Karla Steen is the Manager of Partnerships at GW3, where she leads strategic collaboration to support economic growth and innovation across the Greater Whitsunday region. With a career dedicated to improving outcomes for regional communities, Karla brings expertise in communication, governance, and program design to create partnerships which support regional prosperity.

Her professional foundation in media, combined with her experience as a media advisor for the Queensland Government, has equipped her with the ability to translate complex policy and economic issues into clear, actionable strategies. Karla has worked across critical portfolios including emergency services, tourism, environment, and community services, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping regional economies.

Karla has designed and delivered initiatives that promote social inclusion, gender equality, and economic opportunity, supporting individual and small business growth, mining sector engagement, and regional sporting development. Her approach champions place-based innovation and inclusive engagement strategies. 

At GW3, Karla focuses on forging strategic partnerships between industry, government, and community to create long-term opportunities for the Greater Whitsunday region.