John Minns appointed to oversee NSW real estate as NSW's first Property Services Commissioner

The NSW Government has appointed John Minns as the state’s first Property Services Commissioner. It is hoped the move that will herald a new era of trust and engagement between the real estate industry, its regulator and consumers in NSW. Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson noted the real estate industry contributes $100 billion and over 37,000 jobs to the NSW economy. "That is why it is critical to have the right processes in place to allow the NSW Government to support this thriving industry whilst maintaining the highest protections for consumers,” Mr Anderson said. The Property Services Commissioner will reflect the successful model taken by the Building Commissioner who has been tasked to reform the building and construction sector. Minns has more than 25 years’ experience as a real estate business owner and agent, most recently as managing director of Canberra-based Independent Property Group. He was previous the director of Academy of Real Estate Services. "At a time of unprecedented change and rapid digital transformation, I am looking forward to working with leaders across the industry to deliver improved consumer outcomes, a vibrant and sustainable NSW property sector and continued innovation,” Mr Minns said. The Property Services Commissioner will sit independently of Fair Trading and will report directly to the Secretary of the Department of Customer Service and Minister for Better Regulation.. Commissioner Minns will commence on 6 December, 2021.