Barney Allam, the founder of the Allam Property Group, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to the Penrith community and the property industry.
Born and raised in Australia, Allam established his business back in 1991, and over the years, he became a well-respected figure known for developing numerous master-planned communities throughout New South Wales and Victoria. His commitment and passion for building quality homes have not only transformed landscapes but also created neighborhoods where families could thrive.
Allam has been intricately involved with the Penrith community since 1972, earning admiration and affection from locals for his philanthropic efforts and business acumen. His company’s long-standing partnership with the Penrith Panthers, including sponsoring the Chairman's Lounge at Penrith Stadium, showcased his dedication to local sports and culture.
His accomplishments did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) back in 2004 for his service to the community and contributions to the housing sector—particularly through his work with Wesley Mission.
Tragically, Allam succumbed to a brief illness over the weekend, and per his wishes, he was laid to rest shortly thereafter. A larger celebration of life is anticipated to honor his legacy among family, friends, and the community he cherished deeply.
Following his passing, heartfelt tributes have poured in from various members of the community. Lou Zivanovic, who shared Allam’s enthusiasm for the Penrith Panthers, reflected on the impact he had on many lives, stating, "Barney meant so much to so many—he was inspirational within the Panthers community, the Penrith community, and beyond. He was simply legendary."
Brian Fletcher, the CEO of the Panthers Group, expressed his shock and sorrow at Allam’s death. "You wouldn’t find a better sponsor or kinder person. His contributions to the Panthers were immeasurable, and so many people are affected by this loss," he shared.
Former State Penrith MP Stuart Ayres also expressed his sadness, stating, "Penrith has lost one of its finest. He was not just a businessman; he was someone who truly cared for our region, and his love radiated through his work. Today feels darker if we think about his absence, but those of us who knew him are richer for having had him in our lives. His legacy will remain large."
Meanwhile, Allam Property Group released its statement, emphasizing the indelible mark Allam left on the organization and the community at large. They stated, "His absence leaves a void we cannot fill, but Barney’s vision and qualities will continue to inspire us as we move forward. We are committed to honoring his standards of excellence and integrity as we build our future."
Allam’s influence went beyond just constructing houses; he focused on enhancing the home-buying experience. His company embraced the “Allam Advantage,” which promised to make the transition to new homes delightfully enjoyable, ensuring customers experienced seamless service from initial conversations to the final handover of their homes.
Throughout his career, Allam remained focused on building strong, lasting relationships with clients through consistency, honesty, simplicity, and reliability—values which were not only buzzwords but deeply ingrained within the company’s structure and operations.
This heartfelt dedication helped earn Allam Property Group the trust of thousands of Australian families, many of whom returned to build with Allam again, seeking the same quality and service they had come to expect.
The company’s remarkable growth over the last 30 years is illustrated through its now extensive portfolio, consisting of more than 40 master-planned communities catering to diverse lifestyles and preferences. Allam’s vision was clear: to not only create homes but also to craft vibrant communities where people could grow and thrive.
Moving forward, Allam Property Group continues to uphold Barney’s vision, promising to rigorously adhere to the high standards he championed. The companions and employees he left behind share his commitment to shaping Australia’s housing industry, determined to maintain the reputation for quality and service he instilled.
While Penrith mourns the loss of one of its beloved community leaders, it also celebrates Allam’s dedication and remarkable achievements. There will be remembrance activities, ensuring his story and contributions are shared with future generations—continually encouraging residents to embrace communal spirit and strive for excellence.
Indeed, Barney Allam wasn’t merely a builder; he was a visionary committed to uplifting his community, inspiring others, and leaving behind remarkable spaces for families across Australia. His legacy will undoubtedly resonate through Penrith and beyond.