THE Property Council of Australia has announced Merlin Kong as its new ACT Executive Director.

Merlin has been a policy and strategy adviser to the ACT Opposition for over six years, was formerly a trade and investment manager in the ACT Chief Minister’s Department and has worked in a range of private enterprises and other roles in Australia and overseas. Property Council Chief Executive Ken Morrison said Mr Kong was ideally suited to the role.

“Merlin has the policy depth, political pragmatism and entrepreneurship that will be a powerful combination in this role,” Ken said.

“Most importantly, he is passionate about the future of Canberra and its transformation as a city.

“Canberra is the nation’s capital, Australia’s third largest office market and a rapidly evolving city, so we are delighted to have someone of Mr Kong’s skills to lead the team in the ACT.”

Merlin said the reality of a double election year put the issues the Property Council champions at the centre of the political debate.

“It is a great honour to take up this role and being given the opportunity to champion a positive future for Canberra,” Merlin said.

“Property makes up one ninth of the ACT’s economy and employs 26,000 people, second only to the government sector, so it is a vital part of the economy.

“As well as being a driver of jobs and growth, it is this industry which will deliver the urban renewal, housing and strong city centres that policy makers want to see.

“I look forward to working closely with the ACT Government and policy makers in this role.”

Mr Kong commenced in the role this week.