vba building surveyors conference 2019 - post-event survey · label) 6 / 36 vba building surveyors...

63.96% 71

18.92% 21

5.41% 6

11.71% 13

Q1 Attendee typeAnswered: 111 Skipped: 1

TOTAL 111

# OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY) DATE

1 Private Building Inspector 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 Affiliated Industry Association 3/1/2019 9:39 AM

3 Fire Service 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

4 Building Inspector 2/28/2019 2:45 PM

5 Industry representative 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

6 Building Surveyor 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

7 Industry Consultant 2/28/2019 8:46 AM

8 Senior Building Surveyor 2/28/2019 8:19 AM

9 Council building surveyor 2/28/2019 8:05 AM

10 Industry Association 2/28/2019 7:32 AM

11 MFB Building Surveyor 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

12 Property Owner 2/27/2019 9:14 PM

13 Software Provider 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

PrivateBuilding...

MunicipalBuilding...

VBA Employee

Other (pleasespecify)

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES

Private Building Surveyor

Municipal Building Surveyor

VBA Employee

Other (please specify)

1 / 36

VBA Building Surveyors Conference 2019 - Post-event survey

Q2 Overall, how would you rate the VBA Building SurveyorsConference 2019 ?

Answered: 112 Skipped: 0

0.89%1

2.68%3

24.11%27

51.79%58

20.54%23

112

3.88

S

0 1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5 TOTAL WEIGHTED AVERAGE

S

2 / 36


Q3 How useful was the information presented at the conference?Answered: 112 Skipped: 0

0.89%1

4.46%5

41.96%47

44.64%50

8.04%9

112

3.54

(no label)

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

NOT USEFUL ATALL

NOT SOUSEFUL

SOMEWHATUSEFUL

VERYUSEFUL

EXTREMELYUSEFUL

TOTAL WEIGHTEDAVERAGE

(nolabel)

3 / 36


0.00% 0

17.86% 20

82.14% 92

Q4 Was the conference length too long, too short or about right?Answered: 112 Skipped: 0

TOTAL 112

Too short

Too long

About right

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%


Too short

Too long

About right

4 / 36


Q5 How would you rate the venue locations?Answered: 112 Skipped: 0

0.00%0

0.00%0

12.50%14

51.79%58

35.71%40

112

4.23

(no label)

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

POOR FAIR GOOD VERY GOOD EXCELLENT TOTAL WEIGHTED AVERAGE

(no label)

5 / 36


Q6 How well-organised was the conference?Answered: 111 Skipped: 1

0.00%0

0.90%1

4.50%5

63.96%71

30.63%34

111

(no label)

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

NOT ATALL ORGANISED

NOTSO ORGANISED

SOMEWHAT ORGANISED VERY ORGANISED EXTREMELY ORGANISED TOTAL WEIGHTEDAVERAGE

(nolabel)

6 / 36


Q7 What did you like about the conference?Answered: 101 Skipped: 11

# RESPONSES DATE

1 1. Guest speakers were interesting and surprisingly entertaining (for a difficult subject matter). 2.Questions from the group

3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * There seemed to be a general spirit of listening and open communication. As noted manycommented these are the issues that have been raised for the last 10-15-20 years. * Thecommitment from the Commissioner to act on matters was positive

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Range of speakers presented. Panel sessions. Live questions capability. 3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 VBA CEO speach and the panel sessions with real quality panel members 3/4/2019 12:29 PM

5 That the VBA was willing to listen to the concerns of the industry and work upon it. 3/4/2019 11:08 AM

6 The presents of the Minister and Head of VBA attended the conference. 3/4/2019 11:03 AM

7 The VBA needs to listen to us building surveyors and the problems they constantly face and theongoing harassment by the VBA lawyers on small non life threatening allegations that cost hugeamounts of money and claims against PI Insurance to the point that insurance Companies arepulling out and not insuring building surveyors for PI. This needs to stop.

3/4/2019 9:25 AM

8 Speed of presentations 3/3/2019 1:46 PM

9 Good topics, good panels, opportunities for questions and networking. 3/3/2019 9:33 AM

10 There seemed to be a united effort to improve the short comings of our industry. 3/2/2019 7:01 PM

11 A consultation method proved to be a good way to start discussion - but it is hard to put outthoughts that my cause you to be audited - I would like to see the CEO's details on honestmistakes and fixing things as compared to mistakes are punished hard no matter what

3/1/2019 3:34 PM

12 The new attitude the CEO has given me hope that improvement is on its way, it was the bestthing the VBA has done since i started in this profession in 2007

3/1/2019 12:30 PM

13 Networking with other practitioners. 3/1/2019 10:59 AM

14 Bronwyn Weir who encouraged conversation along with her ability to relate to the pressuresamongst our industry. Having DELWP at the conference is helpful for them to understand someof the issues currently being faced.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

15 Primarily, that the VBA are finally (or again, depending on how you view it) tackling industryissues, with industry consultation.

3/1/2019 9:39 AM

16 The conference appeared to go a long way to breaking down the decade-long barriers betweenbuilding surveyors operating at councils, private industry and the VBA.

3/1/2019 7:07 AM

17 It had some excellent presenters 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

18 was for Building surveyors only. no designers or consultants 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

19 Actually got people face to face and open the door for communication 2/28/2019 5:54 PM

20 I found the topics discussed was very accurate of the day to day issues that Building Surveyorsactually face. The live questions were good and I thought Bronwyn presented very well.

2/28/2019 4:28 PM

21 One source of truth - the ability to give a clear message, leadership and direction 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

22 Live questions being presented and sometimes answered by panel/speakers 2/28/2019 3:30 PM

23 The caliber of speakers 2/28/2019 3:15 PM

24 A lot of facts put on the table. 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

25 That so many Building Surveyors took the time to attend 2/28/2019 2:45 PM

26 Sue Eddy and other senior operators from the VBA showing a genuine interest in the industryand how to best move forward. Accolades to Sue Eddy for being at the conference for the entireday and actively engaging. She has my full support.

