the world… whilst sitting at a desk’. He was not far off!

I completed the Environmental Science degree and then charged ahead with a Master of Environment and Planning degree at RMIT.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

Shortly after my time at Maribyrnong, I secured a position at Tract as a planning assistant whilst completing my master’s degree. It was evident to me fairly early in the role that Tract and I shared a lot of values, particularly around professional development, culture and general wellbeing.

Throughout my time at Tract, I have been provided with an incredible amount of support and opportunity. I have worked on some great city shaping projects, and equally some not so great projects. Often it’s the latter where more lessons were learnt.

For me, it is all about the environment you are in and the level of support and opportunity you are given. If you are fortunate enough to get this right, you are generally going to get the best out of yourself and others around you.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

It is difficult to name one, as several of my senior peers have had a big influence on me over the years, both on a professional and personal level.

In the early years of my career, I worked on a wide range of statutory and strategic projects under the guidance of several senior colleagues. I often found that whilst each of my senior colleagues approached matters and managed files, clients and stakeholders slightly differently, there was commonality in consistency of message, authenticity, care and work ethic.

I would like to think that these traits are evident in my dealings with clients, colleagues and other industry professionals, however, I’ll let them be the judge of that!

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

There is a lot right about our planning system and how it operates, however, opportunities will always present to improve it like anything.

The State Government’s commitment to cutting red tape and streamlining the system through the Smart Planning Program and Anna Cronin’s work are steps in the right direction and need to be commended.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

Understanding that construction will form a centrepiece of the state’s recovery from the current COVID crisis, we may need to look at further ways to streamline our current assessment and approval processes for statutory and strategic matters, particularly in the short term.

At a macro scale, the PCA has recently called for the creation of a ‘Precinct Authority’ for major urban renewal projects in Victoria. This makes a lot of sense for me given the inherent complexity of these projects, the various and numerous stakeholders involved traditionally, and the substantial social and economic benefits that these projects can generate.

At a micro scale, we could look at streamlining statutory planning matters of small-to-medium scale by delegating more responsibility to planning departments in Local Governments. These types of projects traditionally carry less risk and can often proceed to construction relatively quickly upon approval, hence providing decent return on investment.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

Positive. We’ve always had an ability to shape our cities and bring about positive change for how people live, work and interact. We are, however, living in a time where serious questions are being asked about the role and function of CBDs, spatial planning and better utilisation of technology in business.

In my opinion, CBDs will continue to bring people together for all the reasons they have over time – culture, entertainment, art, business, health, sport, just to name a few.

Our CBD has been devasted in recent months by the COVID crisis and there is no doubt the recovery will be slow. However, we should take comfort that our social, health and economic foundations remain relatively strong, and for the most part the envy of many other cities around the world.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate?

Better or not better?

Like most, working from home has had its ups and downs. I have really missed the variety of each day and the planned and incidental social interaction with my colleagues, clients, and industry connections. On the other hand, spending more time with my wife and our 1-and-a-half-year-old son has been wonderful.

Our office has seen some efficiencies in working from home, however, it is fair to say that face-to-face interaction and collaboration will never be replaced. I suspect we will land somewhere in the middle in the long term, but time will tell.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

Planning can be incredibly fast-paced and at times frustratingly slow. There are lessons to be learnt in everything you work on so make the most of every opportunity and enjoy the journey.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

Apart from my family and friends, getting down to the coast and finding waves is something that brings me an incredible amount of joy and balance.

I would like to say my other joy comes from the Essendon Football Club, however, there has been a lot more pain than joy these last few years.

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

Paul Kelly is a regular feature on my playlists and a line that has made a lasting impression on me is from his song ‘Bradman’. It reads:

‘They say the darkest hour is right before the dawn’.

The hope and optimism in this lyric, partnered with Kelly’s vocals and guitar, is something that I turn to often during stressful times.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

As most parents would appreciate, by the time the little one is down and the carnage left behind is sorted, there is not much left in the tank. When my wife and I do find some time though, we love a good Australian drama.

