Who's Who

Buying/Selling
Renting
Who's Who

Want to know who's who in the industry and what role they play?

1. What is the role of the Property Agents Board?

The Property Agents Board acts on behalf of the State Government (through the Office of Consumer Affairs) to manage the licensing of Real Estate Agents, the register for property consultants, the level of education required by practitioners, the laws and code of conduct that governs real estate industry behaviour, and a tribunal system to address disputes.

2. What is the role of the Real Estate Institute of Tasmania?

The Real Estate Institute is an industry membership body representing up to 95% of real estate professionals in the state. The REIT is a registered training organisation providing training for those wishing to enter the industry, and for those within the industry to maintain a high level of professionalism and expertise. The REIT provides a wide range of member services for its members and these include: forms, employment contracts, marketing research, special events, legislation advice, government lobbying, media liaison, newsletters, website and more.

3. What is the role of Consumer Affairs (as it related to real estate)?

The Office of Consumer Affairs (Justice Department) administers the legislation governing the real estate industry and works towards ensuring that the laws are adhered to. The office also addresses public complaints under the Fair Trading Act and provides consumer advice. Consumer Affairs also assists with adjudicating on residential leasing disputes (refer to the Renting in Tasmania booklet).

4. What is the role of the Rental Deposit Authority?

TO BE ADVISED

5. What is the role of the Residential Tenancy Commissioner?

You would be safe to say that the Residential Tenancy Commissioner is a government appointed official whose role is to determine disputes over the disbursement of residential rental bonds. The Commissioner can also make certain orders with respect to boarding premises. The Commissioner is supported in this role by an Office which investigates the dispute and makes a recommendation to the Commissioner. Phone 1300 654 499 or www.consumer.tas.gov.au/tenancy__and__real_estates

6. What is the role of the Tenants Union?

The Tenants' Union of Tasmania Inc. is a not for profit community organisation offering free services including tenancy advice, advocacy and referrals. We also offer free community legal education and training in issues relating to tenancy.

7. What is the role of Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania?

The Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania provides access to legal and social justice for all Tasmanians by the provision of representation, advice and education on legal issues. Free legal advice is available to everyone through their Telephone Advice Service. Their number is 1300 366 611 and available on Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.