Master in Creativity

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia has been a groundbreaking initiative, transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing tailored support and services. However, to ensure its long-term sustainability and bolster other crucial disability services, an actuary has proposed an additional investment of $25 billion. This comprehensive analysis delves into the reasons behind this recommendation, the potential impact on the disability sector, and the broader implications for fostering inclusivity and support for Australians with disabilities.

The NDIS, introduced in 2013, represents a monumental shift in Australia’s approach to disability support. It aims to empower individuals with disabilities by providing them with choice and control over their support services. Participants receive funding based on their individual needs, fostering a more personalized and inclusive approach to disability support.

The NDIS has undeniably achieved significant milestones, enhancing the quality of life for many Australians with disabilities. However, the system has faced challenges, including funding shortfalls, delays in plan approvals, and concerns about the quality and availability of services. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring the scheme’s effectiveness in the long run.

The call for an additional $25 billion investment comes from an actuary who has carefully assessed the financial sustainability of the NDIS. The proposal aims to address existing shortfalls, expand the scope of services, and enhance the overall support infrastructure for individuals with disabilities. This injection of funds is envisioned to act as a proactive measure to meet the growing demand for disability services in the years to come.

The actuary’s recommendation extends beyond the NDIS, emphasizing the need to boost other disability services. This includes investing in areas such as healthcare, education, employment support, and accessible infrastructure. By creating a more holistic and interconnected support system, Australians with disabilities can receive comprehensive assistance tailored to their diverse needs by NDIS Services Providers.

One of the primary reasons behind the recommended $25 billion investment is to bridge existing funding gaps within the NDIS. Adequate funding is essential to ensure timely plan approvals, sufficient service provider capacity, and a wide range of support options for participants. Closing these gaps is vital to maintain the integrity of the NDIS and fulfill its promise of transformative support.

A significant portion of the proposed investment aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of disability services. This includes training and upskilling support workers, improving service infrastructure in regional and remote areas, and implementing technology solutions to streamline service delivery. The goal is to create a more responsive, efficient, and inclusive disability support ecosystem.

Australia’s aging population and evolving healthcare landscape contribute to an increasing demand for disability services. The actuary’s recommendation anticipates this surge in demand and emphasizes the proactive allocation of resources to meet the evolving needs of individuals with disabilities. By investing strategically, the disability sector can better prepare for the demographic shifts and provide sustained support.

The proposed investment goes beyond financial considerations, acknowledging the broader social and economic benefits of a well-supported disability sector. Improved access to quality services can enhance the participation of individuals with disabilities in education and employment, fostering a more inclusive society. This, in turn, has the potential to contribute to economic growth and reduce long-term societal costs.

Implementing such a significant investment requires thorough consultation with stakeholders, including disability advocacy groups, service providers, and individuals with disabilities. By actively involving those directly impacted, the decision-making process can ensure that the allocated funds address the most pressing needs and challenges within the disability sector.

The actuary’s recommendation calls for a collaborative effort between the government, the private sector, and the wider community. A commitment to long-term financial support for the NDIS and disability services requires bipartisan political support and public acknowledgment of the importance of a robust and sustainable disability support system.

While the proposed investment is substantial, potential challenges may arise in its implementation. These could include budgetary constraints, bureaucratic hurdles, and the need for effective oversight. Mitigation strategies should involve transparent communication, ongoing evaluation, and a commitment to adapt the investment strategy based on evolving needs and circumstances.

Building public awareness around the importance of sustainable disability support is crucial. Engaging in advocacy efforts to inform the public about the benefits of the proposed investment can garner support and understanding. By fostering a sense of collective responsibility, Australians may be more inclined to endorse the additional funding required for a robust disability support system.

 

Australia, renowned for its stunning landscapes and high quality of life, has also experienced its share of economic fluctuations, including living cost inflation. The rising cost of living is a complex phenomenon influenced by various factors, including economic conditions, government policies, global trends, and demographic changes. In this discussion, we will delve into the dynamics of living cost inflation in Australia, exploring key drivers, implications for the population, and potential solutions to mitigate its impact.

