The building, construction and property development industries involve some complex legal frameworks in Australia. From the moment a project is envisaged to the time it is completed, sold, or passed to the next generation, each stage carries distinct legal risks and obligations. This blog series outlines the key legal and commercial considerations in building construction and property development, with a particular focus on the evolving obligations, risks and strategic considerations affecting developers in Victoria
Recent reforms to Victoria’s construction and building regulatory framework have materially shifted the risk profile for developers. In particular, developers are now more directly exposed to regulatory oversight, defect liability and compliance obligations that were historically borne primarily by builders and consultants.
The establishment of the Building & Plumbing Commission, together with proposed and implemented changes to domestic building legislation, signals a clear policy direction toward increased accountability across the full development chain.
Throughout this series, we highlight practical issues that developers should actively manage, including regulatory compliance, contract structuring, defect risk and dispute exposure.
Part 1: The Legal Lifecycle of Property Development: From Concept to Completion
Part 2: Legal Structures and Strategies for Property Developers
Part 3: Understanding Building Contracts
Part 4: When Things Go Wrong: Navigating Building Disputes
Part 5: Estate Planning for Property Developers – Safeguarding Your Legacy
