Planning Permission in Australia
In Australia, it is necessary to apply for planning permission to build or renovate a property. The procedure is as follows:
- Obtain a project from an architect or building designer
- Submit the project to the local council or relevant state authority for approval
- Once approved, obtain a building permit from the local council or state authority
Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, and Preservation Orders
If your property is listed or located within a conservation area or preservation order, there are additional rules and regulations to follow.
- Listed buildings require approval from the relevant state or territory heritage council for any alterations or renovations
- Conservation areas and preservation orders may have restrictions on the type of changes that can be made to the property’s exterior
Finding Reliable Builders in Australia
When looking for a builder in Australia, it’s important to find someone reliable and trustworthy. One way to do this is to look for builders who belong to a professional organization.
- The Master Builders Association (MBA) is a professional organization that represents builders and contractors in Australia. They can be contacted at info@masterbuilders.com.au or 1300 30 50 10.
Permits and Licences
When building or renovating a property in Australia, there are several permits and licenses you may need to obtain.
- Building permit: Required for any new construction or major renovation
- Occupancy permit: Required before you can occupy the property
- Electrical permit: Required for any electrical work
- Plumbing permit: Required for any plumbing work
- Demolition permit: Required for any demolition work
Finding a Local Architect in Australia
If you need an architect to design your project, you can find one through the Australian Institute of Architects.
- Australian Institute of Architects: national@architecture.com.au or 1800 770 617
Buying Land in Australia
If you’re buying land in Australia, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of.
- Make sure you have planning permission before purchasing land
- Check the boundaries of the land to ensure they match the land registry
- Be aware of any environmental or conservation restrictions that may affect the land
- Check for any easements or covenants on the land that may restrict your use of the property.