Career Pathways: How to Become a Real Estate Professional in South Australia
Thinking about a career in real estate?
Starting a real estate career in Australia looks different depending on the state you live in. In South Australia, you’ll need to be licensed to work as a Sales Representative, Property Manager, or Auctioneer.
Licensing is handled by Consumer and Business Services (CBS). You’ll need to complete specific training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) — like Adelaide Real Estate Academy — before applying.
Step-by-Step: Getting Started
Choose your path – Decide whether you want to become a:
- Real Estate Sales Representative
- Property Manager
- Auctioneer (must already hold a Sales Rep Registration)
Complete your training – Enrol in an accredited online course, with optional in-person workshops to build practical skills.
Apply to CBS – Once training is complete, submit your application with required documents.
You can:
- Sell residential, commercial, and rural properties
- Work in business broking
- Operate under the supervision of a licensed land agent
However, you cannot:
- Own or operate your own real estate agency
- Offer property management services unless you apply for an additional property management condition
- Act as an auctioneer unless you have completed the necessary qualifications.
You can:
- Manage residential and commercial rental properties on behalf of a landlord
- Collect rent and bond monies, and manage trust account transactions
- Coordinate maintenance and repairs for managed properties
- Conduct property inspections, including entry, routine, and final inspections
- Advertise rental properties, show them to prospective tenants, and assess applications
- Prepare and manage tenancy agreements, including renewals and terminations
- Liaise between tenants and landlords to ensure smooth tenancy operations
These activities must be carried out under the supervision of a licensed land agent.
However, you cannot:
- Sell or lease properties unless you are also registered as a sales representative
- Operate your own real estate agency unless you are a licensed land agent
- Act as an auctioneer without obtaining the appropriate auctioneer qualifications
- Provide property management services unless your registration includes the property management condition
CBS Registration Requirements
Once you have completed the qualification, you can apply for registration with CBS. The application process includes:
- Submitting proof of your qualification
- Providing a National Police Certificate dated within the last 12 months
- Confirming your age (must be 18 or older)
Paying the application fee
You can apply online through the CBS portal
