Welcome again to Season 3 of The Land Pioneers Podcast!

Episode 2 of Season 3 is with Ben Howard, founder of Monopoly Group and a true pioneer in strategic land development and real estate investing. Ben turned early hardship into opportunity, building a property portfolio and career across Australia and the UK, and bringing a refreshingly honest perspective to our podcast.

In this episode, we explore how Ben’s early life experiences shaped his passion for business and property, and how he turned adversity into an advantage through creativity, hustle, and a commitment to growth.

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Ben’s story begins far from the boardrooms of land development. After the devastating loss of his two brothers to suicide, Ben left school in Year 10 and found himself without direction, support, or a place to call home. For five years, he lived on a homeless allowance, couch-surfed, and struggled to make sense of his circumstances.

Yet within that chaos, a spark ignited. Music became his emotional outlet and first entry into entrepreneurship. Through band promotions and event organising, Ben discovered his love for building things — not just in music, but in business. He began investing in traditional residential real estate, and after enrolling in a business course, he began offering to write free business plans for local stores in Rundle Mall, using lunchtime hours to sharpen his skills.

At 19, he purchased his first home—a $69,000 ex-housing trust property in Taperoo—using a first home buyer’s grant and borrowed money for the deposit. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was cash-flow positive. His mentor explained the value of yield and equity, and from that moment, Ben was hooked.

What followed was a rapid expansion into real estate. By his early 30s, he had bought, sold, or held nearly 20 properties. But growth wasn’t always linear. He quickly learned the difference between equity and cash flow, how serviceability limits affect scalability, and the importance of having adaptable income streams.

When banks tightened lending during a market shift, Ben didn’t collapse — he pivoted. He returned to event production, organising major dance competitions and concerts to sustain his momentum.

Later, Ben moved to London with his partner. He applied for many jobs without formal qualifications before landing a junior sales role. Through persistence and follow-up, he eventually became Head of Entertainment – Sales at The SSE Arena, Wembley, managing events, exhibitions, and large-scale contracts. That experience deepened his negotiation, sales, and international project management knowledge—skills that would become core to his property development success.

Ben returned to Australia with a renewed focus. Through Monopoly Group, he began acquiring and developing land in high-growth areas, particularly those aligned with future government infrastructure. His developments in South Australia and Victoria reflect a strategic, forward-looking approach — investing in the corridors of tomorrow, not just the opportunities of today.

Learn more about Ben and Monopoly Group here.

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Welcome to Season 3 of The Land Pioneers Podcast!

We are delighted to feature Shannon Hill, Associate Director of Urban Design & Management, a highly respected planning professional shaping the future of urban communities across Victoria. With deep expertise in strategic planning, infrastructure coordination, and complex land development approvals, Shannon brings a grounded yet forward-thinking perspective to the evolving challenges facing today’s development landscape.

From navigating infrastructure levies and planning frameworks to balancing sustainability targets with commercial viability, Shannon sits at the intersection of policy, design, and delivery. In this episode, we explore how modern planning is transforming—and what it takes for developers to succeed in an increasingly complex environment.

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Shannon Hill’s career revolves around navigating complex planning systems to achieve practical, high-quality development outcomes. At Urban Design & Management, she works closely with developers, councils, and authorities—guiding projects from due diligence through to approval within evolving planning frameworks and master planning processes. A key focus of her work is responding to Victoria’s housing targets, where new planning codes and requirements, such as tree canopy coverage, are reshaping how developments are designed and delivered.

As sustainability targets and planning controls intensify, developers are moving beyond standard housing models towards more bespoke, design-led solutions. Rising infrastructure levies, alongside constraints such as drainage and cultural heritage, are putting pressure on feasibility and land values. Shannon highlights that strong due diligence and strategic master planning are now essential—helping balance commercial outcomes while delivering more connected and liveable communities.

The conversation also explores the importance of site-responsive design, particularly across complex infill sites and growth areas. Shannon discusses how master planning is evolving to deliver walkable, mixed-use activity centres, alongside integrating natural waterways and landscape-led design into communities. Ultimately, while development has become more complex, it is also creating opportunities for more thoughtful, sustainable, and future-ready urban environments.

Learn more about Shannon and UDM here

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

The Land Pioneers Podcast‘s 17th episode is now available. Jacob Vince, Associate Director at Atlas Economics, is one of Australia’s top experts on land economics and development strategy.

Starting his journey with NSW Health’s property teams, Jacob transitioned into private consulting, sharpening his feasibility studies, land use strategy, and economic impact analysis skills.

