An estate agent who showed a ‘blatant disregard’ for her obligations has been suspended for 6 months after Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) took enforcement action.
Crystal Goni, 38, of Mount Waverley, repeatedly failed to ensure her company’s trust accounts were audited between 2021 and 2024, despite multiple reminders and assurances that an auditor would be appointed.
In its decision, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) accepted CAV's submissions that the breaches were flagrant and found her claims that she had appointed an auditor were ‘clearly not based in reality’.
VCAT also found Goni showed a complete lack of insight into the seriousness of her conduct and had no confidence she would not continue to engage in similar conduct in the future.
Goni was the sole director and Officer in Effective Control of the now-deregistered Australian Property Specialist Pty Ltd.
In addition to the 6-month suspension, Goni was fined $1,500 and ordered to complete the outstanding audits within 3 months.
VCAT's decision leaves open the possibility of further orders, including cancellation of Goni’s licence, if she fails to comply with the audit requirements.
Estate agents have legal obligations to properly manage trust accounts and ensure required audits are completed.
If you’re an executive in an estate agency, you must meet your obligations. Read more about running an estate agent business.