Online Plan in Act Review

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello last week announced proposed new legislation on the process of certifying building projects in NSW. The new legislation will be in response to Michael Lambert’s independent review of the Building Professionals Act 2005.

Mr Lambert’s final 354 page report was tabled in parliament on 21 September and contained 1 recommendations.

Some key aspects of the Government’s response include a greater focus on digitising information and the ability to have information about certifiers in real time, online. This aspect of the planned reform could be realised in weeks as a bill will be introduced to parliament to address this element of the reforms.

There will also be an expansion of accreditation with fire and safety functions being examined in the first quarter of 2017.

Complaints and disciplinary processes around certifiers will also be strengthened, with greater oversight and improved responsiveness to community complaints.

Minister Dominello said on Wednesday last week “The Government will introduce legislation to enhance certifier accreditation, including clarifying a certifier’s roles and responsibilities, improving the independence of certifiers and strengthening complaints processes.”

“Certifiers play a critical role in the building process and these reforms will ensure safety and confidence in the system.

“NSW is experiencing a construction boom and it is imperative that we have first class certification laws that cater for current needs and future demands.”

An exposure draft Bill for public feedback will be released in the first half of 2017 and the Property Council will be in close consultation with the Minister and members on the proposed changes.