Director at Studio P3
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With over 20 years in the design industry, Pablo is recognised for his expertise that extends across workplace, tertiary education, and the hospitality sectors.  His passion for design balanced with a commercial understanding has realised landmark environments across Asia Pacific. With a strong client relationship focus and engaging communication style, Pablo leads the Studio P3 design output and creative market position with an innate ability to engage with and coordinate teams, facilitating the untapped creative potential of people and places.  Pablo has represented major multi-national clients including Microsoft, Chanel, Westpac, Ausgrid and Western Sydney University and is an active member of several industry associations including Advisory Board TAFE Curriculum for Interior Design and Advisory Board Denfair Trade Show.

General Manager at Lubetech
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Sian holds a keen interest in the intersection of design and industrial spaces, with particular focus on information delivery and aligning technical data design with user experience. She specializes in translating complex scientific data into accessible, engaging formats for public audiences. With a Bachelor's degree in Sociology (Political Science), a Master's degree in Digital Design, and a Master's degree in Interactive Media from Griffith University's Queensland College of Art, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work. As Managing Director of Lubetech Pty Ltd, a Brisbane-based petrochemicals laboratory, Sian leads oil analysis, consultancy, and lubricant services. Her background spans the oil and gas sector, policy development, and technical research, including co-authoring studies on base number analysis. She has led design and production of policy publications and rebranding projects, blending analytical insight with creative strategy.

Product Designer at Streamtime
LinkedIn

Isobel is a Product Designer at Streamtime, where she focuses on building tools that help creative businesses find a healthy balance between wellbeing and profitability. Her work contributes to Streamtime’s broader goal of supporting a more sustainable creative industry — one that values people, not just output. She brings experience from agency and in-house roles, giving her a practical and considered approach to design. Her work is grounded in the realities of the creative landscape of today, and driven by a curiosity about where it’s heading. As a previous winner of the Use category in the Graduate of the Year Awards, Isobel brings a distinct perspective to the judging panel. This direct experience as a celebrated emergent designer, coupled with her current industry acumen, positions her to keenly identify the next wave of design leaders.

Creative Leadership and Exhibition Designer Barnett Design
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Lea Barnett is a seasoned Creative Director with 30 years of multidisciplinary experience spanning interpretive exhibitions, branding, service design, and wayfinding. Grounded in graphic design and conceptual arts, she brings a strategic and intuitive approach to leadership, project delivery, and creative problem-solving—crafting design outcomes that go beyond the brief to achieve meaningful audience engagement. Lea has held executive roles including Head of Exhibitions at the Australian War Memorial, and leadership positions at Artists in Motion, Transport for NSW, and Imagination Australia. As former Associate Director at Campbell Barnett, she led major national and international campaigns. Her collaborative style and steady leadership consistently deliver outstanding results in complex, multi-channel environments.

Designer and Educator Phoebe Besley
LinkedIn

Phoebe has more than 25 years of industry experience working in a handful of leading Sydney studios, with a diverse range of clients ranging from a passionate winemaker with a vintage of 100 bottles to ASX-listed companies and everything in between. Phoebe’s work is awarded and published both locally and internationally. She works closely with clients to understand their needs and enjoys going beyond the brief to create successful, meaningful and memorable solutions. She has been a part-time Educator at TAFE NSW Design Centre Enmore since 2021, balancing teaching and also maintaining her creative practice.

Design Director at Returnr
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Brett Capron is an accomplished Design Director with extensive experience in consumer goods and industrial design. With a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic vision, he specializes in product and brand strategy, innovation management, and concept development. His approach combines design thinking methodologies with practical business acumen to deliver impactful solutions across diverse industries. Brett's educational foundation includes a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design and Mechanical Engineering from Monash University, plus an MBA from Melbourne Business School, positioning him to bridge the gap between creative design and business objectives. Throughout his career, Brett has demonstrated proficiency in design management, leading cross-functional teams through complex product development cycles. His hands-on approach ensures he remains connected to the creative process while driving innovation at the organizational level, transforming concepts into market-ready products.

