Construction (residential & commercial) compliance in New South Wales

Asbestos management — workplace + dwelling rules (state)

Asbestos work requires licensed asbestos removalist + asbestos management plan.

Comply with NSW Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020

Designers + builders of Class 2-9 buildings in NSW must register + lodge declarations.

Obtain Subcontractor's Statements before paying subcontractors (NSW)

NSW principal contractors obtain a signed Subcontractor's Statement for each payment period to avoid liability for a subcontractor's unpaid workers compensation premiums, payroll tax and wages.

Building work — comply with National Construction Code (NCC)

Buildings must comply with NCC (incorporating BCA + plumbing).

Comply with the respirable crystalline silica workplace exposure limit (0.05 mg/m³)

From 1 December 2026 the 0.05 mg/m³ silica standard becomes a legally binding workplace exposure limit (WEL).

EPBC Act — assess + approve controlled actions affecting MNES

Any action likely to significantly impact Matters of National Environmental Significance needs federal approval.

Prepare a safe work method statement (SWMS) for high risk construction work

Before high risk construction work starts, a SWMS must identify the work, its hazards and risks, the control measures, and how they are implemented, monitored and reviewed.

Comply with Heavy Vehicle Chain of Responsibility (CoR)

Every party in the heavy vehicle supply chain has a positive duty under HVNL.

Hold a Construction Induction (White Card) before construction site work

All construction site workers must have completed nationally recognised induction training (CPCWHS1001).

Hold a High Risk Work Licence for HRWL classes

Forklift, crane, scaffolding, dogging, rigging, EWP and other high-risk work requires a HRWL.