By When we think about great urban planning, we often think of sprawling public parks, integrated transport systems, and thoughtfully placed street furniture in Melbourne and beyond. But behind these well-planned public spaces are the minds who make them possible—many of whom are extraordinary Australian women. Today, we’re celebrating four trailblazing female urban designers and planners whose legacy has influenced everything from park furniture to entire city designs. These leaders show us that behind every great city is a great planner—and increasingly, a great woman. Their work continues to shape the decisions made by today’s street furniture companies and councils alike.
Dr Carolyn Whitzman – Champion for Inclusive Cities
Dr Carolyn Whitzman is a leading voice in urban planning, renowned for her dedication to creating inclusive and safe public spaces. As a Professor at the University of Melbourne, she has authored multiple books and academic studies on urban housing, equity, and community safety. Her work advocates for inclusive design that ensures everyone—regardless of age, gender or mobility—feels welcome in public places.
Dr Whitzman’s research has influenced planning policy across Australia, particularly regarding gender-responsive and accessible public space. Her focus on inclusive environments directly relates to the placement of park furniture, public seating, and safe lighting, helping urban spaces feel welcoming for all.
Dr Kate Shaw – Defending Culture and Community
Another powerhouse in urban thought is Dr Kate Shaw, a Melbourne-based academic and planning activist known for her work in cultural diversity and equitable urban renewal. Dr Shaw has long argued for development that protects the soul of the city—especially its artistic and working-class communities—from being overtaken by gentrification and commercial expansion.
Her passion for sustainable development and affordable housing adds depth to conversations about livability in Australian cities. Her advocacy reminds planners and street furniture companies that functionality must also preserve a city’s cultural identity—something as simple as a bench in a laneway or a bike rack near a music venue can influence how people engage with their environment.
Margaret Feilman OBE – Perth’s First Female Town Planner
Margaret Feilman was a true pioneer, blazing the trail as Western Australia’s first female town planner. Also trained in architecture and landscape design, she had a huge impact on urban design in the mid-20th century, especially in the development of Kwinana, a planned industrial and residential town near Perth.
Feilman’s work in regional and new town planning demonstrated how careful layout, green space, and strategic public facilities could foster thriving communities. Her integrated approach inspired future city planners and street furniture companies alike to consider functionality, aesthetics, and long-term community growth.
Marion Mahony Griffin – The Vision Behind Canberra
Though originally from the United States, Marion Mahony Griffin made a lasting mark on Australia’s urban identity. Alongside her husband, Walter Burley Griffin, she co-designed Canberra, Australia’s capital city. She was also instrumental in developing Castlecrag in Sydney, a suburb designed to harmonise with its natural landscape.
Mahony Griffin was more than a partner in planning—she was an artistic force, producing visionary watercolour renderings and designs that blended architecture with nature. Her focus on green integration, organic community layouts, and natural beauty continues to inspire the way we design streetscapes, from street furniture in Melbourne to national planning frameworks.
A Legacy of Livable Cities
These remarkable women helped lay the foundation for what we now know as functional, inclusive, and beautiful urban design in Australia. From large-scale city planning to nuanced, community-focused design, their work still informs how we structure our streets, parks, and public spaces.
And it’s not just about building big. These women showed that small details—like where we put street and park furniture, how we protect public green space, and how we encourage accessibility—are what make a city truly livable. Today’s planners, councils, and street furniture companies owe much of their progress to the paths paved by these pioneers.
Looking to the Future: Women in Urban Design
As Australia continues to grow, so does the importance of diversity in the minds shaping our cities. With more women entering fields of architecture, design, and planning, we can expect to see even more inclusive, sustainable, and community-focused developments. Whether it’s designing street furniture in Melbourne or shaping whole neighbourhoods, the influence of these four trailblazers reminds us that urban design is not just about structure—it’s about people.
As the industry continues to evolve, may it carry forward the vision and values of those who built its foundations—leaders like Mahony Griffin, Feilman, Shaw and Whitzman—ensuring every city street and park furniture installation reflects a place where everyone belongs. With thoughtful design and collaboration from today’s street furniture companies, the future of Australia’s cities is in extremely good hands.