Victoria announces sweeping building sector reforms
Big news out today - arising out of the issues with the building sector and building industry regulator VBA!
Substantial changes are proposed for regulation as indicated by the Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny in a press conference today including:
the ability to direct builders to fix problems;
stop apartments with serious defects being sold;
improve access to insurance including for buildings over 3 stories.
The report ‘The Victorian Building Authority - The Case for Transformation’(PDF) was commissioned by the VBA Chief Executive Anna Cronin and released today refers to many issues including:
poor building standards that have been allowed to flourish in Victoria.
failure by VBA to effectively regulate.
suggestions for substantial reform for both the VBA and Government.
For anyone who works in and around the building industry and building dispute field (legal and insurance) they will know just how bad issues have become!
It appears change is on the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled we will be delivering presentations on what this means for builders, building surveyors, insurers and engineers.
Let’s keep up the pressure to see positive change in this sector.
Kerry Ould has had a significant role in voicing concerns and leading to change that is on the horizon. Amazing work Kerry!
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That’s after those applications have been through DBDRV. So there are many more to come under the new regime.
If YES, you need to understand the new domestic building laws! Due to take shape in just under 5 months! (1 July 2026).
This HIA article describes the positive housing market growth for 2026 in apartments as well as stand alone dwellings - which is great news!
Firstly, No, I’m not still on leave - just working from our Torquay Lawyers office today. What an amazing view.