Olivia Ross, General manager of Rossiter Constructions and founder of Uno Projex, has shared her perspective on the evolving industrial property market in latest episode of The AND Property Podcast with Daniel Barr-Waanders. 

With Rossiter Constructions delivering over $60 million worth of projects annually and Uno Projex gaining traction through developments like “Makers Mile” in Shepparton, Ross brings frontline construction experience and a developers strategic mindset to the table. 

In the 30-minute discussion, Ross reflects on how the industrial sector has evolved over the years. She outlines the challenges builders are facing in the current climate, including sustained labor shortages, rising trade costs, and increased compliance pressures. She also notes a substantial shift in how capital is being deployed, with occupiers and investors now demanding pre-commitments and shying away from speculative builds. 

“There’s no shortage of boots on the ground, but it’s the right boots that are hard to find” Ross says, addressing the skills gap created by the COVID-19 pandemic. She also points to the increasing demand for low-site coverage sites with good hardstand space, driven largely by transport and logistics operators in need of container-rated surfaces for outdoor storage. 

The conversation also touches on the risks and opportunities brownfield sites can offer. From asbestos remediation to aging infrastructure and uncertain ground conditions, Ross emphasises the importance of thorough due diligence, especially as industrial land supply continues to tighten. 

When the conversation turns to locations with untapped potential, Ross shares a few areas she believes are still undervalued, both in metro Melbourne and key regional markets. With a nod to the benefit of hindsight “Should’ve bought in Truganina 10 years ago and Dandenong South 15 years ago” she unpacks where the next growth stories could emerge. You can hear her full take in the episode linked below. 

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