Planning Minister acknowledges service of Government Architect

• Government Architect Rebecca Moore to step down after three years of service
• Chaired on more than 60 State Design Review Panels to advise on major and complex projects
• Government Architect provides expert and independent advice on good design

After more than three years as Government Architect and Chair of the State Design Review Panel, Rebecca Moore has today announced her decision to step down from the role.

Ms Moore was the first female to be appointed as the Government Architect, a role she has held since September 2020, providing design advice on $28 billion worth of projects of State and regional significance and chairing 61 State Design Review Panel meetings.

During Ms Moore's tenure she led design reviews, assessments and provided advice for key Government projects such as METRONET stations, the Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridge, and the Women and Babies Hospital Project. Ms Moore also led design reviews for many of the 52 significant development proposals lodged for determination by the Western Australian Planning Commission under the temporary Part 17 pathway.

Ms Moore will take leave before finishing her appointment in February 2024.

Experienced architect and current Principal Associate Barbara Gdowski will act as Government Architect and interim Chair of the State Design Review Panel while a recruitment process is undertaken.

Comments attributed to Planning Minister John Carey:

"I want to thank Ms Moore for her contribution to shaping the future design and development of our State.

"Ms Moore is a recognised Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, and her expertise and advocacy has been brilliant in providing strategic whole-of-Government advice on key transport, tourism, and infrastructure projects.
"I wish Ms Moore and her family all the best for the future.

"With the position now firmly established as a full-time senior public service role, providing leadership in design review services, a recruitment process will commence soon to permanently appoint a new Government Architect for Western Australia."

Comments attributed to Government Architect Rebecca Moore:

"I have enjoyed establishing the Government Architect position to have a more strategic focus within the public sector and support the planning and delivery of Government projects – especially as Chair of the State Design Review Panel.

"I have also enjoyed collaborating with a national network of Government Architects, a forum to share challenges, learnings and best practice when considering impacts of environmental, economic, and social matters on urban design.

"After almost three and a half years in this dynamic role, I am looking forward to spending some time with my family.

"The latest round of planning reform initiatives presents an exciting opportunity for Western Australia's next Government Architect to continue ensuring that good design is at the forefront of all planning and development."