How do I find a good buyer's agent in Australia?

REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia) requires members to hold a buyer's-agent licence, carry professional indemnity insurance, and follow a code of conduct. It's the minimum credential. Cross-check the licence on the relevant state's fair trading register (NSW Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs Victoria, etc.).

Beyond credentials, ask for: 1) at least three recent purchases on suburbs similar to your target, 2) the agent's process for shortlisting (data-driven vs gut-feel), 3) transparent fee structure, ideally 1.5-2.5% of purchase price for full-service, or fixed-fee around $10-15K, NOT commission from the vendor (which creates a conflict of interest), 4) reference checks from past clients.

A good buyer's agent will share their methodology, the data they use, the gates they apply, the negotiation tactics they prefer. If they're cagey about how they make decisions, that's a red flag. Conversely, if they cite primary sources (public records, state land records, ABS census, ATO data), that's a strong signal they're operating on data not opinion.

Specialised use cases: BAs working with first home buyers (often heavier on financing pathway help), with portfolio investors (heavier on structuring + SMSF), or with overseas buyers (heavier on FIRB compliance + foreign-purchaser duty). Match the BA's specialisation to your situation.