City planning expert Meredith Sussex will continue to lead the organisation charged with advancing Australia’s largest urban renewal precinct – Fishermans Bend.

Minister for Business Precincts Martin Pakula today confirmed Ms Sussex’s reappointment as chair of the Fishermans Bend Development Board, along with new terms for the board’s five other members.

Ms Sussex has built a reputation for professional excellence and leadership in a distinguished career in the Victorian public service, including in the key role of Coordinator-General of Infrastructure, and the private sector.

Divided into five precincts, Fishermans Bend covers 480 hectares on the south-west border of Melbourne‘s CBD and is forecast to accommodate 80,000 people and 80,000 jobs by 2050. The board’s key function is to develop the overall strategy and oversee implementation of plans to deliver this vision.

Fishermans Bend is a designated Business Precinct and will play an important role in Victoria’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Almost $400 million in investment has recently been approved for Fishermans Bend, including three projects providing over 700 dwellings including 43 affordable homes.

Business leader and Myer Foundation president Martyn Myer, entrepreneur and chair of the Wheeler Centre Susan Oliver, transport industry leader Gary Liddle, former EPA chair Cheryl Batagol and ex-City of Port Phillip mayor Janet Bolitho will continue to serve with Ms Sussex on the development board.

The board works closely with the Victorian Government on implementing the Fishermans Bend Framework. Members bring a strong mix of skills and knowledge to their roles and each has made substantial contributions to the operation of the board.