​​Building Commission NSW to visit Mid North Coast and connect with local tradies​

This seminar will give local tradespeople the chance to familiarise themselves with new regulations, discuss industry trends and ask questions to specialists in their field. It also gives Building Commission the chance to speak directly with locals, gaining insight into regional challenges and strengthening support for the local building and construction industry.

Held on 28 July, the seminar will focus on all aspects of the construction industry, including building, plumbing and electrical, at Panthers Port Macquarie (1 Bay Street, Port Macquarie).

Topics discussed will include:

• licensing requirements
• supervision of apprentices
• amendments to legislation
• building and product related issues
• updates on recent disciplinary decisions.

Trades seminars for regional tradespeople are a focus for Building Commission this year, with events already hosted in Tweed Heads, Coffs Harbour, Queanbeyan and Dubbo, with the team set to visit Wagga Wagga next month.

For more information or to RSVP to these events, please visit the regional trade seminars page.

While in the region, Building Commission inspectors will also conduct compliance inspections at worksites, ensuring building standards are upheld and addressing any defective work.

These inspections follow those conducted in August last year, where inspectors visited 41 sites, issuing 22 fines and 13 Rectification Orders, which require operators to remedy any issues identified.

Fines were primarily issued for non-compliant site signage, while several were also issued for unlicensed work.

The main defects involved non-compliant masonry work, including control joints and bricks overhanging concrete slabs.

Positively, no incorrect damp-proof course installations were found during this visit. Damp-proof courses are essential in preventing moisture from entering structures.

Without them, water can penetrate the building, leading to internal damage, mould growth, and long-term structural deterioration.

Since Building Commission was established as the dedicated regulator in 2023, it has prioritised raising standards, undertaking strong enforcement action and rebuilding confidence in the sector.

More information on last year's Hunter and Mid North Coast inspection blitz can be found on the Building Commission website.

Quotes attributable to NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard:

"Tradespeople in the regions are the backbone of their local areas and it’s vital they have direct access to the latest information and expert guidance.”

“These seminars are a great chance for tradespeople on the Mid North Coast to hear firsthand from some of the most knowledgeable minds in the business, ask questions and stay up to date with what’s happening in the industry.”

“We’re encouraging all tradespeople in the region to come along, get informed, and be part of raising the bar across the industry.”

“This is especially a great opportunity for apprentices to head down and learn a thing or two from some of the most experienced minds in the industry.”