Code of Conduct

Migration Agents operating in Australia are governed by a strict code of conduct. This code covers an agent's conduct in relation to clients, the Government, and other agents. Agents who do not observe the code risk incuring serious sanctions including suspension and cancellation.

Andrew Cope and Michael Thornton were both part of the joint industry/Government taskforce which, in 1997-1998 drew up the orignal Code of Conduct.

Andrew remains a member of the Board of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (the MARA) while Michael is a member of the Professional Standards Committee of the MARA, which has the responsibility of advising the MARA Board in relation to complaints against agents.

Clients who believe they have not been treated properly by an agent can make a complaint to the MARA.

Cope Thornton takes the provisions of the Code of Conduct, and other legislation affecting agents, very seriously. They regard their obligations to their clients under the Code as the cornerstone of their professional success. The Representation Agreement used by the firm incorporates all of the client obligations imposed by the Code of Conduct.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Many agents operating outside Australia are not Registered Migration Agents and are therefore not governed by the Code of Conduct. Clients may consequently have very little recourse against them in the case of dissatisfaction. Always ask your agent to provide proof of current registration.

If you wish to read the current Code of Conduct,  Click here