EP009 - Deryck Walker - The need for licencing & the role of education in enhancing the profession

BCMs, the need for licencing and the role of education in enhancing the profession An insightful view on Body Corporate Management, its intricacies and future growth opportunities with Deryck Walker, RMIT In the 9th episode of the Let’s Talk Strata Podcast, Deryck Walker draws on his extensive experience in Body Corporate Management, consultancy and education in the strata space. Deryck discusses the scope of the RMIT Certificate VI in Strata Community Management that he coordinates and how it offers a clear pathway into a career in Body Corporate Management. In relation to the need for licensing of Body Corporate Managers, Deryck remarks: “…with the exception of … NSW, ACT and Northern Territory, with there being no licencing requirements, there is not a minimum bar for entry on who a manager can be, what they know and what they do – and this is why the licensing piece is so vital … if you know what you are doing, you can go into the Cert VI – an experienced manager should be able to fly through it … it creates accountability…” For Body Corporate Managers, Deryck sheds light on critical matters such as: - The difference between the giving of legislative information vs legal advice - The need to refer matters to suitable professionals to navigate the multitude of issues that come across a BCM’s desk; - Honing BCM service delivery models such as the segregation of duties and the need to be a “conduit” to other specialised professionals; - The need for formal accreditation and a licensing regime in Queensland to ensure the further growth of the profession and a firm pathway into the profession. Deryck talks about the seismic changes in Body Corporate Management in recent years and how information and education have begun to formalise a professional career, however, discrepancies, from a national level, pose challenges to creating consistency, uniformity in terminology, and promoting national standards and the delivery of strata services. Remarks are made on the diversity of stakeholders in Queensland and the changing service proposition for consumers, including the homogenising and specialising of providers to meet the ever-growing scope of the BCM’s role. Deryck also reflects on the burdens on BCMs in meeting client expectations and delivering high levels of service against sustainability concerning BCM staffing, financial viability and appropriate charging for that service. Email: deryck.walker@rmit.edu.au Phone: 03 9925 3098