SYDNEY

OMERS, the parent company of Oxford Properties Group ("Oxford"), and one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans, is celebrating its 10^th anniversary of successful investment operations in Australia.

Since opening an office in Sydney in 2014, OMERS has grown its investments in the country significantly, with deployments and a committed pipeline totaling more than AUD 10 billion. This includes more than AUD 4 billion deployed and committed by OMERS Infrastructure and more than AUD 5.7 billion of Australian office, residential and industrial real estate assets, including third-party assets, managed by Oxford. OMERS also invests in Australian equities and fixed income.

“Over the past decade we have built and expanded our portfolio in Australia by investing in a diverse array of high-quality assets across various sectors, including infrastructure, real estate, credit, and private equity,” said OMERS President and CEO Blake Hutcheson. “Starting with strategic investments by OMERS Infrastructure and followed by Oxford Properties Group, our Australia operations continue to contribute to the growth and stability of OMERS and help us continue to deliver on the pension promise to our more than 628,000 members.”

Highlights of OMERS investment journey in Australia:

1. Strategic Infrastructure Investments: OMERS has been a key investor in vital infrastructure projects, including major transportation hubs, energy networks, and public utilities. These investments have enhanced the efficiency and sustainability of Australia’s infrastructure landscape.
2. Expanding Real Estate Portfolio: Through its real estate arm, Oxford Properties, OMERS has acquired and developed prime office assets, industrial, and residential properties in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Oxford’s portfolio of ~1,400 new build-to-rent units developed via its Indi BTR platform, and its Parkline Place premium commercial development in Sydney – which is due to be completed later this year – are primary examples of this approach.
3. Commitment to Sustainability: OMERS is dedicated to incorporating sustainability principles into its investment strategy. In Australia, OMERS has championed sustainable practices, contributing to the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

"With a committed team in Sydney supported by our colleagues in Canada and around the world, OMERS has established a strong and dynamic presence in Australia,” said Christopher Curtain, Senior Managing Director, Head of Asia-Pacific, OMERS Infrastructure. “As we enter our second decade in Australia, we are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our journey of growth, innovation, and sustainability in this vibrant market."

“Our success in Australia is a testament to the strength of our local partnerships and the dedication of our team,” said Alec Harper, Head of Australia for Oxford Properties Group. “We have worked tirelessly to create value for our stakeholders, deliver exceptional real estate solutions, and contribute positively to the places where we operate. We are proud of what we have achieved and look forward to continuing to build our portfolio here.”

Earlier this month, OMERS Finance Trust (OFT) announced it has closed its AUD 750 million, 5-year AUD note. This marked OFT’s inaugural AUD offering.

Australia is OMERS fifth largest investment market.