Charter Hall Office CEO Carmel Hourigan has been appointed as the new National President of the Property Council of Australia, taking over from Michael O’Brien.
Ms Hourigan, who brings more than 30 years of experience in real estate investment, will lead the peak body that shapes Australian cities and is the country’s largest employer.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for the property sector, with Ms Hourigan identifying overseas investment in city assets as a key priority for her tenure.
“I am excited to work with my industry colleagues in my new capacity as National President, as we advocate for and advance our thought leadership on impactful solutions to key issues such as the housing crisis, efficient tax settings and successful decarbonisation,” Ms Hourigan said.
She said it was important to address the current investment barriers created by increasing property taxes over the past decade.
“Following a decade of increasing property taxes on institutional and individual investors by federal and some state governments across all the assets that grow our cities, it’s time for us to address and rectify the investment barriers that this has created,” she said.
“We will continue to advocate for better planning and the importance of prioritising industrial, commercial and residential projects that create the greatest benefits to the quality of life of all Australians.
“We will remain in the centre of the national housing debate, having successfully championed unprecedented supply targets and incentives, targeted skilled migration, planning reforms and growing last mile infrastructure funding to deliver all the property types our growing cities need.
“Importantly, as we grow our industry, we also remain focused on attracting and promoting diverse talent.”
In her current role as Office CEO at Charter Hall, Ms Hourigan leads a $27 billion office portfolio and has previously held senior positions at AMP Capital, The GPT Group, and Lendlease.
The new President has been actively involved with the Property Council, serving as the President of its Capital Markets Division and as a National Board member over a 15-year period.
Property Council Chief Executive Mike Zorbas expressed confidence in Ms Hourigan’s leadership.
“Carmel has a clear vision to drive success in our industry, and her Presidency will advance a pro-investment, pro-delivery environment across the country,” Mr Zorbas said.
Outgoing President Michael O’Brien was proud of what he was able to achieve in the role.
“Being at the forefront of these conversations has provided the opportunity to collaborate with political, industry and civic leaders to explore innovative solutions and drive meaningful change,” Mr O’Brien said.
