The Australian Institute of Architects recognises outgoing Chief Commissioner of the Greater Sydney Commission (GSC) Lucy Hughes Turnbull AO for her outstanding contribution to the built environment.
Today Ms Turnbull announced she will be stepping down from the role of Chief Commissioner for the GSC from 31 March for personal reasons. An urbanist, businesswoman and philanthropist with a longstanding interest in cities, as well as technological and social innovation, she was appointed the inaugural Chief Commissioner of the Greater Sydney Commission in 2015.
In this role Ms Turnbull has spearheaded strategic planning for the whole of metropolitan Sydney. In particular, she has led planning in the Greater Parramatta-Olympic Peninsula (GPOP) area. Her tenure has seen the development and release of the Greater Sydney Region Plan, the NSW Government’s 40-year vision for the growth and development of Greater Sydney and the development and release of five associated District Plans.
‘The Institute is tremendously grateful for Ms Turnbull’s contribution to our built environment, for which she has been a tireless advocate,’ said the Institute’s NSW Chapter President Kathlyn Loseby. ‘Her capacity for and commitment to strategic thinking about our city of cities has provided significant positive outcomes already and stands to provide the scaffolding for a vibrant future for Greater Sydney.’
The Institute also recognises the work Ms Turnbull has done towards enhancing liveability now and for tomorrow. ‘Her approach to collaboration across all tiers of government delivering integrated planning strategies that provide coordinated housing, employment and infrastructure is precisely what is needed to support thriving communities,’ continued Ms Loseby.
Ms Turnbull also initiated and drove the Greater Sydney Women’s Safety Charter, which aims to make our city a better place for women and girls to live, work and play. ‘This is an important initiative in planning and social leadership,’ said Ms Loseby. ‘If our cities are safer for women and girls, they will be safer for everyone.’
Mr Geoff Roberts AM, the Commission’s Deputy Chief Commissioner will take on the Chief Commissioner role, providing continuity of leadership.
We are incredibly grateful to Ms Turnbull for her remarkable contribution and look forward to working with Mr Roberts to see the next phase for the Commission realised.