Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading
The Honourable Peter Lawlor

Friday, October 30, 2009

Life ban for Gold Coast real estate agent

Gold Coast real estate agent Heather Filippini has been banned for life from operating as a real-estate agent in Queensland.

Yesterday, the Commercial and Consumer Tribunal (CCT) permanently banned Heather Filippini from holding a real estate licence or certificate under the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act 2000.

Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor today welcomed the CCT's decision as a win for Queensland consumers.

"Heather Filippini is a serial offender who blatantly flaunted the law by operating without a licence.

"Ms Fillipini had previously been disqualified from holding a licence for 4 years after the tribunal found her guilty in 2006 on two disciplinary charges relating to beneficial interest provisions."

Mr Lawlor said that Office of Fair trading inspectors had uncovered her working unlicensed at the real estate agency run by her daughter, Sarah Filippini, in 2008 and following investigation, commenced further disciplinary proceedings against her in the tribunal.

"This clear act of contempt left the Office of Fair Trading with no other option but to request the CCT to permanently ban Heather Filippini from the industry" he said.

“Disciplinary action was also initiated against Sarah Fillipini because she employed a person who was unlicensed”

Sarah Filippini was reprimanded and fined $6000. Both have been ordered to pay the Office of Fair Trading costs totalling $6715."

"Real estate agents are placed in a position of trust by vendors and should never take advantage of this position.

“Queenslanders deserve to know they are dealing with reputable licensed agents," he said.

“This decision is a clear reminder to all real estate agents to act responsibly.

“If an agent chooses to breach the law by deceiving their customers, they risk the loss of their licence, reputation and livelihood.

“The legislation is there to protect businesses and clients, and must be complied with. Licensees caught doing the wrong thing will be penalised.”

Consumers can ensure they know whether their real estate agent is licensed or not by doing a free on-line search at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

Consumers with information about breaches of fair trading law should report it on 13 13 04 or www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

Contact: 3225 1005 / 0419 025 326

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