The Housing Industry Association (HIA) Hunter region has announced Kaine Tarlinton, Managing Director of Buildcert, as its new Regional President.

A Hunter-based certifier and licensed builder with over 20 years of industry experience, Kaine becomes the eighth person to hold the role.

HIA Hunter Executive Director, Craig Jennion, said Kaine’s leadership would guide the organisation over the next two years.

“For the next two years, Kaine, along with newly elected Vice-President Rodney Tullipan of Valletta Homes, and nine other HIA members, will form the Hunter Regional Executive Committee,” Craig said.

The Regional Executive Committee represents the local industry, contributes to HIA policy development, and provides a platform to address regional issues.

Other elected committee members include David Butler, Greg Doodson, Matthew Edwards, Kristy Francis, Paul Le Mottee, Allan MacKay, Joey Nicol, Richard Osborn, and Daniel Syddall.

Craig said he was confident in the team’s ability to strengthen the organisation’s advocacy for both local and national industry issues.

“I am confident that the experience, relationships, and enthusiasm of the Regional Executive Committee members will strengthen our ability to respond to both local and national matters,” he said.

The appointment also marked an opportunity to acknowledge outgoing President Greg Doodson.

“During Greg’s presidency, all levels of government finally recognised the significant issue of housing supply, while the industry faced challenges including rising costs, skilled labour shortages, interest rate hikes, and a decline in consumer confidence,” Kaine said.

“The knock-on effect was a decrease in local building approvals, just as it was universally acknowledged that housing supply must be prioritised.

“I would like to acknowledge Greg’s significant contribution and commitment to the Association. Over the next two years, I look forward to building on his legacy and that of previous Hunter region Presidents.”

Craig said Kaine’s understanding of the challenges within the residential building and construction industry made him well-positioned to lead the organisation.

“With a strong understanding of the challenges those in the residential building and construction industry face, I’m certain Kaine will successfully lead the diverse HIA Hunter Regional Executive Committee,” he said.

IMAGE | Regional President, Kaine Tarlinton