Jacob has led some of the nation’s most ambitious real estate and planning projects, contributing extensive knowledge and a unique talent for simplifying and making sense of complex economic concepts.

This discussion is jam-packed with knowledge, clarity, and practical insights for anyone interested in the factors influencing land development, not just the procedure but also its goal.

Let’s get started!

Full Episode

In this episode, Jacob Vince shares candid reflections on his unexpected path into land economics, including the pivotal moments that drew him into the sector and the personal passions that keep him engaged, especially around housing affordability and equity. Known for his rare ability to translate dense economic data into actionable, real-world insights, Jacob offers listeners a masterclass on topics like what land economics really means for developers.

His career is a blueprint for how technical expertise and clear communication can reshape an industry. Jacob transitioned to private consulting, where he honed his skills in feasibility studies, land use strategy, and economic impact analysis.

Today, as an Associate Director at Atlas Economics, he leads teams that advise developers, governments, and community housing providers on how to unlock value and navigate Australia’s complex planning landscape.

We discuss topics like:

• What land economics means for developers.
• How demographic shifts (including immigration and aging populations) are changing housing demand.
• Why are medium-density products gaining traction in growth areas?
• How government-led land releases differ from private-led models.
• And why the alignment of infrastructure and planning is the linchpin for unlocking new supply.

Jacob also provides insider views on affordable housing delivery, the role of community housing partnerships, and how smart urban planning can create resilient, diverse communities.

Key Insights from the Podcast

The Journey Into Land Economics

Jacob’s path from government property teams to national consulting highlights the value of adaptability and curiosity. What started as a career in property valuation evolved into a passion for economic strategy and housing outcomes.

Making the Case for Development

From feasibility analysis to highest-and-best-use studies, Jacob explains why robust economic arguments are crucial — not only for project viability but for convincing local and state governments to support rezoning or planning changes.

Decoding Demand Trends

With Australia’s changing demographics — smaller household sizes, rising migration, and aging populations — developers must rethink lot sizes, housing types, and community amenities, especially in growth corridors.

Greenfield vs. Urban Renewal

Jacob unpacks the differences between inner-urban redevelopment and outer growth area projects, and how factors like lot size, housing typology, and car parking need to be tailored to different

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Our upcoming guest in the next episode is Jeffrey Bretag, an urban planner passionate about making a difference through collaborative decision-making. Jeffrey believes that strategic planning holds the potential to influence and improve the built and natural environment around us.

Jeffrey Bretag has spent over 15 years working across state government, local government, and private enterprise, consistently pushing the boundaries of urban planning. His extensive qualifications, including degrees in environmental science, urban planning, and bushfire planning from the Universities of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, and Western Sydney, underpin his expertise and commitment. As a Registered Planner with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) and an Accredited Bushfire Consultant with the Fire Protection Association (FPA), Jeffrey’s dedication to creating resilient and thriving communities is evident in every project he undertakes.

As the Planning Director at the McCloy Group, Jeffrey procures approvals for residential communities, employment precincts, and urban release areas. Jeffrey’s leadership extends to his role as the Hunter Committee Chair of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), where he heads a team focused on integrated transport planning and meeting the Hunter Region’s ambitious Housing Accord Targets.

Key Insights from the Podcast

Jeffrey discusses his experiences in planning several master planned communities throughout NSW. Emphasising liveability and environmental preservation, the plan integrates efficient public transport to reduce car reliance, promoting greener cities. Jeffrey stresses proactive engagement with policymakers to navigate regulatory changes effectively.

Masterplan projects like The Loxford , Kurri Kurri, and Monarch’s Rise at Kings Hill showcase Jeffrey’s consultative approach to the development of master planned communities. These projects foster vibrant communities through comprehensive planning and stakeholder involvement, showcasing effective urban design principles.

Another critical aspect discussed is the industry’s response to legislative reviews. He points out that staying ahead of regulatory changes and adapting to new policies is essential for the success of urban development projects. He emphasises the importance of proactive engagement with stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that the industry’s needs and challenges are well-planned and addressed effectively.

His advanced bushfire planning is central to Jeffrey’s vision. He advocates for improved housing outcomes through collaborative stakeholder engagement, addressing diverse community needs. Reflecting on industry evolution, he highlights growing environmental focus and inclusivity, shaping a dynamic future for urban development.

Jeff’s extensive experience and leadership in urban planning and his proactive approach to industry challenges provide a comprehensive perspective on the evolving landscape of regional development. His insights underscore the importance of strategic planning and collaboration in shaping the future of our communities.

