23 June 2017

A real estate sales representative has been reprimanded by the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) and must pay a $1,000 fine and $500 in costs for breaching a special condition on his certificate of registration.

Mark Bruce Hourn of Exmouth failed to complete the necessary Compulsory Professional Development (CPD) obligations for three consecutive years 2013-2015, in breach of the Real Estate and Business Agents Act.

The SAT ordered Mr Hourn to complete the outstanding training by 30 September 2017; otherwise his registration will be suspended for six months from 1 October 2017. He must also fulfil his CPD training in current and future years.

Acting Commissioner for Consumer Protection David Hillyard said it was a strict requirement that real estate agents, sales representatives and property managers complete their annual training, a key licensing condition.

“The CPD training is aimed at assisting industry participants to update their knowledge and skills in the area of industry developments, legislative changes and work practices to maintain high professional standards,” Mr Hillyard said.

“Failure to complete the CPD requirements could result in disciplinary action being taken and licences or registrations not being renewed, or being suspended by the SAT. So the consequences of non-compliance can be serious."

“Real estate agencies have a responsibility to ensure their employees comply with the requirement to meet their CPD obligations. Consumer Protection encourages agents to check with their employees to ensure that their CPD compliance is up-to-date.”

You can find more information in the obligations of real estate agents, sales representatives and property managers section of the website or enquiries can be made by email or by calling 1300 304 054.