2/28/2019 2:23 PM

27 meeting other, discussions, live questions 2/28/2019 2:11 PM

28 There was time for engagement if you wanted it 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

29 open honest discussion 2/28/2019 1:25 PM

30 1. The honest approach by Sue Eddy 2. The discussion with the afternoon panel Members 3.The Slido app and interactive technology

2/28/2019 1:06 PM

31 Collaborating with the industry 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

32 The level of speakers 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

33 The central location. Quality speakers 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

34 Panel sessions and questions to panels App to ask questions 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

35 The fact that the VBA is commiting to listen to Buildign Surveyors and are commited to change. 2/28/2019 11:31 AM

7 / 36


36 Extent of engagement by industry 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

37 Generalised nature of discussion without getting over technical and boring 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

38 The open platform, the VBA listening to feedback 2/28/2019 9:36 AM

39 Very optimistic as Sue Eddy was available for the entire day and didn't just leave like theMinister for Planning. Great to see the beginning of a new long term relationship that we've allbeen wanting and leadership.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

40 I was run well and kept to time. The speakers were good and the topics relevant. 2/28/2019 9:15 AM

41 Ability to meet and discuss with peers in the same profession. 2/28/2019 9:05 AM

42 For the first time in my career I thought that the VBA were actually trying to understand thingsfrom our perspective. It is a very challenging industry that we find ourselves in, and requireadequate support from above in order to better serve the community.

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

43 Current topics in the industry that require resolution 2/28/2019 8:50 AM

44 It tried to concentrate on building surveyor issues, and not totally side tracked. 2/28/2019 8:49 AM

45 The opportunity for the VBA to tune into the industry 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

46 Building bridges to a single purpose is critical 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

47 very informative 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

48 Relevant discussion 2/28/2019 8:21 AM

49 The programme 2/28/2019 8:19 AM

50 interactive conversations 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

51 It allowed me and other Building Surveyors to come together and raise the critical issues facingthe industry and informed the VBA of these to hopefully ensure these are addressed.

2/28/2019 8:08 AM

52 That the VBA was represented by the CEO and that she stayed for the whole period. The panelspeakers were an excellent cross section of the regulatory world. The moderator was excellent.

2/28/2019 8:05 AM

53 CEO commitment to review licensing hurdles , education standard (VU not ASQA accredited)and attract professional and work with other states to ensure cross boarder licensing. NationalBuilding Professional register (NBPR)accreditation for Building Surveyor.

2/28/2019 7:57 AM

54 positive disussion 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

55 Good that this type of event is held by the VBA (and it's not just a training thing). Would havebeen good to finish a little earlier

2/28/2019 7:38 AM

56 The pro-active approach taken by the VBA. I really respected the approach the VBA took andhow constructive feedback was taken on board.

2/28/2019 7:32 AM

57 Dedicated solely to building surveyor issues that are currently at the fore 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

58 Good Line up of speakers with worthwhile discussion. Venture was perfect. No cost wasattractive. Good time of the year as it does not class with AIBS schedule of conferences Livestreaming was a good idea but may have kept people away, may be record, edit and placesome segments on the VBA web site some time after the conference. Great time to Net work.

2/28/2019 5:25 AM

59 All of it 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

60 There was a large number of building surveyors that turned up. This is exactly what ourprofession needs to progress and get better.

2/27/2019 10:45 PM

61 Bronwyn Weir presented extremely well and I felt she understood the troubles that troubles andconcerns of the Private Building surveying industry current face.

2/27/2019 9:45 PM

62 Real world feedback and advice by and large was given without participants needing to alwaysbe politically correct. Probaly bcause most participants work in the 'real world'

2/27/2019 9:14 PM

63 The additional information provided by the VBA and the positive comments by Sue Eddy. 2/27/2019 8:59 PM

64 It demonstrated that Building Surveyors and Inspectors valued the learning opprotunities madeavailable, and the importance to make more seminars available for the continuous improvementof the profession. It all demonstrated where the VBA saw the BS profession.

2/27/2019 8:54 PM

65 Felt interactive enough to feel like you could have a say. 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

66 format topics were relevant The cost 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

67 Frank and honest admissions that the building permit system is COMPLETELY broken. 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

68 Panel sessions 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

69 honest responses and the ability for Sue to take on some of the problems at the VBA, inparticular the terrible process in reviewing notices, orders and direction of fix. The VBA has byconstantly stating that notices, orders and directions are unenforceable has lead to the hugelack of enforcement in the State, Given that 95% of the building permits are issued by privatebuilding surveyors and there is a broken enforcement mentality created by the VBA, that has leftthe state of Victoria without any real enforcement. This is why there are so many noncompliances in relation to buildings as builders know the week process of the PBS being madelook silly by every notice that they issue being deemed unenforceable. Please listen and actSue!

2/27/2019 7:27 PM

70 The ability to interact with the panels via slido was very good. 2/27/2019 7:21 PM

8 / 36


71 Like the fact that we can meet higher officials and ask questions, etc. 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

72 Sue and brownly spoke which was really good as we dont here from them enough. 2/27/2019 6:57 PM

73 we had one, its a great idea from the VBA. 2/27/2019 6:55 PM

74 An honest discussion. It seems like VBA may actually finally understand why they are not atrusted regulator, and it appears the are keen to make some changes

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

75 That the key note speakers were of a very high quality, and that the conference was wellorganised

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

76 Informative to some extent 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

77 It finally brought together the Authority and the Practitioners in a one on one basis and allowedquestions and answers.

2/27/2019 6:39 PM

78 VBA taking lead and seeking to better engage with 'co regulators' being rbs 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

79 The speakers. 2/27/2019 6:32 PM

80 A good format. Bronwyn Weir was excellent at delivering the information / conversation. Iappreciated that the VBA want to work with us as we are all regulators as the general feelingwithin the private sector is that the VBA has an axe to grind with us.

