Shaping Community Well-being Through Systems Leadership and Innovation
DB Consulting supports local governments and leisure organisations with tailored solutions in capacity building, leadership, and strategic planning. Our flexible services include facility management, project oversight, financial planning, social impact strategies, and stakeholder engagement. We tackle complex challenges with practical, results-driven approaches to deliver sustainable progress.
David Burns brings 24 years of experience in the sport, leisure, and physical activity sectors, having worked across England and Australia.
With a career spanning roles in local government, peak bodies, the private sector, social enterprise, and the charity sector, David offers a unique perspective on enhancing community health and well-being.
As a systems leader and the founder of multiple organisations. David shapes meaningful change through four distinct pathways:
Consultancy
Charity
Social enterprise
Academia
This breadth of expertise, combined with his entrepreneurial leadership, positions him as a consultant and systems leader with a unique perspective, driving sustainable, community-focused solutions.
Find out more about DB Consulting and our other pathways below.
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Consulting
As the Director of DB Consulting, David provides strategic guidance to Local Governments and leisure organisations, shaping impactful policies that enhance community well-being.
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Charity
As the Managing Director of WSYD Moving, a whole-of-system initiative, David unites diverse stakeholders to address inactivity and inequity in Western Sydney.
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Social Enterprise
As the CEO of Collective Leisure, a certified social enterprise, David leads efforts to support underserved communities by enabling well-being without boundaries with ‘boots on the ground’.
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Academia
As a lecturer, David supports students in the sport and social entrepreneurship sectors by teaching several undergraduate subjects across universities.
A selection of consulting projects
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![Gunyama Park]()
Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre
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![Blacktown Exercise Sports & Technology Hub]()
Blacktown Exercise Sports & Technology Hub (BEST)
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![Parramatta Aquatic Centre]()
Parramatta Aquatic Centre
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![Tony Luchetti Precinct Master Plan]()
Tony Luchetti Precinct Master Plan
David Burns from DB Consulting has been an exceptional partner in our Parramatta Aquatic Centre journey. His dedication, expertise and commitment to our project were truly remarkable. David’s strategic insights into the Sport and Recreation Industry and his attention to detail played a pivotal role in helping our client-side project team achieve our goals.
Melissa Bajugi
Manager, Community Infrastructure & Business Systems, City of Parramatta
From a personal perspective I gained a huge amount from David's willingness to engage in open debate and dialogue regarding best practise and industry standards. David was prompt in his feedback, punctual regarding deadlines and, most importantly, approached the work in a personable as friendly manner.”
Dr Neil Gibson
Project Director Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology Hub, Blacktown City Council
“David’s passion for inclusion is renowned, and his capacity to lead and sustain change is commendable. I have enormous respect and admiration for David, and have no hesitation in recommending him as an innovative change agent, dedicated toward social inclusion for all.”
Dr Jeff Walkley
National Disability & Diversity Manager Belgravia Leisure
“It is clear David has a passion for wellness and a strong social conscience. This coupled with his commercial acumen will make him an asset to any organisation. His ability to embrace community based social projects sets him apart from many in his industry.”
Kari Baynes
Director Different Strokes Swimming