Building materials have soared in the past few months due to the COVID pandemic.

What major implications did the pandemic have on the building industry? How are builders and developers addressing material and labour shortages? Will prices eventually normalise?

Today we’re joined by data geek Mike Mortlock of MCG Quantity Surveying to discuss the construction materials cost crisis, the current building price index, the effect of COVID on the property market, the rental loss index, and more!

If you enjoyed the show, do like, rate, subscribe, and share us on social media and if you have your own questions you need clarity on, email us at questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au!

See you in the episode!



Episode Highlights:
The workforce and supply issues brought by the pandemic [01:24]
How the material and labor shortage affected builders [05:23]
What are builders and developers doing to calm down the cost crisis effect? [10:08]
The current building price index [15:27]
How local and world issues are affecting construction costs [18:14]
The price differences when building in different locations [22:25]
Will prices normalise after the COVID pandemic? [25:20]
COVID’s role in business restructures and livelihood [32:06]
Mike’s work on the rental loss index [36:55]
Rental loss index findings on vacancy rates [41:40]
Good asset vs vacancy [50:05]
Vacancy rates in the commercial market [54:16]
Mike’s property dumbo [57:28]



Links from the Show:
Ep 60: Are property investors paying more tax than they need to? 
Ep 128: Trends in property investment: What does the data say? 
The MCG Quantity Surveyors Rental Loss Index



Connect with Us:
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://linktr.ee/veronicamorgan
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? www.wealthful.com.au
Work with Chris: hello@wealthful.com.au 
Send in your questions to: questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au 

 

Find this episode on our website:
https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/223

 

If you’ve enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, rate and subscribe for more!

Building materials have soared in the past few months due to the COVID pandemic.
What major implications did the pandemic have on the building industry? How are builders and developers addressing material and labour shortages? Will prices eventually normalise?
Today we&rsquo;re joined by data geek Mike Mortlock of MCG Quantity Surveying to discuss the construction materials cost crisis, the current building price index, the effect of COVID on the property market, the rental loss index, and more!
If you enjoyed the show, do like, rate, subscribe, and share us on social media and if you have your own questions you need clarity on, email us at <a href="mailto:questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au">questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au</a>!
See you in the episode! 
Episode Highlights:
<ol>
<li aria-level="1">The workforce and supply issues brought by the pandemic [01:24]</li>
<li aria-level="1">How the material and labor shortage affected builders [05:23]</li>
<li aria-level="1">What are builders and developers doing to calm down the cost crisis effect? [10:08]</li>
<li aria-level="1">The current building price index [15:27]</li>
<li aria-level="1">How local and world issues are affecting construction costs [18:14]</li>
<li aria-level="1">The price differences when building in different locations [22:25]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Will prices normalise after the COVID pandemic? [25:20]</li>
<li aria-level="1">COVID&rsquo;s role in business restructures and livelihood [32:06]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Mike&rsquo;s work on the rental loss index [36:55]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Rental loss index findings on vacancy rates [41:40]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Good asset vs vacancy [50:05]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Vacancy rates in the commercial market [54:16]</li>
<li aria-level="1">Mike&rsquo;s property dumbo [57:28] </li>
</ol>
Links from the Show:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/060">Ep 60: Are property investors paying more tax than they need to?&nbsp;</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/128">Ep 128: Trends in property investment: What does the data say?&nbsp;</a></li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://rentlossindex.com.au/">The MCG Quantity Surveyors Rental Loss Index</a> </li>
</ul>
Connect with Us:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? <a href="http://www.gooddeeds.com.au/">www.gooddeeds.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Veronica: <a href="https://linktr.ee/veronicamorgan">https://linktr.ee/veronicamorgan</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Mortgage Broker? <a href="https://www.wealthful.com.au/">www.wealthful.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Chris: <a href="mailto:hello@wealthful.com.au">hello@wealthful.com.au</a>&nbsp;</li>
<li aria-level="1">Send in your questions to: <a href="mailto:questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au">questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Find this episode on our website: <a href="https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/223">https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au/podcasts/223</a>
&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;ve enjoyed this episode, don&rsquo;t forget to like, share, rate and subscribe for more!