2/27/2019 6:31 PM

81 A great opportunity to network with peers 2/27/2019 6:28 PM

82 Good mix of sessions, constructive discussions and excellent facilitation and speakers/panelists. 2/27/2019 6:15 PM

83 It was a talk fest with little outcome. started well and ended with a fizz. 2/27/2019 6:13 PM

84 Bronwyn weir. Also new commissioner presented herself very well and appears to have the rightidea.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

85 This is the first time that I have felt that the VBA and Building Surveyors have been aligned asone with a common goal. Sue Eddy was very impressive. We support that the focus should beto target the 5% of rogues in the industry and help to drive minimum standards to all. BuildingSurveyors can do a lot of leg work for the VBA however the VBA do need to open thecommunication lines and be prepared to drive consistent and community focussed outcomes.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

86 Networking. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

87 THE FACT THAT THE PLIGHT OF BUILDING SURVEYORS ACTUALLY APPEARED TO BELISTENED TO. IT WAS RELEVANT & TOPICAL AND TO THE POINT - AND WITHOUTPADDING. THE SUBJECTS COVERED WERE WHAT IS OF GREAT CONCERN TOBUILDING SURVEYORS. THE SPEAKERS WERE OF A HIGH STANDARD AND SPOKEAUTHORITATIVELY. THE SPEAKERS WERE THE HEADS OF THEIR PARTICULAR AREAAND NOT SUBORDINATES MEANING THEY WERE THE DECISION MAKERS. BRONWYNWEIR AS FACILITATOR WAS MOST EXCELLENT - OUTSTANDING JOB. SUE EDDY WASEXCELLENT AND PROVIDED VERY GOOD INSIGHTS. REALLY LIKED THE TWEETS ANDTHE WAY THEY WERE ADDRESSED RATHER THAN IGNORED. IT SEEMED THAT THEREWOULD BE SOME RESULTING ACTIONS FROM THE CONFERENCE - PARTICULARLY BYTHE VBA. I HOPE THIS IS THE CASE.

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

88 There was a chance for interaction and to here our points and concerns. 2/27/2019 6:03 PM

89 Question and feed back with presenters 2/27/2019 5:56 PM

90 Good discussions, good networking and informative 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

91 Bronwyn Weir is always excellent. Graham Samuel is a high calibre thinker and speaker. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

92 Frank discussion and acknowledgment that there are problems and it would appear a genuinewill to repair defects in the system.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

93 It was open conversation. Open to suggestions. In specific slido.com was great idea 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

94 I loved knowing what was coming up with new regulations. 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

95 Interaction 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

96 The seniority and experience of the speakers 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

97 Interaction between speakers and audience. Food was nice. Coffee was terrible. 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

98 Cashing up with old friends 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

99 Started the conversation 2/27/2019 5:32 PM

100 Open honest presentation of the information delivered. 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

101 Dandenong MBS 2/27/2019 5:27 PM

9 / 36


38.39% 43

57.14% 64

0.89% 1

3.57% 4

Q8 Should we do this conference again in:Answered: 112 Skipped: 0

TOTAL 112

6 months

12 months

18 months

24 months

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%


6 months

12 months

18 months

24 months

10 / 36


Q9 What are areas you think we could improve on forfuture conferences?


# RESPONSES DATE

1 1. More/additional time for questions. 2. More collaboration 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * Provision of conference notes / presentations. * Summary of conference discussions andproposed actions. * The strategic cut-off / not allowing discussion / feedback on BAMS was verydisappointing. There are potential difficulties with timeframes and the costs and reasons behinddoing this seem to be a case of the tail wagging the dog. Opening up discussion on this areaprior to going the line that is being taken may have seen the desired result in a far moreeconomical manner without the delay to the issue of permits built into this system.

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Greater input and insight from the government (DELWP). Integrated approach involving otherpractitioner groups i.e. architects, fire safety engineers, builders.

3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 the conference should be open to other technical people, including, designers, drafties,architects, engineers and builders

3/4/2019 11:08 AM

5 1. The panel of experts need to be improved from planners, school teachers and academics. 2.Answers at QA need to answered. 3. Industry views can't be ignored.

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

6 Talkback to key people on major issues to try to resolve. 3/4/2019 9:25 AM

7 I don't think the main issue of insurance coverage and availability was appropriately covered.Give Lacrosse decision I hold grave hopes that the insurers will stay in the market and if they doat what cost.

3/3/2019 1:46 PM

8 Discuss the outcomes & achievements from issues raised in the previous conference. 3/2/2019 7:01 PM

9 Ensuring opportunities to provide feedback and direction on interpretations and laws - VBA auditus on application and sometimes this is just different methods to interpret

3/1/2019 3:34 PM

10 More time in the workshop would have been good, the 15 mins that we had only let the sameold people complain about the same old topics that they bring up every time. I did like theworkshop idea it was much easier to ask questions in a smaller group

3/1/2019 12:30 PM

11 More focus on practical problems and interpretations that the vba regularly encounter frombuilding surveyors. Both admin and technical.

3/1/2019 10:59 AM

12 I think the structure of this years conference worked quite well. 3/1/2019 9:58 AM

13 Not being the specific target audience for this particular event my comments may be differenthere. But I think the overall flow of the day was very good. Might have been a tad too long asyou seemed to lose a chunk of people when the breakout sessions started. Perhaps to combatthat you could possibly have topic specific breakouts so people choose a session they'd like togo to. The registration area needed to be near the tea/coffee on arrival - would be my onlycriticism of the day.

3/1/2019 9:39 AM

14 Including de-identified case studies. This should be focused on education rather than 'howstupid was this'.

3/1/2019 7:07 AM

15 Not enough question time. 2/28/2019 9:33 PM

16 strategies for auditing designers 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

17 Bring some part to day to day operations of building surveyors of recommendation forimprovement to practicing

2/28/2019 5:54 PM

18 Building Surveyor responsibilties and accountabilities. Risk management and building safety 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

19 Spell out definite action plans by the VBA on topics previously discussed concerning buildingsurveyors. i.e: holding other practitioners to account, reducing BS liability rather than increasingwith more responsibility put on them.

2/28/2019 3:15 PM

20 Have conferences for builders, draftspersons and engineers. 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

21 The out comes need to be acted on, these are the same issues we spoke about 10 years ago.apart from cladding they are all the same.

