Maximising occupancy, tenant satisfaction, property condition, and operational efficiency
Connected. Experienced.
Reliable, proactive and transparent
Experienced. transparent management services.
01 Why Commercial Collective?
At Commercial Collective, we pride ourselves on our proactive approach to asset management. Our systemised processes ensure the best outcomes for you and your tenants, backed by a transparent management system that builds long-term and trustworthy relationships with our clients.
Our experienced property management team has been hand-selected for their detailed knowledge of Newcastle, the Greater Hunter region and beyond, combined with their extensive asset management experience. We operate locally, and all our Asset Management functions are managed in-house providing seamless, accurate and swift responses and outcomes.
We take a holistic approach and provide you with the right advice, drawing on the expertise of our leasing teams. We dedicate resources to ensure that your property has the greatest opportunity of being leased in the shortest possible timeframe. Additionally, we have an experienced, approachable, and proactive property management team who will work tirelessly to ensure your satisfaction.
Premium service
Commercial Collective’s commitment to premium customer service is evident in the long-standing relationships we hold with clients across the Hunter region, Australia, and abroad. Our focus on tenant satisfaction and property excellence ensures your asset remains competitive in an evolving landscape.
Partnering with experts
Our proactive property managers, supported by the region’s leading leasing team, are ranked number one in Newcastle and the Hunter region. Our extensive market knowledge, coupled with our comprehensive marketing platforms, ensure that we provide you with the most effective guidance to maximise the value of your assets. Our expert advice is aimed at reducing the vacancy period and securing the most optimal rental rates, irrespective of whether you intend to keep or dispose of your assets.
Our focus is to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and resources at your disposal to make well-informed decisions regarding your assets.
Genuinely caring about the outcome
We pride ourselves on the proactive approach and genuinely caring about the outcome and not just the transaction. We will provide the right advice along the way. This is the reason why we are trusted and have referral and repeat clients.
02
Our Services
We cover a wide range of services that ensure efficient operations, optimal rental income, minimal vacancies, and preserve the value of your investment. Our team also have extensive knowledge of local market conditions and can effectively market your property to attract and retain high-quality tenants through their qualified leasing team. Our service include:
Transition management and establishment
Administration
» Risk identification
» Tenant relationship
» Building audit
» Review of service contracts
» Lease audit
» Arrears review
» Outgoings budget review
» Financial data input into commercial Property management system
» Rental collection
» Arrears management
» Disbursement of collections
» Outgoings payments
» Lease covenants monitoring
» Rent reviews
» Lease renewals
» Reconciliations and outgoings budgets
» Assignment of lease
» Re-leasing of property
» Owner financial reporting
Physical administration
» Building services
» Fire safety services
» Lift services
» Building repairs & maintenance
» Regular property inspections
» Tenant make-good administration
Leasing Services
Across Australia, the depth of our connections and business relationships provides a clear advantage for our clients when leasing commercial, retail and industrial assets. We deliver services in this area to private investors, institutions, corporate clients and developers. We have undertaken projects for key high probity clients such as Government Property NSW, The City of Newcastle, The City of Lake Macquarie, Roads & Maritime Services and many private clients But don’t just take our word for it, feel free to contact any or all of the client contacts below who can provide a reference to our service and professionalism:
» Stewart Kenworthy 0414 752 035
» Juan Gonzalez 0415 782 839
» Graham Burns 0414 343 255
» Howard Laughton 0418 216 688
» Richard Conroy 0403 143 563
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial and industrial property owner
Commercial property owner
Industrial property owner
03 Our Platform
Owner Portal
Our Owner Portal offers a sophisticated solution for landlords and joint venture (JV) partners seeking enhanced transparency and streamlined property portfolio management. Through the owner portal, you can seamlessly navigate a user-friendly interface, complete with integrated Google Maps, providing a centralised hub for comprehensive portfolio data.
