MEnvPl, BA (Human Geography & Demography), MPIA, MEIANZ, MSIMNA

Liesl Codrington is the Director of Vaere Social. Liesl is a widely recognised leader in social sustainability, bringing over 20 years of experience in delivering strategic planning, social impact assessments, social infrastructure assessments and community needs assessments. Her expertise also encompasses social research, where she excels in analysing data to uncover and understand community dynamics, identify trends, and drive informed strategic decisions.

Liesl has led high-impact projects across New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia, contributing her diverse sector knowledge across infrastructure, property, renewable energy, transport, water, health, and education . Her portfolio includes landmark and precinct-based developments such as the Snowy Mountains and Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precincts, Ginninderry, and Harbourside, alongn with a wide range of social impact assessments for schools, hospitals, and mixed-use property developments.

As an active social researcher, Liesl demonstrates an exceptional ability to distill and communicate complex data, revealing patterns that inform policy and planning. Her current research focuses on the experiences of neurodivergent individuals in public spaces, an area where she is making significant contributions.

Liesl is a values-driven, community-focussed leader with a passion for creating inclusive places that reflect the needs of often underrepresented groups. She champions the voices of neurodivergent individuals, youth, older adults, women, and marginalised communities, ensuring their perspectives are central to planning and development processes.

Known for her warm, authentic leadership style, Liesl’s people-first approach and unwavering commitment to delivering impactful, high-quality outcomes have earned her respect as a trusted leader in the field. Her work in placemaking is rooted in a belief that well-designed spaces can transform lives by enhancing community wellbeing.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Liesl enjoys hiking Canberra’s scenic trails, reading, cooking healthy recipes, and spending time with family and friends. She is also an active Parkrun director and regularly participates in trail running events. A proud advocate for Canberra, Liesl celebrates the city’s natural beauty, ease of transport, open spaces, vibrant café culture, and exceptional work-life balance.