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Natalie Walker
Head of Strategy & Policy Impact - Wyndham City Council
Professional Background
Natalie Walker is a highly regarded specialist in public policy and urban planning, with a pronounced focus on integrated sustainable development. Her professional journey is characterized by a rich tapestry of experiences that uniquely position her to create positive changes in urban environments. With a keen ability to connect trends, national agendas, and local impacts, Natalie has consistently demonstrated her ability to identify opportunities and foster improvements that prioritize healthy and equitable living spaces.
As the current Head of Strategy & Policy Impact at Wyndham City Council, Natalie is at the forefront of strategic planning initiatives designed to enhance the quality of urban life. Her role involves not only tackling issues related to urban growth but also ensuring that the strategies implemented advocate for social, cultural, and economic wellbeing. In this capacity, Natalie exemplifies her commitment to developing cities and regions that are conducive to both people and the environment.
Education and Achievements
Natalie Walker's academic background includes a Master’s degree in Policy with Honours and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science (Planning), both from RMIT University. This strong educational foundation has equipped her with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to excel in her field. Furthermore, her commitment to continual learning is evidenced by her participation in the Company Directors Course at the Australian Institute of Company Directors and her involvement in the Australian Applied Management Colloquium at the Australian School of Applied Management. Such educational experiences underscore her dedication to effective governance and management practices in urban planning and public policy.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Natalie has made notable contributions through her involvement in various advisory and committee roles. She has served on the Affordable Social Housing Advisory Committee at the City of Greater Geelong, where she contributed her expertise to enhance access to affordable housing solutions within the community. On an even broader scale, her role as a member of the National Growth Areas Alliance Committee of Management at the National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA) reflects her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by rapidly growing regions across Australia.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Natalie has participated in several high-impact initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable urban development. Her involvement in the Western Local Automotive Transition Taskforce at the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources showcased her ability to navigate the complex intersection of industry transition and economic strategy. Additionally, as a member of the Youth Justice Centre Community Advisory Group at the Department of Justice and Community Safety, Victoria, Natalie has shown her passion for integrating social dimensions into policy-making, particularly in addressing youth welfare and justice issues.
Natalie's multifaceted approach to urban planning encompasses an impressive range of skills, including strategic analysis, community engagement, and data-driven decision-making. Her experience allows her to envision and implement policies that are not only environmentally sustainable but also culturally sensitive and economically viable. She is a firm advocate for the idea that urban planning should prioritize the wellbeing of all community members, ensuring that every voice is heard and considered in the development process.
A Vision for Sustainable Urban Living
At the heart of Natalie Walker's professional ethos is a vision for cities that serve as healthy and equitable places for both people and the planet. Her expertise in linking environmental, social, cultural, and economic dimensions of planning reflects her understanding that urban environments are complex systems requiring holistic approaches. By aligning her professional activities with this vision, Natalie is actively contributing to the creation of more resilient and sustainable urban communities that can adapt to the challenges of modern society.
In summary, Natalie Walker's diverse background in public policy, urban planning, and sustainable development positions her as a leading voice in shaping impactful policies that enhance urban living. Her extensive experience, combined with her educational credentials, ensures that she remains at the forefront of discussions surrounding effective urban planning and community wellbeing. As cities continue to evolve, Natalie's commitment to linking local impacts with broader trends and agendas will play a crucial role in fostering environments that prioritize health, equity, and sustainability.