Our blog shares practical insights on Safety in Design, WHS legislation, and risk management across the built environment. Articles are written for designers, engineers, and duty holders seeking to reduce risk early in the design process and meet Australian regulatory requirements.
Article updated 3 August, 2026 On 14 August 2018, a section of Genoa’s Morandi Bridge collapsed, killing 43 people. The disaster remains a stark lesson in asset lifecycle safe design—how risks are identified and managed through design, operation, inspection,
Job Role in SDA
SIA Certified Safety Professional, Postgraduate Diploma (Occupational Health & Safety), Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management), Diploma of Teaching, CPTED – NSW Police, Member UNSW Expert Witness Panel.
John is the Director of Safe Design Australia, recognised internationally for his leadership in Safety in Design, WHS and risk management. With over two decades of experience across construction, telecommunications, infrastructure and education, he has driven industry change for organisations including Vodafone Global, NBN Co and the NSW Government, and steered several industry bodies toward excellence in Safe Design and WHS.
aA certified Safety Professional and expert witness, John turns complex legislation into practical design solutions that improve safety outcomes. His strategic approach and collaborative style continue to shape best practice across Australia and the Asia–Pacific, helping architects, engineers and regulators embed safety from concept to completion.
When not guiding projects or mentoring the next generation of Safety in Design professionals, John can be found sailing through Southeast Asia, racing in the Sydney to Hobart, or on a motorcycle exploring roads less travelled.
