The Student Accommodation Council has unveiled its Division Council for the next two years, poised to guide the sector through a crucial period.

Anouk Darling, CEO of Scape, was re-elected as Chair of the Student Accommodation Council.

Tomas Johnsson, UniLodge Australia CEO, John Huber, Campus Living Villages COO and Richard Smith, Co-Founder and Director of Iglu, were elected Deputy Chairs.

Ms Darling said it was an honour to be re-elected as Chair of the Student Accommodation Council and that she is dedicated to continuing to advocate for the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector.

“In the midst of raging debates about cutting international student numbers, it has never been more important to have a strong body to work with governments to promote our sector,” Ms Darling said.

“PBSA plays a key role in supporting Australia’s fourth-largest export industry, contributing significantly to the economy and benefiting all Australians.

“We provide vital housing to domestic and international students at a time of acute housing stress.

“The Student Accommodation Council has given our sector a powerful voice. Our research has guided debates, and our advocacy has played a crucial role in busting myths that international students are to blame for the housing crisis.

“Over the next two years, we will continue to advocate for policies that will increase the supply of vibrant PBSA communities,” she said.

Student Accommodation Council Executive Director Torie Brown said she is delighted to work with Ms Darling and the wider Division Council team in the years ahead.

“We are grateful to all members of the Division Council for their continued support,” Ms Brown said.

“I am lucky to have the leaders of the PBSA sector around my board table, to educate, inform and provide strategic advice while we work together to increase the supply of student-only accommodation.

“Each contributes their expertise and time to raise awareness among policymakers, investors, educational institutions and the public about the sector's positive economic, social and well-being impacts,” she said.