Factors Driving Living Cost Inflation

1. Economic Growth and Demand: Living cost inflation is often closely tied to the overall economic growth of a country. As Australia experiences economic expansion, the demand for goods and services increases, leading to higher prices. Factors such as increased consumer spending and robust business activity contribute to this upward pressure on living costs.
2. Housing Market Dynamics: The Australian housing market plays a pivotal role in living cost inflation. Skyrocketing property prices, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, have a direct impact on rental costs and the overall cost of living. This trend can be attributed to factors like population growth, low-interest rates, and limited housing supply.
3. Currency Fluctuations: Australia’s economy is heavily influenced by global markets, and currency fluctuations can have a significant impact on the cost of imported goods and services. A weaker Australian dollar can lead to increased prices for imported goods, contributing to overall inflation.
4. Wage Growth: The relationship between living cost inflation and wage growth is critical. If wages do not keep pace with rising living costs, households may experience a decline in real income, making it challenging for individuals and families to maintain their desired standard of living.
5. Government Policies and Regulations: Government policies, including taxation, social welfare programs, and regulations, can either mitigate or exacerbate living cost inflation. Changes in policies related to healthcare, education, and social services can have direct effects on household budgets.

Implications for the Population

1. Impact on Household Budgets: The most immediate effect of living cost inflation is felt in households. Increased prices for essential goods and services, such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare, can strain family budgets, particularly for those with fixed or limited incomes.
2. Inequality and Social Disparities: Living cost inflation can contribute to growing economic inequality. Those with higher incomes may be better equipped to absorb rising costs, while low-income households may struggle to meet basic needs, deepening social disparities.
3. Housing Affordability Crisis: The surge in property prices and rental costs has led to a housing affordability crisis, making it increasingly difficult for individuals, especially younger generations, to enter the property market. This has broader implications for wealth accumulation and intergenerational financial stability.
4. Consumer Behavior and Spending Patterns: In response to living cost inflation, consumers may alter their spending habits, opting for cheaper alternatives or cutting back on non-essential expenses. This shift in consumer behavior can have cascading effects on businesses, affecting various sectors of the economy.

Mitigating the Impact

1. Focused Government Interventions: Government interventions, such as targeted subsidies for essential services, can help alleviate the burden of living cost inflation on vulnerable populations. Additionally, policies that promote affordable housing and address supply-demand imbalances can contribute to a more stable cost of living.
2. Investment in Education and Skills Development: Enhancing education and skills development programs can empower individuals to access higher-paying jobs, increasing their ability to cope with rising living costs. This investment can also contribute to a more dynamic and adaptable workforce.
3. Addressing Healthcare Costs: Healthcare expenses are a significant component of living costs. Government efforts to contain healthcare costs through efficient policies and investments in preventive healthcare can help curb the impact of inflation on household budgets.
4. Encouraging Sustainable Economic Practices: Sustainable economic practices, including responsible resource management and a focus on renewable energy, can contribute to a more stable economic environment, potentially reducing the impact of external factors on living cost inflation.

Living cost inflation in Australia is a multifaceted challenge that requires a comprehensive understanding of its drivers and consequences. As the nation navigates through economic shifts and societal changes, it becomes crucial for policymakers, businesses, and communities to collaborate on solutions that ensure the well-being and financial stability of the population. By addressing the root causes and implementing strategic interventions, Australia can strive towards achieving a more balanced and sustainable cost of living for its residents.

What Happened to Optus?

One of the biggest phone and internet networks in the country, Optus, recently had a major problem. It went offline and stopped working for a while. This affected millions of people who use Optus for their phones and internet.

How Long Was Optus Down?

The outage started early in the morning and lasted for about 13 hours. During this time, people couldn’t make calls or use the internet on their phones. It was a really long time for the network to be down.

Is Optus Still Down?

Most people have reported that their Optus service is back online. The company has been working hard to fix the problem and get everything back to normal.

What Caused the Outage?

Optus hasn’t said exactly what caused the problem yet. Some experts think it might have been a problem with how the network was set up. They say that all the phone and internet traffic goes through one point, and something might have gone wrong there.

Can Optus Customers Get Compensation?

Because of the inconvenience caused by the outage, many people are wondering if they can get compensation from Optus. The CEO of Optus has apologized to customers and said they are looking into ways to thank them for their patience.

