About us
Who We Are
Essence Communities (Essence) is an independent Build to Rent (BTR) operator specialising in managing BTR residential properties for owners and investors in Australia and New Zealand.
As a subsidiary of UniLodge Australia Pty Ltd, the leading operator of purpose-built student accommodations in the region, Essence has been in business for 27 years, employing 1,600 staff members and managing 130+ properties with 40,000 operational residential beds.
Our Vision
To build inclusive communities for inspired living.
Our Brisbane-based Corporate Head Office team, consisting of 45 staff members, oversees various aspects of property management, ensuring Essence Communities maintains top-class performance. Essence is among the few companies in Australia currently operating Build to Rent properties successfully. We prioritise client satisfaction, handling their brands professionally and creating large-scale resident community programs that foster shared spaces and enhance rental returns for owners.
Essence Communities is known for its long-term partnerships, with many clients collaborating with us for over 15 years. Our management team is accessible and flexible, ensuring the success of every property we manage by recognising that a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective.
Our Executive and Leadership Team
With over 100 years of combined experience, we’ve got a well-seasoned team at the helm.
Peter Bates
Executive Chairman
Tomas Johnsson
Chief Executive Officer
Chris Webb
Chief Financial Officer
Matt Row
Chief Operating Officer
Grant Waldeck
Chief Sales and Marketing Officer
Vicki Nagle
Chief People Officer
