We are pleased to share that after a rigorous recruitment process, Matthew Kandelaars has been appointed to the position of UDIA Victoria Chief Executive Officer, commencing 29 March 2021.
Mr Kandelaars is currently Victorian Deputy Executive of the Property Council of Australia; a role which has seen him spearhead countless successful advocacy campaigns, and lead the organisation as Interim Executive Director on multiple occasions, including extended stints through a state election campaign, and throughout a key juncture in the COVID-19 crisis.
Matthew is a strong public policy leader with exceptional advocacy, government relations and communication skills. His credibility among key government decision-makers, and proven ability to talk directly and powerfully with private and public sector leaders, make his appointment one we can be incredibly proud of.
Prior to the Property Council, Mr Kandelaars held senior roles within Victorian and South Australian ministerial offices, serving as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Planning in South Australia, and Senior Adviser to two Victorian ministers.
Of the appointment, UDIA Victoria President Ashley Williams says:
“Matthew is well-known and highly regarded across the public and private sector, with a deep understanding of the policy issues impacting Victoria’s development, construction and building industry, and established connections with government decision-makers.
“He will hit the ground running, and his understanding of government’s policy development and decision-making process will be an invaluable asset to UDIA Victoria.”
“Thank you to Angela Gaedke, who has done a brilliant job as Acting CEO and will return to her previous position as General Manager and Director of Strategic Projects once Matthew commences his new role on 29 March. With Angela’s invaluable support and experience, our members can be assured that UDIA Victoria is being led by a powerhouse of a team.”
As Deputy Executive of the Property Council in Victoria, Mr Kandelaars has delivered significant advocacy achievements in areas of tax reform, planning, infrastructure, economic stimulus and gender diversity.
Mr Kandelaars is eager to step into his new role and is genuinely looking forward to resolving our members’ issues and bringing out the best in our industry.
“There are 300,000 Victorians employed across our sector, in need of a strong, reputable industry advocate, who is attuned to their needs and can work productively with government to address the key issues. I’m looking forward to taking on that responsibility at this critical time, and to working with the incredible UDIA team and Board to vigorously pursue our members’ objectives,” he said.
In addition to his practical experience across public policy, advocacy, government relations and communications, Matthew is a qualified legal practitioner with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting). He also sits on the University of Melbourne Construction Law Advisory Board.
Of the appointment, Acting CEO and General Manager Angela Gaedke says: “It’s my great pleasure to welcome Matthew Kandelaars as the new CEO of UDIA Victoria.
“Personally, I can’t be happier with the Board’s decision to appoint Matthew as I know the UDIA will thrive under his leadership. The fact that Matthew is across our industry and policy issues is a huge advantage and means he can hit the ground running as we continue to strive for the right outcomes for you, our members.
“Advocacy will remain our focus and I, along with the team remain committed to supporting Matthew in delivering on our agenda.
“It is without question that the property industry is critical to returning the Victorian economy to a position of strength; that it supports Victorian jobs, housing and infrastructure.
“The UDIA has an incredibly dedicated Board and Team, supported by strong Committees all working together to ensure we influence policy decisions from record transport investment, unprecedented stimulus measures to unlock affordable housing, building and construction activity and the $110 million in funding allocated to the roll out of planning system reform.”
We are very excited for this next chapter at UDIA Victoria, which we are confident will deliver extremely positive results for our members.
Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement,
Team UDIA Victoria