Joseph Indomenico is a Principal at Tract with 12 years’ experience as a town planner

Hilary Marshall, Ratio Consultants

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I completed a double degree of Civil Engineering and Business Management at RMIT.

The thing that has stuck with me is the low proportion of women who did engineering and the disappointment I feel that the percentage is still the same 20 years later. This motivates me to encourage and develop women in our industry whenever possible.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

A stint working in California, followed by a family break, led me back to Cardno in 2011. It was the realisation that I would have to move to advance my career, timed with the gift of ‘Lean In’ by Susan Sandberg from Ratio CEO Colleen Peterson, that changed my career path and led me to become a Director at Ratio.

Fundamentally, it was the right opportunity partnered with motivation for change, that led me to the best career decision I’ve ever made.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional , and why?

Steve Hunt is by far and away the biggest influence on my career. I started working as Steve’s graduate over 20 years ago and now enjoy being his employer. My father passed away shortly after I started working for Steve, and although Steve is way too irresponsible to be a father figure, he has played a really important mentoring role in my life and I now count him as one of my dearest friends. I have learnt a lot from Steve, including a lot of ‘what not too do’.

One of my favourite pieces of advice from Steve is “You won’t like it…..but it will be good for you”.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

The Responsible Authorities I have dealt with over the last 5 months, including Councils and Department of Transport have been great. There were delays and technical difficulties at the beginning of the work from home period, which most authorities have managed to overcome and, in some instances, the process has even improved.

Going forward, I hope there is a continued focus on the removal of red tape and efforts to decrease the time taken to achieve development approvals.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be? I would prevent some our best farmland from being consumed with residential development, as I think food security is something we need to start considering for our future.

I think we also need to be bolder in our public transport planning, especially in the growth areas. We don’t know what public transport may look like in the future, but if we don’t set aside logical, continuous connections now, we will limit our opportunities for a first-rate system in the future.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

The gradual acceptance of increased density and control of the urban sprawl make me more positive about the form and culture of our cities going forward.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I’ve included an element of working from home in my life ever since going back to work after kids and will continue to do this whilst I’m still working.

Although I have complained occasionally over the last 6 months, I know that I have had it very easy compared to some and have greatly appreciated my kids self-motivation and ability to learn unassisted. I have also gained a whole new appreciation for my home, especially the garden.

I think Covid will improve the working environment and has significantly sped up change throughout the industry. I firmly believe that the fastest way to reduce discrimination against women in the workforce, is to normalise traditionally female roles for men. Now that juggling family commitments and work has become part of our everyday work life (special mention to David Vorchheimer’s little one’s contribution to VCAT recently), I am hoping that it will make things a lot better for both men and women in the ever-elusive attempt to balance life and work.

8. If there was a part of your professional/work life that you could avoid, what would it be? Invoicing.

9. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

I really enjoy being a traffic engineer in our industry, however, I had never met an engineer before I chose to do engineering. So, in hindsight I wish that I had been exposed to a wider range of career options when I was young. But they just didn’t exist in my country town.

Therefore, knowing what I know now, I would tell my younger self to train as a landscape architect instead. As an 18 year old,

I had an extensive knowledge of plants and gardens that would have put me far ahead of my peers. The farm I grew up on had an extensive vegetable garden, orchid, swamp, and rose garden. We also spent many hours planting native species across the property and most holidays in national parks being junior rangers. Luckily, my suburban garden keeps my green thumb ambitions satisfied.

10. What things are key to your life outside of work?

Covid has refocused my attention on family, not only on my immediate family but also my siblings and extended family. I am looking forward to Christmas more than I have in years.

11. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

‘The Life of Brian’ is an all-time favourite and also includes one of my favourite songs ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’.

