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Vendor Disclosure Obligations in Australia

What must be disclosed, when, and the agent's liability if it isn't.

Published 24 February 2025

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Disclosure protects everyone

Failing to disclose a material fact can void a sale and expose both vendor and agent to penalties. Treat disclosure as risk management.

What typically must be disclosed

  • Known material defects and structural issues.
  • Easements, encumbrances, and zoning matters.
  • Anything a reasonable buyer would consider significant.

The agent's exposure

Agents can be liable for misleading conduct even when repeating a vendor's claim. If you are unsure, verify or stay silent.

Practical tip: Never guess. If a vendor makes a claim you cannot verify, don't repeat it in marketing.

Summary

  1. Disclosure is risk management, not a formality.
  2. Material facts and legal encumbrances must be disclosed.
  3. Agents can be liable for repeating unverified claims.

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