Are Network Outages Common?

Network outages can happen to any phone or internet company. Even big companies like Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone have had problems in the past. It’s not something that happens all the time, but it can happen.

Can Optus Customers Still Call for Help?

During the outage, some people were worried that they wouldn’t be able to call for help in an emergency. But don’t worry, Optus mobile users can still call Triple Zero (000) if they need to. The company has made sure that emergency calls can still go through.

Was Optus Hacked?

There is no evidence to suggest that the outage was caused by a cyber-attack. The government has said that it doesn’t seem like a hacking incident. They are still investigating to find out exactly what happened.

Optus had a big problem with its network, but they have been working hard to fix it. Most people have their service back now, and the company is looking into ways to make it up to their customers. Network outages can happen to any company, but they are usually fixed quickly.

In the dynamic world of real estate, the art of turning properties for profit, commonly known as house flipping, has become a compelling venture for investors and enthusiasts alike. Successfully navigating the complexities of buying, renovating, and selling properties requires a combination of strategic planning, market insight, and a hands-on approach. This guide is designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for turning properties into lucrative investments.

Thorough Research and Market Analysis

• Identify Profitable Markets: Begin by researching and identifying markets with potential for profit. Look for areas experiencing growth, high demand, or undergoing revitalization.
• Understand Local Market Trends: Analyze recent sales data, market trends, and neighborhood dynamics. Recognizing what buyers in the area value can guide your investment decisions.
• Evaluate Potential ROI: Calculate potential returns on investment (ROI) by considering purchase prices, renovation costs, and estimated resale values. A realistic understanding of potential profits is vital for effective decision-making.

Secure Financing and Budget Wisely

• Explore Funding Options: Investigate financing options such as traditional mortgages, hard money loans, or private investors. Choose the option that aligns with your financial strategy and project timeline.
• Create a Detailed Budget: Develop a comprehensive budget that accounts for acquisition costs, renovation expenses, carrying costs, and a buffer for unforeseen challenges. A well-planned budget is crucial for project success.

Strategic Property Acquisition

• Location, Location, Location: Choose properties in desirable locations. Proximity to amenities, schools, and public transportation can significantly impact the property’s market value.
• Negotiate Effectively: Hone your negotiation skills to secure properties at favorable prices. Be aware of the seller’s motivation and leverage it to your advantage.

Renovation and Improvement Strategies

• Focus on High-Impact Areas: Prioritize renovations in areas that add significant value, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal. Strategic improvements enhance the property’s marketability.
• DIY vs. Professional Help: Assess your skill set and determine which renovations you can handle yourself and where professional contractors are necessary. Effective project management is key to staying on schedule and within budget.
• Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Consider incorporating energy-efficient features to attract eco-conscious buyers and potentially reduce long-term operating costs.

Effective Staging and Presentation

• Invest in Professional Staging: Presentation is crucial. Professional staging enhances a property’s appeal and creates an emotional connection with potential buyers.
• Curb Appeal Matters: Allocate resources to improve curb appeal. First impressions play a significant role in a buyer’s decision-making process.

Strategic Pricing and Marketing

• Accurate Pricing: Research comparable properties and set a competitive and realistic selling price. Overpricing can deter buyers, while underpricing may reduce potential profits.
• Comprehensive Marketing Strategy: Develop a marketing strategy that utilizes online platforms, professional photography, and targeted advertising to maximize visibility and attract potential buyers.

Optimal Timing of the Sale

• Monitor Market Conditions: Pay attention to market trends and conditions. Timing the sale during a seller’s market can increase the likelihood of a quick and profitable transaction.
• Consider Seasonal Factors: Be mindful of seasonal influences on the real estate market. Timing the sale during periods of increased buyer activity can enhance your chances of success.

Legal and Administrative Considerations

• Compliance with Regulations: Ensure all renovations comply with local building codes and regulations. Obtaining necessary permits is crucial to avoiding legal complications.
• Professional Contracts: Work with a real estate attorney to draft and review contracts. Clear and legally sound agreements protect your interests during the sale.

