Peter Lee receives Order of Australia

Congratulations to Hassell Principal Peter Lee for receiving an Order of Australia Medal for his service to community housing initiatives and to architecture as part of the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

“I’m honoured and delighted to receive the Order of Australia Medal; it was very unexpected,” Peter said. 

“The citation is for service to community housing initiatives and architecture, so I assume it’s about my long-term involvement with Foundation Housing and the things I do in the world of design.

“Being useful in both those areas is reward enough but being recognised for it is wonderful.

“I’ve been on the board and the chair of the development committee for what was City Housing and then became Foundation Housing in the last century (23 years). 

“I’ve been inspired by the work our tenancy management people do taking care of our most needy clients. They are the ones who deserve awards. 

“My job has been to provide a supply of housing which has grown from a few million dollars of property to a portfolio approaching ¾ of a billion dollars, housing worthy people from our lodging house residents through to key workers.

“Providing an address for people means we can deliver services and help people get back on their feet - it’s a fundamental right, and our country is rich enough to do it. There is no excuse not to house everyone.

“It’s also been such a contrast dealing with housing really disadvantaged people and at the same time working on projects like Chevron, Optus Stadium, Crown Towers, The Westin, and Brookfield Place, with Hassell also involved with WA Museum Boola Bardip, Midland, and Fiona Stanley Hospitals and all the wonderful projects our team has undertaken.

“I’m blessed that Hassell has always supported my involvement in community social sustainable things like Foundation Housing, FORM, Open House, Rottnest Island Authority, State Design Review Panel and DAPs; and I’ve been able to contribute to Curtin University as an Adjunct Professor.

“All these things, I believe, add to the quality of architecture and the built environment, and it’s great to be able to give back to this wonderful industry whilst my opinions are still useful.”

Peter was elevated to Life Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects in 2019. 

The OAM is a fantastic acknowledgement of Peter’s achievements and well deserved! 

Congratulations Pete, from everyone at Hassell.