Home Advisory services Advisory team Advisory team Our in-house advisory team provide expertise in housing and urban policy research. Image Rachel Hornsby Head of Advisory (Acting) Rachel’s career spans local government, community housing and consulting, during which she specialised in strategic leadership and city shaping. Previous roles include General Manager, Sustainable Planning and Development at the City of Kingston, where she managed delivery of significant capital works projects; Interim Executive Officer at MCM Housing; and Director of her own consultancy. As Head of Advisory, Rachel is committed to identifying pragmatic solutions that helps organisations reach their goals. Image Dr Nicola Brackertz Senior Manager - Advisory Nicola is a research specialist whose work has helped shape housing and social policy at the highest levels of government. Over 20 years, she has delivered evidence-based evaluations and strategic advice to the Commonwealth and State Governments across initiatives spanning Aboriginal housing, homelessness systems and general housing strategy. Explore Nicola's projects Focus areas: Program evaluation, homelessness, Housing First, mental health, social justice, vulnerable populations and Aboriginal housing. Image Shaun Middlebrook Principal First Nations Adviser As a proud Wiradjuri and Yuin man, Shaun brings expertise in law, policy, research design, and First Nations affairs to his role. Before joining AHURI, he served as Strategy and Wellbeing Manager at the Yoorrook Justice Commission and led strategic policy, advocacy, and communications at Aboriginal Housing Victoria. Holding degrees in law and management, Shaun brings a cultural lens that strengthens the integrity of AHURI's research. Focus areas: Closing the Gap, First Nations affairs and rights, policy, and social and community housing. Image Dr Renée Lane Senior Researcher Renée is a leading researcher in homelessness and housing policy, bringing international expertise from roles at two New Zealand Government Ministries. Most notably, she spearheaded the development of Aotearoa's first homelessness and housing need indicators. She holds a PhD in Population Studies and Bachelor of Social Sciences (First Class Honours) in Demography. Explore Renée's projects Focus areas: Program evaluation, homelessness, housing first, community housing, and family and domestic violence accommodation. Image Dr Declan Martin Senior Researcher Declan brings expertise across economics, urban development and data analysis. Before joining AHURI, he held postdoctoral positions at Monash Urban Planning and Design and RMIT's Centre for Urban Research. His research has supported evidence-based policy and program evaluation across the government, not-for-profit and community sectors. He holds a PhD in economic development and urban planning and a Bachelor of Commerce. Explore Declan's projects Focus areas: Program evaluation, data analytics, spatial analysis, and the impact of urban policy on housing, employment and industry outcomes. Community-grounded and culturally safe "AHURI is committed to elevating First Nations voices and experiences of housing and homelessness. Our work is grounded in cultural safety, respect and a commitment to doing no harm". Shaun MiddlebrookAHURI Principal First Nations Adviser Talk to us To discuss how AHURI can work with your organisation contact: Rachel HornsbyHead of Advisory (Acting)t. +61 3 9660 2300e. information@ahuri.edu.au
