A group of the nation’s leading valuers are collaborating to develop the AVAA Standard Agreement for the Engagement of a Valuer, a practical professional resource designed to support valuation businesses throughout Australia.
The project represents another step in the ongoing commitment of the Auctioneers and Valuers Association of Australia (AVAA) to developing industry-led resources that strengthen professional practice, improve risk management, and support the delivery of high-quality valuation services across a broad range of asset classes.
A working group comprising experienced professionals with the respected AVAA Certified Valuer (CVAu) from a range of disciplines will assist in the development of the agreement. The group will meet over June and July 2026 to help shape the scope of the document, review draft provisions, and test the final product before its release.
The agreement is being developed specifically for professional valuers and will provide a consistent framework for client engagement, valuation instructions, risk management, and the delivery of valuation services. It is intended to address many of the issues that commonly arise during client engagements, including the scope of work, valuation purpose, fees, client responsibilities, confidentiality, report use, assumptions, limitations, and dispute resolution procedures.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the AVAA Standard Agreement for the Engagement of a Valuer is expected to be suitable for use across a wide range of valuation disciplines, including fine art, antiques, collectables, jewellery, books, stamps, coins, memorabilia, motor vehicles, plant and machinery, livestock, aircraft and marine assets, household contents, and goods and chattels.
Among the proposed features of the agreement are provisions that clearly define the scope and purpose of the valuation, strengthen engagement documentation, clarify fees and expenses, establish reliance and liability provisions, and promote consistency in professional practice. The agreement is intended to provide valuers with a practical tool that can be adapted to suit the particular needs of their area of expertise.
A well-constructed engagement agreement remains one of the most effective risk management tools available to professional valuers. By clearly documenting the terms of appointment from the outset and aligning with the AVAA Professional Standards, misunderstandings can be reduced, professional responsibilities clarified, and greater certainty provided for both valuers and their clients.
The AVAA Standard Agreement for the Engagement of a Valuer is expected to be released in August 2026. Once finalised, it will be provided without charge to AVAA Corporate Members as part of their membership benefits. Holders of the AVAA Certified Valuer (CVAu) credential will also be able to subscribe to the agreement for an annual fee of $185.
The development of this agreement demonstrates AVAA’s practical, member-driven approach to supporting the valuation profession. Beyond member-driven political advocacy, education and training, and the AVAA Professional Standards, AVAA continues to invest in resources that help valuation businesses and professional operate with confidence, professionalism, and consistency in an increasingly complex business environment.
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Interested In Finding Out More?
If you’re interested in this member-driven initiative, send an email to standards@avaa.com.au or telephone 1300 928 165. You can also stay up to date by following AVAA on LinkedIn, X/Twitter and Facebook.
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