The Property Services Grants Program is an initiative of the New South Wales Government funded through the Office of Fair Trading.

The overall aim of the Property Services Grants Program is to provide funding or loans for educational, training and research programs, which enhance outcomes for consumers of the property services industry through raising consumer awareness and industry standards.

Key dates

Funding period:  1 July 2009 – 30 June 2010
Next call for applications: April 2010

Who can apply?

Applications can be made by:

• incorporated or registered organisations
• universities, TAFEs and other academic institutions
• individuals with the appropriate skills, experience and knowledge who are sponsored by such bodies.

Joint applications, where two or more organisations pool resources and expertise, are also encouraged under the Program.

Who cannot apply

Applications cannot be made by:

• individuals/organisations intending to use the funds for a project in a State/Territory other than NSW
• universities, TAFE's and other academic institutions if the application relates to training courses which are part of their core curricula
• government agencies if the application relates to the core business of those agencies or
• the Office of Fair Trading or its employees.

What will be funded?

The program aims to provide funding to:

• encourage best practice and innovation through training, including continuing professional development and industry education for persons working under the Property Stock & Business Agents Act 2002, the Valuers Act 2003 and the Conveyancers Licensing Act 2003
• provide information or guidance/referral to property services practitioners
• provide information to customers of the property services industry which enhances their understanding of rights and responsibilities in the consumer/trader relationship
• conduct research into issues relevant to the property services industry, including quality assurance programs, mechanisms to enhance customer service delivery and strategies to encourage training in the industry
• foster the development of innovative approaches to regulation in the property services industry.

Note: All project objectives are to promote the delivery of social justice outcomes (access, equity, rights and participation) in the property services industry.

Current priorities

The Program contributes to the achievement of the Office of Fair Trading’s strategic intent, that New South Wales will be recognised for value and fairness in the market place. The program assists the Government to achieve its competition, consumer protection and social justice policy objectives.

To achieve these objectives, the Property Services Grants Program aims to fund or loan grant applications of a high standard which demonstrate sound planning and a commitment to professionalism in the property services industry and positive outcomes for industry clients.

How much funding is available?

Approximately $300,000 per annum is currently available under this program.

How to apply

To apply for funding under this program, please refer to the following documents:

• Funding guidelines in PDF format (size: 127kb)
• Application form in Word format (size: 319kb).

Currently funded services

Services currently funded under the program in PDF format (size: 54kb).

Want more information?

Contact Community and Industry Grants Branch at grants@oft.commerce.nsw.gov.au or phone 9619 8731 or fax 9777 8810.