LEADING Perth architect Emma Williamson has been appointed as Western Australia’s new state government architect.
Williamson is the co-founder and Partner at award-winning creative consultancy, TheFulcrum.Agency and brings almost three decades of architectural experience to the position.
Williamson was named a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects in 2022 and has worked on projects including the WA Museum Boola Bardip, Murdoch University’s Boola Katitjin, and the Karratha Super clinic.
“Ms Williamson is a highly credentialled architect – with more than three decades of practical experience in the design and delivery of both public and private sector projects of all sizes,” said John Carey, minister for planning.
“Ms Williamson’s experience in design review will be integral to the position, as she will play a central role in the review and assessment of significant development proposals – through the new permanent assessment pathway – as part of our Government’s planning reform agenda to take effect on Friday, 1 March 2024.”
In the role of government architect, Williamson will provide design leadership and strategic advice to enhance the quality of the state’s built environment.
The role also means Williamson will take on the position of the chair of the State Design Review Panel.
Additionally, the government architect provides expert and independent advice to the minister for planning, and the premier on key projects along with strategic planning initiatives.
The appointment comes after Rebecca Moore stepped down from the role after three years of service.
“I would again like to thank outgoing Government Architect Ms Moore, for her contribution to the design of our State, and wish her well in her next endeavours,” added Carey.