Learning from Each Project

• Post-Project Evaluation: After completing a property flip, evaluate the process and outcomes. Identify successes and areas for improvement to refine your strategy for future projects.
• Networking and Building Relationships: Cultivate relationships with real estate professionals, contractors, and other industry experts. Networking provides valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

Turning properties for profit requires a combination of strategic planning, market knowledge, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. By meticulously researching markets, securing financing wisely, making strategic property acquisitions, and effectively managing renovations, you can increase your chances of a successful property flip. Remember, each project is a learning opportunity, and the insights gained can be applied to future ventures. With a well-rounded approach and a commitment to excellence, you can turn properties into profitable investments in the dynamic world of real estate.

Australian-constructed drone sticking firearms are shielding Ukrainian military units from Russian assaults.

Sydney-based innovation organization DroneShield told 9news.com.au it had been providing Ukraine with its gear as a feature of a tactical guide contract.

The organization was established quite a while back fully intent on delivering innovation to counter regular citizen drones adjusted for military purposes.

DroneShield CEO Oleg Vornik said the utilization of robots by Ukraine and Russia in the conflict had impelled the automated flying vehicles into the media spotlight.

“Little robots were utilized against Saudi Arabia, in the Armenia-Azerbaijan struggle and the Syrian clash,” he said.

“Be that as it may, drones generally remained off the front pages in those struggles until the Ukrainian clash went along and drones were up front.”

Since the Ukraine war began on February 24, drones have been utilized by the two sides to pinpoint foe positions, guide big guns strikes, track troop developments and jam contradicting powers’ correspondences.

Vornik said his organization’s Drone Gun and hand-held radio-sized units have demonstrated compelling in Ukraine on the grounds that numerous Russian robots utilized Western componentry.

“Indeed, even Russian military-grade drones utilize business parts … our stuff is very powerful in identifying and overcoming those robots,” he said.

He said the reaction from Ukraine’s military about the presentation of the Australian fabricated innovation was to a great extent certain.

Drone-sticking innovation works by impeding the sign a robot ships off its ground station, or pilot.

Vornik said he concurs with numerous safeguard specialists that the wide utilization of robots in Ukraine has changed the substance of present day fighting.

In the early piece of the conflict, Ukraine widely utilized its loads of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB-2 laser-directed, bomb-dropping robots to hit long escorts of Russian soldiers and supply sections.

Since the conflict started, the US and Western partners have sent many different robots, including an undefined number of “kamikaze” Switchblade 600s that convey tank-puncturing warheads and utilize man-made reasoning to follow targets.

In any case, their reach is restricted, and they can remain high up for around 40 minutes.

Ukraine has pushed firmly for further developed long-range drones that can endure radio impedance and GPS sticking and depend on satellite correspondences for control and route.

The Australian securities market has actually dropped more than six per cent in a single day, wiping greater than $155 billion and also taping the largest one-day autumn since the Global Financial Dilemma.

At the close of market the criteria S&P/ ASX 200 was down 455.6 points or 7.33 percent, noting the end of a “scary” session not seen for virtually 12 years.

The most significant one-day loss during the Global Financial Dilemma got on October 10, 2008 when the marketplace dropped 8.3 per cent in a solitary trading day.

One sufferer of crashing supply rates is the Australian dollar, which sunk to a flash-low of 63.04 US cents regarding noontime prior to recuperating to an extra workable 65 United States cents.

The low of 63 cents marks an 11-year-low versus the United States paper money.

This mid-day Westpac Principal Financial expert Expense Evans forecasted the Australian economic climate will certainly enter an economic crisis for the first time since 1991.

“On a quarterly basis we anticipate the economic climate will certainly contract in both the very first and also 2nd quarters by 0.3 percent as well as 0.3 percent respectively to be complied with by a rebound of 1.4 percent as well as 0.8 per cent specifically in the 3rd and 4th quarters,” Westpac primary economic expert Costs Evans wrote.

“That development account makes up a technological economic crisis yet given the anticipated recovery in the second half of the year it is far more reasonable to characterise the circumstance as a ‘major disturbance’ to growth as opposed to the design of economic downturn that Australia has experienced in the past.”

Earlier today oil prices dove, resulting in forecasts of $1 petroleum to arise. CommSec chief economist Craig James predicting gasoline prices could likewise drop significantly.

