Ray Haeren

Ray Haeren is a highly experienced Urban and Regional Planner with over 30 years of service across both government and private sectors in Perth and regional Western Australia. He currently serves as the Deputy Chair of the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC), where he plays a critical role in advising the Minister for Planning, Lands and Housing on planning reform and strategic priorities throughout the state.

Ray’s extensive career includes a 17-year tenure as Planning Director at Urbis, where he was instrumental in establishing and leading the Western Australian office and the National Planning Group. He has also held senior roles in local government, including Director of Planning and Sustainability at the City of Gosnells and Principal Planner at the Shire of Roebourne (now the City of Karratha).

Known for his deep understanding of complex planning systems and policy frameworks, Ray brings expertise in strategic planning, statutory planning, planning policy, stakeholder management, governance, and leadership. His professional strengths also encompass both technical acumen and interpersonal insight, drawing on strong professional and life skills to support effective outcomes across diverse stakeholder groups.

Ray is currently the National Vice President of the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), where he also serves as Chair of the Policy and Advocacy Committee and sits on the WA Board. He is a Registered Planner (Fellow) of PIA and has previously served as the WA State President and a National Board Member. His contributions to the field reflect a passionate commitment to advancing the planning profession and helping Australian cities respond to evolving environmental, social, and economic challenges.

Ray holds a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (Honours) from Curtin University and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.