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In October 2024, the Victorian Government announced the merger of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) and the Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) function of the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA). 

To be known as the Building & Plumbing Commission, there will be a streamline of building regulation and insurance oversight. The new body will aim to improve protection for Victorian homeowners and simplify the compliance process for builders, through powers such as:

• A new rectification order power to allow the Commission to act against a builder after the occupancy permit is issued.
• Developers of apartment buildings above three storeys are to notify the Commission prior to occupancy so the regulator can complete a final inspection.
• A strata bond will be introduced for mid-to-high-rise apartment buildings, allowing more funds to rectify defects.
• The DBI will extend to when a builder has failed to comply with the new rectification order.

The new Commission is equipped with greater powers to enforce stricter compliance with building standards, ensuring that all practitioners adhere to the regulations and protecting consumer interests. 

Legislation will be introduced in early 2025 following development of the reform with key stakeholders such as the VBA’s Building Special Advisory Panel (BSAP), Plumbing Special Advisory Panel (PSAP) to enable the functions of the Commission.

CLICK HERE for more information regarding the new regulator.