Gain complimentary access to our Owner Portal Basic, designed to empower landlords, JV partners, and remote business associates with critical insights into selected properties within the broader portfolio. For those seeking advanced analytics and real-time data, consider upgrading to Owner Portal Plus for a nominal fee of $12 per month. This will unlock a suite of powerful tools, including detailed reports on arrears, tenancy schedules, unpaid invoices, property balances, cash books, and activity reports.
Digital property management is an efficient solution that can be conveniently accessed through our portal. Landlords can receive end-of-month reports online using our user-friendly Publish to Portal format. By securely publishing lease documents, floor plans, bank guarantees, and management agreements directly to the Owner Portal, administrative tasks can be streamlined, and operational efficiency can be enhanced with a single click. This process reduces the need for manual tasks, thus saving time and reducing errors. Our digital portal is designed to ensure that information is transmitted securely, and data is kept confidential. With our portal access, landlords can enjoy the benefits of an efficient and user-friendly platform that enhances their experience.
Tenant Portal
Our Tenant Portal transforms the dynamic between property managers and tenants, making communication more straightforward and effective. This Tenant Portal removes the hassle of missed calls and extensive email exchanges by enabling tenants to address their needs independently, anytime. The Tenant Portal is designed to simplify and enhance the way you interact with your rental
Key Features
» 24/7 Online Access: Tenants can log into the portal at their convenience, ensuring they can manage their rental needs around the clock.
» Work Request Submission: With an easy-to-use interface, tenants can submit maintenance requests and attach photos or videos for detailed reporting.
» Account Review: Tenants can view their rental account statuses, including lease terms, current charges, and outstanding balances.
» Document Access: Essential documents, such as lease agreements, are available for tenant review whenever needed.
Key Benefits
» Time Efficiency: The Tenant Portal reduces the time spent on tenant communications without impacting the service level, allowing greater time for proactivity on your property management.
» Workflow Improvement: The portal simplifies property management by providing timely access to essential information and real-time insights into your property.
» Self-Service: The portal enables tenants to resolve issues independently, enhancing satisfaction while reducing management intervention.
04 Our Capability
Our team brings a deep understanding of the unique operational, compliance, and tenant engagement requirements that come with managing office buildings. We manage a diverse portfolio across the region, applying strategic insight to enhance performance and long-term value. Examples include:
95 Pacific Highway, Charlestown
This notable commercial office building is a four-level, multi-tenanted A-Grade property with 62 secure parking bays. The building was specifically constructed to accommodate its largest anchor tenant, Allianz Insurance.
Owner Referee: Peter Bale, bb@baleboshev.com.au
161 Maitland Road, Mayfield
This well-positioned commercial building comprises 12 tenancies across a mix of office, medical and allied health users. We manage the asset and have secured all tenants through our leasing services, while also providing ongoing strategic guidance around lease structuring and sale positioning.
Owner Referee: Tony Callin, finance@awunsw.com.au
13 Mitchell Drive, East Maitland
This modern commercial office building is a multi-tenanted asset that includes our own Commercial Collective Maitland office. With suites ranging from 73sqm* to 247sqm*, the building accommodates a mix of government and professional tenants.
Owner Referee: Geoff O’Shea, geoff@hunterland.com.au
275-279 King Street, Newcastle
Located in Newcastle’s CBD, this two-level freestanding building is 100% leased to the Service NSW until April 2026. We manage the 1,838sqm* asset on behalf of the owner, providing strategic guidance around lease negotiations and long-term asset positioning.
Owner Referee: Mario Gallo, mario@lotos.com.au
Unit 210, 24 Bluebell Street, Belmont
This 95sqm commercial unit features a practical split of 67sqm ground floor and 28sqm mezzanine, and is leased to Elite Energy Co Ltd, a renewable energy provider specialising in solar installations and EV charging infrastructure.
Owner Referee: Lee & Marianne Cronly, ldillon@ldm.com.au
Redefining excellence in industrial property management
Our key focus areas
Through our extensive experience and understanding of client priorities, we have developed a clear focus on four key areas in commercial property asset management: maximising occupancy, tenant satisfaction, property condition, and operational efficiency. These priorities, shaped by our team’s in-depth expertise in managing commercial properties, are proven to drive financial success and deliver lasting value for both owners and tenants.
