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Since the REIQ took a stand against the Queensland government’s proposed rental reforms, it has faced relentless criticism.
In November, the Queensland government unveiled rental law changes it had considered; however, REIQ was quick to point out the proposals are “damaging”.
The industry body launched a campaign, and within the first two days, more than 2,000 emails were sent to the state’s premier.
Since then, groups have made public statements and criticised the REIQ for not supporting tenant rights.
“We have been accused of being scaremongers and misleading in our characterisation of the reforms,” REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said at a public event this week. “We have been accused of being pro-landlord and anti-tenant. None of this is based on truth or fact.”
She was proud to say that the REIQ has a long history of working with all sides.
“Although our core business is to support the Queensland real estate profession, we have worked alongside many tenant-aligned organisations and with countless groups and bodies that are committed to helping the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community.”
She pointed out the REIQ has worked with Tenancy Queensland, the Tenancy Skills Institute, Q-Shelter, and Queenslanders with Disability Network, to name a few.
“We also regularly support initiatives and programs led by the Department of Housing such as Rent Connect and, more recently, the rollout of the Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Housing Action Plan,” Ms Mercorella said.
“In the heat of the debate, we understand that it’s convenient to label the REIQ as ‘anti-tenant’ and that the instinctive response of many is to try and silence us or discredit us.
“But it’s important that this government maintains its objectivity and retains a fair and balanced perspective.”
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