Nearly 100 Hunter high school students met with regional industry professionals today at the University of Newcastle for the launch of the Property Council of Australia’s Girls in Property programme. The initiative focuses on introducing young women to career pathways within the property sector while highlighting the industry’s role in regional social and economic development.
The launch event involved students from several local high schools participating in interactive mentoring, group project design workshops, and industry site tours. The practical components required students to develop structural concepts for transforming regional workplaces, residential housing, and commercial retail centres.
Regional Director of the Property Council Hunter and Central Coast, Stephen Crowe said the initiative is designed to support the diversification of the local workforce during a period of sustained regional growth.
“From southern Lake Macquarie to the upper valley, our region is undergoing significant growth and diversification – and we want more young women to see themselves as part of that future,” Stephen said.
“This program opens doors and changes minds. It shows students what’s possible with the right support, skills and guidance.”
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley opened the event by addressing the students regarding her own professional trajectory within traditionally male-dominated sectors.
The programme is delivered in collaboration with the NSW Department of Education, the University of Newcastle, and various regional property development companies. The structured engagement aims to address long-term skills shortages in the planning, construction, and asset management sectors by engaging talent at the secondary school level.
Stephen noted that introducing high school students to these disciplines is critical for fostering new operational strategies within the sector.
“We’re proud to bring this opportunity to Newcastle again in 2025. Our industry thrives when we tap into diverse talent and new ideas – starting with our schools,” Stephen said.
By creating direct links between local secondary students and established corporate networks, the program seeks to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals to manage the Hunter’s ongoing infrastructure requirements.
IMAGE | High school students explore regional development at Girls in Property launch
