The female trio behind Avestix Equity that are shaking up the boys’ club

Finance, development, construction and real estate are industries still dominated by men, but three Brisbane businesswomen are tackling that notion head on, launching Australia’s first-ever crowd-sourced funding company to invest in residential real estate.

Susan Lindeque, Kaelene McElligott and Debra Barber make up the all-female board of directors of Avestix Equity Pty Ltd, providing ownership of a residential property company to all Australians for as little as $500.

CEO Susan Lindeque says the company has already attracted 63 investors since launching last month.

“I am always looking at innovative ideas around finance and capitalism and realised that equity crowdfunding provided a way for those people who would never be able to own their own home to enter the property market with low risk, while giving them a long-term investment,” Susan says.

Chief Marketing Officer Debra Barber said it offered new ways for people of all demographics to enter the property market.

“When I was in my twenties, there was nowhere like this to invest. Even millennials can put in just $500 and long term, it could really help them get ahead,” Ms Barber said.

As chartered accountants and businesswomen they’ve always had to navigate the boys’ club, but the trio agree those skills have helped them create the successful company they have today.

“It is difficult, it still is very much a boys club,” CFO Kaelene McElligott says.

“Women are not excluded, but they’re not included either. You have to stand up for yourself.”

While Susan says the make-up of the Avestix Equity Pty Ltd board wasn’t driven by gender, she’s certainly proud of the influence the team can make on the industry.

“I think it’s really important. I wanted to create something with a more female touch and try to stop the stereotype that it’s just another male dominated project in the finance or construction industry,” Susan says.

Like so many working mothers, and with eight children between them, their other big challenge is juggling their home and work lives.

“For me it’s very hard to find that balance because I’m such a workaholic but it’s because I absolutely love what I’m doing,” Susan says.

“If I need to stay up until 1 o’clock in the morning to get stuff done, that’s when I’m doing it.

“We want to continue building Avestix Equity into a large landlord investment company that will provide long term returns for its shareholders. More importantly, to provide jobs and affordable rent for everyday Australians will be fulfilling,” Susan says.

The Avestix Equity crowdfunding campaign is open for another 48 days. Investors can register their interest online at https://www.onmarket.com.au/offers/avestix-equity-pty-ltd/
Always consider the general risk warning and the offer document before investing.