This year, our NSW Studio Leader, Emily Choo and National Client Engagement Leader, Anna Ockwell participated in the Property Council of Australia’s 500 Women in Property (500WIP) program, sponsored by our National Design Director, Sarah Acton and Chief Commercial Officer, Leigh Devine.

500WIP is a national initiative designed to support and accelerate female leadership across the property sector. Through networking events, site tours, professional development opportunities and the popular Coffee Roulette initiative, Emily and Anna connected with industry peers from across Australia, expanding their networks and sharing experiences with women from a diverse range of property disciplines.

Emily Choo, NSW Studio Leader, found the Coffee Roulette initiative particularly valuable.

“The Coffee Roulette sessions led to some great conversations and opportunities to share experiences with women across the industry. It was valuable to connect with others at a similar stage in their careers, and those discussions were my biggest takeaway from the program.”

Anna Ockwell, National Client Engagement Leader, highlighted the networking opportunities created through the program’s in-person events.

“The speed networking session was particularly memorable, giving us just 15 seconds to deliver our elevator pitch. It was a great way to meet professionals from across the industry, expand my network and build connections that have continued beyond the program.”

A common theme across the program was the value of creating opportunities for genuine connection. Whether through structured networking sessions, site tours or informal coffee catch-ups, Emily and Anna were able to broaden their professional networks and establish relationships that extend beyond the program itself.

The experience reinforced the importance of fostering industry connections and supporting the ongoing development of women across the property sector. Programs such as 500 Women in Property continue to play an important role in creating opportunities for collaboration, learning and leadership development throughout the industry.