Real estate veteran Connie McKee appointed to RTA Board

In a significant move for Queensland’s real estate sector, the esteemed real estate professional and educator, Connie McKee, has been appointed to the Board of the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA). The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has lauded this appointment as a step towards bringing valuable industry insights and diversity to the RTA Board.

Antonia Mercorella, CEO of REIQ, expressed her enthusiasm for Ms McKee’s appointment, highlighting the wealth of experience she brings. “Connie brings over four decades of hands-on industry experience as a practising property manager, small business owner, trainer, and advisor,” Ms Mercorella stated. Her extensive experience is expected to be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the rental sector during a period of significant change.

Ms McKee’s career spans over 40 years, during which she has made substantial contributions to the real estate industry. She has owned three real estate businesses, specialising in property management and sales. Beyond her business endeavors, Ms McKee has dedicated over 25 years to training, assessing, and advising in the real estate sector. She is also a founding member of the REIQ’s member-exclusive Property Management Support Service (PMSS) and remains an active participant in the team.

Her commitment to education and compliance is evident through her involvement in leading education sessions across Queensland on legislative reforms. She continues to train aspiring real estate professionals with the REIQ, playing a crucial role in developing the next generation of property managers.

Ms Mercorella emphasised the importance of having a practitioner like Ms McKee on the RTA Board. “Her deep understanding of property management issues, combined with her passion for education, compliance, and best practice, makes her an ideal addition to the Board,” she noted. “The inclusion of a practitioner who understands the on-the-ground realities of Queensland’s rental market will undoubtedly provide valuable insights to the RTA’s work.”

The timing of Ms McKee’s appointment coincides with the introduction of new leadership at the RTA. Alongside Ms McKee, Steve Davidson has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, and Brook Monahan will take on the role of Chairperson. Additionally, Paul Spiro and Colin Cassidy have been appointed as new Board Directors. These appointments mark a new chapter for the RTA, with a focus on fostering collaboration and effective rental outcomes.

“We congratulate Steve Davidson on his appointment and look forward to working with him in his new role, as he leads the RTA into its next chapter,” Ms Mercorella said. She further added, “The REIQ has enjoyed a long-standing, collaborative relationship with the RTA, and we are confident that will continue under this new leadership team.”

As the peak body for real estate professionals in Queensland, the REIQ is committed to working constructively with stakeholders, including the RTA, to support fair, balanced, and effective rental outcomes. “As the state’s peak body for real estate professionals, we’re committed to working constructively with stakeholders, including the RTA, to support fair, balanced, and effective rental outcomes for both property owners, managers, and tenants,” Ms Mercorella affirmed.

Ms McKee’s appointment is seen as a positive development for the real estate sector, bringing a fresh perspective and a wealth of knowledge to the RTA Board. Her extensive experience and commitment to education and best practices are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Queensland’s rental market.