MIKE ALLEN: On ambition

"Think big and bold, with a common goal."

It is through ambitious actions in the field of social and affordable housing that we can collectively create inclusive communities, reduce inequality and improve the lives of individuals and families in need. Think big and bold, with a common goal.

In the sector, our strong sense of purpose comes from our social mission and, in the case of CHPs [Community Housing Providers], also from our status as registered charities, and is reflected in our values and strategic plans and key corporate documents. A quick review of what you all have online demonstrates this.

We are all on a common path. We all have a similar purpose and intent. Different locations maybe, definitely different media and comms teams and graphic designers, but largely the same aspiration.

Ambition in the context of social and affordable housing, I believe, goes beyond mere aspiration. It represents a deep-rooted commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to suitable housing that meets their basic needs.

At Link Wentworth, we reviewed our organisational ‘values’ as part of the establishment of our then new organisation. We did this in consultation with our tenants and our staff, as well as our Board.

We wanted to challenge ourselves to think beyond the traditional ‘values’ often seen in our sector. While these more traditional ‘values’ are still relevant, we had a clear desire for the ‘new’ organisation to be more than just the sum of our two parent bodies.

The outcome of this review was the adoption of an amended set of values:

Customer Focus: Our customers are at the heart of everything we do
Compassion: We genuinely care for each other and everyone we work with
Integrity: We are committed to safety, honesty and accountability 
Respect: We value everyone we engage with and treat them fairly and equitably, and
Ambition: We have the courage to lead and help drive positive social change

"The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do."

Of course, I’m not saying Link Wentworth is the leader, but Steve Jobs––yes, the Apple guy––did once say, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” In saying this, Elvis Presley also said, “Ambition is a dream with a V8 engine” (but I’m not sure he was thinking of the common good when he said this).

Ambitious initiatives in social and affordable housing challenge the status quo and strive for systemic change. They recognise the fundamental right of every individual to live in a safe, stable and affordable home.



By imagining and delivering innovative programs and projects, ambitious individuals and organisations pave the way for improving the quality of life for our clients and the communities we work in and with, fostering in them a sense of belonging and empowerment.

"This is a sector strength and capacity that government simply can’t deliver alone despite their best efforts."

One of the ways ambition manifests in our sector is through the development and participation in ambitious programs like Together Home. This innovative program provides not only shelter for people who are homeless but also importantly access to essential wraparound services and healthcare through our sector’s capacity to work with other social service providers. This is a sector strength and capacity that government simply can’t deliver alone despite their best efforts.

Ambition in NSW in the delivery of the then Nation Building Initiative a number of years ago led to a real and substantial strengthening of the CHP sector through title transfer and leverage, and vitally the provision of almost 1,700 additional homes than the state had been funded for. A massive almost 30% more homes than the program target!

I’m sure you can all think of other relevant examples.

But, as you also well know, addressing all the complex difficulties associated with housing insecurity is not straightforward to say the least. Ambitious individuals and organisations strive, however, to find creative solutions––by leveraging technology, sustainable practices and community engagement to create efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly housing options.

By pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box, these ambitious endeavours challenge conventional norms and inspire new possibilities.

Ambition also plays a crucial role in advocating for policy change and increased investment in social and affordable housing. Ambitious individuals and organisations leverage their voices and influence to raise awareness about the importance of housing as a basic human right. They work tirelessly to create a sense of urgency among policymakers, encouraging them to allocate resources, establish supportive legislation, and implement measures that address the housing crisis and provide support for the most vulnerable members of society.

Additionally, ambition in our sector inspires collaboration and partnerships between different stakeholders. It brings together governments, non-profit organisations, private developers and communities to work collectively towards common goals. By fostering these partnerships, ambitious individuals and organisations create a network of support, expertise and resources that can overcome the challenges inherent in the provision of social and affordable housing.

"Ambition in social and affordable housing must be driven by an unwavering commitment to social justice and equity."

However, it is essential to acknowledge that ambition in social and affordable housing must be driven by an unwavering commitment to social justice and equity. The focus should always remain on meeting the needs of marginalised communities, reducing homelessness and ensuring that housing initiatives do not perpetuate segregation or stigmatisation. Ambition should be tempered with compassion, empathy and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by those in need of housing assistance.

I sincerely believe ambition in social and affordable housing holds immense social value. By embracing ambitious projects and programs, innovative approaches and collaborative partnerships, we have the power to address one of society's most pressing challenges.

We have some very exciting potential opportunities coming up with the HAFF [Housing Australia Future Fund created by Federal Government] and Housing Accelerator. Let us all demonstrate our ‘ambition’ in our participation and delivery of these programs––thinking creatively, working collaboratively and acting boldly to maximise the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of even more people.

I applaud you all in the room tonight for your ambition, particularly those nominated in all the award categories.

Let us all support and celebrate the ambitious individuals and organisations working tirelessly to create a world where everyone has a place to call home.