Outgoing REA Group CEO Owen Wilson today announced a $500,000 donation to homelessness causes at Ready25, telling a 1,500-strong audience of real estate professionals that the industry’s collective voice “can make a difference” on social as well as commercial issues.
The pledge represents a 25 per cent increase on the $400,000 committed at last year’s Ready24 event, reinforcing real estate’s growing alignment with social impact initiatives.
“What stands out to me is that we are an industry that when the going gets tough, we rally,” Wilson said.
“During the pandemic, we came together and we created change. Our collective voice made a difference, keeping our industries open.”
The donation addresses a worsening national crisis, with more than 122,000 Australians experiencing homelessness every night.
Wilson positioned the commitment within REA Group’s dual mission: to drive growth for property professionals while supporting community-focused initiatives like homelessness prevention.
“We’re at the forefront of innovation and technology, helping you move faster, connecting you with the 12.4 million people who visit our platforms every month,” he said.
“But we’re also committed to causes that matter to the communities we serve.”
Ready25’s homelessness pledge reflects evolving consumer expectations.
Today’s buyers are increasingly guided by values alignment, not just market knowledge.
For agents, visible community engagement can build stronger relationships, trust, and long-term business.
Wilson acknowledged the existing efforts many agents already make: “Every person in this group is supporting communities, championing issues, and giving time, skills, and money to organisations and people.”
“Supporting homelessness causes is something that’s long been important to many of you,” Wilson said.
“But so much work still needs to be done.”
The pledge extends REA Group’s broader community grants program, which supports social initiatives championed by property professionals.