Director and Co-Founder at Steelotto
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Remy is the co-founder of Melbourne based furniture brand, Steelotto. The brand was officially launched in 2017 at Den Furniture Fair receiving a high commendation for Best Small Stand. Since its inception Steelotto has been intertwined in the local design scene, working with high profile brands such as Aesop, Hector's Deli, Little Creatures, Market Lane Coffee and Nike. In 2019 Remy was invited to run an Industrial Design workshop on behalf of Nike Australia for the Nike Airmax Weekend Event. Remy has always had a strong passion for furniture design; Exhibiting two works at ‘Salone Satellite’ in Milan, 2016 as part of Melbourne Movement, Launchpad finalist, 2015 and Victorian Graduate Of The Year Award for Furniture Design, 2014. Throughout her career, Remy has acquired a unique variety of skills and an expertise in the fabrication of steel furniture both locally and internationally.

Global Technical Design Leader at Woods Bagot
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Csilla is a Practice Manager and Technical Design Leader for Woods Bagot’s Perth studio. With 39 years experience in the Design industry one of her goals is to educate, mentor and nurture the arising generations.  Csilla's association with the DIA (Design Institute of Australia) dates back to the early days of her career. Over time, she has made significant contributions to the organisation, serving as Secretary and Awards Coordinator on the WA Council for multiple terms since 1998.  Through her enduring involvement with the DIA, Csilla has come to appreciate the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the vital role it plays in promoting excellence in design across various domains.   She is actively involved in DIA initiatives, including her role on the GOTYA (Graduate of the Year Awards) jury, DIA mentoring, portfolio reviews, and participation in industry events.

Director at Pony Design Co.
LinkedIn

Natalie Dufton established her practice, Pony Design Co., in 2014, following a decade honing her craft in commercial interior design, styling, creative leadership as an industry educator. She leads an outstanding team in creating immersive and memorable environments, known for her resourceful, solutions-focused, and strategically large-scale thinking. Natalie’s lifelong love for design and strategic thinking began early, assisting her builder & engineer father on-site, drawing plans, and even creating towns from construction sand. For Natalie, being part of the design community is about embracing the journey of design transformation and cementing long-standing client and industry relationships while educating and supporting the next generation of designers. She prides herself on a collaborative approach, committed to transparency, and ensuring the process is always enjoyable. Many of Natalie's projects have been recognised in various Industry Awards such as the IDEA Awards, Eat Drink Design Awards, and the Australian Interior Design Awards.

Learning and Capability Designer Paloma Hodgins
LinkedIn

I genuinely love seeing people succeed, and I'm passionate about building confidence and connection—especially in cross-disciplinary spaces. The pie is big enough for all of us to have a slice! I'm a creative and experienced designer and learning developer with a background in visual communication and more than 10 years of experience across both design practice and higher education. Working across different design and education environments gives me a unique perspective. As a member of the DIA QLD Council, I actively support greater representation in our regional design communities. As an educator, I design and facilitate inclusive workshops and industry events grounded in co-design and collaboration. I have a strong focus on design portfolios and the vital role they play in shaping careers in our industry. I’m also part of the team delivering Never Not Creative’s Finishing School, supporting emerging talent and exploring new, more effective ways to connect design graduates with the creative industries.

Head of Interior Design at O'Neill Architecture
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Shireen is a senior designer and project team leader in her role as Head of Interior Design at O’Neill Architecture. With over 20 years of experience across a diverse range of sectors including workplace, aged care, education, hospitality, aviation, residential, and public space design. Her work is grounded in human-centred principles, delivering spaces that are functional, inclusive, and enhance wellbeing. With qualifications in Built Environment and Business, she brings a strategic and creative lens to every project, balancing design excellence with commercial and operational outcomes. Her career has been defined by collaborative leadership, guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex briefs and fostering strong partnerships. A committed mentor, Shireen actively supports the growth of emerging designers, sharing her knowledge generously to foster confidence, creativity, and professional development. Her approach is defined by empathy, curiosity, and a belief in the transformative power of design to shape meaningful experiences and resilient environments.

