David is a system leader with a proven reputation for building inclusive and healthy communities.
DB Consulting was established in 2019 by David Burns, driven by his aspiration to share his expertise more broadly with local government and the leisure industry. With over two decades of experience in the sport, leisure, and physical activity sectors across the UK and Australia, David brings valuable end-user insights and strategic acumen, empowering leadership teams, policymakers, and change-makers to create meaningful community impact.
DB Consulting has provided expert guidance to local governments on some of Australia's most prominent leisure facilities, including the $106 million Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, the flagship $88 million Parramatta Aquatic Centre, and the $100 million Blacktown Exercise Sports and Technology (BEST) Hub and Lodge.
Our distinctive approach lies in activating community assets for the benefit of all. From assisting clients with infrastructure development and operations to capacity building and leadership development, DB Consulting delivers a comprehensive 360-degree service tailored to each project’s unique challenges.
As the Director of DB Consulting, David brings a systems-thinking mindset honed over two decades, offering unique services that address the complex intersections of the system. His ability to navigate these complexities and engage multiple stakeholders sets him apart, fostering a collaborative approach that ensures the best outcomes for his clients.
David leverages his extensive industry network across the UK and Australia, connecting with the right experts and partners at the right time to meet client needs.
At DB Consulting, we are committed to creating impactful, sustainable solutions that enrich communities and improve well-being.
Board and Advisory Roles
David currently holds advisory and boards positions with the following organisations.
Social Enterprise Council
of NSW + ACT
Non-Executive Director
SECNA is a sector-led peak body that represent the interests of social enterprises across New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory.
Swinburne University Sport Innovation Research Group
Advisory Board Member
An internationally recognised research group that creates and facilitates high-quality, industry-shaping, research collaboration for the benefit of both researchers and partner organisations.
TAFE NSW Industry Collaboration Reference group - Active Living Sector
Reference Group Member
Created to inform TAFE NSW on future industry skills and training priorities, the impact of the training products delivered and the industry skills training requirements.
The Obesity Collective
Advisor
The Obesity Collective is the peak body for obesity in Australia. It is a national umbrella coalition with a vision to reduce the health and well-being impacts of obesity in Australia. Working together to raise awareness of the science and reality of obesity and promote evidence-based prevention and treatment action through a strong, cooperative, and inclusive network.
Experience
Davids experience spans more than two decades, during which he has held roles in both the UK and Australia within leisure management organisations, local government and sporting associations. Below is a summary of his previous roles prior to founding DB Consulting.
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Led the opening of Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre after $27M redevelopment
Oversaw 5 facilities across 3 LGA included Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre, Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre, Cabarita and Drummoyne Swim Centres Combined turnover of $10M with over 250 staff
Secured 3-year contract extensions for Cumberland Council and Inner West contracts
Aquatic & Recreation Institute NSW Customer Service Team of the Year 2019 - Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre
Parks & Leisure NSW Awards of Excellence Community Based Initiative of the Year 2019 - Auburn Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre - Refugees Breaking Down Cultural Barriers Program
Aquatic & Recreation Institute NSW - Facility of the Year Award 2018 - Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre
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Managed the City’s largest contract - asset value $150M, turnover $15.9M, and 1.7M visits per annum
Led a successful transition of Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre and Cook & Philip Park Pool from YMCA management to Belgravia Leisure on behalf of the City
Led handover from City Projects of $22M redevelopment of Prince Alfred Park Pool to the Belgravia Leisure including managing the defects liability period
Two contracts recognised with the highest standard rating of 1 for operational contract management performance
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Built strong relationships of trust and engagement with rough sleepers across the LGA
Patrolled hot spot areas where entrenched homeless populations resided
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Managed Penrith Swim Centre, St Clair Leisure Centre and 5 tennis sites
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Created and coordinated the inaugural Active Penrith month. A month of free activities promoting healthy living, an active lifestyle and sporting opportunities
Over 1400 Penrith LGA residents participated in the month
58 participants gained training and qualifications
20 different sports/activities were offered over the month
An average of 2 sausages sandwiches per event were consumed by David Burns!
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Opened and managed the operations of a $2.6M new football facility
Developed and delivered a town-wide football development program
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Managed the development of grassroots football across 7 local authorities
Created and coordinated a back-to-work program - Goals ‘Get out and Learn Skills’
Provided advice on funding opportunities, applications, and submissions
Media and Podcasts
David is regularly invited to share his thoughts on podcasts and interviews.
If you have an idea you’d like to share with David and get his thoughts and insights, feel free to contact him.
David presenting at the 2023 National Sports Convention