Lang Walker AO Dies at 78: A Tribute to His Legacy of Nation-Building and Generosity

Australia has lost one of its most influential and generous property developers and philanthropists, Lang Walker AO, who died peacefully at his Sydney home on Saturday night, surrounded by his loving family. He was 78 years old.

Walker was a visionary who shaped the skyline of Sydney and other major cities with his bold and innovative projects. He was also a passionate supporter of various charitable causes and arts programs, donating millions of dollars to make a positive difference in the lives of many Australians.

A Remarkable Career in Property Development

Lang Walker AO started his career in 1964 as a partner in his father’s earth-moving business, A&L Walker. He soon realized his talent and passion for property development and founded the Walker Group in 1972.

Over the next five decades, Walker transformed the Walker Group into one of Australia’s leading property companies, with a portfolio of iconic developments across the country. Some of his notable projects include:

King Street Wharf, a waterfront precinct in Sydney that features restaurants, bars, hotels, and offices.
Finger Wharf, a heritage-listed wharf in Sydney that was restored and converted into a luxury residential and commercial complex.
Parramatta Square, a $3.2 billion urban renewal project in Sydney’s second CBD that will create a vibrant and modern mixed-use destination.
Collins Square, a $3 billion development in Melbourne that comprises five commercial towers, retail spaces, and a civic plaza.
Festival Tower, a $500 million residential and hotel tower in Adelaide that will be the tallest building in South Australia.

Walker was not afraid to take risks and pursue his visions, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. He was known for his hands-on approach and attention to detail, ensuring that every project was delivered with the highest standards of quality and design.

He was also a savvy businessman who sold the majority of his company twice, once in 1999 before the dot-com bubble burst and again in 2006 before the global financial crisis. He then bought back the company at a fraction of the price and continued to grow it with new ventures.

As of 2023, Walker was ranked as the 16th richest person in Australia by the Australian Financial Review, with a net worth of $5.1 billion. He also owned a private island in Fiji and a luxury superyacht, both named Kokomo, after a song he played as a child.

A Generous Philanthropist and Patron of the Arts

Walker was not only a successful developer but also a compassionate philanthropist who gave back to the community through his Walker Family Foundation. He supported various causes and organizations, such as:

The Powerhouse Museum, a cultural institution in Sydney that showcases science, technology, design, and arts. Walker donated $20 million to help fund the museum’s relocation and expansion to Parramatta.
The Campbelltown Hospital, a public hospital in Sydney’s southwest that provides health care services to the local community. Walker donated $10 million to help build a new cancer centre and a wellness garden at the hospital.
The Bicentennial of the NSW Parliament, a celebration of the 200th anniversary of the establishment of the New South Wales Parliament in 2024. Walker donated $5 million to help fund the commemorative events and programs.

Lang Walker AO was also a patron of the arts, supporting various artists and cultural initiatives, such as:

The Sydney Theatre Company, a theatre company that produces and presents a diverse range of plays and performances. Walker was a long-time supporter and board member of the company, as well as a personal friend of its artistic directors, Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett.
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra, a symphony orchestra that performs classical and contemporary music at various venues. Walker was a major sponsor and benefactor of the orchestra, as well as a fan of its music.
The Kokomo Art Prize, an annual art prize that awards $20,000 to an emerging Australian artist. Walker established the prize in 2019 to encourage and showcase new talent in the art scene.

Walker’s philanthropy and patronage earned him several honors and awards, such as:

The Order of Australia, a national honor that recognizes outstanding achievement and service to the nation. Walker was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2014 for his distinguished service to the property industry and to the community.
The Property Council of Australia President’s Award, an award that recognizes exceptional leadership and contribution to the property industry. Walker received the award in 2017 for his visionary and transformative projects.
The Australian Philanthropy Awards, awards that celebrate excellence and innovation in philanthropy. Walker received the Leading Philanthropist Award in 2019 for his significant and strategic giving to various causes.

A Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather

Walker was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather, who cherished his family more than anything else in the world. He is survived by his wife, Sue, his four children, Shane, Natalie, Tiffany, and Mitchell, and his 10 grandchildren.

His family released a statement on Sunday, expressing their grief and gratitude:

“Lang loved creating incredible places where people can live and work, but he loved his family more than anything else in the world and his generosity and affection had no boundaries. Our hearts are broken by the loss of a great man who changed the lives of so many people through his visionary projects and philanthropy. We are deeply touched by the overwhelming support and condolences we have received from our friends, colleagues, and the public. We thank everyone for their kindness and respect during this difficult time.”

A Legacy That Will Live On

Walker’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from various leaders and personalities, who praised his achievements and generosity, such as:

Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister of Australia, who said: “Lang Walker was a giant of Australian business and a great Australian. He was a visionary who built some of our most iconic landmarks and a generous philanthropist who supported many worthy causes. He was also a good friend and a mentor to me and many others. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.”
Gladys Berejiklian, the Premier of New South Wales, who said: “Lang Walker was a remarkable man who left an indelible mark on our state and our nation. He was a pioneer of urban renewal and a champion of Western Sydney. He was also a generous benefactor of our cultural and health institutions. He was a true leader and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and developers. He was a proud and loyal New South Welshman and a great Australian.”
David Gallant, the Managing Director and CEO of Walker Corporation, who said: “Lang Walker was a legend in the property industry and a visionary who shaped the future of our cities. He was also a great boss and a friend to all of us at Walker Corporation. He instilled in us his passion and values, and he prepared us for the continuity and growth of the company. His legacy will live on through his projects and his people.”

As Australia bids farewell to a man who dared to dream big and build even bigger, Lang Walker AO’s legacy will continue to influence the fabric of Australian society for generations to come. His contributions to the nation’s infrastructure and his charitable spirit have solidified his place as a true pillar of Australian development and philanthropy. He will be remembered as a visionary, a nation-builder, and a generous soul. Rest in peace, Lang.