2021 National Prizes: Paula Whitman Leadership in Gender Equity Prize

Award | 2021 National Prizes Jury

6 May 2021

Suzie Hunt

Jury citation

Suzanne (Suzie) Hunt is an exemplary role model and mentor who gives freely of her time to deliver a pathway and vision for recognition, representation and visibility, with promising outcomes for women in the profession.

An engaged agitator in the policy arena and an often-provocative public speaker determined to improve opportunities for all professionals, she effectively advocates on issues that improve gender balance and the welfare of women and families.

Hunt’s discourse is well-informed by comprehensive research and data. Disseminated through print, radio, television and social media, she utilizes her natural charisma to reach new audiences, advancing the cause and understanding of architecture.

The first female Chapter President for Western Australia, Hunt led by example to re-engage disconnected members and provide them with recognition as Fellows, increasing visibility and reinforcing the value of female leaders as contributors to the profession and the community.

She also successfully influenced the Architects Board of Western Australia to strengthen the effectiveness of regulatory interventions to retain graduates in the profession by extending the timeframe for re-registration after a non-practising break from one to three years.

Nationally, she established #WorkWomenWisdom, a co-mentoring forum that provides women with a safe networking environment to communicate and share experiences, seek advice, support one another, mentor and reflect.

Hunt’s influence and impact in challenging the status quo has been – and continues to be – appreciated.