2/28/2019 2:45 PM

22 Provide some experts with Regulatory Experience who can answer practical questions. 2/28/2019 2:23 PM

23 The forums could have been longer to enable participants to have more say. 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

24 shorter conference period and getting to the point with the REAL matters at hand that affectSurveyor i.e insurance , immunity but also the VBA acting on matters rather than us hearing andtalking about the same matters year in year out with no real change that helps your registeredbuilding surveyors out there to perform. if this system is sustained there will be very few PBS'sout there and from what I hear from my colleagues it seems to be the ongoing trend

2/28/2019 1:25 PM

25 1. More industry leaders at the conferences 2. The interactive afternoon sessions are a waste 2/28/2019 1:06 PM

26 More talk time with presenters such as John Prendergast & Brett Mace (People who haveextensive experience within the industry)

2/28/2019 12:33 PM

11 / 36


27 We don't go over old ground and the issues that have come up at previous conferences havebeen resolved.

2/28/2019 11:44 AM

28 Providing a notepad at the astart of the conference 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

29 Time to answer more app questions 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

30 Talk about problem areas in the building surveying world i.e issues with fire engineeringsolutions that result in unsafe buildings.

2/28/2019 11:31 AM

31 Listening to industry on what the issues are 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

32 Balance was right; important to recognise though the good things that Building Surveyors do notjust the bad things - need to reinforce both the importance of the contribution and the need toperform correctly.

2/28/2019 9:53 AM

33 Instead of industry people saying what has been said for years, solid plans to move the industryforward and open discussion on this

2/28/2019 9:36 AM

34 Not sure how you can do this without being discriminatory but when separating the workshopshave the over 50's in one room so they can all complain together. They have been the onescomplaining forever because they have never changed them selves to lift the standards. Whatwas clear and lacking is Building Surveyors do not understand what best practice looks like andI think a future conference is to go over how to achieve compliance, what does it look like?

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

35 A longer question and answer time to ensure a wide range of views from the surveyors on theground get heard

2/28/2019 9:15 AM

36 Question and Answer time with smaller groups(workshops). 2/28/2019 9:05 AM

37 MORE PERSPECTIVE FROM PRIVATE BUILDING SURVEYORS! We are by far and away themajor stakeholder here yet have the smallest voice at the table.

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

38 Ensure progress is made to resolve previous topics rasied 2/28/2019 8:50 AM

39 Provide performance results from VBA undertakings. 2/28/2019 8:49 AM

40 Industry association presentations should not be part of VBA events. They have their ownmeetings where they can espouse their services and issues to members.

2/28/2019 8:46 AM

41 More technical details and application of law, Trend issues or concerns 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

42 More topics of the day INSURANCE 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

43 focus on 1 topic 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

44 Having more private BS in the panel 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

45 Cut out the breakfast. For the sake of people coming from the regional areas that are travellingon the day- state the actual time the conference is to start as there was quite a difference romthe stated time on the information sheet to the actual start time.

2/28/2019 8:05 AM

46 Can the powerpoint and question be sent out, including the response to the questions placedon slido

2/28/2019 7:57 AM

47 The conference was more an information session rather than eeking to efficiently engagebuilding suryeors and the VBA in valvuable discussion. The relationship of the VBA and Privatebuilding surveyors needs to be more synchronized and collaborative to move the industryforward and to give effect to good legislation.

2/28/2019 7:49 AM

48 confirm future of BS and direction it is likely to take 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

49 Bronwyn was very good. Good to hear from Sue Eddy. Panel discussions were very interesting.Real time feed back from delegates was also nteresting

2/28/2019 7:38 AM

50 Reduce the program and allow more time for questions 2/28/2019 7:32 AM

51 Having enough time to fully deal with topics 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

52 The challenge will be keeping the topics relevant with out flogging a particular topic likecladding. Acknowledge Cladding is important, but we wont want to be talking too much about itin three years time. Little bit more time for networking between sessions

2/28/2019 5:25 AM

53 Vba findings discussions Things rbs appear to be making errors on 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

54 Of the topics that were poled before the conference, when considering the top issue - PIinsurance - i left not knowing any more than i did beforehand. There could have been someinput from the insurance industry on where this is headed and what we could do about it.

2/27/2019 10:45 PM

55 Provide more technical examples and provide solutions to questions asked from the audience 2/27/2019 9:45 PM

56 The forums dragged out a bit - but this was mainly due to the specific guest personnel involved -also, when introducing a panellist, pls project their achievements and limit the verbals to 20seconds or less. I almost fell asleep during Graeme Samuels intro.

2/27/2019 9:14 PM

57 Whilst it is difficult with multiple speakers avoidance of overlap is subject matter. 2/27/2019 8:59 PM

58 We don’t necessarily need all the same matters to be discussed again the industry needscontinual training on different matters, in the past seminars become stagnant an repetitive that’spartly the reason for poor attendance. Seminars need to be fresh and provide value, ESM’s,notices, energy, how to train staff, setting up process/ QA manuals etc.

2/27/2019 8:54 PM

59 Issue print outs or have available a copy of key documents. Would love to have copy of the listof top 20 most critical matters raised by survey of 200 building surveyors.

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

12 / 36


60 have more Private Building Surveyors contribute 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

61 Focus on improving the system and listen to building surveyors about what they need from theVBA and put things in place quickly.

2/27/2019 7:45 PM

62 reviewing of notices, orders and direction of fix. Rid the existing staff and have a new crew thatare constructive in this field (we need the VBA to find new blood and those that are keen to seethe industry succeed. If the VBA and building surveyors do not unit, it will be the end for all,

2/27/2019 7:27 PM

63 The group sizes in the workshop were too big to be fully effective. I would suggest a similarlarge conference every 2 years, then on the alternating years 2-3 small conferences basedaround sectors (domestic inspections, domestic permits, low rise commercial, high rise,regional, metro) could be held as each group have separate needs and perspectives.

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

64 It would be nice if we could get some of the other high voted questions answered that wereasked via the online poll, maybe this could be done as a quick follow on at next conference?

2/27/2019 7:15 PM

65 Give directions and tell us what you want, we have been debating the same matters for yearsand nothing happens. Give excxt directions on what you want from us and see our role as.

