Country guide · Australia
Choosing a real estate agent in Australia
State registration, written agreements, commission plus advertising, and complaints routes.
Updated: 04/10/2026
In brief
- Agents are licensed or registered by the state or territory
- Written agency agreements are mandatory
- Advertising and photography may be charged separately
- Complaints go to the state consumer affairs regulator
Registration
Each state and territory registers agents and licensees and publishes the register along with disciplinary outcomes. Check the name on the agreement against the register.
Costs
Commission is usually a percentage of the sale price and is not fixed by law. Advertising, photography, signage and auctioneer fees may be additional – ask for a written estimate.
Agency type
Sole agency gives one agent exclusivity for an agreed period; general agency allows several. Compare what each agent will actually do for the fee.
Evidence and complaints
Ask for comparable sales in your suburb and how offers are reported. If something goes wrong, the state consumer affairs body handles complaints and can order compensation.
Official sources and further reading
National starting points only. State, provincial and territorial rules may add further requirements.
Professionals in Australia
Documented profiles of agents, developers, managers, investors and architects, listed in a neutral order.
More guides for Australia
Other countries
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice.