REIWA’s chief operating officer Kalien Selby will serve as acting chief executive while a recruitment process is underway to find a permanent replacement.
Ms Hart indicated she had advised the REIWA council of her intention to step down after the institute reached several major milestones.
“It has been an extraordinary privilege to lead REIWA through this particular period when addressing the challenges of housing supply has been the number one priority for the community and policy makers,” Ms Hart said.
During her tenure, Ms Hart oversaw significant transformation at the institute, including advocacy wins, digital transformation, deeper engagement with members, and a reinvigorated events and external engagement program.
The institute also experienced membership growth under her leadership, positioning it for what she described as “a strong and sustainable future.”
Ms Hart joined REIWA in early 2022 after serving three years as the executive director of the WA branch of the Housing Industry Association.
Her professional background also includes roles as director of advocacy at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of WA and as a director of media for the Office of the Premier.
Her time at REIWA coincided with several critical issues affecting Western Australia’s housing sector, including the impact of Iplex pipes and cybersecurity threats.
One of the notable achievements during Ms Hart’s leadership was Western Australia becoming the only jurisdiction in Australia to retain no-grounds evictions following a major review of residential tenancies legislation.
REIWA president Suzanne Brown acknowledged Ms Hart’s contributions to the organisation and the broader real estate sector in Western Australia.
“Cath has made a valuable contribution to REIWA and the real estate profession in Western Australia,” Ms Brown said.
“We thank her for her service and wish her every success as she embarks on her next chapter.”