2/27/2019 6:57 PM

66 We need more of these conferences. 2/27/2019 6:55 PM

67 Present key activites like outcomes from DTF, building orders, proactive inspections,investigations. How may complaints are closed or escalated, why actions were taken, riskprofiles seen, how much compliant activity VBA actually saw (ie not just focussing on thecomplaints)

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

68 real time feedback on issues, i.e. real time problem solving through a medium which could becollated or referenced by staff along the way, rather than just questions

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

69 More information from other than VBA personnel 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

70 Continue to have good competent speakers. Address the main concerns of the practitioners. 2/27/2019 6:39 PM

71 more specific topics but good first up 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

72 The panel sessions, additional time should have been allowed to permit more discussion withthe audience.

2/27/2019 6:32 PM

73 Increased technical content. 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

74 Don't delete ppls twitter questions 2/27/2019 6:28 PM

75 Signages to venue and crowd flow before/after breaks. 2/27/2019 6:15 PM

76 Way forward on the problems of the industry. How about re-writing the Regulations and Act toreflect current practices, technologies and efficiencies. The Regulations are written fro a housebuilt in the 1950's!

2/27/2019 6:13 PM

77 Do not block questions. I raised several purtenant questions that failed to make it to the screen. 2/27/2019 6:08 PM

78 There was a lot of discussion around insurance and non complying cladding. Insurance hasbeen a problem for 10 years, yet there has been no proposal of how to fix the problem. It is timefor solutions. While cladding is a serious concern, it only affects a small percentage ofpractitioners. These practitioner should be dealt with swiftly and we move on to higherstandards. There are many non disclosed issues that need to be addressed as grass roots levelof building surveying. Clear and concise Regulatory Advice. Speed of addressing noncompliance with notices, directions and bad practitioners ,etc.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

79 Provide more technical staff from the VBA on the panel to answer questions. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

80 MORE TIME FOR QUESTIONS - ALTHOUGH I KNOW THIS CAN BE HARD WITH SO MUCHTO COVER.

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

81 Have two topics running at once..one in relation to high rise in Melb...such as cladding and theother associated with country building surveying such as bush-fire assessment. That way usCountry blokes are not bored by Cladding, cladding , cladding. Yes we know about it but thereare a multitude of other topics that can be covered and running them in parallel assistseverybody and you get more bang for your buck.

2/27/2019 6:03 PM

82 Provide outcomes and useful guidance advice 2/27/2019 5:56 PM

83 Include more stakeholders, e.g. builders, designers 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

84 Training needs to be quality and meaningful and lead to improved outcomes. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

85 Focus for particular groups , residential, commercial, public, health then interested practitionersand specialists in these areas could present to smaller groups.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

86 Timing of the conference. Many of us work and can not stay till very end. 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

87 All changes to building act and regulations e.g swimming pool inspections. 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

88 Time management- had to rush some parts due to the time to feed the number of attendee's.The BAM session was short no interaction -

2/27/2019 5:34 PM

89 The morning panel probably had too many participants - it was hard to get through everyone'sviews in the allotted time

2/27/2019 5:34 PM

90 More input regarding technical matters pertaining to legislation 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

91 Break to be extend around half hour, to allow catching with old friends 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

92 Bring in expert building surveyors who deal with our problems on a daily basis. 2/27/2019 5:32 PM

13 / 36


93 Come with more proposals to discuss and action 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

94 Report on updated VBA procedures (hopefully) 2/27/2019 5:27 PM

95 more relevant information, regulation changes, proposed regulations, motivational speaker(s), 2/27/2019 5:25 PM

14 / 36


Q10 Are there any relevant topics you'd like to see addressed in afuture conference?


# RESPONSES DATE

1 1. Enforcement paperwork workshop 2. Building designer minimum paperwork requirements 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * Legislative and administrative changes proposed before they get to the stage ofimplementation so the feedback of people using and administering the systems could be heardup front. * Legislative changes being implemented - the next significant change being BAMsfollowed by swimming pool changes. * BAB representatives open discussion about practitionerexperiences - feedback opportunities to better improve the and understand the cause and effecton the ground.

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Government targets/initiatives in building regulation reform. PI Insurance issues facing theindustry. Building Regulations 2018 - industry feedback and suggestions forimprovement/clarification.

3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 1. When does the appointment of a RBS conclude. 2. What government has done to preventnon compliant product from being imported into country. 3.What is the builder (DBU/CBU) role?

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

5 No only Building surveyor issues as they relate to buildings and towards the future. 3/4/2019 9:25 AM

6 INSURANCE AND LIABILITY 3/3/2019 1:46 PM

7 Actions to be taken against Practitioners not conducting themselves in a manner befitting thereprofession. What in the legislation is going to be changed to ensure this happens.

3/2/2019 7:01 PM

8 Legislation application methods - and an overview of how to do a Building Approval - it neverhurts to be reminded on steps and methods and shortfalls

3/1/2019 3:34 PM

9 Yes it would be good to get a conversation on illegal works, who and how to handle this issue,most council have different procedures it would be good to get a set procedure on how toresolve this issue

3/1/2019 12:30 PM

10 Dealing with illegal buildings. 3/1/2019 10:59 AM

11 A pressing topic in our industry is navigating the pressures of Design & Construct Contracts,especially where commercial building surveyors are having to sign contracts and continuestatutory obligations, this further increases a conflict of interest between the Client and the RBS.This is a topic perhaps best discussed at a higher level, and perhaps not all building surveyorswould be interested in as the majority of professionals in the room navigate the residentialhousing market or Council enforcement.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

12 The VBA must follow-up on the overwhelming feedback from the attendees: - Nothing happenswith referred orders or DtF's. - There are no audits into draftspersons and they are never held toaccount for terrible plans. - There is no mechanism for the VBA to audit plans unless the RBShas issued a BP. At this stage may non-compliances would have been addressed by the RBS. -Practitioners (Draftspersons, Architects, Builders & Engineers) do not own compliance. Theyshould all have to self certify which is then further scrutinized by the RBS.

3/1/2019 7:07 AM

13 Processes, common errors in documentation 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

14 energy ratings for dwelling a alterations and additions. POPES Audit common error findings 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

15 NCC 2019 and the implications for Victoria. NCC would have been in operation for 6 - 9 months,a good opportunity to reflect and set the immediate futrue direction and expectations from theVBA

2/28/2019 4:14 PM

16 Protection work for neighbouring properties - some applications 2/28/2019 3:30 PM

17 Liability on Councils and MBSs dealing with combustible cladding enforcement matters wherethe MBS is not the RBS for the project.

2/28/2019 3:15 PM

18 Presentation from BPB 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

19 Nothing said about the new swimming pool changes. The issue of getting people into theindustry and getting them registered.

