When I stepped back from Council, I did so with clarity and optimism — not just about where our cities were headed, but about the role planning could play in shaping our future. For over two decades, I’ve worked at the intersection of planning, politics, and community, as a mayor, consultant, and researcher. I’ve seen the power of good planning to create liveable, inclusive, future-ready places. I’ve also seen how easily it can be derailed by short-term thinking — and how costly that can be for clients, communities, and councils alike. Greiss Planning exists to bring clarity, rigour, and steady leadership to the approvals process, so good projects can move forward with confidence.
Stay in the loop!
It is important to acknowledge that civic leadership is not only exercised through meetings, budgets or formal decisions. It is also shaped by a willingness to keep learning, to listen carefully and to understand the forces changing the community we serve.
The Western Sydney University article reflects on my PhD journey in Geography and Urban Planning, and on the connection between research, public service and the future of Campbelltown. For me, that connection has always been practical. Planning is not an abstract discipline when you are dealing with real communities, real infrastructure needs and real decisions about the future of a city.
“My passion for Geography and Urban Planning stems from my passion for Campbelltown.”
Campbelltown is a place of significant opportunity. It is also a place experiencing substantial urban change. That means our decisions need to be informed by evidence, guided by community interest and supported by strong partnerships across institutions.
Read the original article here: Campbelltown Mayor's PhD journey towards future proofing the region