New President For Australian Property Council

Stockland managing director and CEO Mark Steinert has been appointed National President of the Property Council of Australia, the peak body for Australia's $680 billion property industry.

Mr Steinert takes over from outgoing president Darren Steinberg, CEO of Dexus Property Group after his four years in the role.

The property industry represents 11.5% of GDP, employs more than 1.3 million people and contributes $34 billion in real estate specific taxes alone, and Mr Steinert said the role of National President was an opportunity that came with great responsibility.

Mr Steinert said the role of national present was an honour and great opportunity that came with significant responsibility.

"Under Darren's leadership the Property Council has been strong and respected advocate for this vital industry," Mr Steinert said.

"The property industry creates prosperity, jobs, entertainment, housing and strong communities, touching virtually every aspect of Australians' lives.""Property is the shinning light in the national economy, underpins family household balance sheets and will shape the future of Australia's cities. Importantly many of the core skills applicable to mining construction are also applicable to property development jobs helping the transition in the Australian economy," he said.

"I am passionate about making Australia great and I am confident the Property Council can work with the governments and the community to make our tax system fairer, our cities more productive, our economy more prosperous and our housing more affordable."Property Council Chief Executive Ken Morrison welcomed Mr Steinert’s appointment and thanked Mr Steinberg for his outstanding contribution to the organisation.

“Darren has made an outstanding contribution to the industry and on behalf of members and staff I thank him for his leadership, drive and wise counsel,” Mr Morrison said.

"The election of Mark Steinert as National President leading a powerful new board leaves us well positioned to be a strong voice for the industry and deliver more for members and the communities in which our members operate.”

Carmel Hourigan, CIO of The GPT Group, will continue to offer her expertise and leadership as Vice-President, and the Property Council is very pleased to welcome onto the board David Southon, Joint Managing Director at Charter Hall, also as Vice-President.

"As a nation we are entering a period of growth and demographic change and Mark's and my passion for creating great cities and vibrant communities will be invaluable over coming years,” Mr Morrison said.