Established in 2021, the Property Council of Australia’s Past Presidents’ Scholarship has given final year Bachelor of Property Economics students at QUT the opportunity to establish themselves in industry early in their careers. Half way through his scholarship program, this year’s recipient Benji Hindmarsh reflects on the highlights and experiences he’s enjoyed in the program so far.
The Property Council of Australia Past Presidents’ Scholarship has been instrumental in accelerating my professional development and deepening my engagement with the property industry. It has provided unparalleled access to industry leaders, fast-tracking connections that would typically take years to establish.
As part of this journey, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with past presidents including Bruce Harper and Luke Fraser, gaining insights into their career trajectories and receiving invaluable guidance as I set out on my own path. Their guidance has clarified the key initiatives I should prioritise in the years to come, including undertaking the Australian Institute of Company Directors course, and embracing opportunities that challenge my comfort zone.
Travelling to Springfield, I had the opportunity to meet Raynuha Sinnathamby and see firsthand the visionary planning and execution behind the transformation of Springfield. The commitment to creating an environment supporting residents across all life stages demonstrated the power of purposeful long-term thinking in urban development.
The scholarship has also broadened my professional network significantly through active involvement as an observer on the Property Council’s Future Leaders Committee and participation in a diverse range of Property Council events.
These engagements have introduced me to a wide array of career pathways within the property sector and allowed me to build connections with peers across disciplines. I’ve gained a stronger understanding of the roles that drive our industry and now have a support system of peers I can turn to for insight, collaboration and shared opportunity.
Additionally, the scholarship has enabled me to extend the skillsets developed at university through Property Council Academy courses. I’ve completed a range of programs in Brisbane and Sydney, from development feasibility to valuation, that have further refined my technical knowledge. These courses have deepened my practical knowledge and sharpened the skillsets I bring to my current role, allowing me to deliver high-impact outcomes and differentiate myself in a competitive environment.
Engaging with past scholarship recipients has been particularly impactful. Their advice and reflections have helped refine my aspirations and strengthened my confidence as I navigate the industry.
One question I ask every experienced leader I meet is: “If you could go back to my age but with the skillset and knowledge you now have, what would you do differently?” Their responses have influenced how I approach the early years of my career and continue to inform the way I shape my long-term leadership ambitions within the property sector.