With over 35 years in the building industry, Jason O'Hagan brings a wealth of experience, particularly during his 11-year tenure as Managing Director at Weathertex. His dedication lies in offering accessible, sustainable cladding and building solutions to the construction sector. Over the years, he has witnessed the business flourish, thanks to enduring practices implemented since its inception. Committed to delivering transparency and the most eco-friendly cladding materials, Jason ensures customers receive top-notch products aligned with sustainability goals.

James Treble is an award-winning interior designer based in Sydney with over 30 years of experience in the design, real estate, and building industries. He runs his own successful design practice and is well-known for his roles as a TV presenter on programs like "Open Homes Australia" on 9Life and "Renovate Or Rebuild" on Channel 9. James has also been a fixture on "The Living Room" for seven seasons and was a host on Your Money Channel. As an ambassador for Planet Ark, he advocates for sustainable practices in interior design. His latest project, "James Bought A House," is a YouTube series documenting the renovation of his own home, emphasizing practical and sustainable solutions.

Dr Catherine Gilbert is a Lecturer in the School of Architecture, Design and Planning at the University of Sydney. Her teaching and research focuses on housing and the planning system, particularly how statutory planning rules and regulatory reforms impact housing supply, diversity and affordability; and planning approaches to support affordable housing inclusion in new development. Catherine has led and collaborated on numerous projects funded by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), as well as industry organisations and the Australian Research Council.

Alan commenced his property career in 1988 later founding Takle Developments in 1997, a property development firm specialising in development agreements with landowners and strategic acquisitions across commercial and residential sites to provide innovative land use outcomes.

Alan’s passion for providing safe and affordable housing has focussed his specialisation to placemaking innovation, creating liveable precincts at scale demonstrating exceptional environmental and social outcomes for the community within which the precinct is situated.

Having strong skills in collaboration with all levels of government and the community housing sector, Alan works with the custodians of land to release key parcels, activating their significant affordable and key-worker composition potential, supported by commercial social infrastructure.

Backed by strong disciplines in placemaking, sustainability, financial modelling, demographics and community/stakeholder consultation, Alan provides strategic direction, leading teams to deliver a new level of excellence in the provision of affordable housing.

Alan's role as Executive Director of Nestd Developments Social Enterprise sees him regularly involved with Local Governments to provide unique affordable housing solutions at scale.

Emma Greenhalgh is the CEO of National Shelter - the national peak body that aims to improve housing access, affordability, appropriateness, safety and security for people on low incomes. 

Emma is a passionate advocate for better housing outcomes, and the importance of housing in contributing to the stability and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities.

Emma joined National Shelter in March 2022 and has 25 years’ experience in social policy, planning, research and program development in the field of affordable housing and homelessness. This has included diverse roles with large local governments, state governments including development authorities, private consultants, and not-for-profits.

Emma has professional qualifications in urban and regional planning, and is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Cities Research Institute at Griffith University.

Jason is the Managing Publisher of Wood Central, the world's largest news platform for timber-based news! Wood Central has over 260,000 users. As a former Green Star Accredited Professional (GSAP), Jason has been an active member in driving the adoption of Green Star projects in Australia - pushing for greener, cleaner and more sustainable building materials ahead of the Brisbane Olympic Games. He has advised the Queensland State Government on environmental protection, heritage, housing and public works.

From 2018 until 2022, Jason managed the PEFC brands in the Australian and New Zealand markets and is passionate about growing certification awareness and compliance across the Asia-Pacific region.

Damien is a founding Director and Executive Chair of prefabAUS – the peak industry body for offsite construction in Australia. In 2007 Damien began working with renowned Australian architect Nonda Katsalidis and Hickory Group to develop and bring to market the prefabricated Unitised Building™ system. Damien’s skills, knowledge and experience with the UBTM System were used to grow and develop the business in Australia.

As Managing Director of Advanced Offsite Group, Damien has been involved a range of medium to high density modular housing projects. Damien works with a number of universities and research bodies to explore advanced manufacturing technologies and collaborates with government and industry bodies to advance offsite construction. Damien sees strong opportunities for the prefabrication industry to set itself apart by providing low waste, high quality, sustainable and design led alternatives.

Nick joined Moov Modular in 2022 after 25 years working in financial and capital markets both in Australia and overseas. Nick drives the company’s affordable housing initiatives and developer relationships. He is also responsible for operations and business growth. Nick is passionate about using modern methods of construction to help deliver housing for those that need it in Australia.

Jerry Scott, the Operations Manager at Uniplan Group, brings 17 years of experience to the team. His qualifications include being a plumber and a lean manufacturing advocate. Jerry ensures smart purchasing decisions, efficient material usage, and lean production practices, resulting in high-quality, affordable  transport buildings for clients. His attention to detail and data-driven approach set him apart. Clients and colleagues might describe Jerry as abrupt and task-focused, but his dedication to implementing new ideas and fostering a great team culture is evident. Outside of work, Jerry enjoys hiking and mountain biking in the bush, aiming to stay fit and active.

