Western lays the foundation for careers in property

Western Sydney University was pleased to host day one of the Property Council of Australia’s NSW 2019 Girls in Property Program at its Parramatta City campus. The event saw 300 female students from 11 high schools come together to learn about educational and career opportunities in property.

The University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, welcomed the group of students and spoke about the importance of female participation in all disciplines, including property-related fields.

“Opportunities for female students to engage with the property industry from a young age are vital for increasing participation and growing the diversity and capacity of the sector,” said Professor Glover.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, the Hon. Rob Stokes MP, who was visiting the campus, addressed the group about the transformative effect many women have had in global and local planning and city development.

During the day the students also heard from senior female leaders in the property industry, spoke with industry mentors and worked on projects in small groups.

Western Sydney University student and Ervin Graf Scholar at Stockland, Marina Bennetts, spoke about her experience studying the Bachelor of Business (Property).

“I would never have imagined that I would be where I am today, about to complete my property degree at Western Sydney University and working with one of Australia’s largest and highly diverse property companies,” said Marina.

Western property student and Ervin Graf Scholar at Stockland, Marina Bennetts

“Coming from a single parent, low-income family, I have overcome many challenges to develop and pursue my interest in sustainable development and design.

“My advice to girls wanting to work in property is to never give up, listen to your instincts and to embrace the opportunities that come your way.”

Girls in Property is an initiative of the Property Council of Australia and will run in 11 public girls' schools from 23 May to the end of June 2019. The initiative aims to raise awareness of female participation in the property industry, increase exposure to the various careers available to women in the industry and to help high school-aged girls make informed choices about a career in property in the future.

ENDS

7 June 2019

Ali Sardyga, Media Officer

Photo credit: Milly Mead