Though Covid-19 restrictions may have been minimised in most Australian states and territories, Fair Trading’s compliance program reminds us that now is not the time to become complacent.
In recent months, NSW Fair Trading introduced a compliance program that involves active monitoring of agent compliance with Public Health Order Covid-19, through its attendance at Auctions and Open Homes.
By attending these events, Fair Trading will help to ensure compliance with the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002.
As part of this program, Fair Trading will monitor (through attendance or review):
- Residential sales, tenancy open houses and saleyards
- Record keeping requirements
- Compliance with the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order (No 4) 2020
- Up-to-date COVID-19 Safety Plans
An email was sent to licence holders by Fair Trading, it can be accessed here.
Compliance program process
- The licensee-in-charge of agencies that have upcoming auctions or open houses, will be contacted by NSW Fair Trading
- The licensee-in-charge will need to email NSW Fair Trading their safety plan
- NSW Fair Trading will attend the auction and/or open house to determine adherence to the safety plan
- NSW Fair Trading has advised the EAC it will be educating agents on how to meet the requirements
- In the event an agent breaches the public order after the education process, infringement penalties may be issued
Setting up a Covid-19 Safety Plan for auction and open houses
When creating your Covid safety plan for the wellbeing of staff and the public, include:
- Physical distancing – keeping a distance of 1.5 metres
- Four square metre rule – 1 person per 4 square metres of space
- Face masks – must be made available
- Self-isolation and quarantine – even if minor symptoms
- Hygiene and cleaning
- Record keeping
Register as a Covid-19 Safe Business
To register your business as COVID Safe you must have completed a COVID-19 Safety Plan.
For more information on the requirements of Auction and Open Houses view here.