12. Haveyou‘bingewatched’anyTVseriesandifsowhat? What can you tell us about it?

I really enjoyed ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. This is a relatively short series based on two families in the US; one white and privileged and one black and disadvantaged. While keeping a relatively light façade, the series examines inherent racism, discrimination by privilege, family bonds and career vs family choices.

Hilary Marshall is a Director of Traffic and Transport at Ratio Consultants.

Tim Nicholls, Marshall Day Acoustics

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I have a degree in Music Technology & Audio Systems and a Diploma in Acoustics, both from the UK. Like me, many students in the UK attended residentialbased Universities – I left home at 18, learned how to take care of myself and made friendships for life.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

I have been fortunate to work on some fantastic projects in the UK and Australia over the past 19 years. Hard work and continual learning has been a key part of my development, but most of all I think I’ve been very lucky to work with some great individuals.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why? I’ve worked with some great people but I owe a lot to one person in particular – they have always set the bar high and been my inspiration throughout my career to always try to achieve the highest standard possible.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? Is it getting better or going in another direction?

I think it is an effective system, and while every system can be streamlined to an extent it is critical that we always maintain appropriate checks and balances.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

The first would be a continued shift towards public transport and cycle lanes, and the second would be more dedicated community facilities for every local area. I see the reduced reliance on roads and the promotion of local community infrastructure as critical to our future

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I think there will always be a place for our cities as central hubs but over time we will need to shift towards more regional hubs and diversified community facilities.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

There will undoubtedly be permanent changes, the most obvious one being the way we remotely conduct meetings/workshops etc. Working from home has lots of advantages and will become much more prevalent, but I don’t know if it will become the norm post-Covid. I personally enjoy being able to work from home but there are lots of practical challenges associated with it and I suspect that many people hope it is only a temporary measure.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

Work hard and don’t settle for a low standard.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

In the current lockdown climate, getting out of the house and going for a long walk is a godsend. Jumping on the trampoline with the kids is also a great distraction!

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

I love music and there are so many good songs, it is hard to single out one in particular. But 1979 by The Smashing Pumpkins is an amazing song and always takes me straight back to my teenage years in the mid-90’s.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

Parks and Recreation (I love Ron Swanson!) and The Morning Show.

Tim Nicholls works for Marshall Day Acoustics and has worked in acoustics for 19 years, in the UK and Australia

Emma Peppler, Barrister

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

Bachelor of Arts/Law at Monash University. Having grown up in Gippsland, I learnt a lot about the world, life and the law in those formative years. A particularly lasting memory is that the Clayton Campus was so very windy.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

After university, I was not initially offered articles (now called a graduate position). So I worked in the Registry at VCAT, then as an Associate to the (then) President Stuart Morris QC, then as a Supreme Court Associate to Justice Byrne and Justice Osborn. Having watched many cases, I was convinced the Bar was for me and put my name down for the Bar Roll. In the meantime,

I worked as a research assistant, a solicitor and in community legal education in planning and environmental law. I also volunteered in Vanuatu. I have now spent more than 9 years as a Barrister.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

Stuart was and continues to be a big influence. His ability to effortlessly comprehend and command the key overarching points and technical details in a case at once, and essentially without notes, is unparalleled. Justice Osborn taught me to always remember the humanity in all we do. Nick Tweedie SC was my formal mentor when I came to the Bar and remains a grounding force and professional inspiration. And there are so many other positive leaders that I look up to (e.g. Canavan, Finanzio, Brennan, Quigley) – but, unfortunately, I’ve been given a word limit!