Who's really in control when you buy a property?

The Elephant In The Room is where the things that no one wants to talk about, actually get talked about.  

Veronica Morgan, real estate agent, buyers agent and co-host of Foxtel’s Location Location Location Australia & Chris Bates, financial planner, mortgage broker and wealth coach have joined forces to find out what’s really going on in the world of real estate.

Veronica and Chris talk to property owners and buyers every day in their respective lines of business. They’ve observed a wide spectrum of confidence in people’s decision making ability when buying and selling property, often to the detriment of the individuals concerned. They are both fascinated by consumer behaviour and together they’re going to uncover who’s really making the decisions when you buy a property.

In each episode they get into the psyche of buyers, agents, auctioneers and other industry experts to learn the truth about how buyers are influenced and why they do the things they do. In every episode you’ll learn from the mistakes of a “property dumbo” as well as Chris & Veronica’s “elephant rider bootcamp” training session.

The plan? This property podcast has been created to help us all make better property decisions!

We talk about the things no one wants to talk about in the Property Market

The Elephant In The Room Property Podcast | Inside Australian Real Estate

Dealing with the Construction Materials Cost Crisis | Mike Mortlock, MCG Quantity Surveying

Jonathan O'Brien's and YIMBY Melbourne

Challenges in Melbourne's Housing Policy

Success Stories and Comparisons with Sydney

Docklands: A Controversial Development

The Missing Middle and Medium Density Housing

Balancing Heritage and Development

Planning Regulation Challenges

Developer Strategies and Urban Planning

Heritage and Housing Density

Quality Concerns in New Developments

Zoning and Urban Planning Dynamics

Economic and Social Impacts of Rezoning

Balancing Development and Community Needs

State vs. Local Control in Urban Planning

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

NIMBY vs YIMBY? Is saying “no” to change protecting community character — or blocking the homes our cities desperately need?

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan O’Brien, lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, to unpack what’s at stake when communities resist — or embrace — change.

We dig into whether opposing development is simply selfish or a legitimate defense of lifestyle and character, and whether YIMBY optimism sometimes overlooks practical realities. From heritage streetscapes and leafy suburbs to missing-middle density and downsizer demand, this is a frank look at the trade-offs that come with growth.

Jonathan also explores the politics of planning: why local councils resist, why states override, and why those locked out of housing are the most under-represented stakeholders in the debate. We tackle sensitive questions about fairness: who pays when new homes aren’t built, and who loses when change does come?

If you’ve ever wondered why housing reform feels so stuck, and why both sides of the NIMBY/YIMBY divide can be right and wrong at the same time, this episode will challenge assumptions and reframe the conversation.


Episode Highlights

00:00 – Welcome

01:14 – Jonathan O'Brien's and YIMBY Melbourne

01:48 – Progress and Challenges in Melbourne's Housing Policy

03:21 – Success Stories and Comparisons with Sydney

04:44 – Docklands: A Controversial Development

07:39 – The Missing Middle and Medium Density Housing

22:06 – Balancing Heritage and Development

28:39 – Planning Regulation Challenges

30:01 – Developer Strategies and Urban Planning

31:39 – Heritage and Housing Density

32:47 – Quality Concerns in New Developments

35:07 – Zoning and Urban Planning Dynamics

38:27 – Economic and Social Impacts of Rezoning

41:53 – Balancing Development and Community Needs

50:13 – State vs. Local Control in Urban Planning

52:05 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts


About the Guest

Jonathan O’Brien is the lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, an advocate for smarter housing policy, and an award-winning writer and publisher. A passionate voice for effective altruism and urban reform, he works to shift the conversation around density, planning, and affordability toward more equitable outcomes.