2/28/2019 2:45 PM

20 Discussion surrounding Structural Inspections on commercial projects and industry bestpractise.

2/28/2019 2:23 PM

21 How the consumer is protected where the statuary approval authority (the RBS) is acommercially/profit driven PTL LTD with extremely limited assets (in many cases $0). PTL LTDcan cease operation at any point in time where is not commercially viable. Why the fire authoritydo not approved the fire performance solutions, which makes perfect sense and it is a practicein many countries.

2/28/2019 2:11 PM

22 Possibly an expectation of what the VBA considers as adequate documentation as a minimum 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

23 PI Insurance and RBS immunity 2/28/2019 1:25 PM

24 Statistical data on Audits conducted on Building Surveyors performance and not correlating thisto pro-active inspection data.

2/28/2019 12:33 PM

15 / 36


25 Interpretation on legislation 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

26 A presentation on the NCC 2019 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

27 Registration. What involved to get registered, what's expected, what's need etc. For cadets,inspectors and limited practitioners to advance.

2/28/2019 11:36 AM

28 1. Fire engineering solutions that result in unsafe buildings. All fire enginering solutions forapartment buildings or other buildigns occupied by mutiple persons should be checked by theMFB/CFA. This will ensure that an adequate fire engineering benchmark is set and will result insafer designs. 2. Protection work notices. 3. Certification for illegal building works and getting aconsistant approach across victoria. 4. Explore the option of running all alternative solutionsrelating to fire safety through the mods board/MFB/CFA to ensure a safer standard of buildingpractice. Levies to assist funding to resource.

2/28/2019 11:31 AM

29 Practical advice on legislative interpretations. Protection of the public. 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

30 Both the nature of incorrect fire protection measures and the impact on the MFSEB operations;whether this be cladding, storage of dangerous goods to incorrect smoke detectors in the home

2/28/2019 9:53 AM

31 Structured training and a structured path to gaining registration. A mentoring system put inplace similar to RICS APC pathway

2/28/2019 9:36 AM

32 Specifics on how to achieve compliance. For example how should we inspect a Frame? Evenshow how should we check a job before we issue the permit, real detail. Also sounded like weneeded help on how to complete Notices and Orders.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

33 The topics discussed were very relevant. Being informed of any outcomes of discussionsregarding the relevant topics would be helpful

2/28/2019 9:15 AM

34 Illegal practises of designers/developers/builders giving out "preferred" building surveyors as thepreferred ones take on a huge amount of the work and carry out there duties at a substandardlevel so they can get the work and make sure its all completed with no fuss and subsequentlyless problems. If the VBA stamped this out 50 percent of issues faced would disappear in time.Have a system where Registered Building surveyors have to go on a list for what they areinterested and can service issuing building permits for and make a system where one of thesegets selected for the job. The system we have now in place is borderline criminal - thebuilders/developers/designers use the Building Surveyors who "let things go" and don't checkproperly leaving the ones who do the right thing wondering if they need to be lenient in order tosurvive.

2/28/2019 9:05 AM

35 Further collaboration with industry stakeholders about legislative changes. 2 years before theRegs 2018 we were asked for our opinions. No doubt you would have received thousands ofsuggestions from Building Surveyors about their day to day struggles with the legislation. I can'tthink of one change that was made that would have come as a result of a Building Surveyorsuggestion... We now have more paperwork and processes than we did before from a piece oflegislation that was meant to streamline things and make everyone's lives easier!

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

36 Provide a result from the information that has been coming forward. All these events gather theinformation, but it seems to be the same issues each time and we do not see a result.

2/28/2019 8:49 AM

37 Inspections, number, expectations, use of structural engineers etc 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

38 INSURANCE 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

39 only relevant current issue, not historical 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

40 Registration and accountability of all Building Practitioners. CPD & Training of Building allpractitioners.

2/28/2019 8:21 AM

41 The maintenance of essential safety measures 2/28/2019 8:19 AM

42 Education - how do we encourage people into the industry by introducing a honours degree asper the BRAC document .. you learn everything in the field and the office, restructure the tafeprogramme as it IS lacking however don't make it more of a turn off for people to come into theindustry and ensure all Tafes include a placement as part of the advanced diploma as meshingthe in classroom studies to actually practicing in an office is critical.

2/28/2019 8:14 AM

43 Yes what is the future of private building surveying- does it have one - should it have one. Thequality of the initial education/training of building surveyors and building inspectors. The poorquality of schedule 3 of the Building Regulations. Alternative solutions - are they a good thing.Most poor outcomes are due to the misuse of them.

2/28/2019 8:05 AM

44 VBA auditing and help practitioners in lieu of the stick 2/28/2019 7:57 AM

45 Yes or in another atmsphere. The topis effective regulation I would like to see the VBA do this.Implementation of multiple changes to legislation within a short space of item ie. 2018 whichsaw approx 4 changes is NOT appropriate creates non compliance as the changes are tofrequent. Effective regulation needs to have more input form the stakeholders and moreresearch to ensure the affect and effects are known. Additionally less regulation should also besought rather than adding regulation upon regulation. Legsialtion cannot and should not beregulated for the few

2/28/2019 7:49 AM

46 the cost of business and pricing projects 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

47 Addressing other areas. There was some commentary around fire engineering and differentESM's maybe some more specifics on the topic of fire engineering

2/28/2019 7:32 AM

48 legal liability, especially post retirement and misuse of performance based regulations 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

16 / 36


49 Update on what is latest government policy, Update on cladding as this will be an ongoing issuefor many years, but, with out flogging it. What the VBA is implementing and futurework/programs of then VBA

2/28/2019 5:25 AM

50 Bal Access Water proofing Wind loads 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

51 Discussion regarding referral of Direction to Fix notices What situations trigger a section 33(3)referral, and how to make them. Clarification on the appeal process in relation to Form 9determinations. What is reasonable?

2/27/2019 10:45 PM

52 progress on cladding, site audits, identified no complaint sites, rectification progess etc. andknown $$s for each site (or as a total to avoid any embarassment).