“The ready-reckoner is that every US$ 1 a barrel fall in the oil price leads to a 1.0 cent autumn at the petroleum bowser. Provided the Aussie dollar is reasonably stable, motorists might be able to expect filling out for near $1 a litre,” he wrote in a research study note.

Gas rates in Australia’s capital cities on Sunday ranged from an average of $1.19 a litre in Adelaide to $1.536 in Hobart, according to motormouth.com.au.

In Sydney, petroleum was costing $1.248, while it set you back approximately $1.239 in Melbourne.

As more property owner are relying on solar system to offer power, more consumer problems have actually been made.

Over the in 2015, more than 180 people in Western Australia have reported having problems adhering to the installment of a brand-new solar panel system.

The problems elevated have to do with efficiency and also that is liable to repair the product when it comes to unrequested consumer contracts and also business going out of business.

Solar PV panels normally come with an efficiency guarantee which could be as high as 25 years, while panel product service warranties and workmanship assurances often tend to last 5 to one decade, Consumer Security commissioner Marcus Relose stated.

“Realize that various parts of your solar system might come with different guarantees– one for the inverter, one for the panels and also one for solar PV system outcome, for example,” Mr Relose stated.

“Insurance claims made throughout the sales procedure about the system’s efficiency and advantages relating to decreases in power expenses need to be put in composing so you have a case if the claims confirm to be false or deceptive.”

Suppliers have actually additionally been trying to transfer the responsibility of repairing problems to the manufacturers or installers. Nevertheless, the buyer entered an agreement with the vendor, so they are responsible for organising a repair service or replacement, Mr Relose said.

“If the supplier you involved subsequently goes out of business, after that at that point you may need to come close to the maker or installer directly to make a guarantee case.

“With any type of booming market, there are firms coming and going from the market, so consumers must beware. We recommend utilizing businesses approved by the Clean Energy Council. An accepted solar retailer consents to follow a sector code of conduct, including making use of moral sales techniques and supplying realistic warranties. A recognized installer agrees to function to market best technique requirements and also produce systems that are secure, trustworthy and meet customer expectations.”

The commissioner suggests getting quotes from a number of credible companies who have proven experience as well as a good track record.

“Make sure the quote consists of other expenses such as any type of application fee to link to the grid, upgrading your meter and also cabling or getting rid of trees that are shading the panels.

“If you are approached in the house by a solar panel system seller without an invitation, they have to give you a 10 company day ceasefire agreement prior to they take any kind of money or start installation. They likewise require to inform you about just how you can terminate the agreement if you alter your mind within the 10 days.”

This short article will certainly concentrate on exactly how to choose an event photographer, however before getting into how to work with a specialist digital photographer, it is very important to first talk about why you ought to employ one.

Relying on how you value photography, you may not believe employing a professional is required. You may have seen incredible pictures made by non-professionals, so why even trouble? The response is consistency. Anyone can obtain lucky or have the skill to make an outstanding picture here or there, yet a good professional photographer has the ability to offer you with constant results.

Their capacity to do so is mainly identified by two aspects: their technological ability as a photographer and also their familiarity with what the task needs.

Why a Professional photographer’s Skill Matters

When I initially started out as a professional photographer, a mentor of mine utilized to claim there are two types of photographers: technical professional photographers and innovative photographers, with extremely little overlap. Although there might be some reality to digital photographers coming under among both camps, the concept that these two things are in some way apart is a misunderstanding.

Being technical or creative is not mutually exclusive. Actually, it is by being a technical professional photographer that you have the ability to be most innovative. By recognizing just how your cam and the concepts of digital photography job, along with comprehending just how the camera sees in contrast to the human eye, a photographer has the ability to properly execute their vision.

A professional photographer who has understood their craft to the point in which all the decision making is done unconsciously is complimentary to concentrate on what remains in front of them and not hindered by mindful thought. Although being a practically great digital photographer does not indicate you understand exactly how to record the significance of an event, it does maximize the cognitive transmission capacity to do so.

Much less competent digital photographers that might be relying upon established strategies or “what worked” in the past are not versatile. The min unfamiliar variables are presented they can be unpredictable what to do and be ill-prepared to create high quality pictures. A knowledgeable digital photographer will have the ability to give superb photos despite the variables of your occasion.

