Chinese Garden of Friendship Advisory Committee

Committee Members

Following an Expression of Interest process, the following members were appointed to the committee:

Mr Simon Chan

Simon Chan is a distinguished leader in the arts and multicultural engagement, with extensive experience across cultural advocacy, governance, and community leadership. His deep commitment to cultural exchange and inclusion continues to strengthen Australia’s connections with Asian communities and enrich Sydney’s cultural landscape.

• Director and Founder, Art Atrium
• Chair, Multicultural NSW Advisory Board
• Member, Australian Multicultural Council
• Member, Geographical Names Board
• Director, Australian National Maritime Museum Foundation
• Chair, VisAsia Committee, Art Gallery of NSW
• Board Director, Sydney Festival
• Member, Woollahra Council Arts & Culture Advisory Committee
• Member, Institute of Asian Australian Art & Culture, Western Sydney University
• President, Chinese Australian Forum
• Executive Committee Member, Haymarket Chamber of Commerce

Ms Oi Choong

Oi Choong is a highly respected landscape architect and urban designer whose work has shaped many significant public spaces across Australia. Her expertise in design excellence and heritage conservation informs her advisory roles and supports the Garden’s continued integrity as a place of harmony and reflection.

• Registered Landscape Architect
• Specialist Adviser in Landscape Architecture and Urban Design
• Fellow, Australian Institute of Architects
• Member, NSW State Design Review Panel
• Member, Building and Development Committee, The Women’s College, University of Sydney
• Member, Heritage Committee, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects

Mr Julian Siu

Julian Siu is an accomplished heritage specialist with a strong background in cultural landscape management and conservation policy. His experience contributes valuable insight into the preservation of heritage values and the integration of cultural narratives within the Garden’s ongoing evolution.

• Principal, GML Heritage
• Member, Heritage Council of NSW
• Member, Wingecarribee Local Planning Panel
• Member, Heritage Advisory Committee, Metropolitan Memorial Parks
• Full International Member, Australia ICOMOS
• Member, National Trust of Australia (NSW)

Ms Karen Soo

Karen Soo brings deep experience in policy, advocacy, and community engagement, with a career spanning sustainability, inclusion, and urban development. Her leadership within civic and cultural organisations reflects her passion for building vibrant, inclusive communities that celebrate diversity and cultural heritage.

• Advisor, Infrastructure Sustainability Council and Carers NSW
• Senior Policy Advisor to Deputy Lord Mayor Jess Scully, City of Sydney
• Former Executive Officer, Haymarket Chamber of Commerce
• Former Director, Diversity Council Australia Ltd
• Board Member, 2RPH

Professor Jing Han

Professor Jing Han is an internationally recognised scholar in translation studies, intercultural communication, and media. Through her leadership and academic work, she has significantly advanced cultural understanding and creative exchange between Australia and China.

• Director, Australia-China Institute for Arts and Culture, Western Sydney University
• Professor of Translation Studies, School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University
• Former Head and Chief Subtitler, SBS Subtitling Department
• Member, Civic Place Trust, Willoughby City Council
• Member, Women’s Reference Group, Department of Home Affairs

Ms Julie Lee

Julie Lee is a leading landscape architect and urban designer with extensive experience in public realm design, placemaking, and cultural landscape projects. Her commitment to design excellence, advocacy, and mentorship continues to shape sustainable and inclusive urban environments across New South Wales.

• Director of Landscape Architecture, Tract Consultants
• Fellow, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA)
• Registered Urban Designer
• Chair, AILA Advocacy Committee
• Adjunct Associate Professor, UNSW
• Member, State Design Review Panel, Government Architect NSW
• Member, Transport for NSW Design Review Panel
• Committee Member, Chinese Australian Historical Society
• Member, Chinatown Action Committee

Mr Shen Chiu

Shen Chiu is a seasoned property and investment professional with extensive expertise in development, asset management, and strategic advisory. His broad experience in urban renewal and commercial development brings valuable insight to the ongoing enhancement and future vision of the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

• Director of Property, Australian Capital Equity
• Director, Bowstring Consulting