Women in Planning Network WA Awards
Recognising and promoting female professionals.
About the Awards
The WPN WA Awards are a first of their kind. The Awards recognises the outstanding leadership and achievements from established and emerging female professionals based in WA, who demonstrates a holistic and long-term commitment to diversity within the planning profession and related built environment sectors. Two award categories exist:
Leadership Award – proudly sponsored by Shape Urban, this award seeks to recognise the outstanding achievements and leaderships by a female professional from across the planning and allied sectors. For further information, see the award's brochure.
Achiever Award – proudly sponsored by the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, this award recognises the contributions of an emerging female professional who is delivering outstanding achievements and building a profile as a future leader. For further information, see the award’s brochure.
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These Awards are supported by the PIA WA but are separate from the annual PIA WA Awards for Excellence.
Nomination Process
We are excited to welcome nominations for the 2025 WPN WA Awards. Click here to submit your nomination via PIA’s website.
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Nominations must include:
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Filled and signed nomination form
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HD Profile images (minimum of 2, maximum of 6)
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Statement addressing each of the selection and judging criteria
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Short 150 – 200 word bio
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3 testimonial/references (minimum 1 being from an emerging planner)
More information can be found in the award brochures.
Key Dates:
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6 September 2024 – Award nominations open
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20 January 2025 – Award nominations close
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January / February – Judging process
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7 March 2025 – Winners announced at our International Women’s Day event​
Why you Should Nominate
Nominating yourself or a colleague for an award is not just an act of recognition but a powerful affirmation of contributions, dedication, and positive impact. It highlights the nominee's achievements, showcasing their excellence in the workplace, community, and planning industry.
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By nominating yourself or a colleague, you help to inspire others, set standards of excellence, and encourage a culture of appreciation, and celebration. Awards not only acknowledge the hard work and talent of the recipient but also motivate others to strive for similar success.
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Winner Benefits:
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Recognition as the WPN WA Achiever Award winner for 2025;
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Unlocking opportunities to speak at events and build your profile;
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Complementary attendance at all WPN WA Events for 12 months;
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A full (complementary) registration at the PIA WA State Conference (both metro and regional based conferences); and
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Two (2) mentoring sessions with recognised female industry leaders.
2024 Winners
Thank you to everyone who nominated themselves or their colleague for the Award. Congratulations to Cath Evans and Ingrid Van Dorssen - our winners of the WPN Award for 2024! You can read more about Cath and Ingrid's contributions and achievements below.
Leadership Award
Cath Evans - Hatch
The judges noted that Cath’s contributions to the planning profession have been significant, particularly in advocating for women’s rights and inclusivity. She has played a monumental role in advocating for women in the planning profession on both local and national levels. She has been a trailblazer, introducing paid parental leave at Hatch before it was legislated. This initiative not only supported women in their personal lives but also set a precedent for other organisations to follow.
Cath’s commitment to equality extends beyond policy changes. She has continuously promoted and advocated for the learning of both sexes, providing equal opportunities for all within the workplace. This has been achieved through mentorship and the facilitation of external courses and learning, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to grow and develop in their roles.
This award is possible thanks to the kindness of the Shape Urban – the 2024 Leadership Award sponsor.
Achiever Award
Ingrid Van Dorssen
The judges said Ingrid is making a significant impact and is a rising star within the profession. Not only does Ingrid excel in her demanding role, but she also serves as a mentor and advocate for those facing challenges in the workplace. Specifically, Ingrid has played a pivotal role in achieving recognition for these issues and effecting positive change. In addition, Ingrid’s community commitment has been reflected in the pro bono work she undertook through Planning Solutions. Notably, Ingrid secured development approval for Wyn Carr House, a facility for women at risk of homelessness.
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This award is possible thanks to the kindness of the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage – the 2024 Achiever Award sponsor.
Past Recipients
2023 Winner - Karen Wright - Urbis
2023 Winner - Maria Cooke - City of Kwinana
2023 Commendation - Bronwyn Slater - element Advisory
2022 Winner - Elyse Saraceni (nee Maketic) - Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage