The Australian Property Institute (API) champions professional excellence among property valuers, and a cornerstone of this excellence is Continuing Professional Development (CPD). CPD is not merely a requirement; it is an opportunity for personal and professional growth that should be embraced wholeheartedly.

In the ever-evolving property industry, staying updated with the latest market trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes is paramount. CPD allows valuers to keep abreast of these developments, ensuring they can provide the most accurate and up-to-date advice to their clients. Life Fellow, Greg Clarke said, “This commitment to staying informed not only enhances the quality of service provided but also builds trust and confidence with clients, which is ultimately the best competitive advantage.”

Greg Sugars OAM, National Director and CEO of Preston Rowe Paterson Australasia Pty Limited, emphasises the critical importance of CPD for valuers: “As the property market continues to evolve, it is imperative that valuers remain at the forefront of industry advancements and trends. CPD ensures that our professionals not only maintain their expertise but also enhance their knowledge and skills to deliver the highest standards of service. At Preston Rowe Paterson, we recognise that a commitment to CPD is essential for fostering innovation, upholding the integrity of our valuations, and sustaining the trust of our clients. By embracing lifelong learning, valuers can confidently navigate the complexities of the market and contribute to the ongoing success of the property industry.

This sentiment highlights how CPD is not just about acquiring new information; it is about refining and expanding one’s skill set in response to the ever-changing property market and technological advancements. Kevin Brogan, National Director of Group Risk and Compliance at HTW, stresses that professionals should be curious and proactive in seeking training to improve their skills. He advises against limiting CPD to the 20-hour minimum, urging exploration of diverse learning opportunities to better understand professional requirements to position oneself as a leader in a rapidly changing field.

Networking is another critical aspect of CPD. Participating in CPD activities provides valuable opportunities to connect with peers, industry leaders, and experts. These connections can lead to collaborative opportunities, mentorship, and the exchange of best practices, all of which contribute to professional growth.

The API supports its Members by offering a range of CPD resources and programs. Our upcoming opportunities in person and online can be viewed here.

Any learning with structured learning outcomes can be claimed towards your CPD, should you wish to review CPD definitions.

To conclude with a quote from Mark Kay, Valuer-General for the Northern Territory. “Personally, I welcome CPD to gain new insights and alternative ideas. CPD is crucial for developing professional practice as it keeps skills and knowledge up to date, prepares for greater responsibilities, boosts confidence, fosters creativity in tackling challenges, aids in making better decisions, and can further enhance one’s career. As they say, ‘Only a fool knows everything whereas a wise man knows how little he knows.'”