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A former real estate agent has come under fire after deceptively taking $305,053 in rental income from a trust account while managing a property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
NSW Fair Trading has prosecuted a former agent for dishonestly taking hundreds of thousands of dollars from a trust account while managing a property in Elizabeth Bay.
Dean Norburn was found to have taken rental income owed to the landlord from the trust account he controlled, using the funds for personal expenses over an extended period.
Appearing at Parramatta Local Court on 27 February 2026, Norburn was convicted of one offence under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).
He was ordered to pay $100,000 in compensation to the Property Services Compensation Fund and $500 in professional costs.
The Property Services Compensation Fund had already compensated the impacted property owner for $376,558, covering the substantiated loss, interest, and legal costs.
In addition to the payments, Norburn was ordered to complete an 18-month Intensive Corrections Order and 300 hours of community service.
Fair Trading said the court emphasised the seriousness of the offending, the breach of trust, the sustained period of deception, and the need for deterrence within the real estate sector.
It said Norburn may appeal his sentence within 28 days.
The Property Services Compensation Fund had already compensated the impacted property owner $376,558, covering the substantiated loss, interest, and legal costs, ensuring the victim was not left out of pocket while the prosecution proceeded.
NSW Fair Trading will continue to take action against misconduct to protect consumers and uphold integrity in the property industry.
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