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After four years at the helm, Anna Neelagama will be moving on from the national advocacy body.
In a statement released Friday morning, 2 August, the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) shared the announcement, which will trigger transition arrangements to be revealed in coming weeks as a nationwide search for a new CEO commences this month.
Speaking of Neelagama’s accomplishments in her time spent as CEO, REIA president Leanne Pilkington said they included “navigating the industry through the second half of COVID-19, seven federal budgets, the redevelopment of Real Estate House, and in 2021 getting the then-Opposition to commit to not changing the negative gearing and CGT tax settings”.
Pilkington also said the outgoing CEO had “ensured that politicians of all colours and government agencies are clear on the drivers of the current housing market”.
She also lauded Neelagama’s work in elevating the “professionalism and image of REIA across the board”, stating that the REIA had gone from strength to strength during the four years the CEO had been involved in the group.
“While we are sad to say farewell to Anna, we are delighted she will remain in the housing space contributing to the critical national issue of housing supply and affordability.”
“We wish her and her family well,” Pilkington said.
Neelagama is now taking on the role of chief executive officer at Master Builders ACT (MBA ACT), effective September 2024.
According to MBA ACT president, Frank Porreca, Neelagama's appointment comes as the association moves “into a new phase of sustainable growth under new leadership”.
Revealing that the CEO had been selected after a comprehensive, competitive and nationwide recruitment process, Porreca said “she is well-placed to lead the MBA ACT as we approach our 100-year celebrations in 2025”.
Weighing in on her appointment, Neelagama said she is “privileged” to step into the new role at such a critical point in time for the territory’s construction industry.
“I am excited to get to work with the well-regarded team at MBA ACT at such a critical juncture for their members in the countdown to both the ACT and federal elections,” she remarked.
“With rising business costs and the housing supply and affordability crisis in the ACT, now more than ever MBA ACT is determined to support members across all aspects of their business including advocacy, training, legal and workforce planning,” she said.
Neelagama succeeds Michael Hopkins in the CEO role, who is moving into a role with Master Builders Queensland.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Grace Ormsby
Grace is a journalist across Momentum property and investment brands. Grace joined Momentum Media in 2018, bringing with her a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) from the University of Newcastle. She’s passionate about delivering easy to digest information and content relevant to her key audiences and stakeholders.
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