Click here to learn more about Jeffrey and McCloy Group

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Welcome to Episode 19 of The Land Pioneers Podcast. We’re joined by a dynamic leader whose entrepreneurial mind and strategic foresight have helped build one of Australia’s most successful land development firms—Anthony Braunthal, co-founder and director at Resi Ventures.

With over 25 years of experience spanning government, corporate enterprise, and a string of thriving startups, Anthony brings a rare breadth of knowledge to the land development world. In this episode, we dive into the story behind Resi Ventures’ billion-dollar pipeline, uncovering the mindset and methods that have powered its rise.

From early beginnings at the ATO to tech success stories and now transformative land partnerships, Anthony shares how a systems-driven approach, a relentless work ethic, and a commitment to continuous personal growth laid the foundation for long-term success.

Whether you’re scaling a property business or looking to sharpen your leadership edge, this conversation offers timeless lessons on resilience, strategy, and trust-based partnerships.

Full Episode

Anthony Braunthal’s entrepreneurial journey is a powerful blend of sharp financial acumen, curiosity-driven learning, and fearless decision-making. Starting straight out of university with a role at the ATO, Anthony’s natural inclination towards understanding business models—not just auditing them—foreshadowed his future as a serial founder.

While many would have settled into a secure government career, Anthony had other ideas. With a business plan in hand and an appetite for building, he left the public sector to launch his first venture—an investor education business focused on the share market. That decision marked the beginning of a career defined by startups, strategic exits, and scalable business models across IT, HR, and ultimately—property.

His biggest leap came in 2010, when he partnered with Khurram Saeed to co-found Resi Ventures, a land development firm now holding over $1 billion in projects in its pipeline. The idea was simple but bold: partner directly with landowners to supersize their returns. Together, they created a new model that married Khurram’s profound property knowledge with Anthony’s financial and operational expertise.

In this conversation, Anthony reflects on the importance of trust-based partnerships, the reality of risk-taking, and the invisible systems that support long-term growth. He opens up about his meditation practice, his use of data-driven performance tools like WHOOP, and the daily disciplines that keep him sharp, calm, and effective in high-pressure roles.

What stands out is not just Anthony’s track record but also his philosophy. He believes in continuous and never-ending improvement, surrounding himself with talent, building culture, and scaling only what’s proven. At Resi Ventures, this mindset shows up in everything from recruitment to project delivery.

Learn more about Anthony and Resi Ventures

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Next on The Land Pioneers Podcast, we’re honoured to host Craig Holden, Chair of South Australia’s State Planning Commission. The State Planning Commission is an independent body providing advice and leadership on all aspects of planning and development in South Australia. The Commission is also the state’s principal development assessment and planning advisory body.

Join us as Craig shares his insights into the future of the Greater Adelaide region. With Adelaide’s population expected to increase to over 670,000 by 2050, Craig discusses how the GARP will address critical issues like housing supply, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

As Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission, Craig is steering the development of the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP), a comprehensive strategy aimed at shaping the region’s future growth over the next 30 years. Under Craig’s leadership, the State Planning Commission published the GARP document to create sustainable urban expansion, housing affordability, and infrastructure development, all while safeguarding the environment and enhancing community well-being. The vision of the paper will ensure that Greater Adelaide can accommodate its projected population increase of over 670,000 people by 2050 while preserving its liveability, natural assets, and cultural heritage.

Key Insights from the Podcast

In this podcast, Craig Holden, Chair of the South Australian State Planning Commission, discusses major reforms in South Australia, focusing on introducing the Planning, Development, and Infrastructure (PDI) Act in 2016. This reform was crucial in streamlining local council planning regulations into a unified state-wide system, thereby enhancing transparency and efficiency in urban development. The central piece of this transformation is the Planning and Design Code, a digital system that simplifies planning processes, improves community engagement and offers developers greater certainty.

One of the major highlights of the episode is the discussion on the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP), which provides a 30-year vision to accommodate population growth while balancing sustainability. The plan identifies key growth areas like the northern suburbs, Murray Bridge, and Victor Harbour, ensuring expansion while safeguarding agricultural lands and green spaces. In line with this, the plan emphasises medium-density housing and promotes biodiversity, aligning urban growth with the community’s well-being.

Another critical aspect Craig addresses is infrastructure coordination. The Housing Infrastructure Planning Unit is pivotal in aligning infrastructure developments like water and transport services with new land releases. This approach prevents supply bottlenecks, ensuring essential services are available as housing and industrial developments expand. Craig’s leadership ensures that the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan fosters sustainable and balanced growth, preparing South Australia for future challenges.

