A real estate agent at the centre of the closure of six LJ Hooker offices in Melbourne has blamed her partner for losing millions of dollars owed to homeowners, renters and landlords.
The money for house deposits and rent has gone missing from LJ Hooker Glen Waverley, Keysborough, Mount Waverley, Burwood, Doncaster and Box Hill, which have all been closed since April 21.
Consumer Affairs Victoria says more than 100 customers have been affected by the closure of the franchise run by Judy Nguyen, also known as Judy Thanh Truc, and husband Joseph Ngo.
Ms Nguyen told media outlets she had been set up, and that the account had been "hacked" but LJ Hooker rejected her explanation.
"The day prior to termination of the franchise agreement, Ms Judy Nguyen informed LJ Hooker for the first time that her partner, Joseph Ngo had misused trust funds," the company said in a statement.
"At no time did Ms Nguyen say that her trust account had been hacked."
The Victorian Property Fund may reimburse some house deposits and rent on a case-by-case scenario while the search for the missing money continues.
Clients of the offices can call Consumer Affairs on 1300 558 181.
