While at University Robert was introduced to Shelter WA by his Planning for Housing lecturer, Prof. Shane Greive. Robert worked in a volunteer capacity at Shelter WA in 2012. He undertook an Aboriginal tenancy training project work for the organisation in 2013/14, and was a full time Policy Officer with Shelter WA until January, 2018.

Robert holds a Bachelor Degree (Hons) in Urban and Regional Planning from Curtin University.