The demand for still photos in modern advertising has come to be progressively important. 80% of marketing professionals use aesthetic in their social media advertising while 32% of online marketers say aesthetic photos are the most important form of web content for their company. Visuals are said to be refined 60,000 times faster than message. Social media site articles that include a picture is 10 times more probable to receive interaction. Also cooperate event photos are important on social media pages where guests and staffs can find the credibility on company’s page and photos will be gone viral and boost up company reputation. Cooperate event photographer who normally caters from 100 to 1000 guests in an event. Their crews will have a play role for each member. It’s necessary to ask those question before hiring an experienced cooperate event photographer.

When employing a digital photographer, the best method to evaluate their skill and versatility is by asking to consider sample events. This will be the best sign of what you are potentially spending for. This is something a profile can refrain from doing because a portfolio is simply a collection of a photographer’s best pictures. You intend to examine the quality of their ordinary photo, not their ideal.

I suggest asking if they can share a comparable occasion to yours along with something unconnected. Seeing the kind of job a photographer has actually generated in a variety of problems gives you understanding right into their technological skill and also versatility. This consists of understanding just how to work in varying locations, handling different lighting scenarios, program styles, and so on

What Should Your Occasion Photographer’s Focus be?

It is a considered that when photographing an occasion, details matter. A great deal of hard work goes into creating an occasion of any kind of dimension as well as a photographers job remains in part to record those information. However, a digital photographer’s top priority must be on capturing specifying moments of an occasion that both tell a story and also stimulate a sensation. Every picture needs to be about something, whether that be a feeling, reaction, or an interaction, there should be suggesting behind the photograph. These are the photos that use a home window into what it resembled to be there.

Recognizing what Expert Digital Photography Requires

A professional photographer with a breadth of work experience will simply be able to evaluate situations quicker. What this suggests to you as a client, is more comprehensive coverage and also therefore a majority of top quality images. A knowledgeable photographer has most likely shot an occasion like yours prior to and also as a result knows the general style of your event in addition to any other specific challenges: whether it be a conference, birthday celebration celebration, award dinner, lunch, or nonprofit event, each has a various style.

The Value of Design or Absence of

When hiring an event digital photographer, you are picking somebody to create pictures that precisely represent your occasion and/or brand. Keep that in mind when looking at their work. Nonetheless, I recommend staying clear of photos that are excessively stylized in article as they will have much less latitude must you determine to have them better edited to match an aesthetic design. Instead, I suggest finding a digital photographer whose design of capturing will properly tell your story or document your occasion. I suggest trying to find relatively neutral post-processing. This will offer you extra flexibility in just how you make use of and also stylise (if required) the supplied pictures.

Preparing your Photographer for Your Occasion

Prior to the day of your event, it is a great suggestion to orient your photographer on the series of occasions if any and supply them with a composed timeline. Truthfully, thinking you have hired a knowledgeable, adaptable professional photographer, they must easily be able to catch every little thing without guidance. Nevertheless, If you have any surprise occasions, I recommend educating your photographer of when as well as where they will take place to ensure they do not miss it.

Occasion Photography Rates

Prices vary, yet expect anywhere in between $150 and also $450 per hr. This will certainly vary depending on the professional photographer and also any particular requests or services. You absolutely obtain what you spend for, however if you’ve read this much into this post, you know just how to analyze the high quality of a professional photographers work.

Homeowners ditching the services of traditional real estate to ‘self-sell’ their property are running the risk of losing more than they bargained for and ending up financially exposed according to specialist real estate trainer Validum Institute.

With more than 17 years’ insight into the property industry, Validum Institute’s Wei-Loong Chen has seen it all and urges those thinking of going down the ‘self-sell’ path to think again. 

“We’ve all heard the stereotypes about real estate agents and we’ve all seen how easy they make it look on reality TV shows, but at the end of the day there is more involved in selling your house than taking some nice pictures and putting a sign up in your yard,” Mr Chen said. 

“In many ways real estate agents have been their own worst enemy, Mr Chen said. 

“For years they have just done their job so well and made it look easy that many people now feel they can do it themselves and keep the commission. 

“But as they often say, don’t believe everything you see on TV’. If it was that simple agencies like Ray White and Place wouldn’t exist today. 

