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There is a high level of regulatory consistency across Australia; however, states and territories can and do make their own variations to the National Construction Code (NCC) to reflect local conditions or priorities.
Arranging statutory approvals (nearly always on behalf of the client) is central to the work of a practising architect. This process needs to be managed efficiently and the client should be encouraged to appoint specialist consultants as required.
For Building Acts in your jurisdiction, refer to the relevant state or territory links provided below:
Australian Capital Territory
- Works in the ACT are covered by the Planning and Development Act 2007 and the Building Act 2004
- Works under the acts are administered by Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate – Planning (ACTPLA)
- Building and development work is guided by the Territory Plan 2008
- Works on nationally designated land are covered by the National Capital Authority and require an NCA Works Approval
New South Wales
- Works in NSW are covered by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
- Domestic work is covered by the Home Building Act 1989
- The NSW Planning Portal provides a comprehensive overview of planning legislation, including BASIX, Certificates and Development Assessment
Northern Territory
- Works in NT are covered by the Building Act 1993 with the most recent updates in 2016
Queensland
- Queensland Building Act 1975
- Queensland Planning Act
- Queensland Safe design of Structures Code of Practice
- Queensland Development Code
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
- Planning and Environment ACT 1987
- Planning and Environment Regulations 2015
- Victorian Building ACT 1993
- Victorian Building Regulations 2018
Western Australia
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