Queensland’s New State Planner Named

Described as a powerhouse in Queensland’s planning community for more than a decade, Peta Harwood has been annointed to help the state meet its an ambitious million home target over 20 years.

Harwood has been appointed Queensland’s new state planner and will lead the Planning Group within the Department of State Development Infrastructure and Planning

She assumes the role on January 28. 

Harwood’s most recent role was executive director of Planning Group.

Last year, she was joint winner of Outstanding Woman Planner of the Year awarded by the Planning Institute Australia.

Deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie said Harwood was a leader in planning in Queensland and was keenly aware of the importance of partnering with local governments and the community.

“Ms Harwood has been a powerhouse in Queensland’s planning community for over a decade,” Bleijie said.  

“I know Ms Harwood will play a critical role in helping us unlock more housing approvals for Queenslanders.” 

Prior to working for the Queensland Government Harwood led the development assessment functions for Brisbane and a cohort of 300 officers for more than four years.

She also led the first Local Government Infrastructure Plan in Queensland for Brisbane City Council and oversaw the 2014 new City Plan for Brisbane including its six-month community engagement, new online e-plan and interactive mapping, firsts at the time.