Barry Plant has once again proven its industry leadership, taking home the prestigious Major Network of the Year – 40 or More Offices award at the 2025 REB Awards. In a highly competitive field, this accolade cements Barry Plant’s position as Australia’s top large real estate network, recognising its exceptional growth, innovation, and unwavering support for its offices and agents. It also serves as a powerful endorsement of the network’s transformation under second-year CEO Lisa Pennell.

Lisa Pennell, Chief Operating Officer of Barry Plant, expressed her gratitude and excitement for the win.

"We probably should have prepared something, but we did not really expect to win, given the strong lineup of finalists!" Lisa laughed. "While Barry Plant has always been highly respected, we’re only two years into a three-year transformation journey, so this is unexpected and quite overwhelming."

“As Lee Woodward loves to say, it’s hard to read the label from inside the jar. It's thrilling to be recognised for all of our hard work by the broader industry so early.”

"We couldn’t be prouder to be recognised as Australia’s leading large network. A brand is only as strong as the people behind it, and I couldn’t be prouder to lead this tremendous group. We act as one—one head, many bodies - so this award is for every Barry Plant member."

The REB Awards, a national event now in its 13th year, is the benchmark for excellence in Australian real estate, celebrating the top businesses and professionals shaping the industry's future. Barry Plant’s recognition reflects its evolution over the past two years, with a steadfast commitment to client service, technological advancement, and brand innovation.

"It isn’t lost on anyone at Barry Plant that we are a legacy Victorian-only brand that has just won a national award. For us to beat out national and Sydney-based brands is a tremendous achievement," said Lisa.

Barry Plant’s success over the past 12 months has been driven by a strategic rebrand, record-breaking financial performance, and a commitment to fostering innovation and growth. The franchise undertook a complete brand transformation, introducing a bold new identity with a progressive, customer-first focus. This rebrand not only strengthened Barry Plant’s market presence but also earned industry acclaim, winning a Silver Award at the 2024 Melbourne Design Awards and also winning Silver on the global stage at the Better Future WORLD Design Awards 2025.

A key factor in the network’s success has been its commitment to innovation. Over the past year, Barry Plant launched a state-of-the-art technology platform, revolutionising data management and market analysis for agents. This cutting-edge system provides real-time reporting and in-depth insights, empowering agents to deliver data-driven strategies and superior client outcomes.

Barry Plant has also expanded its Head Office team, adding top-tier talent across technology, branding, marketing, operations, and communications. This investment ensures franchisees receive best-in-class support, driving business growth and elevating service standards across the network.

Beyond operational advancements, Barry Plant continues to foster a culture of excellence. The network proudly saw six agents featured in Victoria’s Top 30 Agents Under 30, along with 12 nominees for Top Residential Agent of the Year at the REA Excellence Awards. These achievements reinforce Barry Plant’s reputation for attracting and developing the industry’s best talent.

Winning Major Network of the Year is not just a recognition of past achievements—it’s a testament to Barry Plant’s ongoing journey of growth and innovation. As the network continues to evolve, it remains committed to delivering top-tier service, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and putting people first.

"While this award is an incredible achievement, it’s only the beginning," Pennell explained. "We want to make 2025 a landmark year for growth and recruitment. We are looking for more high-performing professionals to join us. Now that we’re the 2025 REB Major Network of the Year, why wouldn’t you choose Barry Plant?"

Barry Plant’s win at the 2025 REB Awards reaffirms its leadership in Australian real estate, setting the standard for excellence, innovation, and unwavering support for its network.