In this newly created role, Clare Sowden now leads housing growth strategies for the charity’s Tier 1 community housing provider, Mission Australia Housing, effective 14 July.
Sowden brings a deep experience of more than 25 years leading large-scale multi-billion-dollar residential housing development portfolios and projects at Stockland and Mirvac, as well as PWC Strategic Advisor for large-scale residential housing projects to the government and private sectors and leading large residential housing projects, integrated with transport and mixed-use precincts for the NSW government.
With strong governance experience, Sowden has held several board positions, including at the Gateway Property Trust, Urban Land Institute, Sunnyfield and Future Cities.
“I’m thrilled to accept this role and join Mission Australia at such an important time when social and affordable housing is such a high priority across Australia,” Sowden said. “I’m energised by and committed to leading strategies to support Mission Australia’s ambitious housing growth plans to double our housing portfolio over the next five years. I’ve long been inspired by the important work Mission Australia does to provide safe, secure homes that people can afford, along with support to help people and families remain safely housed and thrive.”
Sowden looks forward to bringing her experience leading large residential housing development portfolios and projects to support Mission Australia’s work to end homelessness and tackle Australia’s housing emergency by growing its community homes portfolio.
“I very much respect the depth and breadth of expertise of the Mission Australia team,” Sowden added.
Mission Australia CEO Sharon Callister welcomes Sowden to the role, saying that she’s excited to work with her to continue the significant growth in social and affordable housing since Mission Australia Housing was established more than 15 years ago.
“Clare joins Mission Australia at a crucial time, with housing a key priority across all levels of government. Her experience leading large residential developments will help us expand our portfolio and increase the supply of social and affordable homes, so more people across Australia have access to safe, secure homes,” Callister said. “With several major housing tenders in development and exciting growth plans in our incoming new Strategy 2030, we’re delighted that a leader with the passion, skill and experience of Clare can continue that momentum.”
The Mission Australia and Mission Australia Housing boards also warmly welcome Sowden to her new position. The appointment comes as Chris Bratchford retires from his role as Executive of Housing and Property on 4 July, after a decade of dedication and leadership at the helm of Mission Australia Housing.
In April 2025, Mission Australia appointed Ben Carblis in the new role of Deputy CEO to lead operations of both community services and community housing. Bringing Mission Australia’s service delivery and housing operations together into one team, along with the appointment of Sowden as Executive of Housing Growth, will ensure Mission Australia is best positioned to deliver on its ambitious Strategy 2030.
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Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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