Community Housing peak announces Michele Adair as Chair of new female-majority Board

The Community Housing Industry Association (CHIA) NSW has announced Michele Adair as its new Chair as part of changes that see CHIA NSW’s Board with a female-majority for the first time.

Ms Adair brings a wealth of leadership experience from the superannuation, disability and education sectors, which has given her a unique understanding of housing challenges facing older Australians, people living with chronic illness and those experiencing financial hardship.

She has been CEO of Housing Trust since 2017, which now manages 1,100 affordable rental properties in the Wollongong region for 2,100 families. The company will also build hundreds more homes in the next few years.

“CHIA has helped steer the growth of the community housing sector which now manages 50,000 homes in NSW alone. It’s an honour to play a role in carrying on this important work for our members and the communities we serve” says Ms Adair.

“This is a crucial moment in Australia’s housing crisis. Financial hardship has left many in rental stress and will push more people into homelessness without urgent intervention. Community housing is undoubtedly the most efficient model for increasing the social and affordable housing supply. Our member organisations are ready to deliver for families in need.”

Mark Degotardi, CEO of CHIA NSW, says Ms Adair is the ideal leader to help grow the community housing sector amid the accelerating economic and housing crisis.

“I’m delighted that Michele Adair has taken on this leadership role with CHIA NSW,” he says. “Housing affordability is one of the most complex and urgent challenges facing our state, and Michele brings an invaluable working knowledge of the landscape that will help us advocate for community housing providers and tenants alike.

“I also wish to extend my thanks to John McKenna, who is retiring from his position as Chair after serving on the CHIA board for a decade. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental for the company and the wider community housing sector.”

Media contact: Hannah Craft, 0423 377 965