What is the Design Building Practitioners Act?

The Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW) was introduced to improve the quality and accountability of building work in New South Wales. It establishes a registration and compliance framework for designers, engineers, and builders involved in Class 2 (multi-unit residential) buildings and certain other types of construction. Under this Act, practitioners must be registered, designs must be declared compliant with the Building Code of Australia, and variations must be documented. The Act also introduces a duty of care, meaning practitioners can be held legally responsible for defects, even if the property is sold. It forms part of a broader reform aimed at restoring public confidence in the building industry.