Bringing over a 25 years of expertise in the construction realm, Andrew Savage embarked on his journey with Weathertex in 2018, assuming the pivotal role of NSW Business Development Manager, Architecture & Design. Tasked with a newly created position, Andrew collaborates intricately with clients hailing from the realms of architecture, design, and development, extending unwavering support throughout the entirety of the construction process. His passion finds expression in engaging audiences through CPD and promotional events, a platform he cherishes dearly. Andrew takes immense pride in affiliating with Weathertex, a renowned leader in hardwood cladding & lining solutions, renowned for its unparalleled commitment to sustainability, excellence, and value.

Andy believes all people should live, work and play in buildings that make them happy and healthy. His focus is ensuring people with reasonable budgets get into the best homes possible through a focus on health, comfort and efficiency in all its meanings.

Andy is a Director at Envirotecture and Passivhaus Design & Construct, holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Architecture, is a certified Passive House Designer and has extensive experience in sustainable design at a variety of scales.

David Baggs is CEO and Program Director of Global GreenTagCert^TM Australia and the World’s leading LCA based product ecolabelling, rating, certification, EPD and Product Health Declaration (PhD) Program Operator. Voted one of Australia’s Top 100 Most Trusted Building Sector Brands, GreenTag guarantees professionals peace of mind when purchasing or specifying via robust independent science and transparency reporting. David is a multi-award winning green building architect and world renowned sustainability and materials expert, author and keynote speaker with nearly 40 years’ experience. Voted one of Australia’s Top 50 Green Leaders and one of the Top 100 Sustainability Leaders Globally, he is Chair of the Green Building Council of Australia’s Materials Expert Group, an Exemplar Global Lead Auditor and a Past President of the Australian Life Cycle Assessment Society.

Ella Mudie is the Market Engagement Lead at the Green Building Council of Australia where she works with industry to tailor Green Star approaches and solutions for complex developments. Through her unique background in property and the arts, Ella brings a multi-faced approach to sustainability and an appreciation for achieving holistic outcomes across diverse typologies.

Sean Coddington is a seasoned Managing Director and Builder with a proven track record of driving company growth and profitability. With over two decades of experience in the construction industry, Sean's journey began with the establishment of Coddington Constructions Pty Ltd in 1996. Under his leadership, the company flourished, specialising in the construction of architecturally designed homes, renovations, and commercial projects, earning accolades for excellence along the way. In 2015, Sean orchestrated a strategic rebranding initiative, transforming the company into Sustainable Design & Construct Pty Ltd. This shift reflected Sean's commitment to sustainability and innovation, as he pioneered the integration of cutting-edge construction methodologies such as innovative concrete and lightweight timber frame techniques into the company's projects. Sean is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of construction excellence while delivering on the vision and expectations of clients.

Bringing over a 25 years of expertise in the construction realm, Andrew Savage embarked on his journey with Weathertex in 2018, assuming the pivotal role of NSW Business Development Manager, Architecture & Design. Tasked with a newly created position, Andrew collaborates intricately with clients hailing from the realms of architecture, design, and development, extending unwavering support throughout the entirety of the construction process. His passion finds expression in engaging audiences through CPD and promotional events, a platform he cherishes dearly. Andrew takes immense pride in affiliating with Weathertex, a renowned leader in hardwood cladding & lining solutions, renowned for its unparalleled commitment to sustainability, excellence, and value.

Simon is responsible for overseeing HIA’s extensive involvement in relevant building poplicy matters cutting across building codes and Australian Standards, ecomincs, planning, environmental and sustainability, workplace relation and compliance, industry skills and small business.

Simon is HIA’s representative on a number Commonwealth and State peak building advisory boards and committees and also sits on a number of industry bodies Boards.

Simon has oversight for HIA responses to governments on relevant building policy issues that affect residential building work and building practitioners, particularly on issues such as energy efficiency regulations, accessibility, building products and building certification reviews.

Simon previously worked for the Australian Building Codes Board and has over 20 years’ experience working in the building and construction industry in a number roles. Simon has a broad range of building and construction qualifications in fields of building, building surveying, project management and training and is a qualified carpenter.

With over thirty years’ experience as an Economist and political analyst, Dr Harley Dale begin his career as an academic in the Department of Economics at the University of Auckland in 1991.  Since moving to Australia at the end of 1992 to take up an ANU PhD Scholarship Dr Dale has worked in: academia; financial markets; economic consultancy; property development; education; industry economics via the Housing Industry Association; and broad economic analysis as a consultant for CreditorWatch.

Dr. Harley Dale is an esteemed independent economist renowned for his insightful analyses and groundbreaking research. With a Ph.D. in Economics from a prestigious institution, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his work. Dr. Dale is recognised for his expertise in macroeconomic trends, fiscal policy, and global financial markets. Through his rigorous analysis and impartial perspective, he provides invaluable insights to businesses, policymakers, and investors worldwide.

With a passion for uncovering economic complexities and crafting innovative solutions, Dr. Dale continues to make significant contributions to the field, shaping conversations and guiding decisions in an ever-evolving economic landscape.

