Master Builders NSW has lodged its submission to the NSW Parliament’s review of the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 and the Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act 2020.
We support the goal of improving building quality and accountability, but the current framework has become overly complex, costly, and confusing. What began as targeted reform is now a system weighed down by red tape and duplication.
Compliance costs have surged, smaller projects are hit hardest, and many experienced builders are leaving the industry. Laws intended for large apartment developments now apply to small buildings and renovations, adding unnecessary burden.
We acknowledge the important role of the Building Commission NSW but believe greater focus is needed on education, consistency, and clear guidance to help builders meet their obligations.
Our submission calls for a simpler, fairer framework focused on quality, shared accountability, and practical compliance. Key recommendations include:
-
Limiting the laws to large apartment projects
-
Fixing the Building Commission NSW portal
-
Making Australian Standards free to access
-
Providing clear checklists for builders and strata managers
-
Introducing a 10-year pause on further major regulatory change
We remain committed to working with government and the Building Commission NSW to deliver practical, balanced reforms that protect consumers and strengthen the industry.
The full submission is available to download below.