The City of Melbourne is making it much easier for the building and construction industry to operate, with a new regulatory framework and a streamline digital process for projects and developments across the municipality.
The new Code of Practice for Building, Construction and Works presents the biggest rewrite of our construction code in 20 years. It updates and amalgamates the Code of Good Practice at Construction Sites and the Construction Management Plan (CMP) Guidelines.
Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said it is essential for industry to have a clear guide when planning for and carrying out significant projects across the municipality.
"The new code and the new digital permit system will revolutionize the building application process in Melbourne and will mean people in the construction sector can spend less time on paperwork and more time on site getting the job done.
"The new Code is designed to act as a bible for builders and developers working in Melbourne. It is the document that regulates the conduct of all works that affect our public spaces and amenity," the Deputy Lord Mayor said.
"Since the last Codes were issued, our city and the expectations of our community have changed. We want to ensure we have a regulatory framework in place that reflects the current environment, while also making it easier for industry to deliver projects in our city.
"The Code provides simple, detailed advice to the construction industry, enabling a more streamlined process for works planning, applications, approvals and compliance."
Improvements to the Code include:
- Better management and oversight of our assets, including roadway and footpath surfaces, public trees and street furniture, before, during and after construction, ensuring they are returned in the same or improved conditions.
- Clearer direction on requirements for CMP matters such as consultation and notification, noise, dust and waste management.
- A standardised approach to regulation of all temporary protective structures, like hoarding and temporary fences, in public space, making them safer and less intrusive on footpaths, and more uniform in appearance.
The new Code is is supported by a digital revolution with the enablement of digital services where possible. The introduction of a guided digital permit application system by the end of this financial year will reduce time-consuming and detailed assessments for low-risk activities.
"We've been working closely with industry and have undertaken an extensive engagement process to understand the changes we could implement to make it even simpler to operate in Melbourne," the Deputy Lord Mayor said.
The new Code of Practice for Building, Construction and Works is expected to come into effect and be available on the City of Melbourne's website upon gazettal in late March.
