Meet the team behind The Planning Professionals
Get to know the people behind The Planning Professionals; a team that understands the detail, the process and the importance of clear, practical advice at every stage of a project.
Get to know the people behind The Planning Professionals; a team that understands the detail, the process and the importance of clear, practical advice at every stage of a project.
Kari Wheeler is the Principal and Managing Director of our practice, bringing over ten years of experience as a planner across both private and government sectors. She has a strong background in heritage and a deep understanding of planning processes, enabling her to deliver practical, high-quality solutions tailored to each project. Kari is committed to balancing innovation with the needs of stakeholders, ensuring outcomes that are both functional and well-considered.
From initial concept through to construction, she applies a thoughtful, outcomes-driven approach, guided by her genuine passion for the built environment and her dedication to creating spaces that work for people and communities alike.
Perri Avery is our Design Manager, with over 15 years of experience in the construction industry and a Master’s in Architecture. She has a keen eye for detail and a passion for leading design projects from concept to completion, ensuring every space is functional, thoughtful, and practical. She approaches each project with a collaborative approach with creative problem-solving and loves turning ideas into beautiful, livable and achievable results.
Outside of work, you’ll often find her exploring the outdoors – preferably with a good coffee in hand.
Stephanie joined The Planning Professionals in 2022 as an Administrator and quickly worked her way up to Office Manager. While Steph may not have creds in the traditional sense, her broad experience and can-do attitude make her the dream team player we all rely on.
Starting out in banking at her father’s business, Steph went on to manage and open bowling alleys across Australia before heading to London to work in real estate.
When she’s not keeping the office running smoothly, you’ll find Steph enjoying a nice drop in good company; usually alongside her three fur babies, including Astra, the office dog.
A few years ago, Astra proudly took on the title of official office dog. Since then, she’s worked tirelessly to overcome her early office anxieties, transforming from protective mode to full on social butterfly – determined to be friends with everyone.
Astra’s daily routine is a masterclass in balance – she alternates between dedicated snack negotiations, strategic snoring sessions, and making her rounds for well-earned pats. When tension runs high, she’s always first on duty-head on lap, ready to restore calm.
A true pawfessional, Astra reminds everyone that kindness, naps and snacks are key to a healthy workplace culture.