With a background in community organizing and a commitment to evidence-based change, Jonathan brings both sharp analysis and lived experience to the often polarizing debate between NIMBYs and YIMBYs. His mission: to help shape cities that are inclusive, adaptable, and built for the next generation.

Connect with Jonathan
Website: https://jonobri.com/
YIMBY Melbourne website: https://www.yimby.melbourne/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonobridotcom/
X: https://x.com/jonobri
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobri/

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au 

Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

 

See you on the inside,

Veronica & Chris

NIMBY vs YIMBY? Is saying &ldquo;no&rdquo; to change protecting community character &mdash; or blocking the homes our cities desperately need?
In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan O&rsquo;Brien, lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, to unpack what&rsquo;s at stake when communities resist &mdash; or embrace &mdash; change.
We dig into whether opposing development is simply selfish or a legitimate defense of lifestyle and character, and whether YIMBY optimism sometimes overlooks practical realities. From heritage streetscapes and leafy suburbs to missing-middle density and downsizer demand, this is a frank look at the trade-offs that come with growth.
Jonathan also explores the politics of planning: why local councils resist, why states override, and why those locked out of housing are the most under-represented stakeholders in the debate. We tackle sensitive questions about fairness: who pays when new homes aren&rsquo;t built, and who loses when change does come?
If you&rsquo;ve ever wondered why housing reform feels so stuck, and why both sides of the NIMBY/YIMBY divide can be right and wrong at the same time, this episode will challenge assumptions and reframe the conversation.
 Episode Highlights
00:00 &ndash; Welcome
01:14 &ndash; Jonathan O'Brien's and YIMBY Melbourne
01:48 &ndash; Progress and Challenges in Melbourne's Housing Policy
03:21 &ndash; Success Stories and Comparisons with Sydney
04:44 &ndash; Docklands: A Controversial Development
07:39 &ndash; The Missing Middle and Medium Density Housing
22:06 &ndash; Balancing Heritage and Development
28:39 &ndash; Planning Regulation Challenges
30:01 &ndash; Developer Strategies and Urban Planning
31:39 &ndash; Heritage and Housing Density
32:47 &ndash; Quality Concerns in New Developments
35:07 &ndash; Zoning and Urban Planning Dynamics
38:27 &ndash; Economic and Social Impacts of Rezoning
41:53 &ndash; Balancing Development and Community Needs
50:13 &ndash; State vs. Local Control in Urban Planning
52:05 &ndash; Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 About the Guest
Jonathan O&rsquo;Brien is the lead organizer of YIMBY Melbourne, an advocate for smarter housing policy, and an award-winning writer and publisher. A passionate voice for effective altruism and urban reform, he works to shift the conversation around density, planning, and affordability toward more equitable outcomes.
With a background in community organizing and a commitment to evidence-based change, Jonathan brings both sharp analysis and lived experience to the often polarizing debate between NIMBYs and YIMBYs. His mission: to help shape cities that are inclusive, adaptable, and built for the next generation.
Connect with Jonathan
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Website: <a href="https://jonobri.com/">https://jonobri.com/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">YIMBY Melbourne website: <a href="https://www.yimby.melbourne/">https://www.yimby.melbourne/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jonobridotcom/">https://www.instagram.com/jonobridotcom/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">X: <a href="https://x.com/jonobri">https://x.com/jonobri</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobri/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobri/</a></li>
</ul>
Resources
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au</li>
<li aria-level="1">If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - <a href="mailto:questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au">questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au</a></li>
</ul>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? <a href="http://www.gooddeeds.com.au/">https://www.gooddeeds.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Veronica: <a href="http://www.veronicamorgan.com.au">https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Mortgage Broker? <a href="http://alcove.com.au">alcove.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Chris: <a href="mailto:chrisbates@alcove.com.au">chrisbates@alcove.com.au</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719">https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765">https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765</a></li>
</ul>
If you enjoyed today&rsquo;s podcast, don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There&rsquo;s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!
&nbsp;
See you on the inside,
Veronica &amp; Chris

NIMBY vs YIMBY: Can We Balance Progress and Preservation?

