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The Property Council of Australia (PCA) has appointed Matthew Wales as its new Illawarra Shoalhaven regional director.
In his new role, Wales will assist in developing key policies and the advocacy to tackle housing, transport, and employment challenges in one of NSW’s fastest-growing regions.
Wales, a former adviser to the federal Treasury and the Hong Kong government, previously led PCA’s capital market division on taxation and foreign investment.
He now takes the lead as the PCA’s Illawarra Shoalhaven regional director, as Illawarra’s population rapidly grows and the demand for essential infrastructure in the region rises.
Property Council NSW division council member and MMJ Real Estate director, Tracy Preston, welcomed the timely appointment of Wales.
“Matthew’s leadership, networks, and experience will be invaluable in his work with Property Council members and stakeholders to drive economic growth and advocate for the housing and transport reforms the region urgently needs,” Preston said.
Wales said that his key priorities as director include unlocking housing opportunities and aligning planning and investment, alongside housing demand.
“With significant population growth and economic expansion in the region, we need the right infrastructure, housing, and transport solutions to support our communities and businesses,” he said.
He flagged the region’s transport limitations as a major hurdle to growth progress.
“We need more frequent train and bus services within the Illawarra Shoalhaven, as well as a business case for a direct link to Western Sydney, and roads upgrades to better connect the region with the new Western Sydney International Airport and Aerotropolis,” he said.
“Improved public transport services and stronger transport links to Greater Sydney will be a game changer for local businesses, workers and residents.”
Wales also said that government policies and investments aligned with industry needs were crucial in supporting economic growth in the Illawarra region.
“Major projects like the Nowra Riverfront Precinct and the Wollongong CBD revitalisation will be central to shaping the region’s future,” he said.
He said that the development of Port Kembla is another top priority for Illawarra.
“The BlueScope Port Kembla Master Plan is set to transform the area into an industrial hub with the potential to create 30,000 jobs,” Wales said.
The government will finalise BlueScope’s planning framework in late 2025 to transform 200 hectares of underutilised land within the Port Kembla region, creating opportunities for retail and entertainment precincts alongside recreation areas and community amenities.
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