Staff

Advocacy on behalf of property developers, equity financiers and those in the wider community who enjoy the benefits of new and renewed urban communities.

Urban Taskforce Staff

Tom Forrest

Chief Executive Officer

Tom Forrest was Chief of Staff and Advisor to various NSW Ministers (Premier, Treasurer, Planning, Health and Olympics) before joining the senior ranks of the public service in the key Department of Premier and Cabinet and Transport portfolios. More recently, Tom assisted private sector clients, including commercial and residential developers, navigate often complex regulatory landscapes.

Paul Waterhouse

Planning, Research and Policy Analyst

Paul Waterhouse has been working in public policy for almost 30 years, as a political adviser, with government agencies, and a variety of peak industry associations. His work has primarily been in the property and construction space.  

Paul has held advocacy, communications, and operational roles, dealing with a range of issues from planning and development assessment to risk and counter-terrorism.  Paul is now responsible for Policy and data analysis along with the drafting of submissions made by the Urban Taskforce Australia.

WILLIAM HUGHES

Economist and Planning Analyst

William Hughes has worked in both the private and public sectors with more than 15 years as an executive in the NSW Public Service.

Will has experience in economics and research, planning, mineral resources and regional development, with a focus on evidence-based data analysis and stakeholder engagement.

Will is now responsible for economics and planning policy analysis along with the drafting of submissions made by the Urban Taskforce Australia.

Nicola Baume

Manager – Events and Membership

Nicola Baume generates information to our current and new members.

She co-ordinates all events held throughout the year including lunches, industry briefings, committee networking events. She also manages the annual Development Excellence Awards and Property Person of the Year Award.

Tanja fox

Executive Assistant to CEO and Marketing Admin

Tanja Fox joined the Urban Taskforce in April 2025 as Executive Assistant to the CEO. She brings a strong background in office administration, with experience spanning several professional sectors including insurance, communications, education, and disability services. Tanja holds an Arts Degree in Literature from Charles Sturt University and has a particular interest in digital design and communications.