How is a conveyancer accredited?

If you're considering becoming a conveyancer, or just want to hire one, it's helps to know all about conveyancing accreditation in Australia, which can vary from state to state.

How do you become a conveyancer?

The first step to becoming a fully licensed conveyor within Australia is to complete a conveyancing course. Courses must be recognised by the Office of Fair Trade (in NSW), or other state regulatory bodies, and usually run for two years, full time. Courses are available as distance education subjects with some universities, or on campus with TAFE. They are also available full time, but all fees must be paid in advance, as they are not eligible for HECS-HELP. Fees range from $1420 a year with TAFE, through to $925 per unit at Macquarie University.

The next step is to ensure you accrue two years of conveyancing work experience, and work undertaken while studying will be accepted (as long as it's related to conveyancing, of course!). Working in a conveyancer's office or legal office that does conveyancing should cover it. Real Estate Agencies will not be counted, as these are a considered a conflict of interest.

Once you have completed both the course and work requirements, you can apply to the Office of Fair Trading to become a registered conveyancer.

How do I find out if a conveyancer is accredited?

There are two ways to make sure any conveyancer you hire is accredited. If you are looking for a conveyancer, a good place to start is the Australian Institute of Conveyancers, which has branches in every state. Any conveyancer who is a member of AIC must be licensed with the applicable offices in each state.

The second, if you already have a conveyancer, is to check their license with the Office of Fair Trading (or applicable state body). This search also includes conveyancers who hold an interstate practising certificate, which falls under the Legal Profession Act 2004. This is important if you are planning to buy or sell across state lines.

Lastly, if your conveyancer is going to submit your documents via the new electronic conveyancing system, they must have an accredited electronic signature to do so.