Meet Helen Tarrant: Commercial Property Expert

Differences Between Residential and Commercial

Understanding Commercial Property Fundamentals

Evaluating Commercial Property Investments

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

Identifying the Right Commercial Property

Navigating the Commercial Property Market

Price Points and Investment Strategies

Understanding Syndication in Real Estate

Securing High-Value Properties

Mechanics of Shareholding in Syndicates

Mistakes in Commercial Property Investment

Strategies for Flipping Commercial Properties

Identifying and Fixing Problematic Properties

The Importance of Due Diligence

Case Study: Rescuing a Client's Investment

Final Thoughts and Advice

Commercial property isn’t just “resi with higher yields” — it’s a whole different game with its own language, rules, and risks.

In this episode, we sit down with Helen Tarrant, founder of Unikorn Commercial Property, to unpack what investors really need to know before making the leap.

Helen reveals why mindset is the first hurdle when moving from residential to commercial, and why too many investors skip the education that could save them from costly mistakes. We explore the key levers that drive a property’s value — lease term, location, tenant quality, and asset type — and why small changes in these can mean big shifts in price and yield. She also shares hard truths on price points, explaining where the “rats and mice” risks live, and why under $1.5 million can be a danger zone for serious investors.

From syndicates that give smaller investors access to multimillion-dollar assets, to practical strategies for tenant risk management and value uplift, Helen covers the nuts and bolts of building what she calls a “unicorn portfolio” — one that balances cashflow, growth, and uplift potential. She doesn’t shy away from the mistakes she’s seen (and fixed), giving listeners a forthright look at what can go wrong and how to protect yourself.

Whether you’re an experienced property buyer ready to diversify, or a first-time commercial investor keen to start smart, this conversation will equip you with the insights, questions, and strategies to play the commercial game — and win.


Episode Highlights

00:00 – Welcome

01:07 – Meet Helen Tarrant: Commercial Property Expert

01:44 – Differences Between Residential and Commercial Investing

02:21 – Understanding Commercial Property Fundamentals

04:50 – Evaluating Commercial Property Investments

08:23 – Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

12:30 – Identifying the Right Commercial Property

16:47 – Navigating the Commercial Property Market

25:09 – Price Points and Investment Strategies

28:36 – Understanding Syndication in Real Estate

29:16 – Securing High-Value Properties

30:10 – Mechanics of Shareholding in Syndicates

31:42 – Common Mistakes in Commercial Property Investment

34:22 – Strategies for Flipping Commercial Properties

38:00 – Identifying and Fixing Problematic Properties

41:24 – The Importance of Due Diligence

45:32 – Case Study: Rescuing a Client's Investment

50:51 – Final Thoughts and Advice

 

About the Guest

Helen Tarrant is the Founder of Unikorn Commercial Property, a specialist buyer’s agency helping everyday Australians access and succeed in the commercial property market. With a background in commerce and law, and over a decade of firsthand experience as both an investor and advisor, Helen has built a reputation for turning complex deals into strategic, high-performing investments.

Known for her candid, straight-talking approach, she has educated thousands through free webinars, content, and in-person events, demystifying an asset class often seen as too risky or opaque. Her expertise spans portfolio strategy, tenant risk assessment, syndicate structures, and value-add opportunities, with a focus on creating balanced portfolios that deliver both income and growth. Passionate about investor education, Helen is committed to helping clients avoid the costly mistakes she’s seen too often in the industry, and to empowering them to think — and act — like seasoned commercial players.


