The NSW government has offered a seat in its property advisory panel to the network’s top state executive.
Harcourts chief executive for NSW/ACT Katrina Tarrant has joined the Property Services Expert Panel following a direct invitation from the NSW Minister for Fair Trading.
Hailed as the “new voice” of the property services sector in government discussions, the advisory panel was established in March 2021.
The panel brings together top representatives from across the sector to provide advice and recommendations to the NSW government on issues impacting the sector.
As a self-proclaimed “passionate advocate” for the real estate industry that has pivoted her career towards “elevating professionalism to ensure the best possible outcome for NSW consumers”, Ms Tarrant said that being invited to join the panel aligns with her enthusiasm for the sector.
“I am immensely humbled to receive this appointment and look forward to discharging my duties at the highest standard as a meaningful contributor,” she stated.
Following the appointment, Ms Tarrant will be directly working with property services commissioner John Minns, panel chair Chris Duggan, as well other appointed members that represent different stakeholders and players in the industry.
“Having worked across residential housing, community housing and real estate franchising, I hope to bring a broad, diverse and practical skill set to complement the existing panel,” Ms Tarrant stated.
Harcourts Australian chief executive Adrian Knowles lauded the appointment as a testament to Ms Tarrant’s established reputation within the industry.
“This is a significant position within the top NSW property sector advisory field, and a reflection of the status Kat has attained, the respect she is held in,” Mr Knowles said.
Citing that the property services sector adding $100 billion to the state’s economy and providing employment to around 37,000 people, Mr Knowles stated, “it’s important it has a voice in government discussions on the issues and opportunities ahead.”
“We are incredibly proud that Kat will be a part of that voice,” he added.
In the past 18 months, the NSW government has rolled out major reforms to both property and tenancy laws. The state has also overhauled qualifications and continuing professional development requirements for agents and assisted the industry through COVID-19.
In line with this, Harcourts emphasised that engagement with the property services sector, as well as top-notch collaboration between the government and the industry, is “vitally important as many of these reforms kick into gear”.