The Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) recently hosted the “Housing in NSW” event on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, at the Canterbury Leagues Club in Belmore, NSW. This significant event brought together key industry leaders, policymakers, and business professionals to discuss the pressing issues and challenges facing the housing sector in New South Wales.
The event featured The Hon. Paul Scully MP, NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, as the keynote speaker. Minister Scully, introduced by Minister Jihad Dib, addressed the audience on the current state of housing and urban development in NSW. He highlighted the government’s initiatives and strategies aimed at addressing the housing crisis, focusing on sustainability, affordability, and innovation.
Following Minister Scully’s address, a panel discussion took place, featuring esteemed experts from various sectors related to housing and urban development. The panel included:
- Bill Parasiris, Infrastructure and Commercial VP at Western Sydney University
- Jeheon Son, Group Director Development and Government at Vicinity
- Lindy Deitz, General Manager of Cumberland City Council
- David Ghannoum, Regional Managing Director NSW at Multiplex
- Michael Dakhoul, Managing Director of Construction Consultants
The discussion, moderated by Eddy Chahine, CEO of EC Property, delved into a wide range of topics including statutory approvals, finance and funding challenges, supply chain disruptions, inflation impacts, compliance issues, utility approvals, and the infrastructure and services needed to support new developments.
The panelists shared their insights and experiences, providing a comprehensive overview of the hurdles faced by the industry. Key points of discussion included the need for streamlined approval processes, the impact of rising costs on project viability, and the importance of integrated infrastructure planning.
The event was well-attended, drawing a host of dignitaries, business leaders, and industry professionals. It provided a valuable platform for networking and exchange of ideas, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation in tackling the housing challenges in NSW.
The CBCC expressed gratitude to the event’s major sponsors, Paynter Dixon, Radair Heating & Cooling, and Chess Lending, for their support. Attendees were also treated to light refreshments and a one course meal provided throughout the evening.
This event underscored the CBCC’s commitment to addressing critical issues in the community and provided a forum for meaningful dialogue on the future of housing in New South Wales.
