David Priest joins Entry Education as National Lead Trainer
The real estate industry changes fast. As Australia’s largest provider of real estate courses, we take it upon ourselves to continually innovate. We work hard to improve our offerings and invite the best and brightest to join our team and share their expertise with students.
That’s why we are absolutely thrilled to announce that industry veteran David Priest has joined our team as National Lead Trainer.
David has been delivering our diploma workshops for over a year now. We can vouch for his teaching skills and deep insight. Stepping into a permanent role, we know he will continue sharing his knowledge and experience.
An expansive career in real estate
David’s four-decade-long career began at the tender age of 17 in London, England. Since these early days, he has lived and worked in some of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets, including Hong Kong, Tokyo, and throughout Australia—covering the cities of Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, and the Gold Coast.
David sold a waterfront home to the Japanese Prime Minister and brokered multimillion-dollar international hotel deals. He also handled the sale of properties on Hamilton Island and Sanctuary Cove and amalgamated 80 individual units where the iconic Q1 Tower now stands in Surfers Paradise.
“My lifetime and body of work has culminated here,” said David. “I’m ready to give back to the industry that has both challenged and rewarded me.”
A passion for knowledge sharing
David has always been passionate about giving back and making a difference. About 15 years ago, he moved into the training and compliance spaces. He earned TAE qualifications and worked with organisations like Deloitte and St John Ambulance. He’s also taught at RMIT and Swinburne University.
In addition, David spent 18 years as a Senior Lecturer at the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV).
Adapting to an evolving industry
David has seen the industry change first-hand. A believer in future-proofing his students’ skills, he adapted his training techniques to meet the real-world needs of aspiring agents.
Younger learners are empowered by social media and other digital platforms. They gravitate towards hands-on, practical learning experiences. David uses everyday examples, engaging anecdotes, and even a touch of humour to simplify the complex.
Looking ahead
As our National Lead Trainer, David will equip our trainers and assessors with the up-to-date skills and knowledge they need to reach their potential. He’ll also build mentorship-style relationships with staff and students grounded in supportive and actionable guidance.
“When I share feedback, it needs to be clear,” said David. For him, it’s about giving students the insight they need to succeed today—and for years to come.
To make sure of this, David is well-connected with the broader real estate community. He speaks with pioneering professionals leading the way in their communities. He also keeps a finger on the pulse of governing and industry bodies like REIV, ASQA, and REIA.
Looking ahead, David sees two key trends shaping the industry, the first being AI.
“The world is changing right before younger generations’ eyes,” said David. “AI platforms will help students get the information they need faster.”
The second trend is the rise of non-accredited, practical courses, particularly those that prepare students for the pressures they’ll face in the first year of their careers.
Learning from the best
With David on board full-time, Entry Education (RTO:41529) just keeps going from strength to strength.
If you’re keen on becoming an agent or taking the next step in your career trajectory, learn more about our courses today.
As David puts it, the best way to approach your professional and personal life is simple: “Always aim to be a better version of yourself.”
