In this episode of the Development Drum, Tess Pickering speaks candidly about what it’s like working in the planning sector, the truth behind public perceptions, and the differences between her role in Queensland opposed to Victoria. She also discusses the difficult balance of juggling a demanding job and spending time with her loved ones. Links from this episode: https://www.housing.qld.gov.au/ About your host: Kirsty Chessher-Brown About Tess: Tess Pickering, Deputy Director General of Planning, is an experienced and energetic planner, passionate about delivering placed based planning outcomes that make a real impact – shaping Queenslander’s lives now and for the future. Tess embraces the big challenges with a focus on collaboration, taking inspiration from working alongside people with the confidence to push boundaries, contribute ideas and come up with solutions together.  Particular focus has been on greener and cooler streets, enabling people to live more locally, more affordable homes and engaging with our First Nation peoples better in the planning framework. Returning home to Queensland after five years in Melbourne working for the Victorian Planning Authority, Tess is committed to plans that promote inclusivity while accommodating growth and embodying our distinctly Queensland lifestyle.  Since being back in Queensland, Tess has overseen the delivery of ShapingSEQ 2023. Her attention now turns to leading the delivery of the government’s ambitious planning agenda with key partners and stakeholders – one that includes a statewide regional planning program, and responsibilities under the newly released ‘Homes for Queenslanders’ to ‘build more homes, faster’. Produced By The Podcast Boss