Maximising Occupancy
Maintaining high occupancy levels is essential for achieving strong, consistent rental income. We take a proactive approach to securing and retaining tenants by conducting comprehensive due diligence, including detailed tenant history checks, financial assessments, and lease reviews. Leveraging our extensive industry networks and market insights, we implement targeted marketing strategies designed to attract high-quality tenants. By aligning tenant profiles with property capabilities, we reduce vacancy periods and ensure long-term stability in rental income.
Tenant Satisfaction
In commercial property, tenant satisfaction goes beyond simple lease management - it directly impacts the asset’s performance and value. We focus on fostering strong, long-term relationships with tenants by understanding their business needs and providing responsive, tailored support. Our team ensures clear communication and timely resolution of any concerns, creating a positive environment that encourages tenant success. By prioritising satisfaction, we enhance tenant retention, reduce turnover costs, and strengthen the property’s reputation within the market.
Property Condition
A well-maintained commercial property is crucial for attracting and retaining tenants, as well as preserving the asset’s long-term value. We implement rigorous maintenance programs, including regular inspections, preventative maintenance schedules, and strategic capital improvements. This ensures the property remains in peak condition, compliant with all regulatory standards, and visually appealing. Our commitment to proactive maintenance not only extends the life of the asset but also enhances its market competitiveness, making it a preferred choice for quality tenants.
Operational Efficiency
Effective operational management is the foundation of a well-functioning commercial property. We focus on optimising workflows, managing facility functionality, and minimising operational disruptions. This includes overseeing maintenance schedules, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and monitoring contractor performance. Our transparent processes and advanced management systems allow for seamless day-to-day operations, reducing downtime and maximising cost-efficiency. By maintaining high operational standards, we ensure the property operates smoothly, enhancing tenant experience and protecting the owner’s investment.
Our point of difference
» We unlock rental uplift at lease renewals through strategic negotiations, ensuring your commercial property achieves its full income potential.
» We provide portfolio intelligence and tailored insights to optimise tenant mix, enhance operational efficiency, and maximise asset performance.
» We are locally owned and operated, dedicated to supporting the community by delivering personalised commercial property management services.
» We give back through initiatives like the Collective Growth grant, supporting local businesses and fostering regional economic growth.
» We are independent, offering agile, customised solutions that address the specific needs of your commercial property.
» We act decisively, implementing strategies promptly to reduce vacancies and improve tenant retention.
» We have a proven track record in commercial property management, backed by deep expertise in market trends and asset deliverables.
Commercial Collective's decision to be independent of other brands was a direct result of the deeply connected relationships with leading agents of these major brands. Had we joined forces, we would not have been able to successfully harness the full power of this entire network, instead being relegated to dealing with the people in that one brand only. To have true national and international connectivity, we recognised that independence was the key and in turn, has become our point of difference in the industry.
It is often a misconception that the major brands will highlight your property through their database across all their office locations. This is a myth. Having worked at major brands previously, we know for a fact they do not share their geographical or sector specific databases within their network. Commercial Collective have curated comprehensive databases and systems to sell and lease property across Newcastle, the Hunter Region and regional NSW. It is comprised of active market participants, leaders and influencers from across the country and the globe. Commercial Collective's national and international reach can be summarised in two words; Connected. Experienced.
Absolutely sensational experience with the team at Commercial Collective, they are prompt, professional and a pleasure to deal with. Always in contact, nothing was too much trouble. Extremely friendly staff. Will have no trouble recommending them to someone else.
Kent Parkes
“On behalf of Eagle Property Group, we appreciate Commercial Collective’s overall contribution to strategy and advice around our Hunter based assets. Commercial Collective’s consistency and diligence as an organisation is commendable.
I can confidently say that without Commercial Collective’s effort, guidance and tenacity we would not have achieved the outcomes that we have.