Connect with Helen
Website: https://unikorn.com.au/
Website: https://helentarrant.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helentarrant/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@helentarrantcommercial
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helentarrantcommercialproperty/

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au 

Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

See you on the inside,

Veronica & Chris

 

Commercial property isn&rsquo;t just &ldquo;resi with higher yields&rdquo; &mdash; it&rsquo;s a whole different game with its own language, rules, and risks.
In this episode, we sit down with Helen Tarrant, founder of Unikorn Commercial Property, to unpack what investors really need to know before making the leap.
Helen reveals why mindset is the first hurdle when moving from residential to commercial, and why too many investors skip the education that could save them from costly mistakes. We explore the key levers that drive a property&rsquo;s value &mdash; lease term, location, tenant quality, and asset type &mdash; and why small changes in these can mean big shifts in price and yield. She also shares hard truths on price points, explaining where the &ldquo;rats and mice&rdquo; risks live, and why under $1.5 million can be a danger zone for serious investors.
From syndicates that give smaller investors access to multimillion-dollar assets, to practical strategies for tenant risk management and value uplift, Helen covers the nuts and bolts of building what she calls a &ldquo;unicorn portfolio&rdquo; &mdash; one that balances cashflow, growth, and uplift potential. She doesn&rsquo;t shy away from the mistakes she&rsquo;s seen (and fixed), giving listeners a forthright look at what can go wrong and how to protect yourself.
Whether you&rsquo;re an experienced property buyer ready to diversify, or a first-time commercial investor keen to start smart, this conversation will equip you with the insights, questions, and strategies to play the commercial game &mdash; and win.
 Episode Highlights
00:00 &ndash; Welcome
01:07 &ndash; Meet Helen Tarrant: Commercial Property Expert
01:44 &ndash; Differences Between Residential and Commercial Investing
02:21 &ndash; Understanding Commercial Property Fundamentals
04:50 &ndash; Evaluating Commercial Property Investments
08:23 &ndash; Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
12:30 &ndash; Identifying the Right Commercial Property
16:47 &ndash; Navigating the Commercial Property Market
25:09 &ndash; Price Points and Investment Strategies
28:36 &ndash; Understanding Syndication in Real Estate
29:16 &ndash; Securing High-Value Properties
30:10 &ndash; Mechanics of Shareholding in Syndicates
31:42 &ndash; Common Mistakes in Commercial Property Investment
34:22 &ndash; Strategies for Flipping Commercial Properties
38:00 &ndash; Identifying and Fixing Problematic Properties
41:24 &ndash; The Importance of Due Diligence
45:32 &ndash; Case Study: Rescuing a Client's Investment
50:51 &ndash; Final Thoughts and Advice
&nbsp;
About the Guest
Helen Tarrant is the Founder of Unikorn Commercial Property, a specialist buyer&rsquo;s agency helping everyday Australians access and succeed in the commercial property market. With a background in commerce and law, and over a decade of firsthand experience as both an investor and advisor, Helen has built a reputation for turning complex deals into strategic, high-performing investments.
Known for her candid, straight-talking approach, she has educated thousands through free webinars, content, and in-person events, demystifying an asset class often seen as too risky or opaque. Her expertise spans portfolio strategy, tenant risk assessment, syndicate structures, and value-add opportunities, with a focus on creating balanced portfolios that deliver both income and growth. Passionate about investor education, Helen is committed to helping clients avoid the costly mistakes she&rsquo;s seen too often in the industry, and to empowering them to think &mdash; and act &mdash; like seasoned commercial players.
 Connect with Helen
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Website: <a href="https://unikorn.com.au/">https://unikorn.com.au/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Website: <a href="https://helentarrant.com/">https://helentarrant.com/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/helentarrant/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/helentarrant/</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@helentarrantcommercial">https://www.youtube.com/@helentarrantcommercial</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/helentarrantcommercialproperty/">https://www.facebook.com/helentarrantcommercialproperty/</a></li>
</ul>
Resources
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au</li>
<li aria-level="1">If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - <a href="mailto:questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au">questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au</a></li>
</ul>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? <a href="http://www.gooddeeds.com.au/">https://www.gooddeeds.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Veronica: <a href="http://www.veronicamorgan.com.au">https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Mortgage Broker? <a href="http://alcove.com.au">alcove.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Chris: <a href="mailto:chrisbates@alcove.com.au">chrisbates@alcove.com.au</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719">https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765">https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765</a></li>
</ul>
If you enjoyed today&rsquo;s podcast, don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There&rsquo;s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!
See you on the inside,
Veronica &amp; Chris
&nbsp;

