One of the greatest strengths of the Australian Property Institute is the dedication of the members who generously volunteer their time, knowledge and leadership to support our profession.

Over the coming months, I’ll be introducing you to the Chair,  Deputy Chair and other members of the NSW State Committee, giving you the opportunity to get to know the people behind the titles. Through this interview series, we’ll explore what inspired them to pursue a career in property, what continues to motivate them, the issues they are passionate about, and perhaps even discover a few interests outside of work.

I hope you’ll enjoy getting to know the people helping shape the future of our profession, while gaining an insight into the experiences and values that have guided their careers.

1. Let’s start at the beginning. What first attracted you to a career in the property profession, and did you always envisage this is where your career would take you?

Property has always been part of my life. I’m the son of a third-generation stock and station agent and real estate agent, and my brother and sister both followed that path too. Some of my earliest memories are answering the home phone at night saying, “421759, John Ewing speaking… Don’s not available right now, can I take a message?” and collecting rent on Saturday mornings in the office. 

At the time, I actually thought I’d end up in the stockbroking world. During Year 11 I applied for an internship with a Sydney stockbroker but never heard back – that was 1988 – Stockmarket Crash. Dad introduced me to a mate of his, Peter Spackman, who was a valuer, and that chance introduction completely changed my direction. Before long I was studying Land Economy at the University of Western Sydney’s Richmond campus, and the rest, as they say, is history. 

Looking back, I certainly didn’t imagine where this profession would take me, but it’s given me opportunities I could never have planned for. 

 2. Looking back over your career, what has been one of the most rewarding or defining moments for you, and why does it stand out?

Professionally, working as a valuer in London was probably the most defining experience of my career. It challenged me, broadened my perspective and showed me just how many opportunities exist for property professionals around the world. 

The most rewarding part, though, has been mentoring younger valuers. 

One thing I’ve learnt is that the property profession isn’t a narrow career path, it’s a wide road. Some people spend their careers valuing property, while others move into funds management, development, banking, advisory or investment. I’ve watched colleagues build incredible careers, own successful businesses, become senior executives and even retire early after becoming developers and investors. 

3. You’ve chosen to volunteer your time on the NSW State Committee. What inspired you to become involved, and what does serving the profession mean to you personally?

A membership organisation like the API is there for every stage of your career, not just when things are going well. 

Sometimes, as they say in sports, “you don’t clear the bar.” Things don’t always work out the way you planned, and that’s when having a strong professional community around you really matters. 

That’s one of the reasons I became involved. I wanted to help ensure every member has the same opportunities, whether you’re working for a multinational firm, a boutique practice or building your own business. 

For me, it’s about keeping our profession relevant, supporting members through change and making sure people know they’re not on their own. 

4. As Chair of the NSW State Committee, what opportunities or challenges are you most passionate about addressing over the next few years?

Our profession is changing rapidly, but with change comes opportunity. I’m particularly passionate about creating more opportunities for young valuers and ensuring sole practitioners and smaller firms continue to thrive alongside the larger organisations. 

The NSW State Committee has an important role to play in advocating for members, identifying emerging issues and making sure our profession continues to evolve. I want members to feel supported to broaden their skills, explore new career pathways and have confidence that the API is investing in their future. 

5. If there was one initiative or achievement, you’d like your time on the NSW State Committee to be remembered for, what would it be?

I’ve enjoyed contributing to initiatives like the API Insights Report, but if there’s one area I’d like to be remembered for, it’s advocacy. 

The State Committee is the voice of NSW members. We have the opportunity to raise issues, influence discussions, and help shape decisions at Board level. 

If members feel they’ve been heard and their profession is stronger because of those conversations, I’d consider that a worthwhile legacy. 

 6. Our profession is constantly evolving. What skills or qualities do you believe today’s property professionals will need to succeed in the future?

Everyone talks about AI, and rightly so. It’s changing the profession whether we like it or not. 

But I don’t see AI replacing valuers. I see it becoming part of our toolkit. Clients don’t just want a number. They want confidence, context and judgement. They want someone who can explain the story behind the valuation. 

That’s why I believe one of the most valuable skills a valuer can develop is the ability to deliver what I call a “talking valuation report”. Being able to communicate clearly, build trust and explain your reasoning will always be valuable. 

The API is doing a tremendous amount of work in this space, and members will soon see some exciting developments around AI and professional practice. 

7. What advice would you give to a young professional or someone considering volunteering with the API for the first time?

The old saying still rings true, you only get out of it what you put into it. Some of the best friendships, opportunities and professional experiences I’ve had have come from saying yes. 

  • Volunteer.
  • Join a committee.
  • Attend an event.
  • Put your hand up. 

The API isn’t just about CPD points. It’s about building relationships that can shape your entire career. You never know who you’ll meet or where one conversation might lead. 

 8. Outside of property, how do you like to spend your time?

I love cooking almost as much as I love property. My current favourite dish would have to be a slow-cooked Bolognese ragu, although a good steak with a Greek salad runs a close second. My favourite cuisine is Italian.  

Sport is the other great passion. I’m a Penrith Panthers supporter and have been since 1984, well before it became fashionable! People have spent years asking me, “Why Penrith?” 

Then this year Mum casually mentioned she’d gone to Penrith’s very first game back in 1967 with my aunt. Forty years of defending my team and she decides to tell me now! That might have helped explain things when I was 13. 

9. Is there a book, podcast, mentor or life experience that has significantly influenced the way you lead?

One book has stayed with me throughout my life: A Fortunate Life by A.B. Facey. 

It’s a remarkable story about resilience, perspective and gratitude. Whenever things get challenging, it’s a reminder that success isn’t about avoiding setbacks; it’s about how you respond to them. 

10. Finally, what message would you like to share with NSW members?

The NSW State Committee exists for one reason: our members. We can only be effective if we know what’s important to you.

If you’ve ever thought about getting involved with the API, now’s the time.

  • Volunteer where possible.
  • Attend a local event.
  • Join a Young Property Professionals committee.
  • Share your ideas.
  • Challenge us.
  • Help us shape the future of the profession.
  • The API isn’t something that happens to members. It’s something we build with members.
  • The more people who get involved, the stronger our profession becomes. 

Rapid Fire 

Coffee or tea?
Coffee. Latte. One sugar. 

Early bird or night owl?
Definitely a night owl. 

Kids? 

Girl 24 and Boy 20 yrs old 

Favourite place in NSW?
Anywhere regional. Every part of regional NSW has something unique to offer. 

Favourite way to spend a weekend?
Cooking for family, watching sport with a glass of red wine or a dark ale close by.  

Best career advice you’ve ever received?
Prepare to be wrong. The sooner you accept that you won’t always have every answer, the more you’ll learn.