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

I think on the whole it is effective. No doubt our third-party appeals system can be frustrating for some (e.g. applicants who feel it costs too much for little benefit, or third parties who feel they need more resources to be properly heard). Ultimately, though, I think having a merits review system achieves better and fairer results than just a judicial review system – or no system at all. Of course we have to keep checking we’re still on the right track, and continue striving to get the best overall merits outcomes, without getting lost in unhelpful debate and detail where we miss the wood for the trees.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

Ideally, the gap between what the market desires and what regulation can achieve would not be so wide. It would be easier to deliver high quality, dense, urban environments that effectively blend economic and environmental imperatives with liveability (e.g. walkable, socially interactive, tech-savvy and green, visually appealing neighbourhoods). The trade-off for density would be strong environmental and landscape protection and enhancement where it is warranted. 2. Sometimes, I wonder if some of the fees outlaid in the process of getting a permit could be better spent ensuring high quality materials and finishes to implement architects’ visions for projects.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I think the jury is still out. Globally, cities are becoming ever more important, larger, and more complex. Increasingly, municipal governments lead the way on positive reform, and state level projects can also achieve city-wide structural benefits. But looking at trends, here and abroad, of rising inequality and increased social fragmentation – plus our ever-growing environmental impact – negatives can outweigh benefits at both an individual city level as well as at a planetary level. We need to be vigilant in Australia to capture the best of what cities can offer; and as a species we still need to get our collective act together.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

Ha. Pass? We went to my parents in the country for Lockdown The garden was good but the coffee was not. Lockdown 2 has been in our inner-city apartment (the desire for good coffee won out!). Working/living from home, confined, with a toddler has been… “interesting”. I think there will be positive lasting impacts once we get through this phase. The temporary absence of things makes you appreciate them more: freedom of movement to open spaces, the zoo, museum, cafes and arts venues, the comradery of chambers, the nuance of face-to-face communication, hugs with your family and friends, childcare, the thrill of a real-life courtroom! Being forced to shift to an electronic file practice is a positive that will last, hand-in-hand with the realisation about how much we all can do remotely by way of technology, and how we can adapt when circumstances require it.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

Good choice! Just remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and you should try to enjoy it all along the way. Oh, and by the way –plan a sabbatical in 2020.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work? There is life outside of work? OK no seriously – I think ensuring you take breaks from work is important. There is a time for work and a time for leisure and to gain perspective. Holidays and travel, reading for fun, good food and beverages, relationships in particular with family and friends, learning different things and skills outside of your core professional skills, are all important.

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

Who can ever pick just one? David Bowie’s Labyrinth? Dr Seuss’ The Lorax? Banjo Paterson’s Clancy of the Overflow? Currently, I’m reading Phosphorescence by Julia Baird – and The Very Hungry Caterpillar on repeat. For COVID-19, we have been going through songs from artists starting with a new alphabet letter each day on Spotify which is keeping us amused.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

I’m not sure it’s in the interests of my professional reputation to answer this question entirely honestly (oh, Ciarran!!). I love Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell. I inhaled the latest series of West World and Working Moms. I have watched lots of bad Netflix… and I am working my way through apocalyptic movie recommendations from Tweedie…

Emma Peppler is a planning and environment law barrister of 9 years experience

Julian Edwards, City of Whittlesea Photo

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I completed a Bachelor of applied science (Planning) and Bachelor of social science (Environment) at RMIT in Melbourne and the biggest stand out for me was the work placement and being able to ‘get my hands dirty’ before finishing the degree.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

Gaining experience at different Councils (urban, interface, growth and semi-rural) without moving too frequently, learning from everyone and remaining passionate and curious about all facets of planning.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional , and why?

There have been so many over the years and it wouldn’t be fair to name just one. I have always and continue to learn from employers, peers, colleagues and industry experts. A special mention to the first Council that ‘knocked me back’ early in my career as I don’t believe I would have succeeded to where I am today without that rejection.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

The Victorian Planning System has held its own as one of the best wholistic planning systems in the world for many years, balancing the tension between social, environmental and economic pressures. It is outcome focussed, inclusive, fair and transparent. However, with comprehensiveness comes complexity, entitlement, lengthy durations, inefficiency and arguably over regulation at times. Whilst effective, the system is in need of a bold refresh to prioritise what’s important.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

We still continually focus on car centric design with gaps in pedestrian, bicycle and public transports networks, accessibility and we haven’t managed to strike the right balance between the integration of mixed uses within residential areas.

