Construct NSW
The Construct NSW strategy is delivering once-in-a-generation reform of the building and construction industry.
Key information
- Construct NSW focuses on six areas of industry reform: regulation, ratings, education, contracts, digital tools, and data and research.
- This comprehensive approach is providing the industry and regulatory transformation needed to restore consumer confidence in residential apartment buildings.
- The strategy is led by the Office of the Building Commissioner (OBC)
1. Regulation
Two new laws protect homebuyers and transform the regulator's approach to deliver a customer-focused regulatory framework.
RAB Act
The Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement) Act 2020 (RAB Act) grants sweeping powers for the NSW Building Commissioner and authorised officers to take action against defective building work.
View current orders issued under the RAB Act
DBP Act
The Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (DBP Act) introduced two new registration schemes for practitioners working on residential apartment buildings: one for Professional Engineers and one for designers and builders. Designers and builders also have new obligations to declare and lodge designs and building work on the NSW Planning Portal.
Find out more about changes under the DBP Act
2. Ratings
We're developing ratings systems to make it easier for homeowners and the regulator to identify trustworthy buildings.
We will move away from a ‘one size fits all’ model to a risk-based approach where regulatory attention is focused on the riskiest players. We are also working with ratings agencies, insurers and financiers to develop a world-first construction assurance tool.
Find out more about our new ratings tool
3. Education
We're working with educators and industry professionals to upskill the construction workforce.
We have partnered with TAFE NSW to develop the Construct NSW Digital Learning Platform. The platform proactively addresses skills and learning gaps in the construction sector by creating, sponsoring and approving training courses.
Visit the Digital Learning Platform
4. Contracts
We're strengthening contracts and standards across residential building construction.
We're supporting industry to adapt to building industry reforms by modernising contracts, and clearly outlining the roles and responsibilities of all practitioners to ensure trustworthy building work.
Download sample construction contracts
5. Digital tools
We're using digital platforms to deliver transparency and accountability across the industry.
The platforms will help customers and government agencies to easily find relevant information and improve communications between the government, building sector and the community.
Learn more about our new digital tool
6. Data and research
We're evidencing our reforms through industry research and data collation.
Through a program of surveys and consultations run in collaboration with research partners, we are gathering information about the state of the industry, its capabilities and areas for change.
Read our research report on digitalisation in the construction industry