Former US Vice President Kamala Harris will headline the Australasian Real Estate Conference on the Gold Coast in Australia next month, marking her first speaking engagement in the country. While the organizers have hailed Harris as a “trailblazer” for her contributions to economic opportunity, she will not be available for local media interviews.
Scheduled to take part in a moderated on-stage conversation, Harris is one of 32 prominent speakers for the event, which is set to take place in late May. Other high-profile figures include US real estate broker and reality TV personality Mauricio Umansky, Olympians Emma McKeon and Ariarne Titmus, and British entrepreneur Steven Bartlett, who will appear via satellite.
However, Harris is the only speaker at the event who will not be available for media interviews. Her biography on the event’s promotional material includes a clear note: “No interviews.” This decision has left some wondering about the reasons behind her media restriction, especially given her prominence on the global stage.
Founded by Australian property mogul John McGrath, the event is aimed at providing industry insights and strategies for success in the property sector. McGrath, who is the CEO of ASX-listed McGrath Estate Agents, has drawn together a diverse group of speakers from various sectors to share their expertise with the audience.
Organizers of the conference have praised Harris for her career-long commitment to ensuring economic opportunity for all Americans. In particular, they highlighted her efforts to address housing affordability and the cost of living as key themes she will touch on during her appearance.
While the organizers were tight-lipped about the financial arrangements for speakers, the event promises to be a major gathering for real estate professionals, drawing attention both locally and internationally.
Harris’ participation underscores her continued influence in global discussions on economic and social issues, despite her recent political defeat in the 2024 US presidential election.