Social distancing front of mind as outdoor auctions are set to resume in Canberra

Outdoor auctions are set to resume in Canberra on October 15 as part of the ACT government’s Pathway Forward framework. 

But the industry will have a tough job in keeping onlookers at bay who usually flock to watch one of Canberra’s favourite spectator sports.

ACT chief minister Andrew Barr announced on Monday a number of changes that will come into effect over the coming weeks as the capital transitions from “high, to medium, low and finally baseline public health measures”.

As part of the changes, outdoor auctions will be permitted to take place from October 15 with up to 25 people, or one person per four square metres, whichever is less.

From October 29, density limits of one person per four square metres will apply for indoor auctions. Density limits at outdoor auctions will be further eased with one person per two square metres permitted or up to 150 people – whichever is less.

It is unknown whether the term outdoor auctions mean auctions can be held at the site where the property is being sold.

Real Estate Institute ACT welcomed the news but said “discussions are ongoing” with the ACT government in terms of fine-tuning details of the changes.

Stan Platis, the executive director of residential sales at Independent, said the changes would kick the market back to some level of normality, but that social distancing would be “front of mind” for many real estate agents.

“Real estate agents will have to manage how many people will be at the auction, including keeping count of how many people are registering to bid and how many are there just to watch.

“This all needs to be managed properly so the sellers, agents and genuine buyers can operate as seamlessly as possible.”

Auctioneer Frank Walmsley of Auction Advantage has booked several auctions to call from October 15 since the changes were announced.

“I’ve called a number of online auctions in recent weeks, but there’s nothing like calling an auction with the sellers and buyers on-site,” he said.

“Online auctions have a lag, so this will be a good turning point for buyers who’ll be able to take control of the auction and see everything as it happens.”

Mr Walmsley expects more auctions will be held after October 15.

“Sellers who’ve scheduled an auction over the next two weeks may postpone it to after October 15 to ensure they can take advantage of holding an outdoor auction,” he said. 

While outdoor auctions will resume, a hybrid model between online and on-site auctions will continue.

“A lot of people still enjoy online auctions, so for the foreseeable future, agents will also be conducting the online auction simultaneously to the on-site auction,” Mr Platis added.

The easing of restrictions can change depending on the levels of community transmission and the national and local vaccination rates.

“It will be a challenge, but the ACT’s Pathway Forward … will ensure that we make the gradual and safe steps towards a better Christmas and summer holiday here in the ACT,” Mr Barr said.