Meet Courtney Burns.
“I see potential where others see obstacles — and I genuinely enjoy turning those challenges into something exciting. It’s about good people, strong relationships, and creating homes and communities that feel right.”
Courtney’s Story
Courtney was born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, where building was always part of life—quite literally in her bones. Surrounded by the industry from a young age, she developed a natural understanding of homes, design, and the way projects come together. From school Courtney went on to study Communications at the University of the Sunshine Coast, beginning her career in radio, where she worked alongside industry legend and dear friend, the late Jamie Dunn.
Not long after, Courtney followed what felt like a natural path back into the building industry, managing her father’s building company, PJ Burns Builder and working on a range of special projects. From there, her interest evolved into town planning and development, where she found her passion for solving complex challenges and shaping projects from the ground up. As a mother of five young children and one of four sisters—many also in the industry—family and community remains at the centre of everything she does, shaping her grounded, people-first approach to both life and business.
Raised on the Sunshine Coast
Building was in her bones from a young age.
From Family Business to Big Ideas
General Managed her father’s company and special projects, before exploring town planning and development.
Passion, Vision, Leadership.
Courtney’s approach to building and development is deeply shaped by her family legacy. Her grandfather, Noel Burns, was a visionary property developer who played a pivotal role in shaping Kawana Waters through Kawana Estates. From a young age, Noel encouraged Courtney to dream big, reminding her that any problem can be solved with creativity, determination, and a willingness to explore new ideas.
This philosophy of possibility and problem-solving runs through everything Courtney does. She combines vision with hands-on expertise and a focus on sustainability, ensuring each project is efficient, future-ready, and designed to minimise environmental impact. Guided by the lessons of her grandfather and her own experience managing projects and special builds, Courtney brings leadership that is grounded, practical, and always focused on people, communities, and creating spaces that truly work for those who live in them.
Beyond her project work, Courtney is a proud member of multiple QMBA Housing Committees and has been recognised and formally acknowledged for her contributions to women in building on several occasions. She is committed to helping others in the industry, mentoring and supporting colleagues, and shaping opportunities that empower both professionals and investors alike. Her passion isn’t just about structures—it’s about creating homes, communities, and projects that inspire, connect, and endure, reflecting a legacy of integrity, care, and people-first thinking in everything she undertakes.
Sustainable Design
Projects built for efficiency, longevity, and minimal environmental impact.
Community Focused
Creating spaces that adapt, include, and connect people.
Committee & Industry Roles.
Queensland Master Builders State Committee
Housing Sector Committee Member
As a member of the Queensland Housing Committee for Master Builders, Courtney contributes to shaping policy and industry discussion around residential building standards, housing trends, and sector challenges. This committee brings together experienced industry professionals to provide insights, advocate for practical improvements, and support quality outcomes across Queensland’s housing sector. The committee’s work helps influence industry-wide recommendations on laws, codes, and regulations that impact housing delivery and quality.
Sunshine Coast Master Builders Management Committee
Housing Sector Committee Member
As part of the Sunshine Coast Housing Committee, Courtney represents local industry perspectives on housing needs, regional development challenges, and opportunities for innovation. This regional committee engages with Master Builders’ broader structure to ensure that Sunshine Coast voices help shape policy, advocacy, and standards that support high‑quality housing outcomes in the area.
Queensland Master Builders State Contract Committee
Contracts Sector Committee Member
On the State Contracts Committee, Courtney helps address key contracting issues that affect builders and developers, including fair contract practices, risk allocation, and industry best practice. Committees like this play an important role within Master Builders by reviewing and advising on contract‑related matters that support members in navigating legal and commercial frameworks across projects.
Professional Recognition.
HIA Queensland Women in Building Award
Professional Service Excellence 2024 Winner
Courtney was honoured with the Professional Service Excellence award at the HIA Queensland Building Women Awards in 2024. This recognition celebrates her outstanding leadership, expertise, and commitment to delivering high-quality projects, highlighting her ability to excel in all aspects of building and development.
QMBA Sunshine Coast Housing and Construction Women in Building Award
Professional Service Excellence 2017 Winner
In 2017, Courtney received the Professional Service Excellence award at the QMBA Sunshine Coast Housing and Construction Women in Building Awards. The accolade acknowledges her exceptional project management skills, innovative solutions, and dedication to achieving successful outcomes in a dynamic and challenging industry.