National Awards 2021: Paula Whitman Award for Gender Equity Leadership

Jury quote
Suzanne (Suzie) Hunting is an exemplary role model and mentor who freely gives of her time to provide a path and vision of recognition, representation and visibility, with promising results for women in the profession.
An engaged agitator in the political arena and often provocative public speaker determined to improve opportunities for all professionals, she is an effective advocate for issues that improve gender balance and the well-being of women and families.
Hunt’s speech is well informed by extensive research and data. Distributed through print, radio, television and social media, she uses her natural charisma to reach new audiences, advance the cause and understanding of architecture.
The first female chapter chair for Western Australia, Hunt led by example in re-engaging disconnected members and providing them with recognition as Fellows, thereby increasing the visibility and reinforcing the value of women leaders as contributors to the profession and community.
She has also been successful in influencing the Architects Council of Western Australia to strengthen the effectiveness of regulatory interventions aimed at retaining graduates in the profession by extending the deadline for re-enrollment after a work disruption from one to three years.
Nationally, she created #WorkWomenWisdom, a co-mentoring forum that provides a safe networking environment for women to communicate and share experiences, seek guidance, support each other, mentor and reflect.
Hunt’s influence and impact in challenging the status quo has been – and continues to be – appreciated.
Jury
Helen Lochhead LFRAIA (Chair) – Past Chair, Australian Institute of Architects | Vice-Chancellor pro, Precincts UNSW
Kylie-JoAnn Hughes RAIA – Chair of the National Gender Equity Committee
Erin Crowden RAIA – President of EMAGN, Australian Institute of Architects | Architect, Williams Burton Leopardi
Leanne Haidar – President SONA, Australian Institute of Architects
Justine Clarke – Living room