Commercial Property 101: The Rules, Risks & Rewards

The Strata Sector's Challenges

Governance and Regulation Issues

The Round Table Initiative

Sustainability in Strata

The Six Pillars of Reform

Understanding Strata Obligations

Importance of Maintenance and Governance Data

Investing in the Strata Sector

Personal Mission to Improve Property Decisions

Challenges in Strata Education and Awareness

Public Awareness and Training Initiatives

Strata Management and Building Maintenance

The Future of Strata Development

Sector Collaboration and Task Force

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Australia’s strata sector is under pressure — and it's no longer a niche issue.

Following high-profile investigations by Four Corners and 7.30 Report, strata governance failures, building defects, and financial blowouts are now front and centre. With more Australians living in apartments and townhouses than ever before, what happens next in this space will impact millions.

In this episode, Kate McHugh, co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable, joins us to unpack what’s driving the crisis—and what needs to change. Drawing from her work on the Strata Futures Report, Kate outlines the six key reform pillars that emerged from cross-sector collaboration, covering everything from governance and professional standards to owner advocacy and sustainability.

We explore how opaque commissions, underfunded capital works, power imbalances, and a fragmented regulatory system are eroding trust in strata—and why many apartment owners are left feeling blindsided by defects and skyrocketing levies. Kate also shares what it would take for the sector to turn itself around—before government intervention does it for them.

Whether you're a strata owner, buyer, investor, or professional, this episode offers critical insight into the future of high-density living in Australia.

 

Episode Highlights

00:00 – Welcome

02:09 – The Strata Sector's Challenges

04:14 – Governance and Regulation Issues

05:08 – The Round Table Initiative

11:54 – Sustainability in Strata

17:13 – The Six Pillars of Reform

26:07 – Understanding Strata Obligations

27:19 – The Importance of Maintenance and Governance Data

28:30 – Investing in the Strata Sector

29:08 – Personal Mission to Improve Property Decisions

30:18 – Challenges in Strata Education and Awareness

31:29 – Public Awareness and Training Initiatives

33:32 – Strata Management and Building Maintenance

37:00 – The Future of Strata Development

40:30 – Sector Collaboration and Task Force

44:14 – Final Thoughts and Call to Action


Mentions
Strata Futures - https://www.katemchugh.net/strata-futures


About the Guest

Kate McHugh is the co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable and co-author of the Strata Futures Report. With a background in governance, policy, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement, Kate works at the intersection of lived experience and systemic reform in Australia’s strata sector.

Partnering with former NSW Strata Commissioner John Minns and a wide network of industry and consumer leaders, Kate helped convene a cross-sector discussion to explore what’s broken—and what could be rebuilt. The outcome: a collaborative report outlining six key reform areas designed to make strata more equitable, transparent, and functional. Her work is helping push the conversation forward at a time when strata’s role in housing affordability, sustainability, and urban planning has never been more critical.


Connect with Kate
Website: https://www.katemchugh.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemchughh/

 

Resources
Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au
If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:
The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au
Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au
Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au
Looking for a Mortgage Broker? alcove.com.au
Work with Chris: chrisbates@alcove.com.au 

 

Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765

If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!