The second component is not so much about the planning per se, rather the funding allocation for early infrastructure. Crucial social, environmental, community and public transport infrastructure continues to lag behind demand in our new growth areas, affecting the health and wellbeing of new communities.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I’m generally a positive person and I’m confident in our ability as an industry to grow and pivot in the right direction and ensure our planning evolves with the needs of society. This will require brave decisions from the policy and decision makers, and I feel we’ve already commenced the journey in this direction. Sometimes a crisis can be the enabler needed for change.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate?

Better or not better?

The pandemic has presented different challenges (and also some opportunities) throughout the world. I have been really impressed, although not surprised, with how we have all adapted as best as possible. The pressures of the whole family under the one roof, all of the time has brought about stresses, although has also allowed those of us who often work long hours to see more of our families. We’ve demonstrated an ability to work almost exclusively remotely which like anything, brings about both positive and negative aspects. I do think a ‘new normal’ will involve more of a combination in how we operate that ultimately will be better for us all.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

Learn to understand the bigger picture early in your career, don’t get bogged down in the detail and don’t sweat the little things.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

Family and spending time outside. I have also developed a passion for landscaping.

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

I’m a bit of a movie buff and my favourite of all time would be ‘A Time to Kill’.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

I haven’t managed to find much time for TV series during Covid, however on the odd occasion I have managed to escape reality, I’ve delved into anything with suspense or a thriller theme.

Julian Edwards is currently the Acting Director Partnerships, Planning and Engagement at the City of Whittlesea.

Tyrone Rath, Planning Property and Partners

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I completed my Bachelor of Arts and Law (with Honours) at Monash University. I was very lucky to complete several international law subjects while living in Copenhagen for an extended period and to also undertake postgraduate honours study in Australian politics with a particular focus on Australia’s strategic place in an increasingly militarised Asia-pacific region. The ability to study and spend an extended period overseas, and the many deep personal friendships and networks that I developed at university remain standouts for me.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

In my final year of study, I undertook work experience with Matthew Townsend. I was able to attend several hearings and compulsory conferences with him, and it’s fair to say I didn’t immediately fall in love with what I saw! I decided to take a different path and completed my graduate traineeship at a midtier commercial firm practising in mergers and acquisitions. I realised very soon after starting that practice area was not for me. After a few months off I started at PPP working part time on a large project. After about 4 weeks I asked Mark Naughton for a job and have been there ever since.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

Although it may sound corny, my dad has had the biggest influence on me professionally. The way that he conducts his legal business is something that has stuck with me. He is a sole legal practitioner and many of his longstanding clients are now his good friends. He taught me that frank, direct and honest communication together with treating everyone with respect are central to building healthy professional relationships.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

Our development approvals system is about as effective as it could be without significant structural reform and reconsideration of the nature and weight to be placed on third party rights. Any system purposely designed to strike a balance between often competing interests with broad appeal rights can result in a drawn-out approvals process from time to time. Recent initiatives such as the BVRT and fast track processes being implemented by bodies such as the VPA are proving to be effective and should continue to be refined and implemented in the future to ensure approvals continue to be delivered promptly.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

The first change would be reform of statutory planning decision making. Decisions on applications should be determined by a State-appointed rotating panel of qualified planners and other professionals at semi-public forums similar internal development assessment committees. This would improve the quality and impartiality of statutory planning decisions, which could in turn potentially reduce the workload on the Tribunal. A second change would be better integration between State transport and infrastructure planning and Council strategic planning to give a far greater sense of certainty to the delivery of key transport and infrastructure projects.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I am positive about the future of our cities because overall I think decision-makers are now required to consider a wider range of future circumstances that results in planning outcomes that are more forward looking.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I have been able to adapt quite comfortably to working from home, which is largely due to having a comfortable work setup and sufficient space. I’m acutely aware that for some of my colleagues and many others it’s been an extremely challenging period. In the long term I would probably like to spend the odd day or two working from home if needed, but for the most part will be back in the office. In terms of ‘better or not better’ it’s now evident that it is possible for anyone in our industry to work effectively remotely.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

Read as much as you can – the P&E Act, VCAT Act, VPRs, VCAT decisions. And a copy of any planning scheme, cover to cover, at least once!

