On 6 December this year, the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) will continue with the implementation of changes to the Building Act (1993).

In coming weeks, we will provide you with details on what these changes mean for builders. In broad terms, these changes will include:

• Changes to inspections: These reforms introduce increased inspection powers which are critical to positioning the VBA as a strong and effective regulator as it seeks to monitor and enforce compliance on building projects.

• Changes to offences: Potential action taken by the VBA under these increased reform powers will help strengthen compliance around proper conduct and allow disciplinary action or prosecution for offences.

• Building surveyors and owners: These reforms highlight changes to the appointment, transfer and termination of a Private Building Surveyor, increased rigor around the inspection of building works and tighter requirements around the issuing of building permits

More information is forthcoming from Master Builders and the VBA.