Past CoreNet Global Australia REaward winners
CRE Executive of the Year
2024 - Deborah Sweetman, Zurich Financial Services
As Head of Workplace Experience & Services, Deborah has driven innovation in the CRE strategy at Zurich, transforming the workspace and enhancing organisational alignment. Notably, she spearheaded the creation of 'The Collaborator,' a versatile space designed to accommodate diverse work needs and events, aligning with Agile principles and boosting productivity. Her initiatives extended to supporting a smooth return-to-office transition, and leading office relocations to more sustainable and efficient spaces. Additionally, Deb’s strategic focus on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives has furthered Zurich’s workplace and corporate goals.
2023 - Mary Jovic, KPMG
Mary Jovic was chosen as CRE Executive of the Year for her strategic leadership at KPMG in transforming workplace practices to align with evolving workforce needs. She implemented data-driven recommendations to optimize office space usage, supporting the company’s regional expansion while reducing costs. As part of KPMG’s National Crisis Committee, she ensured workplace resilience and compliance with ISO standards. Additionally, she spearheaded diversity and sustainability initiatives, such as the implementation of all-gender amenities and BindiMaps for accessibility, and promoted sustainable practices in office design. Her collaborative approach positioned KPMG's CRE function as a strategic partner within the firm.
2022 - Tarah Spencer, Lendlease + 2022 Global CRE Executive of the Year Finalist
Tarah Spencer was selected as CRE Executive of the Year for her leadership in developing a comprehensive Corporate Real Estate (CRE) strategy that aligns with Lendlease’s vision of the future of work. She led initiatives to optimize office space through data-driven insights and collaboration with the C-suite, transforming CRE into a strategic partner. Spencer prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion by implementing community-building activities, supporting a diverse team, and organizing impactful events. Her work connected CRE with Lendlease’s broader goals, enhancing employee experience and promoting an inclusive, flexible workplace for the post-pandemic era.
2021 - Doug Hall, Telstra + 2021 Global CRE Executive of the Year Finalist
2020 - Leah Ong + 2020 Global CRE Executive of the Year Finalist
Young Leader of the Year
2024 - Ed Jennings, Wiredscore
In his role as Head Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong, Ed contributes to the advancement of digital connectivity and sustainability in commercial real estate through his work with WiredScore. Over the past year, Ed contributed to creating tools that address key challenges faced by office occupiers, such as mobile connectivity and sustainability data reporting. His efforts led to the development of the WiredScore Occupier Report, which has been applied to 87 properties in Australia. Noteworthy achievements include launching WiredScore in New Zealand, expanding certified space by 127% in Australia, and growing certifications in Hong Kong by 95%. Ed’s involvement in industry events and his personal growth in public speaking further underscore his commitment to driving positive change in the profession.
2023 - Yen Dao, Lendlease
Yen was chosen as Young Leader of the Year for her impactful contributions as a Workplace Strategy & Design Consultant at Lendlease. She led high-profile workplace transformations, developed flexible, sustainable, and inclusive workplace solutions post-COVID, and created innovative design models like the award-winning Growth Project. Yen champions ESG initiatives, including founding an urban farming precinct for community benefit, and advocates for diversity and inclusion through her thought leadership articles on neurodiversity and sustainable design. Her work has inspired industry-wide discussions and strategic development at Lendlease, establishing her as a leader shaping the future of corporate real estate.
2022 - Tori Shepherd, International WELL Building Institute + 2022 Global Young Leader of the Year Winner
Tori was chosen as Young Leader of the Year for her groundbreaking work in scaling WELL health standards, positively impacting thousands globally. As a WELL Portfolio Coach at the International WELL Building Institute, she helped develop protocols to apply health standards across large portfolios, coaching organizations in implementing interventions that promote well-being. Her COVID-19 advisory work tailored WELL standards for the hospitality sector, ensuring safety for hotel guests worldwide. Active in CoreNet Global, she won the Young Leader REd Talk and led WELL initiatives in Australia, building industry connections and championing healthier buildings. Her dedication to professional growth underscores her leadership potential.
2021 - Tica Masuku, Charter Hall + 2021 Global Young Leader of the Year Winner
2020 - Amanda Morton, Ventia + 2020 Global Young Leader of the Year Finalist
Service Provider of the Year
2024 - Nathan Munro, Ventia
Nathan Munro, General Manager at Ventia, demonstrates leadership and innovation in overseeing diverse property and facilities management services. Under his leadership, Ventia supports critical infrastructure contracts, including those for the Australian Government, and has recently demonstrated extraordinary service by swiftly providing emergency accommodation in response to the 2023 Western Australia bushfires. Nathan's leadership is also marked by a commitment to diversity, achieving over 50% female representation in his team and mentoring young leaders. His dedication to sustainability and corporate responsibility is evident through initiatives like increasing Indigenous procurement and contributing to the APS Net Zero 2030 targets. Nathan's proactive approach to client service and professional development, underscore his significant impact on the industry.
