Mark Allan (Mark) was formally inducted as a member on 5 November 2025 with the classification of Urban Planning – General. Originally from Horsham, Victoria he was educated at Vermont High School, Kingswood College, RMIT University and The University of Melbourne. His academic journey includes graduation with a Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning with Honours from The University of Melbourne, following which he commenced a professional career as a Planning Officer at the City of Melbourne in 1985. This initial position marked the start of a distinguished career in urban planning and architecture. In 1987 he began part-time studies in architecture at RMIT University.
Mark’s career progression was notably marked by key positions and significant projects, including his contributions to the Urban Design Brief for Federation Square and the resultant international design competition. His accomplishments led him to a secondment to the Corporation of the City of London, where he was awarded the Freedom of the City of London in the year marking the 800th anniversary of the Lord Mayor. Upon his return to Melbourne, he obtained an honours degree in Architecture.
During his tenure with the City of Melbourne, Mark was instrumental in various major projects and was seconded to the Melbourne Docklands Authority, later appointed General Manager of Planning and Design from 2000 to 2008. His contributions were recognised with several awards including two prestigious Australia Awards for Urban Design. Following a decade with the State Government of Victoria, he transitioned to the private sector, serving as Development Director – Sustainability at Mirvac and Associate Director at Billard Leece Partnership Architects. He earned a Master of Enterprise (Executive) from The University of Melbourne’s Melbourne Business School in 2014, further enhancing his expertise in sustainable development, urban design and planning.
Upon returning to the City of Melbourne from 2015 to 2024 he led the preparation of the Queen Victoria Market Precinct Renewal Master Plan. Mark managed the $450 million Munro site public-private partnership and was Director Greenline, a major city-shaping project which is transforming 4 km of the north bank of the Yarra River-Birrarung, enhancing public spaces for recreation, public art and events.
Mark is currently completing a PhD at The University of Melbourne, with his thesis undergoing examination. He was appointed an Enterprise Fellow at the Centre for Spatial Data Infrastructure and Land Administration in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology in 2024. His academic output includes several published papers focussing on the integration of digital technologies into sustainable urban regeneration projects, actively aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
On a personal note, Mark resides in Flemington with his wife Meredith, they have two daughters, a son in law and recently welcomed a grandson. The family enjoy spending time together and actively engage in shared interests in crafts, as well as mid-century art, architecture and furniture. Meredith is well known for her longstanding role as the Director of St Mary’s Kindergarten in North Melbourne, following retirement she remains active in the community.
Mark’s contributions extend beyond his professional duties. He is a Fellow of both the Australian Institute of Architects and the Planning Institute of Australia and has significantly contributed to various committees and forums. In his work and personal life, Mark is driven by a commitment to environmental, social and economic sustainability with a strong focus on fostering liveable and resilient communities.
Welcome to Rotary Melbourne, Mark! We’re delighted to have you with us.
