The Real Estate Agents Licensing Board (REALB) has introduced a new policy designed to enhance transparency and public trust in Fiji’s real estate sector.
The “Policy on the Public Review of New Agent Licence Applications: Newspaper & Website Advertisement” requires all new agent licence applications to be publicly disclosed not only through the existing Government Gazette notice, but also via advertisements in an English-language newspaper circulating in Fiji and on the REALB website.
Under the policy, once a complete application is submitted through REALB’s online portal, it will be advertised once in print and published online.
Members of the public will then have seven days from the date of publication to lodge objections or letters of support.
Objections must be made on valid grounds under the Real Estate Agents Act 2006, such as eligibility, character, or financial suitability, and must include the objector’s name, address, and reason for objection.
If no valid objections are received, the application will proceed to a Board interview. Where valid objections are lodged, the matter will go before a formal board hearing.
Applicants whose licences are refused can appeal to the minister within 28 days, as provided under Section 77 of the Act.
REALB said the move was part of its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the profession and ensuring a fair and accountable licensing process.
“This policy strengthens public participation in the licensing process and reaffirms our dedication to transparency,” the board stated.