Chris Knierim is a multi-faceted industry leader serving as the CEO of the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA). In addition to this pivotal role, Chris Chairs the Australian Design Alliance (AdA), is a board member of the Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF), and contributes to a variety of government committees, including the Steering Committee with the NSW Building Commissioner and the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).

As an international award-winning designer and builder, Chris boasts an illustrious career decorated with over 50 industry awards. His extensive experience spans across the globe, where he has been involved in a wide array of specialist projects. Chris' expertise has not only been recognized by the industry but has also captured the attention of the media. His work has been showcased on internationally-broadcast TV shows like Grand Designs Australia, and he serves as a feature writer for Grand Designs magazine.

Grant Harrington is a Private Certifier with over 35 years experience in the Australian  Construction Industry.  Grant founded "Private Certifiers Australia" in 2005 and has   worked   closely with the NSW Government as a role model certifier, to pioneer the   Electronic   Housing Code.  In 2006, he founded the company "Build  Form, Software for Certifiers", the company changed hands in 2014 and is now known as "BCS, Building Certification Systems".  In 2020, Grant became a Director on the AAC Board and has been involved with industry since.

Jason is the Managing Publisher of Wood Central, the world's largest news platform for timber-based news! Wood Central has over 260,000 users. As a former Green Star Accredited Professional (GSAP), Jason has been an active member in driving the adoption of Green Star projects in Australia - pushing for greener, cleaner and more sustainable building materials ahead of the Brisbane Olympic Games. He has advised the Queensland State Government on environmental protection, heritage, housing and public works.

From 2018 until 2022, Jason managed the PEFC brands in the Australian and New Zealand markets and is passionate about growing certification awareness and compliance across the Asia-Pacific region.

Bringing over a 25 years of expertise in the construction realm, Andrew Savage embarked on his journey with Weathertex in 2018, assuming the pivotal role of NSW Business Development Manager, Architecture & Design. Tasked with a newly created position, Andrew collaborates intricately with clients hailing from the realms of architecture, design, and development, extending unwavering support throughout the entirety of the construction process. His passion finds expression in engaging audiences through CPD and promotional events, a platform he cherishes dearly. Andrew takes immense pride in affiliating with Weathertex, a renowned leader in hardwood cladding & lining solutions, renowned for its unparalleled commitment to sustainability, excellence, and value.

Adrian set out to revolutionise over-50s living with GemLife, redefining and elevating the retirement space with a fresh, dynamic approach driven by the pursuit of excellence and innovation. His vision to create premium resort-style communities for over-50s draws upon years of industry experience within the family business, Living Gems, where he is also CEO.

Since 2016, Adrian has spearheaded GemLife’s rapid growth across Australia, expanding the company’s property portfolio to 11 resorts in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, with many more in the pipeline. Adrian holds a Masters of Laws.

Dr. Marieh Barzegaran has been working as a Design Specialist for almost three and a half years at Ingenia Communities. Her academic background is in Architecture, holding a BA, MA, and PhD with a focus on Place Making and Neighbourhood design. Past work experience involved both working in Academic and Practice around Architecture, Neighbourhood design and Place attachment. At Ingenia, her expertise is leveraged to craft liveable, sustainable, and socially connected communities for the over 55 demographic nationwide. Ingenia prioritize customer desires and needs, ensuring that our master planning and home designs reflect their input. Moreover, they strive to foster social connections and promote sustainable living among our residents in our communities.

Mark Thomson is a multi-award-winning architect and judge at the World Architecture Festival and the Australian Banksia Sustainability Awards. He co-founded the Centre for Sub-Tropical Design, a collaboration between QUT and the Brisbane City Council. As past President of the Australian Green Development Forum, he is passionate about eco-architecture, specifically affordable and aged care and the role of timber in developing net-zero construction. He is a director of Responsible Wood - the first architect appointed to a PEFC or FSC board is on the board of Micah Projects - one of Brisbane's largest not-for-profit organisations - and is the co-author of The Environmental Brief: Pathways to Green Design.

With over 35 years in the building industry, Jason O'Hagan brings a wealth of experience, particularly during his 11-year tenure as Managing Director at Weathertex. His dedication lies in offering accessible, sustainable cladding and building solutions to the construction sector. Over the years, he has witnessed the business flourish, thanks to enduring practices implemented since its inception. Committed to delivering transparency and the most eco-friendly cladding materials, Jason ensures customers receive top-notch products aligned with sustainability goals.

James Treble is an award-winning interior designer based in Sydney with over 30 years of experience in the design, real estate, and building industries. He runs his own successful design practice and is well-known for his roles as a TV presenter on programs like "Open Homes Australia" on 9Life and "Renovate Or Rebuild" on Channel 9. James has also been a fixture on "The Living Room" for seven seasons and was a host on Your Money Channel. As an ambassador for Planet Ark, he advocates for sustainable practices in interior design. His latest project, "James Bought A House," is a YouTube series documenting the renovation of his own home, emphasizing practical and sustainable solutions.