2/27/2019 9:14 PM

53 It is likely the same subject matter for this conference will be applicable and necessary for thenext conference.

2/27/2019 8:59 PM

54 This question has been addressed in the other questions 2/27/2019 8:54 PM

55 Building notice Building Orders direction to fix 2/27/2019 8:48 PM

56 John Merrit said in any industry there are 5% of practitioner whom are irretrievable rouges. Inthe contexts of domestic builders it’s more like 90%. If Vba ignore DTF & S115 referrals, theVBA is missing an opportunity to investigate builders in real time as they go about their buildingwork. Auditor general found and published in VAGO report Dec 2012 (https://www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au/getattachment/66b7db1f-240b-4b51-92a1-7e67212bf814).In points 110 to 192 incl recommendation, over a period of 11 years, 1000s of domestic builderswere registered by delegation through P Brilliant, rather than via peer review of BPB. RBS whosee these guys everyday, feel extremely exposed practicing with such builders. Can VBA recallthese or at the very least review every DTF referal to get a grasp of how bad this situation is.Then recall them. In Amanda Wellesley talk, she was a gasp about how bad performanceassessments can be, but during a discussion i had with ABCB about this and that practisingbuilding surveyors prefer DTS rather than performance, it was made very clear to me, thatthere’ll be more performance and less DTS. Get used to it. With the introduction of new buildingregulations, it’s not enough to have a general building impact assessment, there should aspecific private building surveying profession impact review. These business are becoming lessand less viable with many changes over the past 25 years.

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

57 real life issues in private practice. VBA needs current practitioners to continue to practice &therefore we need support

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

58 Referrals of enforcement documents to VBA. 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

59 NCC issues such as development and approval of performance solutions. Role of fireengineers.

2/27/2019 7:37 PM

60 Insurance, what the VBA has done to fix the above problem, new programmes for better unitybetween the VBA and the entire army of building practitioners.

2/27/2019 7:27 PM

61 I would like to see presentations on interpreting key areas of the Building Act & Regulations butwith an attempt by the speakers to avoid the easy route

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

62 - How to improve the image of the Building Surveyor - Requirements for ongoing training (CPD).- How is the VBA going to deal with Designers & Engineers that provide substandard details.

2/27/2019 7:15 PM

63 practise note and regulations giving excaxt meaning of how we are suppose to interrupt them 2/27/2019 6:57 PM

64 - Immunity for MBS? - resourcing concerns should be looked at. - MBS to report under the CEOof Council and have adequate resource

2/27/2019 6:55 PM

65 How VBA, RBSs and MBSs are working well together. Examples. How we can work togetherbetter

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

66 1. Interaction between other stakeholders and the building surveyors 2. methodology ofperformance solutions and how they can be utilised in a productive way rather than destructive3. use of unskilled labour by bigger building companies and developers to cut costs and theoutcomes of that

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

67 P I Insurance 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

68 Include more details in relation to results from the inspection audit process. Inform of legislationinterpretation in certain area's. Regulation of sub-standard practitioners

2/27/2019 6:39 PM

69 conflict of interest matters engagement of rbs ie contract/fees/limits etc 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

70 Building Policy Reform (what it may look like 10, 15 years into the future) 2/27/2019 6:32 PM

71 Getting answers to the issue of PI. Protection works. 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

72 For specific problems in the industry who are the key people who are accountable at the VBA.More registered people from the VBA discussing challenges. What has the VBA accomplishednot proposals

2/27/2019 6:28 PM

73 Perhaps a 'people' panel inviting members of the audience to participate in one session. 2/27/2019 6:15 PM

74 You need to get suitably qualified people in the VBA and the Ministry that know the buildingindustry (and not from some ivory tower), who have worked at the coal face and know theproblems first hand. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with another seminar

2/27/2019 6:13 PM

75 Roles of building surveyor Role of all practitioners. Mandatory ref 126 certificates of compliancefrom all disciplines Role of inspectors VBA action plan to increase professionalism of draftspersons and architects. These are of a very poor standard at present.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

17 / 36


76 Regulatory advice and expectations and intent of legislation. If we are all on the same page,compliance should be standardised. Example such as energy efficiency compliance seems tobe inconsistent. Practice Note 55-2018 amendment appears to be poorly written with noexplanation of why changed.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

77 Statistics on current building surveyors limited and unlimited. Also age groups i.e 25-30, 31-39,40-49, 50-59, 60-69 etc.

2/27/2019 6:06 PM

78 A DEBRIEFING ON THE ACTIONS AND OUTCOMES RESULTING FROM WHAT WASDISCUSSED AT THIS CONFERENCE. PROFESSIONAL INDEMINITY INSURANCE IS STILLA BIG ISSUE. A FURTHER UPDATE ON THE CLADDING ISSUE. SOMEONE FROM THEABCB (OR PERHAPS THE SOON TO BE APPOINTED STATE BUILDING SURVEYOR) TOEXPLAIN CLEARLY HOW TO INTERPRET THE NCC REGARDING CLADDING.

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

79 New Regs. What things have been found to be bad in the audits..so we don't all make the samemistakes. Who addresses the energy rating requirements and signs off

2/27/2019 6:03 PM

80 Protection of adjoining property in particular definition of protection!! PI issues and resolutionguidance

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

81 Lack of penalties being applied to other practitioners 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

82 VBA have data, of complaints and frequent issues. Use it to develop a training strategy 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

83 Smoke hazard management options and fire brigades constant shifting on what they want. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

84 Auditing draft persons and builders. Why don't AIB do conferences to educate builders re newand current legislation.

2/27/2019 5:48 PM

85 Mandatory swimming pool inspections What the vba has done since the last conference showthey are listening The trouble with qualifications to be a building surveyor Resources withincouncil Councils to issue compulsary retrospective building permits for illegal building work andchange big dollars e.g $6,000 to help with council revenue to prosecute etc.

2/27/2019 5:47 PM

86 more on the process of approvals 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

87 A dedicated session on emerging issues in building from the surveyors' perspective 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

88 Protection of adjoining property 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

89 Any 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

90 Present topics of issue and how they are to be addressed, lets get more specific information outand the VBA standing on issues and expectations out there.

2/27/2019 5:31 PM

91 Registration process 2/27/2019 5:27 PM

92 Refer item 9 2/27/2019 5:25 PM

18 / 36


Q11 Are there any speakers you'd like to suggest for a futureconference?


