Meet The Team Redefining Affordable Housing
The strength of the Westmont team stems from our integration of experts across all pivotal areas of the affordable housing sector—from Community Housing Organisations (CHOs) and government to property development. This collective expertise affords us a comprehensive perspective, enhancing our ability to align with and meet the goals of every project stakeholder.
With a broad view of the entire sector, we adeptly handle complex challenges, navigate government regulations, and proactively seize opportunities. Our approach goes beyond merely reacting to issues—we anticipate and strategise against potential problems, ensuring more effective, well-informed, and successful project outcomes.
Market-Leading Insight and Influence
With vast expertise in property development and off-market real estate deals, our understanding of project presentation—knowing how to position it, to who, and in what manner—sets us apart. We ensure our projects effectively meet program specifications, design and site requirements, and the CHO’s strategic growth objectives.
Bruce Barron
Managing Director
Role: Key Relationship Management, Executive Sales Bruce is one of Melbourne's leading property development and off-market transaction specialists. With over 35 years of industry experience, Bruce is a multi-skilled property professional who ensures projects are not only expertly managed but also aligned with market needs. Recently, he has become the go-to expert for connecting developers with Community Housing Organisations, ensuring that each project is positioned for success. Clients benefit from Bruce’s deep industry knowledge and his ability to close complex deals with confidence. Bruce holds a Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Swinburne University of Technology.
Ilona Barron
OIEC/Director
Role: Licensed Estate Agent/Officer in Effective Control, Strategic Corporate Direction With over 20 years of agency experience, Ilona has shaped Westmont's strategic direction. As the Licensed Estate Agent/Officer in Effective Control, she ensures compliance and operational excellence in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory and South Australia. Ilona’s strategic oversight helps streamline processes and minimise risks, offering clients peace of mind and strategic clarity. She holds a Bachelor of Business and Marketing from UTS and a Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Swinburne University of Technology.
Edwin J S David
Industry Expert
Role: Strategic Program Management, CHP Liaison, Technical Program Compliance, Government Liaison Ed brings 50 years of unparalleled experience in government and community housing to the table, making him a vital asset for clients navigating public sector projects. He has overseen major redevelopment efforts and managed over 70,000 properties across Victoria, ensuring that clients benefit from his deep expertise in procurement, compliance, and strategic partnerships. Ed’s extensive background in disaster recovery housing solutions and funding programs for social and affordable housing ensures that clients’ projects are resilient and well-positioned to secure the necessary support. His insights and connections within the industry and government are invaluable for driving project success from start to finish.
Tony De Domenico OAM
Honorary Chair Industry Expert, Strategic Advisor
Tony is a highly respected leader with over 40 years of experience across government, corporate, and community sectors, bringing deep expertise in housing strategy and urban development to Westmont. As a former Director of Housing Australia (2019–2024), Director of Common Equity Housing Ltd (2009-2025) and past Chair of the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), he has played a pivotal role in shaping national housing and its policy. Tony previously served as Deputy Chief Minister of the ACT and held senior leadership roles with Places Victoria, Development Victoria, and the Urban Development Institute of Australia. His strategic insight and proven governance experience strengthen Westmont and its clients with unparalleled guidance to deliver innovative, sustainable housing solutions that respond to evolving housing community needs.
Kirsty Rourke
Transaction Consultant
Role: Transaction Management, Commercial Advisory Kirsty’s 15 years of experience in capital transactions, development, and finance make her a critical asset for clients managing large-scale projects. Her background in property law and her experience managing transactions for Brisbane City Council’s $360M Urban Wealth Fund equip her with the skills to streamline complex deals, mitigate risks, and drive project success. Kirsty’s commitment to the community housing sector, combined with her extensive commercial and legal experience, allows clients to align their projects with both commercial goals and social impact. Her expertise ensures that clients’ transactions are handled with precision, delivering outcomes that meet both strategic and operational objectives.
Rex Lucas
General Manager
Roles: Finance, Accounting, IT, Systems Rex’s 20 years of experience in finance and operations across diverse industries provide clients with a strategic edge in financial management. His expertise in budgeting, forecasting, financial modelling, and compliance reporting ensures that Westmont’s business platform is operationally sound. Rex holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Southern Queensland and is a member of CPA Australia and CIMA United Kingdom.
Laura Harris
Social and Affordable Housing Specialist
Role: Program Readiness, Response Coordination, Information Management Laura’s 20 years of experience in the community sector make her an invaluable resource for clients seeking to align their projects with social impact goals. Her leadership roles in Human Rights, Social Inclusion, Homelessness, and Affordable Housing provide clients with deep insights into community needs and funding landscapes. Laura’s expertise in grant readiness and response coordination ensures that clients are well-prepared to secure funding and meet regulatory requirements. Her ability to navigate complex housing programs helps ensure Westmont client projects are both compliant with program requirements and have a clearly articulated winning edge.
John Durell
Sales Director
Role: New Project Search With over 45 years of experience, John offers clients a world of knowledge in the residential sector and beyond. His senior management roles with National Property Developers and consultancy work with the Victorian Premier and Cabinet provide clients with a strategic advantage in identifying and securing prime opportunities. John’s ability to create significant value for property owners and developers across Australia translates into direct benefits for clients looking to maximise their investments. His industry insights help clients navigate market complexities and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
Neil O’Connor
Major Project Lead, Senior Project Management
Neil has over 30 years’ experience in property development, with a strong focus on social and affordable housing. He has led major master planned communities and mixed-use projects that deliver both commercial success and meaningful social outcomes. Neil has held senior executive and board roles across boutique and large-scale organisations, guiding strategy, finance, acquisition, and delivery. His expertise lies in creating developments that enhance community wellbeing and long-term housing affordability. Holding qualifications in surveying, business, and governance, Neil is a former Vice President of UDIA Queensland and Board Member of UDIA Victoria, recognised for his leadership in advancing innovative housing solutions.
Leisa Makszin
Social and Affordable Housing Specialist
Role: Grant Readiness Leisa’s extensive experience in business and administration management within the community housing sector equips clients with the strategic support they need to drive growth in affordable and social housing. Her leadership in managing diverse housing portfolios, from crisis to long-term housing solutions, ensures that Westmont clients’ projects are well-prepared for and strategically positioned for success. Leisa’s expertise in developing funding submissions and her qualifications in Business Management, Sustainability, and Tenancy and Property Law provides clients with the expertise needed to satisfy project requirements.