AAC Submission to the NSW Public Accountability Committee – Further inquiry into the regulation of building standards

This inquiry raises a number of important issues, but we would respectfully suggest that it too narrowly focusses in on the certification system.

For more than 15 years, the AAC has been advocating for a NSW construction industry where all practitioners are accountable for the work they carry out.  
This focus on accountability was borne out of a desire to improve outcomes for the public, but also a reflection on the limitations that exist within a registered certifier’s role.

Despite common misconceptions about the certification system, the role of a registered certifier is limited and well defined in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the vast majority of registered certifiers in NSW perform their role diligently and in the best interests of the community.

For too long though, there has been a number of deficiencies in the regulatory environment which has allowed too many practitioners to operate without being properly registered, regulated and insured.

In recent years, the NSW Government has embarked on a building reform program, which has largely sought to bring more of these practitioners under the regulatory umbrella.

This has generally been a positive development, but it will take time for these changes to flow through the entire industry and ultimately improve outcomes for the general public.

The AAC also recognises that driving reform and cultural change is not just a matter for government. Industry must do its fair share and that is what our organisation has been focussed on - lifting standards, improving the culture, and ensuring consumers are put front and centre.

A central pillar of this effort has been the development of a Professional Standards Scheme (PSS), which we will soon be launching.

Read the submission

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