See you on the inside,

Veronica & Chris

Australia&rsquo;s strata sector is under pressure &mdash; and it's no longer a niche issue.
Following high-profile investigations by Four Corners and 7.30 Report, strata governance failures, building defects, and financial blowouts are now front and centre. With more Australians living in apartments and townhouses than ever before, what happens next in this space will impact millions.
In this episode, Kate McHugh, co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable, joins us to unpack what&rsquo;s driving the crisis&mdash;and what needs to change. Drawing from her work on the Strata Futures Report, Kate outlines the six key reform pillars that emerged from cross-sector collaboration, covering everything from governance and professional standards to owner advocacy and sustainability.
We explore how opaque commissions, underfunded capital works, power imbalances, and a fragmented regulatory system are eroding trust in strata&mdash;and why many apartment owners are left feeling blindsided by defects and skyrocketing levies. Kate also shares what it would take for the sector to turn itself around&mdash;before government intervention does it for them.
Whether you're a strata owner, buyer, investor, or professional, this episode offers critical insight into the future of high-density living in Australia.
&nbsp;
Episode Highlights
00:00 &ndash; Welcome
02:09 &ndash; The Strata Sector's Challenges
04:14 &ndash; Governance and Regulation Issues
05:08 &ndash; The Round Table Initiative
11:54 &ndash; Sustainability in Strata
17:13 &ndash; The Six Pillars of Reform
26:07 &ndash; Understanding Strata Obligations
27:19 &ndash; The Importance of Maintenance and Governance Data
28:30 &ndash; Investing in the Strata Sector
29:08 &ndash; Personal Mission to Improve Property Decisions
30:18 &ndash; Challenges in Strata Education and Awareness
31:29 &ndash; Public Awareness and Training Initiatives
33:32 &ndash; Strata Management and Building Maintenance
37:00 &ndash; The Future of Strata Development
40:30 &ndash; Sector Collaboration and Task Force
44:14 &ndash; Final Thoughts and Call to Action
 Mentions
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Strata Futures - https://www.katemchugh.net/strata-futures</li>
</ul>
 About the Guest
Kate McHugh is the co-founder of the Strata Futures Stakeholder Engagement and Roundtable and co-author of the Strata Futures Report. With a background in governance, policy, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement, Kate works at the intersection of lived experience and systemic reform in Australia&rsquo;s strata sector.
Partnering with former NSW Strata Commissioner John Minns and a wide network of industry and consumer leaders, Kate helped convene a cross-sector discussion to explore what&rsquo;s broken&mdash;and what could be rebuilt. The outcome: a collaborative report outlining six key reform areas designed to make strata more equitable, transparent, and functional. Her work is helping push the conversation forward at a time when strata&rsquo;s role in housing affordability, sustainability, and urban planning has never been more critical.
 Connect with Kate
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Website: https://www.katemchugh.net/</li>
<li aria-level="1">LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemchughh/</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Resources
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Visit our website: https://www.theelephantintheroom.com.au</li>
<li aria-level="1">If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at:</li>
<ul>
<li aria-level="2">The Elephant in the Room Property Podcast - <a href="mailto:questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au">questions@theelephantintheroom.com.au</a></li>
</ul>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? <a href="http://www.gooddeeds.com.au/">https://www.gooddeeds.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Veronica: <a href="http://www.veronicamorgan.com.au">https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Looking for a Mortgage Broker? <a href="http://alcove.com.au">alcove.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Work with Chris: <a href="mailto:chrisbates@alcove.com.au">chrisbates@alcove.com.au</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Enjoyed the podcast? Don't miss out on what's yet to come! Hit that subscription button, spread the word, and join us for more insightful discussions in real estate. Your journey starts now!
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@theelephantintheroom-podcast</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719">https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-elephant-in-the-room-property-podcast/id1384822719</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Subscribe on Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765">https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ge1626dgnmK0RyKPcXjP0?si=26cde394fa854765</a></li>
</ul>
If you enjoyed today&rsquo;s podcast, don&rsquo;t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There&rsquo;s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!
See you on the inside,
Veronica &amp; Chris

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