Inspiring Sustainable Landscape Design & Advocacy
Debbie Laporte is a registered Landscape Architect and the Founding Director of Orterra, an Australian practice specialising in sustainable landscape architecture, green infrastructure in schools, and nature play design.
Debbie speaks because she believes landscape is essential infrastructure. Through projects delivered across urban and regional Australia, she has seen how small design decisions such as increasing canopy cover, integrating rain gardens, reducing hardstand, or embedding genuine nature play can create measurable long term impact.
Her presentations focus on school landscape design, green infrastructure in schools, urban tree advocacy, biodiversity in education environments, and climate responsive public spaces. Drawing on real projects, research, and policy experience, Debbie equips educators, designers, councils, and industry leaders with practical strategies that work within budget and procurement constraints.
Audiences leave with clarity, confidence, and actionable ideas. Debbie empowers people to understand that meaningful change does not require massive intervention. Small, strategic shifts in school design across Australia can transform learning environments and deliver lasting environmental and social benefit.
Contact Us to request additional informationA Proven Advocate for Positive Change
As a member of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) Advocacy Committee and a board member of Nature Play Queensland, Debbie leads conversations about the importance of integrating play into urban and natural landscapes. Their work emphasizes creating environments that inspire children and adults alike to engage with the outdoors.
Practical Expertise & Industry Insight
Having worked with notable clients on complex urban and regional projects, Debbie combines academic expertise with hands-on industry experience. Their work has been featured in prominent publications like the National Builders Guide, and they frequently share insights through public speaking, panel discussions, and workshops.