Conveyancers should be able to operate in Qld – AIC national president
Debate continues over allowing independent conveyancers to be able to work without relying on lawyer oversight.
THE national president of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers has joined state-based colleagues calling for independent conveyancers in Queensland.
Michelle Hendry told Australian Conveyancer that Queenslanders were losing out because of the current rules stopping independent conveyancers practising in the sunshine state.
Her comments are the latest from industry leaders from across the country – as debate continues over the issue about levelling the playing field between conveyancers and lawyers.
NSW AIC president Ann Blannin-Ferguson started the campaign, writing to QLS and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, as reported in Australian Conveyancer. Lawyers and the Queensland Law Society have since responded, claiming a change would put consumers at risk.
“As President of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers National, I strongly support calls for reform to allow licensed conveyancers to operate independently in Queensland, just as they already do in most other Australian states,” said Michelle.
“Buying or selling property is one of the biggest decisions many people make. Independent conveyancers are highly trained professionals who guide consumers through this process with clarity, care, and cost-effectiveness.
“Across the country, they’ve proven to be a trusted, efficient, and affordable option for buyers and sellers alike.
“But Queenslanders don’t currently have access to this choice.
“The law prevents independent conveyancers from operating, limiting competition and locking everyday consumers out of a valuable service that’s widely available elsewhere.
“It also holds back small, local businesses, many of which are run by women, sole traders, and regional professionals, from serving their communities.
“This reform isn’t about replacing lawyers, it’s about expanding access to professional services and allowing conveyancers and lawyers to work alongside each other, as they do successfully in most other jurisdictions.
“With the introduction of the Property Law Act 2023 and vendor disclosure reforms, now is the ideal time for Queensland to modernise.
“We urge the government to bring Queensland into line with the majority of the country and give consumers fairer access to the conveyancing services they deserve.
“Let’s give Queenslanders more choice, better service, and the same professional protections enjoyed by millions of other Australians.”
