Media Release: NEW CEO APPOINTED TO GROWTH AREAS AUTHORITY

FROM THE MINISTER FOR PLANNING

DATE: Friday, April 27, 2007

NEW CEO APPOINTED TO GROWTH AREAS AUTHORITY

Peter Seamer, former head of Federation Square Management, will become the new Chief Executive Officer of Victoria’s Growth Areas Authority (GAA), the Minister for Planning Justin Madden announced today.

Mr Seamer, who was appointed by the Minister at the recommendation of the GAA board, has worked in both the public and private spheres and was previously CEO of a number of city councils including the City of Sydney, Whitehorse and Essendon.

“Peter Seamer brings an outstanding record as a manager and a deep knowledge of local and State Government and I am very excited about his appointment,” Mr Madden said.

“He is a talented innovator and this will be of great value to the GAA in meeting its ambitious program of work.”

Mr Seamer was CEO of Federation Square from March 2000 to February 2005, and played a key role in developing the site.

“Simplifying and streamlining strategic planning in the Growth Areas will increase the supply of zoned land, maintain competition, and keep downward pressure on the price of new houses,” Mr Madden said.

“But this must be accomplished in a manner that preserves environmental values, enhances sustainability, and provides the services and amenities that new communities require.
“People have a right to live in well designed, healthy, and liveable suburbs,” he said.

The GAA was established in September 2006 to plan for new communities in Melbourne’s flourishing growth municipalities of Wyndham, Melton, Hume, Whittlesea, Casey, and Cardinia.

The GAA works with councils, developers and government agencies to:
· Plan new suburbs in a way that enhances quality of life for residents, creates local jobs and is environmentally sustainable.
· Create affordable housing with a greater range and choice of homes.
· Plan for infrastructure and services as new development occurs.

Mr Seamer said he was delighted with the chance to lead the GAA.

“I am looking forward to working with developers and local governments in helping ensure Melbourne’s growth areas become liveable communities,” Mr Seamer said.

Mr Madden thanked departing CEO Mike Scrafton for his hard work in setting up the GAA.

Further information – Biography: Mr Peter Seamer

· Director of Corporate Strategy, Hyder Consulting, NSW (July 2006 to present)
· CEO of the City of Sydney, NSW (February 2005 to April 2006)
· CEO Federation Square Management, Victoria (March 2000 to February 2005)
· CEO City of Whitehorse, Victoria (October 1996 to March 2000)
· CEO City of Greater Bendigo, Victoria (August 1994 to October 1996)
· City Manager, City of Essendon, Victoria (1986 to 1994)
· Manager of Engineering Services, City of Essendon (1983 to 1986)
· A background in transport engineering and planning (1978 to 1983)
· Qualifications include Master of Engineering Science (University of Melbourne), Bachelor of Engineering (University of Melbourne) and Master of Urban Design (University of Melbourne).
· In 2002 he was awarded the Centenary Medal for services to Federation Square.

For more information about the Growth Areas Authority visit the website at www.gaa.vic.gov.au or email at info@gaa.vic.gov.au or call on 9651 9600.