Queensland’s auction sector operates in an environment where professional practice and regulatory responsibility are closely connected. Licensing, trust account management, consumer protection and fair trading obligations all influence the way auction businesses operate. These issues will be brought into focus at the 2026 Auctioneer & Valuer Symposia – Brisbane on 23 October 2026.
The Executive Director of the Queensland Office of Fair Trading, Craig Turner, will deliver the keynote address to certified auctioneers attending the event. His participation provides a valuable opportunity for the certified auctioneers to hear directly from the agency responsible for administering Queensland’s consumer protection and occupational licensing framework.
The presentation will offer insight into the Office of Fair Trading’s current priorities and its approach to complaints, compliance and dispute resolution. It will also consider how certified auctioneers can engage effectively with the regulator and incorporate regulatory expectations into their everyday business practices.
For auction businesses, understanding the regulator’s perspective has practical value given its role in licensing auctioneers. Complaints frequently arise from differences between what a consumer expected and what occurred. Clear terms, transparent processes, accurate representations and well-maintained records can often prevent those misunderstandings from developing into formal disputes.
Effective regulation is supported by communication between government and the businesses operating within the regulated environment. Regular engagement allows the Queensland Office of Fair Trading to explain its expectations while gaining a clearer understanding of how auction businesses operate in practice.
The 2026 Auctioneer & Valuer Symposia – Brisbane will create space for that conversation. Certified auctioneers will be able to consider regulatory issues in the context of their own operations, while the Office of Fair Trading will hear directly from people working across Queensland’s diverse auction sector.
This exchange is especially important given Queensland’s licensing and trust account requirements for chattel auctioneers. These obligations protect clients and consumers while helping reputable businesses demonstrate that funds and property are being handled responsibly. Strong systems, appropriate oversight and a sound understanding of the legislation are central to maintaining that confidence.
The Auctioneers and Valuers Association of Australia (AVAA) has developed a constructive relationship with the Queensland Office of Fair Trading through ongoing discussion about issues affecting auctioneers and their clients. This engagement helps AVAA provide the regulator with practical industry perspectives and keep members informed about their professional responsibilities.
Consumer trust also depends on the standards adopted within the profession itself. Clients entrust certified auctioneers with valuable assets, confidential information and, in many cases, the proceeds of sale. Buyers rely on accurate descriptions, transparent bidding processes and fair treatment. Every professional interaction contributes to the reputation of the wider sector.
The AVAA Certified Auctioneer (CAAu) credential and the AVAA Professional Standards provide a national framework for competence, conduct and accountability. They complement Queensland’s regulatory requirements by setting clear expectations for AVAA-certified professionals and demonstrating the profession’s commitment to responsible practice.
Craig Turner’s address will connect these regulatory and professional responsibilities. It will give auctioneers a clearer picture of what the Office of Fair Trading is seeing in the marketplace, where attention may be needed and how businesses can strengthen their own procedures.
It will also demonstrate the value of bringing government, the professional association and certified auctioneers together. Each has a distinct role, yet all contribute to a marketplace in which consumers are treated fairly and responsible auction businesses are recognised and supported.
The 2026 Auctioneer & Valuer Symposia – Brisbane will be held on 23 October 2026 and is open to everyone with an interest in the professional, regulatory and commercial environment in which auctioneers and valuers operate. Secure your tickets today to join this important industry conversation.
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Interested In Finding Out More?
If you’d like more information on the 2026 Auctioneer & Valuer Symposia – Brisbane , send an email to cpd@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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