A Collective Voice Advocating for Fair, Transparent, And Sustainable Policies For Overseas Australian Property Landlords.
The Association of Australian Property Owners Living Abroad (AAPOLA) was established in September 2017 in order to provide a unified voice for Australian expats and foreign investors holding property in Australia.
In recent years, a range of measures announced by Federal and State Governments has led to a significant increase in the costs of entry and ownership for property owners living abroad — many of whom had no formal representation. The negative impacts of these measures have too often been overlooked or insufficiently considered before being implemented.
AAPOLA serves as a trusted source of accurate data and collective insight, with the knowledge and capacity to engage meaningfully with government and industry bodies. Our goal is to ensure that decision-makers fully understand the implications of their policies and that any changes are developed responsibly, protecting the long-term stability of the Australian property market and Australia’s reputation as a safe, fair, and ethical investment destination on the global stage.
The Association was conceived by Steve Douglas, Executive Chairman of SMATS Group, who has been a leading service provider of taxation, finance and property services to Australian property investors since 1995.
AAPOLA is a not for profit, registered Association in Australia and has no private or commercial ownership. Our membership controls the Association and our committee serves their interests in providing a strong and united voice to be heard by policy makers as well as a conduit of news and information that is of interest or affects their Australian property holdings.
The mission of the Australian Association of Property Investors Living Abroad (AAPOLA) is to represent the collective interests of landlords by advocating for fair, transparent, and sustainable policies.
We aim to foster a balanced regulatory environment where overseas property investment is encouraged, protected, and recognised as a vital part of Australia’s housing future. Our goal is to ensure that property investment remains both viable for owners and aligned with national objectives to provide adequate, affordable housing for all Australians.
A collective voice is essential in addressing rising taxes, levies, and policies that make property investment less attractive. Such measures risk undermining investor confidence and reducing the supply of rental properties at a time when the nation needs them most.
Become a member of AAPOLA and join a growing movement dedicated to protecting property rights, securing tax fairness, and promoting long-term investment to strengthen Australia’s sustainable housing system.
SMATS Group of companies are international leaders in providing taxation, finance and property services to Australian expatriates, non-residents, and intended migrants to Australia since 1995.
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The SMATS Group of companies will assist you every step of the way to increase your knowledge through education and maximise your opportunities through tailored strategies and continuous support, so that you can achieve your financial goals.