As Sydney based owners, we have received complete service on the ground from both Matt and Melinda and have every confidence that our assets are top of mind and being well looked after.
As a property fund we deal with many different agencies in different capacities. Commercial Collective shine well above any of our previous experiences.
This level of service provides us with great confidence to purchase in Newcastle again and we look forward to continuing our business relationship.
Thanks again to the Commercial Collective team and especially Matt and Melinda.”
Eagle Property Group
Lawrence Kopping
05 Operational Methodology
Day 0 - 30
ASSET AUDIT
Implementation
» Perform an asset audit to ensure that all properties are properly documented, including title deeds, lease agreements, and any other relevant documentation. Identify any gaps or discrepancies and provide written report.
Day 7 - 14
Day 0 - 30
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
Implementation
» Where required, implement programmed preventive maintenance schedules that address the needs of each property.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Implementation
» Establish financial processes & calendar invoicing, AP, AR, forecasting, and
MANAGEMENT PROCESSES
financial management calendar that include AR, budgeting, reporting.
Day 7 - 28
PERFORMANCE METRICS
Implementation
» Establish the contract performance metrics. Included in the metrics are property occupancy rates, rent collection rates, arrears, accounts lease/licence expiry dates and maintenance response times.
Day 14 - 21
COMMUNICATION
Implementation
» Implement communication to tenants & stakeholders so they are informed about any changes to property management services.
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM's approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» PM’s complete owner reporting & issue
» Distribute rent review reports
» PM's approve rent reviews & advise finance
» Raise rent up
» PM's approve billings and rental increases
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Mid-month owner disbursements
» Finance to process rent reviews
» Complete upload expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Rent invoices raised and issued (automated)
The above summary highlights the high-level activities that have been clearly aligned to specific roles, with handover points clearly identified.
WEEK 4 ACTIVITIES
» Apply credits to rent invoices
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM's approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» Final creditor payment run
WEEK 5 ACTIVITIES
» PM's commence accruals
» Complete upload of expense invoices
» PM’s approve creditor payments
» Creditor payment run
» End-of-Month run, final credit payments, owner disbursements, close off, issue & save reports
» End-of-Month run, owner disbursements, close off & save reports
» Receipt last day & Bank reconciliation
ASSET MANAGEMENT DUTIES
Our Asset Management team possess a diverse range of skills, which enables them to undertake a multitude of activities tailored to the specific needs of their property portfolio, tenants, and objectives. The following are examples of some of the common duties:
Maintenance and repairs
Regular inspections, upkeep and repairs of the buildings, fixtures and equipment.
Tenant relations
Addressing tenant concerns and ensuring their satisfaction, handling lease renewals and rent increases.
Rent collection and accounting
Collecting rent payments, tracking expenses, generating financial reports and maintaining accurate accounting records.
Budgeting and financial planning
Developing and implementing budgets, forecasting revenue and expenses, and working with stakeholders to ensure financial goals are met.
Lease management
Ensuring all leases are current and adhered to, tracking lease expirations and negotiating new lease agreements.
Marketing and tenant acquisition
Promoting vacant units, screening and selecting new tenants, and handling lease signing and move-ins.
Risk management and insurance
Managing insurance policies, conducting risk assessments and implementing safety procedures to minimise liability.
Energy and sustainability management
Implementing energy efficiency measures, managing utilities and waste disposal, and promoting sustainability initiatives.
Property inspections and compliance
Ensuring the buildings comply with all applicable regulations, codes, and laws, and conducting regular inspections to identify potential issues
Capital improvements
Developing and implementing plans for major upgrades and renovations, such as upgrades or building expansions.
Commercial Collective conducts all finance functions from our Newcastle headquarters, without resorting to the outsourcing of operations to multiple locations or virtual offices overseas. By retaining control of all finance functions in-house, we are able to maintain a high degree of visibility and oversight over the entire financial process, ensuring that our clients receive the most accurate and reliable financial reporting possible.
