Michael Hickinbotham

Background

About Michael Hickinbotham

Michael Hickinbotham believes in the transformative power of entrepreneurship.He is Managing Director of the Hickinbotham Group, an entrepreneurial family business spanning construction, development, premium spirits, finance and biotechnology.Under Michael’s leadership, the Hickinbotham Group builds high-quality, affordable, beautiful homes and communities. It has developed more than 60 community estates, built more than homes and created housing for more than Australians.The Group currently has more than $2 billion in significant developments, is Australia’s 9th largest detached residential builder and has been South Australia’s largest home builder for 20 years.Michael has received the following honours- A Centenary Medal for services to the Australian building industry and the community- An Honorary Doctorate from the University of South Australia for his contribution to South Australia and education- The Housing Industry Association’s (HIA) most prestigious honour, the Sir Phillip Lynch Award of Excellence. The award recognises individuals who have made innovative and valuable contributions to the housing industry and demonstrated unfailing integrity and an exemplary attitude of excellence.Outside the building company, Michael has entrepreneurial, philanthropic and investment interests.Drawing on his grandfather’s legacy in the science of wine and spirits, Michael founded the Australian Distilling Company, Australia’s most awarded distillery which pays homage to the flavours and essence of Australian cities and regions.He established a large-scale vineyard at Paringa, South Australia, securing contracts with major winemakers including Southcorp (now Treasury Wine Estates) and supplying fruit for their premium brands as well as David Hickinbotham’s award-winning Paringa label.Michael is committed to advancing medical research as a major investor in Australian life sciences company, Sementis, dedicated to the development of safe and effective vaccines for diseases and conditions including pandemic and bio-terror threats.Michael is a strong supporter of local communities and undertakes philanthropic activities for a range of charities, community groups, sporting teams and the arts. He has established endowments for Xavier College at Two Wells and St Columba College at Andrews Farm, funded academic scholarships for students at Gawler High School and made significant contributions to the University of Adelaide and Hickinbotham Roseworthy Wine Science Laboratory.