Join us for an engaging evening at the 2026 Melbourne Property Think Tank, a leading forum for industry leaders, policymakers and innovators to examine what needs to change to drive real progress across the property sector.

This year’s event, From talk to traction: What needs to change now, will focus on the practical shifts required across planning, taxation and construction costs to support recovery, spotlighting priority reforms, improving project viability and the critical role of collaboration between policy and industry.

Keynote speaker, David Southwick MP, Deputy Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Minister for Planning; Housing and Building; Tourism and Major Events, will open the session with a forward-looking address.

David will provide insight into current government priorities, reform pathways and the policy direction shaping the future of the property sector. Attendees will be able  to  ask questions directly, gaining valuable, practical insights into navigating today’s complex landscape.

Following the keynote, David will be joined by a panel of industry experts to explore the challenges and opportunities facing the sector:

• Simon Aitken, Partner, Tax Services, RSM: Providing insight into the property tax settings shaping project feasibility and investment.
• Linda Allison, CEO, UDIA Victoria: Sharing a strategic industry perspective on what is needed to unlock growth and accelerate development.
• Sam Tarascio, Managing Director, Salta Properties: Providing a practical, developer-led view on navigating construction costs, market conditions and delivery challenges.

Practical insights: Gain a clearer understanding of the policy, planning, and cost levers shaping project viability today.

Real-world perspectives: Hear directly from industry leaders on how current challenges are playing out across developments.

Engaging discussion: Explore the immediate actions needed to move from conversation to implementation.

Networking opportunities: Connect with Melbourne’s leading property professionals in a relaxed, premium setting.

We will conclude the evening with drinks, canapésand meaningful conversations at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, providing the perfect opportunity to connect with peers and continue the discussion.

Property Think Tank events are a forum for our clients and industry leaders to exchange ideas and perspectives on current property development issues. We encourage engagement from the audience so come prepared with questions for our panellists or submit your questions in the registration form.

View the highlights below from our Sydney Property Think Tank earlier this year along with key event insights here.

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David Southwick MP
Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for Planning; Housing and Building; Tourism and Major Events

David Southwick MP has represented Caulfield since 2010 and currently serves as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party and Shadow Minister for Planning, Housing and Building, and Tourism and Major Events. He is focused on improving housing affordability and planning reform to support sustainable growth. 
With a background in small business across events, marketing, hospitality and manufacturing, David brings practical, commercial insight to policymaking. A former university lecturer and RMIT’s first Entrepreneur in Residence, he is also committed to inclusion, community engagement and reducing barriers to economic participation across Victoria.

Read more about our keynote

Simon Aitken
Partner, Tax Services | RSM

Simon Aitken is a Partner in RSM Australia’s Tax Services division, based in Melbourne.

With over 35 years of experience in corporate tax consulting, Simon leads RSM Melbourne’s Real Estate and Construction industry sector.

Simon’s client base includes large scale residential builders, multinational civil construction groups, public infrastructure builders and operators and REITs.

Linda Allison
CEO | UDIA Victoria

Linda Allison is CEO of UDIA Victoria, bringing more than 20 years’ experience in advocacy, communications and stakeholder engagement across the property, corporate and not-for-profit sectors. She has held senior roles at the Port of Melbourne and Property Council of Australia, with expertise in planning, taxation and regulatory reform. Linda is passionate about shaping inclusive, thriving cities and remains actively involved in community and industry leadership initiatives.

Sam Tarascio
Managing Director | Salta Properties

Sam Tarascio is Managing Director of Salta Properties, one of Australia’s largest privately owned development groups. Since joining in 1999 and becoming Managing Director in 2005, he has led a multi billion dollar pipeline across residential, commercial, retail and industrial sectors. With more than 30 years’ experience, Sam has overseen major precincts across Victoria and launched Salta’s $3 billion Build to Rent platform, Est.

Read more about our panel

David Passarella
Partner | Colin Biggers & Paisley

David Passarella has been a partner in Colin Biggers & Paisley's Planning Government Infrastructure & Environment group since 2022. He has over 20 years of experience in planning and environment law, working with some of Australia's largest property developers and industry advisors.

Read more about David here