Vanessa's dedication has been recognised with an Order of Australia Certificate of Commendation for Service to the Community (2009), Australian Defence Force Leadership and Teamwork Award (2009), and Rotary Pride of Workmanship Award Excellence in Leadership and Passion for Learning (2013). She has ten years of experience in both government and NGO sectors (2008-present). Qualified with a Certificate of Engagement from the International Association of Public Participation (2015), she also has a Bachelor of Political, Economic, and Social Sciences from the University of Sydney (BPESS 2020).  

Locally in government, for five years, Vanessa served as an elected Councillor (policymaker) with Warringah Council (2012-2017). This role involved chairing the Environmental ECOS Strategic Reference Group (SRG). The SRG covered environmental issues for four lagoons, nine beaches, and 1700ha of bushland. In this role, Vanessa gained experience in policy for sea-level rise in the Collaroy Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) and capital works for Narrabeen Lagoon Trail. From this, she developed a passion for the environment. The role also involved extensive experience in public speaking, such as being a speaker and MC at Australia Day and community events.  

Abroad, Vanessa represented Australia at the precursor to the environmental G8 Summit on Climate Change in Hokkaido, Japan (2008), participated in the UNICEF Roundtable on Human Rights in the Asia Pacific (2007), worked in Poland teaching English (2010-2011), and saw Seven Women's work for women with disabilities in Nepal (June 2014). She has a passion for community service.  

In addition, she also has ten years of experience volunteering with the environmental charity - OzGreen Australia (2009-present) and is now an elected Board Member (2018-present). She gained experience in the event management and facilitation of an annual Environmental Education program for Sydney - Youth Leading the World (2009-present). The organisation has been recognised with a Eureka Prize, Banksia Award, and UN Media Peace Awards.   

Vanessa currently works in compliance for reducing the carbon emissions of companies and homes across NSW with the National Carbon Bank of Australia (2020-present). She works under the NSW Energy Saving Scheme (ESS) and specialises in Home Energy Efficiency Retrofits (HEERs).

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