As the situation continues to unfold at an increasingly rapid pace in relation to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, the API has taken the decision to shut our offices and instruct our staff to work remotely for a period of 14 days beginning today.

Over the last few days, we have been closely monitoring developments from health authorities and industry, including the enactment of business continuity plans, largescale events being cancelled, and at least one state has declared a State of Emergency. Rather than waiting for a recommendation or direction from health authorities, API are taking a preventative approach utilising best known health directions, to support the containment of the infection.

We are also reviewing our Face to Face Events, currently scheduled over coming months, and will have further advice for our members in the coming days about postponing events and/or transitioning them to an online environment.

Our small and agile workforce is well placed to operate from home, and we expect minimal disruption to our everyday functions. Our main office phone lines have been redirected and will be staffed during regular office hours. All working staff are accessible by email. As our offices are considered closed, please do not visit us in person. We have also arranged mail redirects for all states.

As a further precaution, staff domestic and international travel has been suspended and all onsite committee meetings, professional interviews and other in person meetings are now being transitioned to an online format. Additionally, our staff have been instructed not to attend external events during this period.

Our staff will be reaching out over coming days to discuss disruption to existing arrangements and we encourage you to contact our offices through the individual state contact details available on our website or on 1800 111 274.

I wish to assure all our members that we are still fully operational, and we are as committed to providing our members with the highest standard of service. As both government and health advice evolves and new information comes to hand, we will remain flexible, making any recommended changes to our API planning and provide updates to you.

It is imperative we approach this emerging situation with calm consideration and seek your patience and support along the way.  We look forward to working with you during these trying times and hope that you and your families remain healthy and safe.

Amelia Hodge, CEO, Australian Property Institute