Honours ‘recognise the people behind the projects’

LEADERS shaping the state’s building environment, infrastructure and communities have been recognised for their outstanding contribution in the King’s Birthday Honours.

Property Council NSW executive director Katie Stevenson said this year’s honours highlighted the depth of expertise and leadership driving city-shaping outcomes across planning, development and infrastructure. 

“These honours recognise the people behind the projects that shape how our cities grow, how our communities function and how our economy performs,” Stevenson said. 

“From major infrastructure to planning reform and the delivery of homes and workplaces, these recipients have made a lasting contribution to NSW.”

Stevenson paid tribute to property, planning and infrastructure leaders whose work is central to the performance of NSW’s built environment. 

They include:

• Deborah Coakley AM, managing director of QIC Real Estate and national vice president of the Property Council, who was acknowledged for her contribution to the property industry and investment sector. 
• Kiersten Fishburn PSM, for her leadership in local government and planning reform.  
• Marika Calfas AM, chief executive of NSW Ports and a board member of Infrastructure NSW, recognised for her leadership in freight, logistics and infrastructure planning. 
• Mary-Lynne Taylor AM, recognised for her significant service to town planning, development and the law. 
• The late Professor Edward Blakely AM, recognised for his significant contribution to urban planning and economic development, including advisory roles shaping metropolitan strategy and city policy in Sydney and globally. 

Stevenson also acknowledged Professor Attila Brungs AO’s contribution to the broader ecosystem shaping the state’s cities and communities, for leadership in tertiary education, research and innovation. 

“A strong property sector is about more than buildings – it’s about creating inclusive, resilient communities and economic opportunity,” Stevenson said. 

“As we tackle housing supply, infrastructure delivery and productivity challenges, the leadership recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours will continue to play an essential role in shaping better cities.”