Effective from 1 August 2025

From 1 August 2025, the way property is bought and sold in Queensland will change. A new statutory seller disclosure regime will come into effect under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld), and it’s one of the most significant legal updates the industry has seen in years.

As part of the REIQ Chapter Committee representing buyers agents, our Director Jason Baron has been actively involved in advising on and supporting the implementation of this new regime over the past several months. It’s a topic close to our team, and one we’re ready to guide our clients through with clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, it’s essential to understand what this means and how it will affect your next property transaction.

What is the new seller disclosure regime?

Under the new law, all residential property sellers must provide potential buyers with key information before a contract is signed.

This includes:

• A Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement (completed and signed)
• All prescribed certificates relevant to the property

These documents must be current, accurate, and provided upfront, no hidden surprises after the contract is signed. The goal? Better transparency, consistency and protection for buyers.

 

What needs to be disclosed?

The Form 2 Disclosure Statement covers a broad range of critical information, including:

Title & Encumbrances

• Title searches
• Easements, leases, or other encumbrances
• Statutory rights (e.g. infrastructure access)

Land Use & Planning

• Local zoning
  Resumptions or transport infrastructure notices
• Heritage listings or contamination notices

Buildings & Compliance

• Pool safety certificates
  Owner-builder declarations
• Notices from councils or authorities

Rates & Services

• Recent council rates and water charges
• Exemptions, or properties without separate metering

Body Corporate Information (if applicable)

• Community management statements
  Body corporate certificates or fee summaries

 

What it doesn’t include

While the new regime improves transparency, it doesn’t cover everything. Buyers must still conduct independent due diligence, as the disclosure form doesn’t address:

• Flooding or natural hazard history
  Pest infestations or structural integrity
• Building approvals or compliance
• Asbestos presence
• Utility connections or service quality

This is where a buyers agent from The Property Baron adds value, we help identify what’s missing and make sure you get the full picture before signing and referring you to the right professional when needed.

 

What happens if the seller doesn’t comply?

If the seller doesn’t provide the Form 2 (and all relevant documents) before the buyer signs, or if the information is inaccurate or missing something material, the buyer has the right to terminate the contract at any time before settlement.

This means buyers will have stronger legal protection  but also more paperwork to navigate upfront.

 

Why this matters to buyers

This regime is designed to protect buyers but only if you understand what you’re reading. The disclosure forms may be packed with legal and planning terms, but overlooking a detail could be costly down the track.

At The Property Baron, we go beyond surface checks. We review all disclosure documents thoroughly, cross-check against planning databases, and identify risks or issues that may not be obvious on paper.

 

How we help you navigate this change

This new regime adds complexity — but also opportunity for savvy buyers. We’re here to guide you through it:

• We review every Form 2 and associated documents with a fine-tooth comb
• We help you ask the right questions before you sign
• We coordinate building and pest inspections, flood mapping, and zoning reviews
• We negotiate with clarity and confidence on your behalf
  And we’re across every legal change impacting buyers in Queensland

 

Final thoughts

Buying property in Queensland is about to get more transparent and more technical. Having the right team on your side has never been more important.

If you’re planning to buy in the next 12 months, reach out. We’ll help you prepare and protect your interests, every step of the way