About

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About Julia Callaghan

I’m Julia Callaghan, an economic developer and applied environmental scientist with over 25 years of experience working at the intersection of economy, environment and community. My career has been dedicated to helping governments, industries, businesses and communities navigate complex transitions toward more sustainable, resilient futures.

I specialise in green growth, economic and climate resilience, industry advancement and institutional transformation. My work is grounded in the belief that economic vibrancy and ecological health are not mutually exclusive — they are interdependent. I bring a systems-thinking approach to every project, helping clients identify risks, unlock opportunities and build the capabilities needed to thrive in a changing world.

What sets me apart is not just my technical expertise, but my ability to guide change with empathy and clarity. I understand the challenges decision-makers face and work alongside them to overcome barriers, avoid common pitfalls and realise bold, practical solutions.

Whether advising on policy, shaping regional strategies or supporting innovation ecosystems, I’m driven by a single purpose: to help create economies that are not only productive, but regenerative — delivering lasting value for people, place and planet.

Julia Callaghan, Preternatural

I am a certified economic developer and specialist in sustainability committed to helping peers lead transitions toward net positive futures. I apply economics and environmental science approaches with expert public relations and strategic, change-making skills. Drawing on my academic qualifications and extensive practical experience, I taught post-graduate programs in policy, planning, regional and cross-organisational approaches to economic, environmental and social governance. Consequently, I am able to guide others in how to critically assess all forms of evidence, leverage existing strengths and manage risks to regenerate inclusive, new economies.

My twenty-five year career spans regional economic development, strategic planning, and business sustainability across diverse sectors like agriculture, energy, construction, manufacturing, waste management, transport and environmental markets. Early in my career, I facilitated regional investment planning that advanced industry development, sustainable water and agriculture practices. Later I worked in government policy and programs — then in environmental social governance and climate resilience collaborating on projects with Suncorp, Woolworths and BHP. I also led a company using modelling and AI tools to advance eco-friendly construction. These experiences have seen me enable long-term economic, environmental and social well-being across four states.

As CEO of Regional Development Australia Moreton Bay, I led sustainable regional growth initiatives, attracted green investments and upgrading ESG for export markets / large scale procurement outcomes. I emphasized practical collaboration, leveraging regional strengths to achieve triple-bottom-line outcomes. My expertise includes managing effective stakeholder engagement for co-design. Working with anchor institutions, I provided the supportive context for SMEs to adopt regenerative business models and workforce transitions.

Recognized at QUT for outstanding sustainability leadership, I successfully implemented strategic programs in divestment, sustainable procurement, resource efficiency, and carbon management. My guidance helps economic developers navigate the complexities of applying their expertise to the emerging context. My proven track record of transforming ambitious sustainability visions into tangible outcomes positions me as a trusted leader who empowers peers to confidently embed sustainability into their regional economic strategies.

Why I Provide This Service

As an economic developer and applied environmental scientist, I see powerful opportunities for governments, industries and regions to take meaningful action that ensures economic vibrancy, ecological health and social vitality.

With over 25 years of experience supporting governments, industries, businesses, developers, innovators, researchers and communities, I am deeply committed to making a difference. I believe a productive transition to renewed, sustainable economies is essential for both current and future generations.

I bring specialist expertise in green growth, economic and climate resilience, industry advancement, economic transformation and institutional change. These skills enable me to guide organisations through the complex transitions required to build more sustainable futures.

Importantly, I understand the fears and uncertainties that come with change. I know how to avoid common pitfalls and unlock new possibilities — helping businesses and decision-makers move forward with confidence and clarity.

Get in contact

0409 326 836 

Get in contact

0409 326 836 

Address

Brisbane,
Queensland

Address

Brisbane,
Queensland