2024 National Congress

Dr Liz Allen

Demographer, Author, Senior Lecturer

Dr Liz Allen is an award-winning demographer with quantitative and qualitative research expertise. Named as a “Woman to Watch” by the Australian Financial Review in 2023, Liz is a change-maker, bringing data to life in meaningful ways, challenging the status quo and helping to shine a spot light on inequality. Growing up in Western Sydney, Dr Allen has a firm belief that it is through her experience of growing up on the fringes that has given her an advantage, a special responsibility to help those who don't fit the statistical norms. In her book “The Future of Us”, Dr Allen tracks Australia's demographic journey through time and presents opportunities for a fairer and more equal nation

Dr Tim Williams

Cities and Practice Lead for Grimshaw

Dr Tim Williams heads up Grimshaw’s Cities Initiative which forms part of the Cities and Social Impact Group. Tim has an international ‘city-shaping’ reputation in urban strategies, land use and transport planning, smart cities strategies, city-benchmarking and area transformation and regeneration. He also has a big track record in getting top-level buy-in by key decision-maker and by communities to challenging urban transformation and infrastructure projects.

Dr Michael Kollo

CEO of Evolved Reasoning

Dr Michael G. Kollo is a distinguished figure in the intersection of artificial intelligence and corporate strategy. Dr Kollo believes that AI's influence extends beyond technology, affecting economic structures and global markets. In his work, he examines the broad economic consequences of AI integration, including productivity gains, job displacement, and new market creation, providing a comprehensive overview of AI's role in shaping future economic landscapes and what it means for the creation of new cities.

Heather McNell

Deputy CAO, Metro Vancouver

Metro Vancouver has earned widespread recognition for its effective metropolitan governance model. Heather McNell has wealth of expertise spanning housing, planning, climate, and investment within Metro Vancouver, and will provide valuable insights into global governance models operating in comparable environments.

Professor Mark Western

Director, The QLD Commitment & Centre for Policy Futures, University of Queensland

Mark is a sociologist whose research examines how systems of inequality and disadvantage arise and can be addressed, what matters for economic and social well-being, and how institutions like schools, families, networks and labour markets are involved in these processes. Mark also carries out research in social science methods.

The Hon. Michelle Rowland MP (invited)

Minister for Communications

With a background in law and communications, Minister Rowland has been a vocal advocate for digital inclusion, affordable broadband access, and the rights of consumers in the telecommunications sector. Growing up in Western Sydney, Michelle is also acutely aware of the unique challenges faced by Australia’s fastest-growing outer cities and suburbs.

The Hon Senator Bridget McKenzie MP (invited)

Shadow Minister for Infrastructure

As Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Senator McKenzie is focused on finding a solution to delivering better services for fast growing communities. The Senator is also motivated to see Federal government taking a genuine leadership approach, working closing with local government and holding states accountable for their role.

Cr Matthew Deeth

Chair National Growth Areas Alliance

Matt is passionate about the opportunities offered by fast-growing communities which are too often hampered by incremental, ad-hoc and uncoordinated planning decisions which leave a substantial cost for local government now and into the future. He believes that as a united collective with a strong voice, backed by sound evidence, shared experiences and expertise, the NGAA is best placed to show how Governments can better invest in and plan thriving and vibrant new communities.

Mayor Todd Carney

Mayor Penrith City Council

Mayor Todd Carney is dedicated to local politics and community advancement. He is a strong advocate for affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and positive place making initiatives. Through collaboration and innovative leadership, he strives to achieve positive outcomes for the Penrith community.p>

Kylie Powell

Director City Futures, Penrith City Council

Kylie Powell is an experienced planner dedicated to developing resilient, thriving, and liveable cities for the future. With a keen understanding of Penrith's strategic significance in the context of Western Sydney's growth, she passionately advocates for essential infrastructure to support the city's anticipated development.p>

Rachel Dapiran

Director, City Planning and Places

Rachel is a qualified planner and experienced executive at Hume City Council with a proven track record of leadership in developing complex policy, managing change and effective advocacy across government. She is passionate about reform and positive change to create great cities and suburbs to live in, served by quality infrastructure, beautiful open space and diverse housing options