CEO’s report

Gil King

REIV CEO As I write this update Victoria has been plunged into another hard lockdown. Like most of you, every lockdown announcement brings with it mixed feelings and new challenges.

This issue of the EA comes at the close of a financial year that’s been one of the most unusual we have ever experienced. I am incredibly proud of the work done by our members and the REIV team. The market performance recorded over the past 12 months is proof that the industry never missed a beat, you kept your focus on the job at hand and achieved great results in difficult times.

I take this opportunity to thank Leah Calnan, who has done an incredible job over the past two years. It’s been

REIV membership is a mark of credibility, trustworthiness, and professionalism. a challenging time, but it has built our resolve to work together, no matter what the circumstances are.

The policy and advocacy agenda for the REIV continues to evolve and expand. While in most cases the REIV has opportunity to provide feedback and influence some policy decisions, often the government springs a surprise on the sector. The 2021/ 22 state budget announcement was one such example. The REIV worked with other kindred bodies Property Council, HIA, UDIA and MBA to strongly oppose the changes to land tax, stamp duty and the windfall gains tax. I believe the government’s strategy of relying on inefficient taxes like the land tax to bring the budget back to black is flawed. The REIV continues to voice its opposition to the current property taxation system and advocate for a complete overhaul.

The RTA changes have dominated a lot of policy discussions in recent times. Months into the new legislation, we received answers to some of our

questions after creating media pressure on the government. There is still much to be clarified and corrected. Please continue sending us feedback and practical examples so we can help address the gaps in the legislation.

On matters of training and professional development, I am pleased to report that the REIV e-learning platform has been extremely well received for both accredited training and the shorter format for ongoing professional development content. Members from across the state can now access high quality material at the time of their choosing. REIV is now offering the new Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice (CPP41419) and the Diploma of Property (Agency Management) (CPP51119) as self-paced e-learning training. Both accredited courses are eligible for government funding. Students can also seek RPL (recognition of prior learning) for their work experience or complete the training through a workplace traineeship.

Earlier in the year, we conducted a survey asking members for their feedback on REIV services – what works, where you want the Institute to focus and the areas for improvement. Thank you to all members who contributed to the survey and those who take the time to provide feedback through other channels. The annual regional roadshow REIV Connect, provides a great opportunity for interaction and I thank all our members in regional Victoria who joined us at the various events earlier this year. Overwhelmingly, members believe that REIV membership is a mark of credibility, trustworthiness, and professionalism. Members want the REIV to be a strong advocate and voice for the sector. Helping members run compliant businesses was supported as the core purpose of REIV services. Your input has helped refine the REIV strategy for the coming years. An overview of the key strategy pillars is provided in this journal.

One of the areas of improvement identified by you was consumer awareness of the merits of REIV membership. Watch this space for a strong public campaign coming soon.

As this journal reaches you, we are likely to be preparing for the 2021 board elections. It is important for every member to exercise their vote. The REIV is your representative body, each member has a role to play in defining its direction. Whether you choose to play an active role by nominating on committees, the Board or simply by reporting your data, your contribution is making a difference.

Gil King REIV CEO