The property industry has, yet again, been a pillar of dependability in a turbulent week for the nation.
Our sector has responded to the changing circumstances in our capital cities, grappling with new health restrictions while continuing to make community safety our highest priority.
The lockdowns and restrictions now in place across the Sydney region, Melbourne and Adelaide are causing major disruption and having a real financial impact – while certainty and confidence across the rest of the country is naturally shaken.
We’ve seen both the NSW and South Australian governments institute full construction shut-downs – a major escalation in responses to the fast-spreading delta variant.
Throughout it all our members are continuing the vital work of ensuring their assets and places around the country are COVID-safe and able to continue to service our communities. It’s a vitally important role for the nation.
The industry should take heart from the fact that, as the vaccine rollout gathers pace, a different decision set will be available to policymakers which will enable less drastic responses and fewer shocks to business.
The Property Council’s advocacy has been in overdrive this week. We have been engaging with governments at the highest levels on a virtual 24/7 basis. Leasing arrangements, business support packages and pathways out of construction shutdown have been our deep focus, as well as keeping members informed of fast-moving developments. Please reach out to our advocacy teams if they can be of assistance.
Amidst these challenges, our industry continues to lead the conversations that will shape Australia’s cities long into the future.
Later today the official launch of Western Australia’s 20-year State Infrastructure Strategy is taking place at a marquee Property Council event in Perth. And tomorrow in Brisbane, we are live-streaming AOC President John Coates direct from Tokyo for what we hope will be an historic IOC announcement as a ballroom full of members and dignitaries explore the golden decade of opportunity that will result from the 2032 Olympic Games.
Two salient reminders that there is plenty for our industry to be positive about as we move through the phases of recovery.