PHOTO: Omar Lababidi. FILE
A real estate professional formerly associated with a major national brand is facing multiple serious criminal charges after allegations surfaced involving inappropriate conduct toward several women at property viewings and open homes in Western Sydney.
The case, which opened this week in the Campbelltown District Court, has drawn widespread attention across the Australian property and real estate industry, with agents and agencies reaffirming their commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards.
According to court proceedings, the accused — once recognised as an award-winning sales executive — faces dozens of sexual offence charges involving three complainants, alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2023. The individual has pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Real estate agent Omar Lababidi
Defence and Court Proceedings
Defence counsel has argued that any interactions were consensual, denying any form of coercion or assault. The prosecution, meanwhile, maintains that the conduct was non-consensual and occurred while the accused was working as a licensed real estate agent.
The trial, presided over by Judge Ross Hudson, is expected to last several weeks.
Industry Response
The real estate community has expressed concern over the allegations, describing them as a wake-up call for stronger workplace protocols, open-home safety measures, and training around professional boundaries.
A spokesperson for the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW) said the case underscores the importance of trust, transparency, and integrity in all client interactions.
“The overwhelming majority of licensed real estate professionals uphold exceptional ethical standards,” the spokesperson said. “However, it’s crucial that agencies continue to reinforce appropriate conduct expectations and safety guidelines.”
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Workplace Conduct and Compliance
Real estate agencies across Sydney have begun reviewing internal policies regarding employee supervision, open-home safety, and reporting protocols for inappropriate behaviour.
Legal experts note that while the case remains before the courts, it highlights a growing focus within the property sector on duty of care, agency responsibility, and reputation management.
SOURCE: SMH