Romilly Madew AO, Chief Executive of Infrastructure Australia, is among 25 leaders in applying science, technology and engineering to solve real-world problems elected to one of Australia’s Learned Academies.

The Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering today welcomed experts from across research, government and industry as Fellows.

They include Ms Madew AO FTSE, who is a driving force for the development of sustainable buildings and communities globally.

As the former CEO of the Green Building Council Australia (13 years) she has used her distinct and deep knowledge of sustainable practices, with her personal and professional leadership, to influence the way we design, construct and manage built assets.

Globally, Ms Madew has been a pioneer of sustainable buildings and infrastructure. In 2019, she was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the construction sector as a change agent and advocate for sustainable building practices.

Academy President, Professor Hugh Bradlow, welcomed the new Fellows.

'We bring together Australia’s leading experts in applied science, technology and engineering to provide impartial, practical and evidence-based advice to enable Australia to maintain its position as a leading technology economy.

'The 2019 cohort of new Fellows comprises a remarkable and talented group, who will contribute to helping the Academy fulfil its mission.'

Twelve of the 25 new Fellows are women – the highest proportion ever.

Ms Madew said she was honoured to be included amongst the distinguished list of individuals.

'The Academy’s overarching mission to apply science, technology and engineering to solve the big issues facing our nation, is something I am passionate about and as a new fellow I look forward to helping drive robust and practical thinking to Australia’s big debates', she said.

Ms Madew began her lead role with Infrastructure Australia in April this year. She has held Board positions with the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council and is currently a Director of Sydney Olympic Park Authority and Chief Executive Women and sat on numerous ministerial panels including the Cities Reference Group, National Urban Policy Forum and the China/Australia Services Sector Forum.

Ms Madew’s achievements have previously been recognised with national and international awards, including the 2015 International Leadership Award from the US Green Building Council and the 2017 World Green Building Council Chairman’s Award.

The new Fellows will be formally welcomed into the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering at its Annual General Meeting in Melbourne on 29 November.

2019 FELLOWS – for full citations, visit the Academy website at applied.org.au/new-fellows