Recognition at Brighter Future Awards
Home in Place is proud to announce that three of our people and initiatives have taken out top honours at the 2025 AHI NSW/ACT Brighter Future Awards.
Out of nine categories, Home in Place won three, a remarkable achievement that reflects the depth of talent, leadership and innovation across our organisation. The winners will now go forward for consideration in the national awards to be announced in October.
This adds to our success in New Zealand last month, where Home in Place building manager Vansh Bagga won the Leading Asset Management Award at the 2025 AHI Brighter Future Awards.
We also acknowledge the dedication of our other nominees, whose recognition highlights the calibre of work across the business and the positive impact our teams continue to have in the sector.
Award Recipients
Kent Chalmers received the Outstanding Achievement Award
Kent, our Group Chief Technology Officer, was recognised for his outstanding leadership in driving digital transformation, compliance and cybersecurity in the housing sector. His work has reshaped industry standards, from implementing AI powered compliance systems to strengthening data security and governance frameworks. Kent is also known for his generosity in mentoring emerging leaders and contributing to sector wide policy and advisory groups. His award is a testament not only to his expertise, but also to the steady, visionary leadership he brings to Home in Place every day.
Christy Gillin received the Future Leader Award
Christy, Tenancy Relations Officer and 2IC in our Taree branch, was honoured for her exceptional leadership and commitment to improving housing outcomes. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Taree office during the Social Housing Management Transfer and has since led major projects including the Bushland Estate Action Team. Christy’s ability to combine operational excellence with compassion and strategic vision has made her a standout leader in the sector. Currently completing her MBA, Christy is well on her way to shaping the future of community housing.
The Bushland Estate Action Team (BEAT) received the Leading Community Engagement Practice Award
BEAT was established in 2021 as a partnership between Home in Place, tenants, housing providers, police, council and community groups to respond to antisocial behaviour in Bushland Estate, Taree, and foster stronger community connection. Through door knocking surveys, newsletters, the monthly Bushland Breakfast Club and community clean up days, BEAT has delivered trusted, tenant-driven engagement. The initiative has built trust, strengthened relationships and made the estate safer and more cohesive, and is now recognised as an inspiring model of best practice in tenant engagement.
Special Mentions
Lisa Evans – Inspirational Team Member nominee
Our Group Chief Financial Officer, Lisa Evans, was nominated in the Inspirational Team Member category. Lisa combines financial leadership with compassion, humour and boundless energy. From mentoring her team to championing Grow a Star, volunteering on multiple boards and even abseiling down stadiums for charity, Lisa lives the values of Home in Place. Her nomination recognises her as a leader who lifts and inspires everyone around her.
ICT Team – Leading Innovation nominee for the Tenant Portal
Our ICT team was recognised for the in house development of the Home in Place Tenant Portal. This secure, Microsoft based platform gives tenants 24/7 access to financial information, tenancy documents and in future, maintenance requests and scheduling. By building it internally, the team avoided vendor lock in and created a solution that is agile, customisable and sector leading. The portal is already transforming transparency and independence for tenants while offering valuable lessons for other housing providers.
Support Coordination Team – Excellence in Social Housing Award nominee
Our Support Coordination team, working across 493 households in the Hunter and Central Coast, were also recognised for their trauma informed, tenant centred approach. The team helps tenants set goals in areas like health, education and employment, while providing intensive support for those in crisis. Their multi agency collaboration and tailored engagement have achieved outstanding outcomes, from reducing homelessness to supporting tenants into volunteering, employment and even home ownership. Their work is transforming lives and communities.
These awards are a reminder of what can be achieved when leadership, innovation and compassion come together. We are proud of all our winners and nominees, whose achievements show the commitment and creativity of our people in supporting our tenants and strengthening their communities.
