About PIPA

As the newly appointed Chair of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), Cate is dedicated to fostering community, leadership, and recognition within the property investment sector. She understands the vital role industry bodies play in advocating for and developing standards that shape the future of property investing. This commitment is clearly demonstrated through her involvement in PIPA's Awards of Excellence Program and its educational initiatives.

Cate's extensive experience includes her tenure as President of the Real Estate Buyers Agents’ Association (REBAA) from 2019 to 2023, where she previously served as Vice President for two years. Her leadership in these national bodies underscores her dedication to enhancing professional standards and supporting industry growth.

In addition to her leadership roles, Cate co-hosts the popular podcast series “The Property Trio” with fellow industry experts David Johnston and Mike Mortlock. This platform allows her to share insights and discuss trends in property investment, further contributing to the community's knowledge base.

Cate is also an accomplished author, having recently published her second book, “The Buy Right Approach to Property Investing,” co-authored with Pete Wargent. This follows her successful 2016 publication, “Successful Property Investment,” both of which are invaluable resources for aspiring and seasoned property investors alike.

On a personal note, Cate and her husband have built a substantial property portfolio, leveraging their extensive experience in renovation and value-adding to maximize their investments. Her dual focus on professional excellence and personal investment success positions her as a leading figure in the property investment community, inspiring others to achieve their financial goals through informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Richard Crabb is the Founder and CEO of the ASPIRE Property Advisor Network, which supports independent property advisers across Australia with a business framework and acquisition process designed for the evolving property market. Drawing on his corporate finance career and personal investing experience, Richard and the ASPIRE team have developed an end-to-end software platform that delivers ethical and independent property investment advice, helping advisers navigate compliance and achieve successful outcomes for their clients.

Mike Mortlock is the Managing Director of MCG Quantity Surveyors and a recognised leader in tax depreciation, having prepared thousands of depreciation schedules for residential and commercial property, including major organisations such as McDonald’s, Canberra Airport, Hilton Hotels, and Stockland. A frequent media commentator and public speaker, he offers valuable insights into investor behaviour and tax strategy, and continues to influence industry standards through his work with the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors.

“Being part of PIPA means standing with the people who genuinely care about getting property advice right. It’s about lifting the standard, protecting consumers, and helping policy makers craft smarter, more practical policy. I like that it’s a group where integrity still matters and where data, education, and best practice lead the way.”

Richie Muir is Legal Director at Lawlab, a national property law firm that simplifies and secures property transactions for buyers, sellers, and property professionals. With extensive experience in residential and commercial property law, Richie provides legal and compliance advice to property professionals, developers, real estate funds, Proptechs, Fintechs, and investors across Australia. Leading a team that has managed over 65,000 property transactions in recent years, he brings deep legal expertise and service delivery experience to the PIPA board.

“Being part of PIPA means opportunities to connect with and learn from PIPA property professional members and to use my property law experience to help improve industry standards and trust so that property investors get better outcomes from appropriate property investment advice.”

Veronica Morgan is principal of Good Deeds Property Buyers, co-founder of Preferental, co-founder of Home Buyer Academy, co-host of Your First Home Buyer Guide podcast & The Elephant in the Room property podcast, co-host of Foxtel’s Location Location Location Australia & Relocation Relocation Australia, Buyers Agent Mentor, and author of “Auction Ready: how to buy property at auction even though you’re scared sh!#less”.”

“Being part of PIPA means standing for integrity, transparency, and accountability in an industry that desperately needs it. It’s about raising the bar, supporting property professionals through specialised education, collaboration, and advocacy, so buyers receive genuinely informed, ethical advice and the entire industry lifts its standards.”

Matthew Hughes is Managing Director of Capital Property Advisory, guiding clients with unbiased property investment strategies and over a decade of experience as a buyer’s agent. He is also founder and MD of Capital Lending Advisory, Matte Black Real Estate, and CEO of Hunter Capital, a residential property development firm. Matthew’s career reflects a long-standing passion for wealth creation through property, and he brings personal, hands-on service to every client. Outside of work, he is a dedicated family man and enjoys taking on challenging personal goals, including marathons, triathlons, and charity initiatives.

“Being part of PIPA means contributing to the ongoing professionalism and integrity of our industry, ensuring consumers are protected and properly advised. It’s a privilege to collaborate with like-minded peers who are committed to raising the standards and reputation of property investment advice across Australia.”