A South Yarra conveyancer is facing disciplinary action for allegedly failing to comply with trust account audit obligations over 4 years.
Consumers Affairs Victoria alleges that licensed conveyancer John Sierakowski, 78, failed to have his trust accounts audited between 2020 to 2023, as required under the Conveyancers Act 2006.
Licensed conveyancers must have their trust accounts audited annually by an approved auditor. The report must be lodged with Consumer Affairs Victoria via myCAV.
Mr Sierakowski may face penalties and suspension or conditions imposed on his conveyancer’s licence.
Consumer Affairs Victoria Director, Nicole Rich reminded conveyancers to ensure their annual trust account audits are up to date and lodged.
'Trust account auditing is not just a minor administrative task, it’s a key consumer protection.
'While we give conveyancers and estate agents warnings and reasonable opportunities to rectify missed lodgments, we’ve made it clear you will face further action if breaches persist.'
An initial hearing was held on 28 January at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.