Voices for Quality and Country Strengthen NSW Design Panel

News / Media 4 November 2025 Share

Living sector and cultural design leaders join the panel shaping NSW’s future.

DesignInc’s Living Sector Principal, Joseph Loh and Nguluway DesignInc Managing Director, Craig Kerslake have been appointed to the NSW State Design Review Panel (SDRP), managed by the Government Architect NSW.

The SDRP provides independent and consistent design quality advice on projects of state significance. These include major infrastructure investments such as housing (social, affordable, and market), schools, universities, hospitals, cultural facilities, new precincts, transport infrastructure, large industrial projects, and sports facilities.

‘The need for housing in NSW is being met with momentum on planning with priority pathways and streamlined coordination processes,’ said Living Sector Principal, Joseph Loh. ‘However, we cannot miss the opportunity to ensure that our cities are designed well, that they are safe and vibrant, diverse and sustainable.

‘Our built environment is the backdrop to our busy lives, so it needs to function well, but it also needs to be beautiful. I’m excited to be joining the SDRP, and to play a role in preserving the design quality of our state significant projects.’

Established in 2018, the panel plays a vital role in ensuring design quality across the state. By offering early, practical advice, the SDRP helps applicants identify potential design issues, make informed decisions, and streamline the assessment process. This contributes to greater planning certainty and confidence in the design outcomes of projects that shape New South Wales.

The panel is made up of leading built environment experts who provide independent evaluation and guidance. It also includes nine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members with expertise in design and First Nations cultural heritage, ensuring opportunities to Design with Country are embedded in the process.

Wiradjuri architect Craig Kerslake has been reappointed for a second consecutive term, continuing his contribution to embedding cultural perspectives in design.

Through their appointments, Joe and Craig will play a role in guiding the design of projects that impact the lives of people across the state, ensuring that quality, inclusivity, and cultural understanding remain at the forefront of the built environment.

For more information, head to the Government Architect NSW website.