Interior Designer at Elvin Tan Design | GOTYA 2024 VIC/TAS winner
LinkedIn

Wenting (Christing) is an award-winning interior designer specialising in commercial space - retail, hospitality, and F&B. With a solid background in commerce and client service, she values building genuine relationships as much as crafting thoughtful designs. Since graduating, she’s gained hands-on experience in concept development and detailed documentation at a leading design studio, while also sharing her passion as a sessional educator at RMIT. Her work has been recognised with the 2024 DIA GOTYA Vic/Tas Vocational Award, the Design Matters National Award for Conceptual Design, and RMIT’s Graduate of the Year 2023, alongside shortlisting for the 38th Dulux Colour Awards and 2023 Janne Faulkner Prize. Wenting is dedicated to creating functional, sustainable, and sensory spaces that enhance well-being. Known for her meticulous eye and balanced, purposeful approach, she enjoys working closely with clients to shape environments that truly enrich everyday life.

Interior Designer and Director at MARG Studio
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Emily MacAlpine is the Founder and Principal Designer of MARG. Studio, a full-service interior design studio creating timeless, thoughtful spaces that balance beauty and function. Emily believes the best interiors tell stories—reflecting the lives, memories, and values of the people who live in them. Raised in regional New South Wales, Emily has a deep connection to honest materials, craftsmanship, and the quiet beauty of everyday life. Her designs create opportunities for special, daily moments—whether it’s a reading nook, a framed entryway, or a space that invites connection. With a career spanning architectural and interior design practices, Emily brings a strong focus on residential projects, guiding clients through the design journey with clarity, care, and confidence.

Lead Interior Designer, Global Buildings Design at Jacobs
LinkedIn

Maria is passionate about art, architecture, and design, leading her to work as Jacob's Global Technical Director- Interior Design. She has extensive experience in government, corporate, technical laboratory interiors, and institutional interior design. Recognised for her creative input and knowledge on materials and sustainability, she has successfully led numerous high-profile workplace fitout projects including Therapeutic Goods Administration and Australian Federal Police Headquarters in ACT. Maria's approach involves deep understanding of spatial relationships, materials, and building systems, allowing her to craft interiors that complement and enhance the architectural envelope. Intrigued by linking interior stories to environments and incorporating biophilia for wellbeing, she is passionate about design advocacy and the potential of workplaces as living laboratories. She is also a long-term volunteer at Heide Museum of Modern Art, Vision Australia, and Open House Melbourne.

Commercial Interior Designer/Director at ONYX Studio
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Barbie is a Commercial Interior Designer and the Director of ONYX Studio, based on the Sunshine Coast, QLD.  Barbie believes that great design is the result of genuine connection between people and their environments, and prides herself on her relatable, honest and culture-based approach she brings to all her projects. With a special affinity for Hospitality and Retail design fitouts, she thrives on crafting meaningful environments that resonate with clients and their customers. Judging for the GOTYA Awards 2025, feels like a full circle moment for Barbie, who herself was a Finalist in the GOTYA Awards, 2022.

Digital Media Lecturer and Unit Coordinator at CQ University
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Jim Picton is a Lecturer on the Bachelor of Digital Media team at CQ University, inspiring the next generation of creatives for almost ten years. His passion for animation, illustration, and game design drives his commitment to providing authentic learning experiences. He guides students through coursework, capstone projects, and Work Integrated Learning placements, fostering collaborative environments that emphasise technical knowledge and soft skills. Beyond the classroom, Jim explores Virtual Reality's creative potential through his PhD research and was an inaugural member of the 'Immerse High - Immersive Storytelling in Schools Competition' launched on the Sunshine Coast in 2017. He particularly enjoys working with students in regional and remote areas, excited by vocational opportunities available in the post-NBN era. Witnessing his students' growth and success is incredibly rewarding, and he's proud of his positive impact on their educational journeys.

Director at Sarah Reid & Others
LinkedIn

Educated in Auckland, Sarah moved to Melbourne in 2001 to undertake a Master of Architecture at The University of Melbourne. While studying, she worked at Denton Corker Marshall, then joined Bates Smart in 2007, where she focussed on large-scale healthcare and public projects. She later shifted to interior design as a Senior Designer at Hecker Guthrie, honing her skills in residential and commercial design. In 2014, she joined Fiona Lynch Studio in a senior role then after a decade in the industry, Sarah founded Sarah Reid & Others in 2016. As Director, she leads high-end residential projects across Melbourne and interstate.

