NETWORKING IN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT: A GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

10 June

Breaking into the property development and planning sector in Melbourne can feel overwhelming at first. It's a fast-paced, relationship-driven industry where who you know often matters as much as what you know. But don’t worry, if you’re a graduate or simply new to the Melbourne market, the good news is that there are plenty of ways to build your network and become known.

1. Understand the Landscape

Melbourne is home to some of Australia's most ambitious urban growth and infill projects, driven by both public and private sector players. From boutique developers revitalising inner suburbs, to major infrastructure projects. The range of stakeholders involved in a projects or developments is broad: urban planners, development managers, project management consultants, architects, quantity surveyors and the construction team.

2. Join Industry-Specific Associations

For those looking to build their network in this sector, becoming a member of relevant professional associations is a smart move. Groups such as the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) – Victoria, the Property Council of Australia, and Master Builders Victoria + Women in Property + NAWIC + Tree of Knowledge + Urban Developer are excellent places to start. These organisations represent professionals across property development, construction, planning, and urban design.

They regularly host industry events, workshops, seminars, and networking nights that bring together developers, planners, architects, consultants, and investors. These events not only help you stay informed about industry trends and policy updates but also give you direct access to peers and potential employers.

Highlighting your involvement with these associations on your resume and during interviews signals your genuine interest in the sector and your commitment to professional growth qualities that employers in this competitive industry value highly.

3. Start With Events That Matter

The property industry in Melbourne thrives on events, breakfasts, panel discussions, site tours, and networking nights. Some go-to organisations to watch:

UDIA Victoria (Urban Development Institute of Australia): Their "Young Professionals" events are ideal for early-career attendees.

PCA (Property Council of Australia): Offers fantastic seminars and networking for those serious about commercial development.

NAWIC Victoria (National Association of Women in Construction): Inclusive and empowering events for women and allies in built environment careers.

Aim to attend at least one event a quarter and just show genuine curiosity, asking thoughtful questions.

Similarly, attend company-sponsored social events, like happy hours, team lunches, or team building activities. These casual settings provide an excellent platform for informal networking.

4. Get comfortable being uncomfortable

Know that everyone is nervous and if you can, take someone with you. If you can’t, walk up to someone that is standing by themselves. There is a high chance that they are feeling just as uncomfortable as you!

Here is something that you could say.

"Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I work in [your industry or role], and I’m here to meet some new people and learn more about what others are working on. How about you?"

Or go slightly more casual:

"Hey, I’m [Your Name]. I’m still pretty new to these events, but thought I’d come along and see who I could meet. What’s your background?"

It’s okay to say you’re new to networking – most people will be welcoming and helpful. Remember to smile and make eye contact too, it instantly puts people at ease. This isn’t the time to be ‘impressive’, focus on being curious and open instead!

If you see Kylie or a Belkirk representative, do go over and introduce yourself.

5. Follow Up

One of the most overlooked but most important steps in networking is the follow-up. After a conversation at an event or meeting, send a brief thank-you message or LinkedIn connection request to keep the momentum going.

It’s easy to lose track of conversations after a busy networking event, so don’t rely on others to remember you, make the effort to stay on their radar. If someone offered valuable insights or could be a helpful contact in the future, a thoughtful follow-up could turn a brief chat into a lasting professional relationship.

Your network should grow like a web, not a straight line. Have diverse connections across different industries, experience levels, and roles.

Final Thoughts

Networking in Melbourne’s property development and planning sector isn’t about being the loudest in the room, it’s about being consistent, curious, and committed to learning. Every conversation you have adds up. Over time, you’ll start to feel more like part of the industry.

So, take the first step. Attend an event, message a mentor, or drop your resume to a trusted recruiter.