Description
This award recognises an individual or group of individuals who own or lead a property development company that has achieved industry success and made a positive impact on the community.
Eligibility
This award is open to all organisations that directly undertake property development and investment in Australia.
The award is open to individuals of all ages that are either owners, shareholders, directors, C-suite executives, project directors, development directors, development managers or any other development/investment professional of the responsible entity.
Applicants can be an individual or multiple individuals (3 or less) provided that the eligibility requirements above are satisfied.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate a significant role in shaping the strategic direction, execution and performance of the business.
Judging Criteria
LEADERSHIP (20%)
Vision, influence and impact across the organisation, industry and community.
GROWTH (20%)
Organisational performance, scalability, and success in delivering projects or outcomes.
INNOVATION (20%)
Creative thinking, problem-solving, technology adoption and commercial innovation.
RESPONSIBILITY (15%)
Commitment to sustainability, ethics, community and organisational values.
BRAVERY (15%)
Bold decision-making, risk-taking and resilience in the face of opportunity or adversity.
DISTINCTION (10%)
The unique quality, achievement or contribution that sets the nominee apart within their category.
Elevator Pitch
In 200–250 words, why should this applicant be recognised in their category?
Provide a concise yet compelling overview that ties together the most impressive aspects of the applicant’s story.
Include:
- 4–6 standout reasons they deserve this recognition
- Highlights that reflect excellence across the six award criteria
- Their defining impact, influence, and what makes them a category leader
- This is the big-picture pitch—make it memorable, persuasive and proudly unique
You are also encouraged to submit a 2-3 minute video recording summarising these points. This is an opportunity for the judges to get a sense of who you are and why you are worthy of the award.
Criteria & Questions
LEADERSHIP
In 200 words or less, outline how the applicant(s) have demonstrated leadership across their organisation, industry and the broader community.
Applicants should outline their approach to leadership and the tangible influence they’ve had.
Consider:
- The strategic vision and direction they’ve set within their organisation
- Their influence on internal culture, industry practices or broader societal outcomes
- Engagement in thought leadership, advocacy or public discourse
- Demonstrated ability to inspire teams, shift mindsets, or guide others through change
- Measurable improvements, recognition or lasting impact as a result of their leadership
Include specific examples that demonstrate clear leadership behaviours and results.
GROWTH
In 200 words or less, outline how the applicant(s) contributed to business or organisational growth in recent years.
This criterion assesses strategic decision-making and execution that has driven measurable progress.
Consider:
- A strong pipeline of projects, completed milestones, and delivery outcomes
- Financial performance indicators such as revenue growth, profitability, asset base or client acquisition
- Non-financial performance including productivity gains, customer retention, or team capability development
- Expansion into new markets, sectors, geographies, or product lines
- Resilience and adaptability in navigating changing conditions to sustain growth
Submissions should provide both quantitative and qualitative evidence of progress and momentum.
INNOVATION
In 200 words or less, outline how the applicant(s) applied innovation and what impact has it had on their success or the success of others.
This section recognises fresh thinking, creative approaches, and strategic innovation.
Consider:
- Original ideas or approaches developed in response to complex challenges or emerging opportunities
- Use of technology to improve processes, products, communication or service delivery
- Innovative business models, commercial strategies or operational structures
- Creative problem-solving or experimentation that has delivered measurable outcomes
- Tangible benefits to customers, clients, employees or the broader community
Demonstrate how innovation was conceived, implemented and sustained to deliver meaningful change.
RESPONSIBILITY
In 200 words or less, outline how the applicant(s) demonstrated a responsible and values-led approach to business or leadership.
This criterion reflects commitment to people, the planet and purpose beyond profit.
Consider:
- Internal practices that support staff wellbeing, equity, safety or development
- Environmental responsibility through sustainable operations, materials or initiatives
- Community engagement or cultural programs that contribute to the public good
- Ethical governance, diversity and inclusion, or transparent decision-making
- Partnerships or initiatives with measurable environmental, social or economic benefit
Specific examples should highlight impact and show how values are embedded in their work.
BRAVERY
In 200 words or less, outline how the applicant(s) has taken bold, decisive action or calculated risks that led to growth, innovation or transformation?
Bravery recognises action taken in uncertainty, adversity or ambition.
Consider:
- Visionary ideas that challenged convention or pushed the boundaries of their field
- Courageous decisions made during periods of volatility or pressure
- Launching or scaling a business, initiative, or project despite significant risk
- Entering new markets or categories with limited precedent or support
- Demonstrating grit, resilience or clarity of conviction during pivotal moments
Share a defining example of bold leadership and reflect on the outcome, impact and learnings.
DISTINCTION
In 200 words or less, define what sets the applicant(s) apart as truly exceptional within their category?
This is your opportunity to highlight something special—a unique quality, breakthrough, or moment of excellence.
Consider:
- A standout achievement or contribution that goes beyond industry standards
- A unique perspective, creative lens, or lived experience that shaped their approach
- The “signature move” or idea that distinguishes them from their peers
- Original thinking, cultural relevance or personal characteristics that underpin their impact
- Influence on others, through mentorship, inspiration or example
Be bold—this section should celebrate what makes the applicant truly one-of-a-kind.
Supporting Material
Please include the following with your submission:
- Professional headshot(s)
- Short biography (30-50 words)
- 4-6 high-resolution images (e.g. project photography, team in action, community initiatives)
- Company logo (vector or high-res)
- 2-3 short quotes from peers, partners, or internal stakeholders endorsing the applicant(s)
- 2-3 minute “elevator pitch” video
Other Comments
Joint submissions are welcomed (up to 3 individuals)
Multiple entries may be submitted by the same organisation, provided each entry highlights distinct examples.