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

I have a large extended family on all sides and most weekends have at least one family engagement/gathering – sometimes with up to 50 people! Whatever time left is spent mostly with friends or getting out of Melbourne to either the Peninsula or Mt Buller (if there is any snow). I managed to sneak in a few weeks skiing in Canada at Banff and Whistler in February this year. That trip feels like a lifetime ago while sitting at home writing this.

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

There are a few, but the most recent film is Uncut Gems. It’s a powerful combination of dark comedy and crime. The plot takes so many twists and is relentless in building suspense. Watching it quite literally leaves you on the edge of your seat the entire film.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

During COVID I’ve re watched two of my favourite series – Ozark and The Wire. The Wire is still up there I think as one of the best series ever made (closely followed by The Sopranos). Watching it again after several years has made me pick up on sub-plots and aspects of the series which I did not notice the first-time round. Ozark on the other hand is addictive with a dark, twisted and totally thrilling plot complemented by brilliant acting.

TyroneRathisanAssociateDirector(Legal)at Planning & Property Partners Pty Ltd.

Lucy Eastoe, Best Hooper Lawyers

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I completed my tertiary education at RMIT. My undergraduate was a Bachelor of Applied Science (planning) and followed with a Juris Doctor. Seven years later, I graduated as a lawyer, but always at heart a planner.

Over the years I spent at RMIT what stands out the most is the friends I made, many of which I remain in contact with from my undergraduate days. I also enjoyed the relaxed and practical attitude to learning that RMIT and the academic staff had. I recall our second-year ecology tutor grappling with a group who had no interest in the topic or like me had dropped the science subjects pre VCE. With some minor amendments to the coursework we all passed with a little more knowledge on peri urban ecology (informed by a field trip to the Plenty Gorge) than we began with.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

Early in my career I worked as a planner across a number of consultancies and also in local government. I completed my Juris Doctor, whilst working as a planner and attending uni after hours/on the weekends.

I have been at Best Hooper now for 6 and half years. I have been fortunate in my career to be exposed to a wide variety of work and business structures. My career progression has been through decisions I made to upskill and through making connections in the industry, and often as a result of a VPELA function or two.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

I’m not sure there is one particular person who has influenced me but I have been fortunate in my career to have multiple people have invested in me and my career growth, championed my successes but also helped me to build and learn from those “character building” moments.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

What I have come to realise is that planning is much more complex than one person’s point of view. Is our system perfect, no, could it be better, yes. Could it be worse, definitely!

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

Growing up in a regional area (Mildura) I have experienced both the city and the country so to speak. It was one of the reasons I was drawn to the planning profession in high school, as the growth of the town was apparent before my very eyes. When I first relocated from Melbourne to Mildura our house was the edge of town, however, when I left home for university, the town had grown some 4km and another 100 plus houses later we were now downtown.

I think two things I would change would be:

1. Implement a review right for preparing an amendment to a planning scheme. I think sometimes change to our planning system/the scheme is sterilised by one person/organisations view. I think there are plenty of great ideas we are yet to hear about simply because the legal process doesn’t allow for a debate to be had.

