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Building Permit Application (Form 1) — All States

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VICNSWQLDWASATASACTNT

Form number: Form 1 (VIC); varies by state

Mandatory approval that must be obtained from a registered building surveyor or certifier before commencing any new dwelling, extension, or renovation above the minimum cost threshold (typically $10,000), certifying that the proposed work complies with the National Construction Code and applicable building regulations.

Issuing authority

VIC: Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) via registered building surveyor; NSW: NSW Building Commission / local council via certified builder/owner; QLD: QBCC via private building certifier; WA: Building Commission WA via licensed building surveyor; SA: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) / local council; TAS: Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Official source

vba.vic.gov.au

Cost

VIC: Building permit levy = 0.128% of cost of works (above $10,000) + surveyor fees (varies); NSW/QLD/WA/SA/TAS: varies by state and project value — typically hundreds to several thousand dollars

Deadline

Must be obtained before commencing any regulated building work

How to apply

  1. Determine whether your project requires a building permit — generally mandatory for structural work, new dwellings, extensions, garages, and renovations above $10,000; minor cosmetic works are typically exempt.
  2. Check whether a planning permit (Development Application) is also required before lodging the building permit — a building permit cannot be issued until any required planning permit is obtained.
  3. Engage a Registered Building Surveyor (VIC/WA/SA) or an accredited private building certifier (NSW/QLD/TAS) to assess your plans — in VIC, you apply through the surveyor rather than directly to council.
  4. Prepare and submit the building permit application (Form 1 in VIC) together with at minimum three copies of plans, specifications, allotment plan, engineering certificates, and energy efficiency documentation (NatHERS/Section J).
  5. Pay the building permit levy — in VIC this is 0.128% of the cost of works above $10,000, submitted through the BAMS system by the building surveyor; fees and levy formulas vary by state.
  6. The building surveyor or certifier reviews the application for code compliance — they may request additional information, which pauses the assessment clock.
  7. Once approved, the building permit is issued — display it prominently on the building site as required by law.
  8. During construction, arrange all mandatory inspections at stages specified in the permit (e.g. footings, frame, waterproofing, final) — the permit will lapse if works are not completed within the specified time.
  9. After final inspection, obtain the Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection before occupying the building.

Related topics

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