Founder and Strategic Service Designer at To Be Creative, Assistant Director at IP Australia
LinkedIn

Jing Shen is a design leader and strategic service designer specialising in visual communication, co-design, and systems thinking. She collaborates with federal departments and global organisations to identify systemic challenges and deliver thoughtful, human-centred solutions. In 2024, she was shortlisted for the DIA Awards (INTERACT category) and received a Good Design Australia Award. Jing is the founder of To Be Creative, a boutique consultancy specialising in women’s health and inclusive innovation, which combines storytelling, research, and strategy to drive social impact. She also co-founded the Australian Chinese Designers Association, advocating for cross-cultural collaboration in the design industry, and is a passionate champion of design thinking and emerging talent.

Director at D3 Design
LinkedIn

Clive Solari is a co-director of D3 Design, a Sydney-based industrial design studio renowned for product innovation and strategic design thinking. With over 45 years of experience, Clive has led award-winning projects across consumer goods, packaging, and manufacturing. His expertise lies in translating consumer insights into commercially successful outcomes, underpinned by a deep understanding of materials, production, and market dynamics. His notable projects include designing the A-Leagues Champions Trophies and collaborating on award-winning products for Wiltshire, Vuly, Klipsta and Rae Morris. A former NSW President of the Design Institute of Australia, Clive is a respected mentor and advocate for design excellence, committed to advancing the profession through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and a passion for purposeful, human-centred design.

Experience Designer Shannon Towell Design
LinkedIn

Shannon Towell is a seasoned Experience Designer specialising in accessible web and brand design. With a background in UX strategy, she’s worked across museums, consulting, and purpose-driven organisations to create digital experiences that are inclusive and user-focused. In addition to her design practice, she is the co-founder of AUCUA, a conference on accessibility and design, and owner of the Accessibility Clinic, where she helps her teams audit and improve digital accessibility. Her work blends best-practice standards with practical implementation, making accessibility not just a requirement, but a design advantage.

Architect, Writer, Educator and Scholar at Curtin University
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Dr Domenic Trimboli is a third-generation, settler-Australian and experienced tertiary educator of architecture, art history and urban planning. Presently based at Curtin University in Western Australia, he is also an architect, writer, and former recipient of the Nell Norris Fellowship for a Ph.D. in Architecture at The University of Melbourne. This recently completed research, developed through theoretical enquiry and speculative design, asks us to consider our relationship towards cemeteries in Australian cities and to (re)think how we might envisage creating new ones over the course of this century. An advocate for placing health, wellbeing and natural materials at the forefront of what we build, Domenic has likewise had work published across several academic journals of design and is a regular contributor of project reviews in Australian architectural media outlets.

Designer and PhD candidate Haoweitu.info
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Hao Wei Tu is a PhD candidate at Swinburne University of Technology, collaborating with Design Factory Melbourne and Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). As Senior Graphic Designer at D&D Creative, Hao Wei has created major rebrand projects across Melbourne’s CBD, including Midcity Centre and Downtown Grocery. Hao Wei made history as the first designer from Taiwan and East Asia to receive The One Club’s Young Ones Portfolio Award in New York. His work has earned six Red Dot Communication Design Awards, been featured four times in Communication Arts Magazine, and exhibited internationally in Taiwan, Macau, Germany, Japan and Poland. Hao Wei was the designer of the D&AD exhibition identity in Taiwan in 2021 and 2023. He specialises in brand strategy, visual storytelling, and identity systems, balancing aesthetics with strategic communication. His cross-cultural design perspective and award-winning portfolio bring a global sensibility to his projects.

Head of Design at Moose Toys
LinkedIn

Pooping Flamingos and a fogging Cauldron aren’t your typical markers of success – but award-winning industrial designer Rowen Wagner has spent the last 15 years shaping play in the toy industry. As Head of Design at Moose Toys, he leads 25 creatives behind hit brands like Magic Mixies, Little Live Pets, and Shopkins. Rowen’s design career began with a Bachelor of Design (Industrial Design) from UTS. His experience spans diverse industries – from automotive and street furniture to consumer electronics and education – with clients and collaborators including Volkswagen, Breville, IDEO, Koala, and Disney. Based in Melbourne, he has spent significant time working in Mexico, China, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Los Angeles. Rowen is passionate about nurturing creative talent, championing collaboration, and designing a world where play and imagination aren’t age-restricted.