The Property Industry Foundation welcomes Richard Smith, Director, MBM Quantity Surveyors, to the NSW Beneficiary Review Committee (BRC). The BRC reviews charitable applications and recommends approval to our Board of Advisors and monitors the role of funds disbursed. We talked to Richard about why he wanted to give back to the Foundation as a committee member.
What's your history with the Foundation?
MBM has been a proud sponsor of the Property Industry Foundation for some time now, and we’ve rolled up our sleeves to help with hands-on contributions like Worker Bee days around the country.
I’ve always admired the Foundation’s no-nonsense approach to getting things done. It feels good to be part of something that’s making a difference. Too many good causes appear passive to me. The Property Industry Foundation isn’t.
Why did you want to join the NSW Beneficiary Review Committee (BRC)?
I’ve seen the impact that a safe, stable home can have on someone’s life—especially young people at such a critical stage. I’ve got a lot of connections in the industry, and I know many folks with both the money and the good intentions to help. Joining the BRC is a chance to rally these resources for a cause that’s close to my heart.
What do you hope to bring to the committee?
I hope to bring a solid mix of industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and a genuine passion for helping others. I pretty good at stretching a budget without cutting corners, and I’ve got a decent network that I can tap into. I’ve also got a deep personal connection to the cause—growing up in Bradford (Northern England), I saw firsthand the struggles that youth can face, and I know just how valuable a stable home can be.
What do you and the BRC hope to achieve, this coming year, and into the future?
This year, I’d like to see us expand our reach and make a real impact for more young people. In the long run, I hope we can continue building a support network that not only helps youth find a home but also gives them the resources to build a stable and fulfilling life. I’d like youth to not be neglected.
Do you have any special connection to youth homelessness?
I do. Growing up, I had good friends from families who struggled with homelessness at various points and I know at least one person from my school who ended up on the streets for years. I’ve also lost a few friends over the years who faced tough times, so I can’t help but feel a strong connection to those we’re trying to help. I know how easily life can go one way or the other, and that’s why I’m here.
“If I can use my skills and connections to help give these young people that same sense of security, then I’m right where I need to be.”
What drew you to volunteering with the Foundation particularly?
For such a relatively lean organisation, the Property Industry Foundation has an incredible reach, and they tackle problems head-on. I love that. They’re not afraid to get involved at the grassroots level, and they bring together people from all walks of life to make things happen. I know the kind of kids they’re trying to help—I grew up with them. And I love helping people, especially when it means giving youth a better shot at life.
Tell us about your life outside work
Outside work, I’m still active in football, and though my DJ days are mostly behind me, I still spin tunes at the odd milestone party. I DJ’d at Splendour in the Grass twice, which was a thrill, but now it’s more about 40th and 50th birthdays which is less sexy but nonetheless great fun. I love the Australian belief of mateship and not taking yourself too seriously and I’ve spent my life with people who make me laugh. I’m aware though that these life choices are only made possible by my being fortunate enough to come from a stable and a caring upbringing.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I just want to say that I’m genuinely grateful to be part of this. I’ve been fortunate to have had a solid family foundation growing up, and I know that’s made all the difference. If I can use my skills and connections to help give these young people that same sense of security, then I’m right where I need to be.