Sustainability and Wellness Leadership
2024 - FF&3 - CBRE Sydney workplace de-fit
Partnering with CBRE for their Sydney workplace de-fit was a collaborative initiative lead by FF&3 at George Place, 363 George Street. Transforming surplus furniture and equipment into resources for social good. Collaborating with ReLove, the team repurposed items to furnish homes for women and children escaping domestic violence and provided office furniture for the Ability Network charity in Cowra. This initiative achieved a remarkable 95.1% recycling rate and also demonstrated a commitment to community welfare. FF&3’s innovative approach included carbon footprint calculations and real-time measurements of materials, enhancing transparency and accuracy in sustainability reporting. The project, showcases FF&3’s dedication to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
2023 - Ventia - Dept of Finance Net Zero
Ventia earns recognition for their collaboration with the Australian Government’s Department of Finance to enhance energy efficiency, reduced emissions through comprehensive energy audits and associated sustainability initiatives, including solar PV installations and multi-site building upgrades.
Their achievements reflect a commitment to innovation, client collaboration, and impactful environmental solutions.
2022 - Built - Built Head Office - Substation No 164
Builts Sydney Head Office sits within the adaptive re-use development Substation No.164; a rare development with complex challenges which had left two heritage buildings dormant for decades.
A heritage warehouse and electrical substation are seamlessly integrated through modern insertions and interconnecting stairs, providing multiple view lines and circulation paths that has provided a collaborative, sustainable and healthy workplace. Setting new sustainability benchmarks in embodied carbon, SubStation No.164 is an outstanding example of what ingenuity and passion can achieve.
Workplace Innovation
2024 - JLL - JLL Sydney
Showcasing the full spectrum of JLL’s real estate client services, their new Australian headquarters at Sydney Place Salesforce Tower looked to create an adaptable workplace, with people-centred design, a sustainable operating model and digitally driven menu of spaces. The outcome achieving key business objectives including; 6 Star Green Star & Platinum WELL certifications, Designing With Country, placemaking and employee agility. These were achieved by interlacing all components of workplace experience. The team overcame pandemic-related challenges of virtual collaboration and flexible space planning, resulting in a highly desirable, future-ready environment with increased use of collaborative spaces and advanced occupancy management.
2023 - Cushman & Wakefield - NEOGEN PC2 Laboratory
Cushman & Wakefield was appointed by NEOGEN Australasia to develop their new PC2 laboratory and warehouse in Queensland. NEOGEN is an animal DNA and genomics testing company that supports primary industry producers and food businesses throughout Australia.
This project involved complex repositioning, utilising innovative tech solutions like 3D surveying and mixed reality. It focused on intricate functional needs, with a multi-purpose approach integrating lab, warehouse, and office spaces.
The collaboration between parties addressed challenges and demonstrated strong sustainability commitments, setting a benchmark for industrial refurbishments.
2022 - JLL - JLL Perth
JLL’s Perth office won the Workplace Innovation Award for its innovative and sustainable design, which enhances employee wellness, collaboration, and flexibility. The fit-out includes diverse work zones, video conferencing technology, and integrated media platforms. The office reflects Western Australia's natural landscape and Indigenous heritage, featuring custom artwork by Noongar artist Jade Dolman. Sustainability was prioritized, achieving a 5 Star Green Star Interiors rating and targeting WELL Gold. Innovations like low-VOC materials, efficient LED lighting, air quality sensors, and occupancy-based lighting controls contribute to JLL’s commitment to net-zero targets. The design promotes employee productivity, wellness, and community engagement.
Diversity & Inclusion Excellence
2024 - Cushman & Wakefield
Committed to embedding DE&I into its core operations. Cushman & Wakefield’s DE&I strategy emphasises equitable hiring, pay equity, and comprehensive benefits, with a focus on increasing female representation in leadership roles and promoting diverse hiring practices. Notable achievements include 40% female representation globally and the appointment of diverse leaders in key positions. Initiatives are supported by ERG’s that champion various communities and events, such as International Women's Day and Pride events. The company also engages in impactful community partnerships, including collaborations with JobSupport and Taronga Zoo to enhance accessibility and inclusion. Recognised with a Bronze Award from the Australian Workplace Equality Index. Cushman & Wakefield continues to advance its DEI goals through their Reconciliation Action Plan and innovative projects like the Dignified Access Report, to set new benchmarks for inclusive workplace design.
2023 - GHD
GHD showcases a clear commitment to Diversity and Inclusion with a formal Global Council and Australian Committee, dedicated leadership roles, and a growing champion network that reflects diversity in its composition, promotes integration across operations, and fosters local initiatives.
GHD are commended for their comprehensive strategy and policies, external partnerships, and progress to drive improvements in workplace culture and foster a diverse and inclusive environment.
2022 - Rikki Cooper, BGIS
Rikki Cooper won the DEI award for her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in Indigenous engagement. As BGIS's National Indigenous Engagement Leader, she has spearheaded initiatives to attract and retain Indigenous talent, leading to significant increases in Indigenous representation and partnerships. Her work includes creating targeted recruitment campaigns, building support for Indigenous employees, and fostering cultural awareness within BGIS. Rikki's initiatives, like the “Gowns for Graduation” and Cowboys House partnerships, showcase her commitment to community support. Her proactive leadership and passion for meaningful change have strengthened BGIS’s connection with Indigenous communities, making her a valued industry influencer.