Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, recently made headlines with his purchase of a $4.3 million clifftop home in NSW Central Coast. This high-profile buy raised eyebrows across the country, sparking conversations around housing affordability, the cost of living crisis, and the optics of a leader making such a purchase during challenging times.

But is this really as controversial as it seems? Let’s break it down.

The Backlash: Bad Timing or Just Tall Poppy Syndrome?

Many critics were quick to voice their concerns, with some arguing that it wasn’t the best look for the Prime Minister to be buying an expensive property amidst Australia’s housing and cost of living crises. Even some of Albanese’s colleagues suggested he wait until after the next election to make the purchase.

However, there’s another angle to this story—what if this is just a case of tall poppy syndrome, where public figures are unfairly criticised for their success?

Albanese’s Property Portfolio: Less Impressive Than It Seems

Let’s set the record straight. Anthony Albanese currently owns two properties, and when this new purchase is finalised, he’ll still only hold two, as he plans to sell one of his existing properties. He currently owns a house in Marrickville and an apartment in Canberra. Yes, that’s right—despite all the noise, the Prime Minister will only own two properties.

This isn’t particularly shocking when you consider that 77 Australian politicians currently own three or more properties. Some even have impressive portfolios of seven properties each! Albanese, by comparison, is nowhere near the top of the list.

TMAP Students Outperforming the PM!

Here’s the really interesting part—TMAP students are doing better than the Prime Minister when it comes to property investment! In fact, many TMAP students have purchased more than two properties in just the last six months. Yes, you read that right. While Albanese will soon own two properties, TMAP students are out there building wealth through property investment, with several of them owning three or more properties.

It’s almost funny when you think about it. These TMAP students, some of whom are in their teens, have managed to achieve more in property investing in half a year than the Prime Minister has in his entire life. Now that’s something worth celebrating.

Politicians vs. Everyday Australians: A Property Comparison

When you look at the property portfolios of Australian politicians, it’s clear that owning multiple properties is quite common among them. Yet, despite this, the Prime Minister’s relatively modest portfolio of two properties somehow became a big deal in the media.

Meanwhile, there are everyday Australians, like TMAP students, who are quietly outperforming these politicians by applying smart strategies and making the most of the property market. And while they’re not making headlines, their success stories are proof that with the right guidance and knowledge, anyone can build wealth through property.

What Can We Learn from This?

The media frenzy around Albanese’s property purchase might make for a good headline, but in reality, it’s not as groundbreaking as it seems. The real story lies in the achievements of everyday Aussies—like TMAP students—who are quietly building impressive property portfolios, some of which outshine those of Australia’s most powerful figures.