The booked-out Agency Leaders Summit took place today, and was a day of insightful discussions, strategy, and forward-thinking ideas. Held at the REIV’s Abbotsford headquarters in the newly activated events space, the event commenced with an informal morning session, providing guests with an opportunity to connect before the formal proceedings began. REIV Interim CEO Jacob Caine officially welcomed attendees, providing an update on current industry challenges and outlining the REIV’s priorities moving forward.
The day’s first session featured AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas, who delivered a critical presentation on the upcoming AML/CTF reforms, scheduled for implementation in July 2026, specifically for real estate professionals. His address clarified the anticipated obligations, stressed the importance of proactive compliance planning and outlined opportunities for collaboration and cooperation between agencies and government bodies.
Following the AUSTRAC presentation, Stephanie Guadagnuolo from Aon led the second session. Titled Behind the Front Door: Understanding and Mitigating Risks in a Real Estate Agency, her presentation unpacked common operational exposures and offered practical strategies for risk management across agency operations.
After a networking lunch, Macquarie presented a brief financial update before handing over to Patrick O’Bierne of Six O’Clock Advisory. His engaging talk, titled All Roads Lead to Reputation, highlighted the increasing importance of trust and transparency in today’s communications landscape, providing leaders with tools to safeguard and enhance their public standing.
The Summit reinforced the REIV’s commitment to equipping Members with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead confidently in times of regulatory change and reputational risk. For Members seeking more information on AML/CTF, the upcoming Sales and Buyers Agent Conference will feature an essential compliance update from AUSTRAC, including the latest legal reforms and forthcoming obligations.