The ACT Government has amended the Building Act 2004 and Construction Occupations (Licensing) Act 2004 (COLA) to include professional engineers (PEs) in the licensing framework. From 6 March 2025, engineers involved in design, construction, consultancy, or certification must hold a relevant licence under COLA. This applies to engineers working in structural, civil, or building design, ensuring compliance with building regulations and standards.
What is a Professional Engineer (PE)?
A professional engineer is a qualified and licensed individual who applies engineering principles to the design, construction and certification of building projects. PEs ensure structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations, playing a crucial role in the technical aspects of building work.
What does this mean for members?
For Master Builders ACT members, this update means that any engineers involved in your projects must now be licensed under COLA. It is crucial to verify that engineers on your projects meet these new requirements to avoid non-compliance issues. These amendments strengthen the regulatory framework, enhancing accountability and quality control in the construction industry.
Members should take the following actions to ensure compliance:
• Verify the licensing status of engineers working on your projects.
• Stay informed about further regulatory changes to manage risks of penalties or liabilities.
For more information, contact our Advisory team on (02) 6175 5900 or by email legal@mba.org.au.