2. Stick with the plan, whatever it might be, and focus on the implementation. Since I began working in planning, we have had Melbourne 2030 (we are nearly there), Melbourne at 5 Million, Plan Melbourne, Plan Melbourne refresh. There are many glossy structure plans sitting on the shelves across this state which will never see their full potential.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I think a post-Covid norm (if it exists…) presents a unique opportunity for our cities to renew, regenerate and perhaps for the better. Melbourne particularly has faced immense pressure over recent times to manage growth vs the not in my backyard mentality. It is clear our cities won’t be the same for the foreseeable future, it will be interesting to see where our cities go, and how governments (both local and state) react and support the regeneration of businesses, particularly those who have been impacted by long closures and loss of patronage due to the WFH government directives.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I think the thing I have missed the most in COVID is the buzz of the office and the routine of the work week.

What I have enjoyed is the more relaxed dress code, longer sleep-ins (I am not a morning person) and convenience of the zoom call. I don’t think we will ever have a situation where we meet with multiple consultants in person from a logistical and cost perspective.

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas? Do something you enjoy. Work is a big part of your life. If you don’t have a passion or interest for what you do for a job, you need to find another one.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work? Friends, family, good food and wine!

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

Anything Taylor Swift (shamefully).

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

Little Fires Everywhere – Reese Witherspoon – highly addictive.

Lucy Eastoe is a Senior Associate at Best Hooper Lawyers

Carlo Morello, Traffix Group

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

Bachelor of Engineering/Bachelor of Science at Monash, Clayton.

I double majored in chemistry for love of it and at the beginning, had no idea what Engineering was. I originally had dreams of becoming a teacher (which I later studied).

I worked a lot during Uni – either stacking produce, running a Wedding Band, pouring beers, or working part time at Cardno (my first industry position).

I look back and think, “I could have made more friends and enjoyed the time and freedom more”, but actually don’t regret it at all because really most of my major life experiences come from those extracurricular ventures.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

This is a hard one to distil it out, but I’ll single out three:

- Picking up the phone in my final year of Uni and cold calling Cardno (Grogan Richards) and asking them to give me a chance (luckily Chris Butler did!). I went on to work at Cardno for over 7 years and I don’t think I’d be where I am if that hadn’t happened.

- Joining VPELA YPG about 3 years into my career (at Aaron Walley’s insistence) and then subsequently convening the YPG (with Jenellle Cramer) and now sitting as a Board Member.

- Obviously the more recent move to Traffix Group solidified all the groundwork to get me where I am now.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional, and why?

It would have to be Jason (yes, my current boss – not to blow smoke up his ‘you-know-where’). It’s not just me, I know a lot of Traffic Engineers who would put Jason as an influence.

He’s extremely knowledgeable, approachable, respectful, thoughtful, has integrity and is very measured in both his personal and work lives.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

Quantify what’s ‘better’ and what’s ‘worse’! I consistently have varied experiences on different projects.

I think there are great improvements to the planning system taking place all the time, but there are definitely areas that need some improvement.

I’d say to improve, as an industry we need a greater focus on resourcing, improving technical knowledge, forward thinking and making good evidence-based decisions. Not just ticking boxes or towing the line of a previously agreed position.

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

I’d say the narrative around change and how the public is brought along with that change. I feel like the communication around what that change actually looks like (or could look like) needs to be improved. Often the narrative is negative or combative, rather than thinking collaboratively and positively about the outcomes and what could be acheived.

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I’m very positive. My experience has been overwhelmingly one that sees opportunities and potential brought to light by development, community engagement and change.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

The lack of physical social interaction with colleagues and missing the VPELA Ball are all unfortunate outcomes to my day to day.

Being at home with the family and having more time with them is definitely a positive.

The evolution of our industry into digital workplaces, however, has been amazingly positive.

I feel like there will be long lasting changes to the way we operate day to day once everything settles back to ‘normal’ and I think overwhelmingly the changes will be very positive (but maybe I’m just an optimist).

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas? Be optimistic, get to know people, don’t take things personally, have integrity and remember you can’t ‘fix’ it all. Working in the Planning industry is exciting and uplifting. You get to be part of the change, so even if you think your contribution isn’t significant on one project, it can be on another. Learn about the other consultants and their contributions and try and contribute in any other ways that you can.

