Charter Hall Office CEO Carmel Hourigan is the Property Council of Australia’s new National President.
Carmel succeeds Michael O’Brien, who retired from the Presidency on 23 October 2024 at the Board meeting in Townsville.
Carmel said it was an honour to be elected. Her number one priority is to continue Michael and the Property Council’s strong track record in driving meaningful change on key issues affecting the property industry and the lives of Australians.
She said that the next few years will require industry leaders to champion the importance of overseas investment in city assets across all levels of government.
“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
“Australia has long been an attractive destination for international capital, which has been critical to the growth and vibrancy of our cities over the past 50 years.
“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.
“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. Building on the good work of the Property Champions of Change, we are shaping an industry that’s equitable and inclusive for everyone, which will ultimately drive productivity and innovation.”
Carmel Hourigan, National President, Property Council of Australia
With over 30 years’ experience in the real estate investment industry, Carmel has held senior leadership positions and has worked in funds management across both the public and private markets, as well as in investment, research and advisory services.
She is currently the Office CEO at Charter Hall, leading its $27bn office portfolio, with cross-sector experience in her previous roles including Global Head of Real Estate at AMP Capital, CIO at The GPT Group, and Head of Investment Management at Lendlease.
In addition to serving as the current President of the Property Council’s Capital Markets Division, Carmel has been a Property Council National Board member on several occasions over a 15-year period.
She paid tribute to the work of outgoing President Michael O’Brien, who was warmly thanked by the Board at the meeting.
“I acknowledge the leadership of Michael O’Brien who has been a strong voice for industry at a time of heightened regulatory change.
“Michael’s strategic insight and stewardship of our thought leadership agenda has been exemplary, and the Board and I are deeply appreciative of Michael’s tireless service.
“Working with our Division councils and the Property Council team across the country through the challenges of a high red-tape, high inflation environment, Michael has guided our agenda as well as helping the leadership team advance our members’ interests.”
Carmel Hourigan, National President, Property Council of Australia
Michael O’Brien said it has been a pleasure being Property Council President.
“It has been a great experience to commission thought leadership and national conversations about solutions to the housing crisis and the future of our cities as President of the Property Council.
“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.
“I know the position is in good hands and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the work of the Property Council and the Board as Immediate Past President.”
Michael O’Brien, Immediate Past President, Property Council of Australia
Chief Executive Mike Zorbas said Carmel is a forthright leader and a long term-contributor to the work of the Property Council. He also acknowledged Michael’s contribution.
“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.
“I thank her in advance for using her experience to guide the industry towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
“I am personally grateful for Michael’s guidance to me and our executive and his support of our terrific teams in every state and territory across the country.”
Mike Zorbas, Chief Executive, Property Council of Australia