Click here to learn more about Craig and the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

Next on The Land Pioneers Podcast, we’re excited to host John Stimson, one of the most experienced town planners in South Australia and a member of the State Planning Commission. With over three decades of diverse experience in urban planning and project management, John has shaped the landscape of South Australia and beyond.

John established Stimson Consulting in 2001 and has since led impactful projects, including the design and approval of award-winning large-scale residential subdivisions such as Seaford Meadows and Seaford Heights.

Join us as John shares his expertise on the strategic vision for the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP). With the region projected to grow considerably over the next 30 years, John discussed critical planning issues such as sustainable housing, economic growth, and the environmental framework essential to supporting a dynamic and thriving Adelaide.

Key Insights from the Podcast

In this episode, John Stimson talks about the complexities of urban planning, shedding light on the mechanisms driving the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP). A significant theme in the conversation revolves around the challenges of making accurate population projections and the importance of ongoing monitoring. John explains how projections, while generally precise in demographic trends, must remain adaptable to accommodate unexpected events, such as the societal shifts witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. These shifts have altered living preferences, reduced public transport use, and reshaped urban space requirements.

John also highlights the advanced digital systems now embedded in South Australia’s planning framework. These technologies enhance data integration, allowing planners to swiftly adjust and recalibrate strategies as new information becomes available. He emphasises that the adaptability of the GARP is crucial for its success, with mechanisms in place for periodic reviews and updates, ensuring it evolves with changing demographics and economic conditions.

Another critical aspect discussed is South Australia’s geographical and environmental constraints. The state’s vast landmass presents unique challenges, especially concerning water resource management. John mentions major infrastructure projects, like the Northern Water Project, as pivotal to sustaining future growth. Furthermore, the GARP carefully balances urban expansion with the preservation of prime agricultural land and significant environmental assets. Key growth areas, such as Roseworthy, Two Wells, and Murray Bridge, are identified to support population increases while maintaining environmental and food production standards.

John’s detailed exploration provides a comprehensive understanding of how the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan is designed to foster a sustainable and resilient urban landscape, preparing South Australia for the next decades of growth.

Click here to learn more about John and Stimson Consulting

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/

In this next podcast episode, watch this captivating interview with Khurram Saeed, an immigrant turned successful land developer in Australia! Hear how he defied the odds, overcame challenges, and soared to success in a competitive industry. Get inspired by a story of resilience and determination that will motivate you to chase your dreams!

Resi Ventures, a well-established company in the property development sector, specialises in residential land subdivisions and land development agreements in Victoria and Queensland. Under the leadership of co-founder Khurram, whose 21 years of expertise in property finance and development have led the business to grow from strength to strength, with over 3,000 lots under development across nine projects.


Key Insights from the Podcast

Khurram Saeed’s story is an inspiring example of how hard work, vision, and a strong desire to succeed can change lives and build communities. Growing up in housing commission flats for about eight years and facing the challenges of being an immigrant in Australia, Khurram learned early on the importance of hard work and determination. These values, shaped by the sacrifices of his immediate family, especially his uncle who migrated in 1972, helped him through his studies at Melbourne University and later in his career, including his time at IBM and running his own IT company. His background and upbringing gave him a unique perspective on the value of community, the importance of home ownership and the motivation to always strive for more.

At the core of Khurram’s professional life is his deep commitment to turning land into vibrant communities where people feel proud to live. Leading Resi Ventures with his business partner, Anthony Braunthal, he focuses on creating places like Monument and Accolade, where the sense of community is so strong that residents identify more with these names than the suburb itself. This approach to building communities shows his understanding of how important it is for people to feel connected to where they live, driving him and his team to develop areas that offer more than just houses but a real sense of home and belonging.

Under Khurram’s leadership, Resi Ventures stands out for its commitment to creating exceptional living spaces that exceed people’s expectations. From careful planning with experts to transforming greenfield land into lively neighbourhoods, Khurram’s work is about innovation, quality, and creating a lasting impact. His journey from facing the challenges of immigration to becoming a leading developer is a testament to what can be achieved with perseverance, vision, and dedication to making a difference in people’s lives, building communities that are more than just places to live but places where people are proud to call home.

Click here to learn more about Khurram and Resi Ventures

Join Our Community: We invite you to participate in this enlightening voyage. Whether you’re here to gain industry insights or find guidance on your professional journey, Land Pioneers is your compass in the world of land development. Subscribe and become an integral part of our community today. Visit https://landpioneerspodcast.com/