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

In order….? Family, Eating, Exercising (so I can keep eating), Music & Playing Saxophone.

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

I absolutely love musical theatre and made some of best friends (including my wife) by playing in musicals at school and Uni. The most memorable musical that I played in was Les Miserables –the story and the music make it as one of my favourite musicals to listen to/watch.

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

We signed up for Disney+ in part for our son (Ice Age and the Lion King are on repeat), but it was actually to watch Hamilton. When we were in London last year we didn’t get a chance to see it and we have been hooked on the soundtrack since being exposed to Lin-Manuel Miranda from Moana when we watched it a couple of years ago. If COVID restrictions let us, we’re heading to Sydney next year to see it in person!

Another couple of very good watches that we’ve discovered: “Years and Years” and “The Salisbury Poisonings”, both on SBS on Demand.

Carlo Morello is a Senior Associate at Traffix Group and a VPELA Board Member

Julia Bell, Urban designer, Associate, kinetica

1. What and where did you undertake your tertiary education and, what stands out in review?

I completed a Bachelor of Urban Planning and Development at Melbourne University in 2007. About 6 years after obtaining my degree I was desperate to get some design in my life. So, I went off to Oxford Brookes in the UK and obtained my Masters in Urban Design. Going into urban design was a great decision and gave me direction and fulfilment.

2. What career steps have led you to your current role?

Step 1: Started as a statutory planner learning the ropes but knew quite quickly it wasn’t for me.

Step 2: Moved into strategic planning at Council to enable more lateral thinking and creativity.

Step 3: Realised that strategic planning and urban design together would be a useful and interesting combination of skills.

Step 4: Wanted to get my hands dirty in design so went back to the dark side (DLA).

Step 5: Continued to expand, grow and be constantly challenged in my role as an Associate at Kinetica.

3. In your career, is there a person who stands out as a being a major influence on you as a professional , and why?

It has to be Mark Sheppard. He’s a real clever clogs and has taught me most of what I know. He has also supported my progression to an expert witness in the urban design space which hasn’t come without its setbacks and a whole lot of hard work and angst at times. There has never been a point he has not believed in me.

4. How effective do you consider is our planning and development approvals system? It is getting better or going in another direction?

Let’s just say I think there is room for improvement…..

5. If you could change two things about how we plan our cities, towns or regions, what would these be?

1. Provide a clear and equitable system for the delivery of affordable housing

2. Greater flexibility in how and where we provide public open space – in dense environments we should be gaining public open space wherever we can find it a. Find a mentor – someone that inspires you b. Make haste slowly – It took me 6 years to find my path – and remember it may not be linear

6. Are you positive or less so about the future of our cities and why?

I am positive about the future of our cities and love having a role in shaping them. But I think we have some big challenges around getting the balance right between density and liveability.

7. Howhaveyoumanagedworking,(andliving)inthe remote/confined ways over the Covid period? Will it lead to longer term changes in how you operate? Better or not better?

I haven’t suffered too badly from working at home. In fact, I find I can get my work done more efficiently with less interruptions. That said, I miss the interaction and collaboration with my colleagues. I think innovation is suffering the most right now. The balance for me would be 2-3 days in the office, the rest at home. I certainly love seeing the city skyline with no pollution on it!! What a beauty!!

8. Whatadvicewouldyougiveto‘ajuststartingoutinthe professions you’, about a career in the planning and environmental law professional areas?

9. What things are key to your life outside of work?

Friends, food, wine, music, film, hiking, dancing, reading and travelling – probably in that order

10. Is there a particular piece of music, a book, a play, or film that has made a lasting impression on you?

Film: Empire Records – one of my favourite all time movies and a great coming of age film

11. OvertheCovidperiodhaveyou‘bingewatched’anyTV series and if so what? What was the attraction?

Letterkenny – crude and hilarious

Julia Bell, is an Urban designer, and an Associate at kinetica

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