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Navigating NSW Real Estate CPD Requirements: Face-to-Face Learning and Course Providers Before June 2026

  • 3 days ago
  • 4 min read

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a crucial part of maintaining your real estate licence in New South Wales. Recent CPD changes require agents to complete hours face-to-face or via interactive webinars, not online.


With a deadline set for the 25-26 year, specifically on 30 June 2026, real estate professionals need to plan carefully to meet these requirements on time.

This deadline represents a critical juncture for those operating within the real estate sector, as it encompasses a range of regulatory changes, sustainability initiatives, and market adaptations that must be addressed effectively.

Failure to comply with these new standards could result in significant penalties, loss of business opportunities, or diminished market competitiveness.


Eye-level view of a classroom with real estate professionals attending a CPD course
Real estate agents attending a face-to-face CPD session

Understanding the New CPD Requirements in NSW


The NSW Fair Trading authority has updated the CPD rules to ensure real estate agents engage more actively with their professional development. The key points to remember are:


Real estate agents in NSW are required to complete mandatory CPD each year from July 1 to June 30 to keep their licence active. For the 2025-26 period, agents need to complete 3–7 hours, or more of interactive training (webinars or in-person) on specific subjects such as tenancy reforms, risk management, and anti - money laundering, provided by approved organizations.


CPD Requirements (1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026)

  • Residential/Sales/Property Management:

    • 7 hours of interactive training from an approved provider on 4 compulsory real estate CPD topics

    • Short Term Property Managers:

    • 4 hours of interactive training from an approved provider on 3 compulsory short-term residential property management CPD topics

  • Commercial/Business Agents:

    • 5 hours of interactive training from an approved provider on 4 compulsory commercial real estate or business broker CPD topics

  • Strata Managing Agents: 4 hours plus 1 hour mandatory online module on disclosures and fiduciary duty

  • Stock & Station Agents: 5 hours of mandatory training.


  • Class 1 Agents: Must also attend a forum accredited by NSW Fair Trading or an equivalent approved provider for an additional 5 hours.


    If you are a dual licence holder or class 1 agent or strata manager check with your course provider and or NSW Fair Trading for full cpd requirements in addition


Key CPD Topics for 2025-26

Courses must include specific regulatory updates, such as:


  • Privacy law reforms.

  • Mitigating risk and psychosocial hazards.

  • Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism.

  • Residential tenancies reforms.


This change aims to improve the quality of learning by encouraging real-time interaction, discussion, and practical application of knowledge.


Why Face-to-Face or Interactive Webinars Matter


The shift away from online self-paced learning reflects a desire for more engagement and accountability in CPD. Face-to-face and interactive webinars provide:


  • Real-time interaction: Opportunities to ask questions and clarify doubts immediately

  • Networking: Connect with peers and industry experts, sharing experiences and insights

  • Practical learning: Role plays, case studies, and group discussions enhance understanding

  • Better retention: Active participation helps embed knowledge more effectively


For many agents, this means adjusting schedules to attend sessions in person or log in at set times for webinars. Planning ahead is essential to avoid last-minute rushes.


Finding Approved Educators and Courses


Several educators are now offering CPD courses that meet the NSW Fair Trading standards. When choosing a provider, ensure they:


  • Are approved by NSW Fair Trading for the mandatory content

  • Offer the full hours of CPD required for licence renewal

  • Provide courses in face-to-face or interactive webinar formats

  • Have clear schedules and locations or webinar times that fit your availability


Examples of Providers Offering CPD in NSW


Some industry associations offer CPD courses, but in addition to the ones listed below, there are more listed on the NSW Fair Trading website:


Australian Institute of Business Brokers


Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association Limited


Strata Community Association (NSW)


The Real Estate Institute of the ACT trading as REI ACT

Training subcontracted to Real Mastery  Website: reiact.com.au


The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales Limited - REINSW Roadshow


Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sessions, to secure your place and avoid missing the June 2026 deadline.


High angle view of a webinar screen showing an interactive real estate CPD session
Interactive webinar for NSW real estate CPD with live Q&A

Tips for Meeting Your CPD Requirements Efficiently


To stay on track with CPD compliance, consider these practical steps:


  • Create a CPD calendar: Mark key dates for available courses and webinars well in advance.

  • Mix formats: Combine face-to-face sessions with interactive webinars to fit your schedule and learning preferences.

  • Check course content: Confirm that courses cover both the general 7 hours and the 5 hours required by Fair Trading.

  • Keep records: Maintain certificates and attendance records for all completed CPD activities. NSW Fair Trading may request proof during licence renewal.

  • Ask your employer: Some agencies organise group CPD sessions, which can be a convenient way to complete hours together.


Starting early gives you flexibility and reduces stress as the deadline approaches.


What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?


Failing to complete the required CPD hours by June 2026 can have serious consequences:


  • Your real estate licence may not be renewed until CPD compliance is met.

  • You could face penalties or fines imposed by NSW Fair Trading.

  • Your professional reputation might suffer, affecting client trust and business opportunities.


Meeting CPD requirements is not just a legal obligation but a way to stay informed about industry changes, legal updates, and best practices.


Close-up view of a calendar marked with June 2026 deadline for CPD compliance
Calendar showing June 2026 deadline for NSW real estate CPD compliance

NSW Real Estate CPD Compliance


The move to face-to-face and interactive webinar CPD in NSW reflects a commitment to higher quality professional development. Real estate agents must complete several hours of CPD, & may require additional hours from Fair Trading-approved courses,

all by 30th June 2026. Planning ahead, choosing approved educators, and engaging actively in learning will ensure you meet these requirements smoothly.


Start exploring course options today and schedule your CPD sessions to avoid last-minute pressure. Staying compliant not only protects your licence but also sharpens your skills and knowledge in a competitive market.


Disclaimer: please check direct with your course provider and NSW Fair trading site for your exact requirements based on your licence / qualification and position


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