Major Changes for Property Sellers in Queensland: What You Need to Know from 1 August 2025
If you're planning to sell property in Queensland, there’s a major legal update you need to be across. As of 1 August 2025, a new Seller Disclosure Scheme has come into effect under the Property Law Act 2023 — and it completely changes how sellers need to share information with buyers.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changed, what you need to provide, and what happens if you get it wrong.
What's New?
Before 1 August, Queensland followed more of a “buyer beware” model — meaning the buyer had to do their own homework before signing a contract. Now, the onus is firmly on the seller to disclose key information before the buyer signs anything.
The new rules apply to most sales of freehold land, whether it’s a house, a unit, or a vacant block.
So, What Do Sellers Have to Do?
There are two main things every seller must provide:
1. Form 2 - Seller Disclosure Statement
This is a government-issued form where you must disclose things like:
Who owns the property
Any easements, covenants, or other legal interests
Whether the land is affected by things like resumptions, environmental notices, or infrastructure proposals
If there’s a pool — and whether it’s compliant
Tree or fence disputes
Any building notices or orders
And more...
2. Supporting Certificates
Alongside the form, you’ll need to attach some official documents — such as:
A current title search
A copy of the survey plan
If you’re selling a unit, the body corporate certificate and CMS
Any relevant notices (pool, environmental, planning, etc.)
You don’t have to include every single document listed on day one — but they do need to be provided before the buyer signs the contract.
What Happens If You Don’t?
This part is serious: if you don’t give the disclosure, or if the information is wrong or missing something important, the buyer can terminate the contract at any time before settlement.
That’s a huge risk — especially if you’re already partway through another purchase or settlement.
So if you’re selling, don’t leave the paperwork until the last minute. You’ll need time to gather the right documents and get legal advice if needed.
Are There Any Exemptions?
Yes — but they’re limited. You don’t need to provide disclosure if:
You’re transferring the property to a family member or co-owner
It’s a court-ordered sale or part of a divorce settlement
You’re a government body or publicly listed company
The property is valued over $10 million (and the buyer agrees to waive disclosure)
But for most standard residential and small commercial sales — these new rules apply.
Why Has This Changed?
The new laws are designed to improve transparency and reduce disputes. The idea is that buyers should have clear, up-front access to key information about a property — not find out later through expensive due diligence or worse, post-settlement surprises.
It also brings Queensland into line with disclosure schemes already in place in other states like NSW and Victoria.
What Should Sellers Do Now?
If you’re thinking of selling in the near future:
Talk to your solicitor or conveyancer early – they’ll help you get the right documents and complete Form 2 properly.
Don’t guess or assume – inaccurate or missing details can give buyers the right to pull out.
Keep the buyer in the loop – disclosure needs to be provided before they sign the contract.
Agents should also factor this into their timelines when listing properties — disclosure is no longer just a box to tick at the last minute.
Final Word
These changes may seem like extra paperwork, but they’re ultimately about making property transactions more straightforward and fair. If you’re prepared and get good advice, it doesn’t need to be a headache.
Need help? Reach out to a conveyancer or property lawyer as soon as you’re thinking of selling. Getting it right from the start can save you a world of stress down the line.
