Why should I become a PIPA member?
PIPA is fast becoming the benchmark which consumers seek to give them confidence that their adviser or property professional is educated and subscribes to a code of practice. Once regulation is in place, PIPA members will be ready for compliance and have an industry leader behind them.
PIPA can offer guidance to its members in many areas, and also provides the only 'diploma level' qualified property investment adviser course available today. This course results in the acquisition of the exclusive post nominals QPIA® (Qualified Property Investment Adviser)
What level of membership should I choose?
PIPA has several levels of membership available and these relate to the number of people in your business.
For businesses with an advice model (where personal circumstances advice is included in the service) who are not sole traders, you should count the number of people actively involved in the provision of advice and choose the Corporate level of membership which applies. Only sole traders may apply for individual membership, so if you are an adviser who works for someone else, your company will need to hold the membership.
In all cases of individual or corporate membership, at least one person must be nominated to complete the QIPA® accreditation. We suggest, however that all advisers should hold this qualification.
To clarify the membership level required download our Membership Category Information Document
Can I become an affiliate member so that I do not have to do the course?
No. Only those individuals or companies who are in the industry and who do not have an advice model may apply as affiliates. The purpose of an affiliate membership is to allow you to introduce those companies who you normally do business with, such as accountancy practices and legal firms, to PIPA so that they too can subscribe to our code of conduct and provide additional reassurance to your clients.
What is an advice model?
An advice model includes those businesses who, at any time during the service provision, consider a client's personal financial circumstances in their recommendations.
How much does it cost to be a member?
Please see the membership information document
How do I apply?
Please determine the suitable membership category then download the appropriate membership application form. Complete the form and email with all supporting documentation to info@pipa.asn.au
What information do I need to provide?
You will need to provide PIPA
1. A completed application form
2. A copy of your Professional Indemnity insurance policy which covers your activities as stated on the application form
3. A copy of appropriate ID
Can I display the PIPA logo?
Upon successful application, you will be provided with a logo appropriate to your category of membership. The member business, company or sole trader will be able to display this logo on marketing material, business stationery, website, and presentation material.
Can I display the QPIA logo once I am a member?
You may only display the QPIA® logo once you have applied for and been granted the QPIA® award. Unauthorised use of the QPIA® logo or claim to the award is not permitted.
Who approves the membership application?
Your application is processed by the Secretary of PIPA and either approved or rejected by the PIPA board of directors.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You may appeal the rejection by making a written submission to the PIPA board of directors within 30 days of being notified of the status of your application.
How long does it take to process an application?
You should allow between 7 and 14 days for your membership application to be processed.
Can I apply for the QPIA® award as an Affiliate member?
No. The QPIA® award may only be attained by Full Members or their employees.
Can I vote as an Affiliate member?
No. Affiliate members do not have any voting rights.
Can I display the PIPA logo as an Affiliate member?
Affiliate members are able to display the Affiliate member logo.