“I have developed, leased and sold industrial assets for 30 years in the Newcastle Region. I have recently transitioned 90% of our property portfolio of industrial assets to Commercial Collective from a competing corporate real estate agency as we have found Bryne Tran, Melinda McDonald and the team at Commercial Collective to provide a more personalised approach to the management and leasing of our assets by understanding objectives and helping achieve them. Their knowledge, experience, property advice and holistic approach is first class.”
Juan Gonzalez | Private Owner
“Commercial Collective provides highly professional and personal service by leveraging the extensive commercial and industrial knowledge base of its team. As a professional development / investment company we value this approach highly.”
Graham Burns | Hunter Land
“Melinda’s great strengths are her thorough knowledge of commercial property management, she is prompt and thorough with a high attention to detail and keeps me well informed of any matters that arise. I was very impressed with the audit process carried out on our assets during the transition from the previous managing agent, this included building and lease audit to ensure our asset was managed at it’s optimum moving forward and any outstanding items or issues discovered were quickly resolved. As a result, I am relaxed and confident that our properties are in good hands. I have no hesitation in recommending Melinda and the team at Commercial Collective.”
Stewart Kenworthy | SNK Group
The team at Commercial Collective were highly approachable, provided quality feedback and went about the process in a personal yet professional manner. We received a suitable application for the property in a very short space of time and leased the property within 2 weeks of its listing. I would definitely recommend Commercial Collective for their quality of service and professionalism.
Cassandra Anderson | Habitat
06
Our Team
Michelle Thomas Head of Asset Management
20+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Deb Warwick Senior Asset Manager
30+ years of Commercial and Bulky Retail experience
Melanie Creek Asset Management
20+ years of Government, Commercial and Transport experience
Bree Booth Trust Account Manager Asset Management
Tony Compton Asset Management
Baktash Trust Account Assistant
15+ years property expertise, leading super funds, and managed 25+ years of financial accounting and Commercial experience
15+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Retail experience
Dane Crawford CEO
Farnaz
expertise, working with funds, private developers property funds
Commercial, and Bulky experience Compton Management
20+ years of Finance, Administration and Commercial experience Crawford CEO
Shane Barr State Executive Director | Asset Management
20+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
25+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience Penny Agius Asset Management
Kim Newton Asset Manager
3+ years of Commercial, Industrial, Residential and Bulky Retail experience
Jolene Irwin Administration Manager Asset Management
Ella Latham Administration Assistant Asset Management
3+ years of Commercial, Industrial and Bulky Retail experience
Michelle Thomas
HEAD OF ASSET MANAGEMENT
michelle@commercialcollective.com.au
linkedin.com/in/michelle-thomas-85b37229/
Michelle brings over 20 years of experience in asset management, including 18 years with Stockland where she led the performance and operations of major retail centres across New South Wales. Her leadership of key assets saw her oversee all facets of centre management, from leasing and capital works to stakeholder engagement and compliance.
She has delivered significant projects throughout her career, including a $400 million regional shopping centre development in western Sydney and a $10.3 million refurbishment of a subregional centre. With more than eight years managing diverse portfolios that spanned both retail and industrial assets, Michelle brings a detailed, practical understanding of asset performance and planning.
Michelle holds an MBA, a Class 1 Real Estate Licence, and specialist training in OHS and infection control. She is also an advocate for professional growth in the industry, contributing to mentoring programs and diversity-focused initiatives.
In her role as Head of Asset Management at Commercial Collective, Michelle applies her depth of experience and strategic insight to maximise value and performance across the portfolio.
Key Expertise
» Strategic asset management across commercial, industrial, and retail portfolios
» Leadership of large-format retail centres and mixed-use assets
» Delivery of major capital works and redevelopment programs
» Lease negotiation and tenancy strategy
» Operational risk management, compliance, and OHS oversight
» Asset planning, budgeting, and financial performance management
» Stakeholder and tenant relationship management
» Team leadership and mentoring
» Client reporting and performance accountability
» Diversity and inclusion advocacy within the property industry
SHANE BARR
STATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | ASSET MANAGEMENT
shane@commercialcollective.com.au
linkedin.com/in/shane-barr-995aba149/
Shane brings over two decades of experience in retail property and commercial operations, with a proven track record leading complex asset portfolios and high-performing teams. His background spans senior leadership roles with institutional owners and national landlords, including oversight of major redevelopment projects and national shopping centre portfolios.