“Whilst it sounds tempting to save on commission fees, the reality of selling a house is often much more complex than sellers realise at first glance. A licenced real estate agent will save you time, money and a lot of unnecessary heartache. 

“From preparing your house for sale, developing and implementing a marketing campaign and then taking care of negotiations and legals, real estate agents use their market knowledge industry experience to help you get a higher selling price than you would get by selling on your own.”

As one of Australia’s leading Registered Training Organisations, Validum Institute has been delivering nationally recognised real estate and property courses and qualifications since 2016.

“I’ve seen firsthand the extensive training licenced real estate agents undertake so they can get their licence from the Office of Fair Trading Queensland.

“If you are thinking of self-selling your property, I would urge you to reconsider and go and speak to a handful of real estate agents.  It won’t cost you anything and could make you a small fortune.”

Real Estate Sector Delivers Jobs Boom

With the great Australian dream showing no signs of ending, there has never been a better time to start your career in property. 

Wei-Loong said the success of Australia’s property industry is often overlooked leaving the door wide open for budding entrepreneurs to make their mark.

“The facts speak for themselves, in Australia nearly two per cent of the population is employed in real estate which is the same figure for media, communications and mining,” Wei-Loong said. 

“Sitting at 2.9% of GDP, the real estate sector brings in more than the administration and support services sector as well as the agriculture and hospitality sectors. 

“Around 19.5 per cent of Australia’s investment goes into the ownership of property with a further 4.3% going into rental and real estate investment.  The investment in mining nationally sits at 26.6 per cent.”

With the uncertain economic times and the increasing focus on jobs in the new economy, Wei-Loong said real estate careers continue to stand the test of time with the sector predicted to record recording above average employment over the next five years.

“Despite there being more channels for people to sell their property, the demand for skills real estate agents shows no sign of slowing down,” Wei-Loong said.

“And with property prices continuing to rise so do the opportunities to make money.

With more than 17 years’ experience in the property sector, Wei-Loong is one of Validum Institute’s leading trainers helping prospective real estate agents get on the pathway to success. 

“There isn’t much I haven’t seen in my time in this sector,” Wei-Loong said. 

“Times and technology might change, but the basic principles of hard work, customer service and innovation remain the same. 

“At Validum Institute we know that to have a successful career in real estate you need more than just a piece of paper.  All of our students benefit from our real world experience as benefit with ongoing coaching and mentoring from some of Australia’s leading real estate professionals.

“If you are looking for a change from the routine and have a zest for success, I encourage you to think carefully about a career in real estate.

“It’s the only industry I can think of where the opportunities are endless.”

In excellent information as Christmas nears, national legislations have actually entered into effect today that indicate any type of present cards acquired Australia-wide must instantly come with a minimum three-year expiry period.

The change to Australia’s customer regulation has occurred to ensure a “regular strategy to present cards, regardless of where in Australia they are bought”, according to Western Australia’s commissioner for consumer security David Hillyard.

“Present cards allow money in Australia, both for their convenience as well as flexibility, however unfortunately an approximated $70 million is shed every year due to expiry dates,” Mr Hillyard stated.

He clarified that federal, state and region consumer agencies interacted to introduce the new rules around gift card expiration days and also post-purchase fees and also costs “to assist stop such losses and also to make gift cards fairer for consumers”.

“With the exception of a few limited-use present cards and also vouchers, all gift cards purchased from 1 November 2019 will automatically come with a minimum three-year expiry duration, with the expiration date to be clearly marked on the card,” Mr Hillyard said.

Also where investors do state an earlier expiration date, it will be void and also customers will certainly be qualified to the mandatory three-year period.

“It will certainly likewise be unlawful for traders to charge post-purchase costs or administration costs that will certainly decrease the value of the gift card, such as activation, account maintaining as well as balance enquiry costs,” the commissioner continued.

Investors will be able to bill costs they would generally bill as part of a deal, such as overseas purchase fees, scheduling fees or costs charged to change a shed, taken or harmed card.

Traders will certainly also not be stopped from charging upfront costs for the purchase of the present card, with Mr Hillyard acknowledging that “whether consumers select to accept an in advance fee and proceed with the purchase will be up to them”.