Earlier in his career, Shane managed all operational aspects of a $480 million redevelopment of a 91,000sqm regional shopping centre, delivering outcomes across construction, staging, tenant delivery, and commissioning. He has since held responsibility for portfolios covering dozens of shopping centres across multiple states and territories, developing deep expertise in strategic planning, risk management, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement.
Shane’s leadership style is defined by a practical, outcomes-focused mindset. He brings strong commercial acumen, a commitment to team development, and the ability to build trusted relationships with clients, tenants, and partners alike.
As State Executive Director of Asset Management at Commercial Collective, Shane leads portfolio strategy and operational excellence across multiple assets, with a focus on long-term value creation and service delivery.
Key Expertise
» National and multi-site retail portfolio oversight
» Strategic business planning and commercial operations
» End-to-end delivery of large-scale redevelopment projects
» Budget control, financial forecasting, and asset performance improvement
» Centre operations, infrastructure upgrades, and compliance management
» Building alignment across internal teams and external stakeholders
» Leading organisational change and business transformation
» Team leadership with a focus on capability uplift and culture
» Tenant engagement and long-term occupancy strategies
» Cross-functional coordination across leasing, facilities, and finance
Commercial Collective currently 450 commercial assets over $95 million in annual 10 property managers provide range of property and asset
currently manages over assets with 1,000 tenants and
billings. Our team of over provide a comprehensive asset management services.
07 Reach and Connectivity
With a diverse portfolio spanning more than 450 commercial assets across New South Wales, Commercial Collective’s Asset Management services is deeply rooted in key markets such as Sydney, Gosford, Ballina, and the Hunter region. Our dedicated team of over 10 property managers is passionately committed to delivering personalised, hands-on service to each client.
Recognising the importance of local knowledge and networks, our reach extends extensively to ensure comprehensive coverage. Whether you’re a property owner in the heart of Sydney or a developer in the the Hunter Valley, our primary aim remains unwavering: to optimise the value of your asset through meticulous management and strategic guidance.
At Commercial Collective, our unwavering commitment to clients is reflected in our core values of Synergy, Integrity, and Innovation. We not only uphold our promises with genuine intentions but also collaborate to discover innovative and improved methods of supporting our clients.
DISCLAIMER
This document has been prepared by Commercial Collective using information provided to it for the transaction contemplated. Any statement or opinion made by Commercial Collective in this document is not based on any actual or implied knowledge or consideration of the investment objectives, financial situation, legal or taxation position or any other particular needs or requirements of the recipients of this document. All parties must make their own independent assessment and seek professional advice for their specific circumstances.
Neither Commercial Collective, its directors, employees, agents and related entities (Commercial Collective Entities) make any recommendation about the transaction or potential returns or use of the property. The Commercial Collective Entities do not warrant the completeness or accuracy of the information contained in this document or that it is not misleading or not likely to be misleading or deceptive.
None of the Commercial Collective Entities will be liable (whether at law, in equity or otherwise) in any circumstances for any statement made or anything contained in or arising out of the information in this document including any errors, misrepresentation or omissions. Commercial Collective disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage caused by reliance by any person on this document or any representation, warranty or statement made by or on behalf of any of the Commercial Collective Entities.
This document is confidential and provided for the sole use of persons given it directly by Commercial Collective. It may not be reproduced, disclosed or circulated to any other person without the express written consent of Commercial Collective.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Commercial Collective pay our respects to the traditional owners, their elders past and present and value their care and custodianships of these lands. Commercial Collective is a proud Newcastle company built on the lands of the Awabakal & Worimi people.