# RESPONSES DATE

1 no 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * Having industry practitioners / fellow building surveyors panel was good. Maybe call forexpressions of interest from building surveyors to speak about particular topics set as part of thetheme for future conferences.

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 No specific speakers come to mind. 3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 a mixture of builder, building surveyor and architects to hear about the trends in the buildingindustry

3/4/2019 11:08 AM

5 1. Ideally a Building Minister (if the VBA can lobby the government into appointing one) 2. StateBuilding Surveyor (When appointed)

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

6 Unknown 3/1/2019 3:34 PM

7 Although I couldn't suggest anyone specific, I would however ask that consideration is given togreater diversity where ideas can be stretched from other professions. I appreciated speakerssuch as Graeme Samuel, although evident he's understanding of a building surveyor wassomewhat limited he spoke frank and fearless acting as a role model for the room.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

8 Fire Safety Engineers, Draftspersons etc. to present on 'Best-Practice'. 3/1/2019 7:07 AM

9 not Wayne Liddy to represent private surveyors. 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

10 I thought Amanda Wellesley spoke simply and to the level required to the audience She has thereal experience of a building surveyor

2/28/2019 5:54 PM

11 Neil Savery 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

12 Risk and liability specialists Building specialist lawyers on emerging issues relating to theBuilding Surveying profession.

2/28/2019 3:15 PM

13 - 2/28/2019 2:23 PM

14 The speakers/presenters shall have better relation to the industry. How many acting RBSs werespikers/presenters (only 1). The greater time was taken by politicians, administrators, schoollecturers, not actively practicing BS etc. Real suggestion for real reform need to be addressedand the active building practitioner (RBSs) to express opinion (can be by electronic votingyes/no etc.)

2/28/2019 2:11 PM

15 Some one from DELWP policy unit to clearly explain the processes of changing legislation 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

16 anyone who will act on their words and make a difference and act on all RBS's on goingconcerns

2/28/2019 1:25 PM

17 Stephen Kip 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

18 A mix of State, Local gove and private industry. 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

19 quality speakersNo one in particular but presenters should be 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

20 Stephen Kip, expert in the industry. Marcus Collard, was able to explain the legislation when heworked for the Building Commission.

2/28/2019 10:29 AM

21 Need to understand that there is a recognition and appreciation of the function by thecommunity whether it be from a politician or a community identity/leader.

2/28/2019 9:53 AM

22 On the panel of 6 there was a private Building Surveyor Wayne Liddy however I wasembarrassed on what he was saying and sounded like he is part of the mess we are in now.You can have him on the panel but then get a Building Surveyor who only deals with DomesticPermits not just Commercial as their practices sounded dodgy.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

23 A speaker from the tech and reg department of the VBA including a question and answer timewould be good - to understand common faults and concerns that the VBA are dealing with

2/28/2019 9:15 AM

24 Groups of Private Building Surveyors picked at the VBA discretion to come up and discusschallenges faced.

2/28/2019 9:05 AM

25 More private Building Surveyors. 2/28/2019 8:58 AM

26 The speakers were good, but general information on overall issues, but nothing we did notalready know about. More grass roots level talks

2/28/2019 8:49 AM

27 No 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

28 Insurance representatives 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

29 BAB to discuss their thoughts on the typical approvals to ensure BS are heading in the rightdirection with performance solutions and see where the industry is sitting

2/28/2019 8:14 AM

30 Yes I think it would be very important to have someone talk about health & wellbeing 2/28/2019 8:08 AM

19 / 36


31 Some one from the ABCB to speak about alternative solutions. 2/28/2019 8:05 AM

32 Jonathan Barnett, 2/28/2019 7:57 AM

33 expert in sprinklers or smoke detection 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

34 None in particular 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

35 That is a question i suggest could be asked 6months out form the next conference. 2/28/2019 5:25 AM

36 Legal teams discussion panel 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

37 Someone with insight into the PI insurance industry. 2/27/2019 10:45 PM

38 Stephen kip! 2/27/2019 9:45 PM

39 The AIBS conferences usually try to include a speaker and their subject from "left field" whichcan be both entertaining and informative. Speakers of the caliber of Graeme Samuel takes thediscussion to another level.

2/27/2019 8:59 PM

40 Solicitors that can provide insight of VCAT outcomes. DBDRV representatives. PI Insurancerepresentatives

2/27/2019 8:54 PM

41 I 2/27/2019 8:48 PM

42 Sue Eddy was amazing. Justin Bayard- Consultant Building Surveyor I thought was clear,concise and is across both municipal and private building surveying spectrum.

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

43 A VBA auditor and discuss what the common issues were that keep coming up so we can getbetter. How to deal with stress

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

44 Would like to hear from different building surveyors about different topics and their experiences.Workshop different ways for doing things and how to engage with the VBA and Councils.

2/27/2019 7:45 PM

45 The state building surveyor. 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

46 Bronwyn and Sue were great. We need staff at the VBA that talk the talk and walk the walk. 2/27/2019 7:27 PM

47 Mr Brian Welch, he needs to buy me a coffee. 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

48 no 2/27/2019 6:57 PM

49 I like the speakers. 2/27/2019 6:55 PM

50 More of the same, especially John Merritt & Bronwyn Weir, Professor Peter Shergold, an experton energy efficiency with a view towards social impact, a private surveyor with a sense of theirobligations rather than announcing that they are under pressure because of the conflict ofinterest

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

51 Not yey 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

52 The BRAC board should constitute a panel. 2/27/2019 6:32 PM

53 A respected construction law firm ie Lovegroves to provide information regarding protectionworks and a definition for significant damage. A technical representative from the ABCB

2/27/2019 6:31 PM

54 Steven Kipp - vic uni teache4 and building surveyor Fabio Piccinin - Registration assessor at theVBA

2/27/2019 6:28 PM

55 Notable private building surveyors from reputable firms to talk about their experiences 2/27/2019 6:15 PM

56 People from the QBCC and how they operate. Far better than the Vic system with certificationby professionals and everyone registered. Vic system is a joke

2/27/2019 6:13 PM

57 Bronwyn Weir is a must Minister for planning. Not an introduction but a q and a session 2/27/2019 6:08 PM

58 Motivational speakers were great and help us to walk proud of what we do. We also needtechnical speakers to consider complex regulations and what is considered industry standard toachieve minimum compliance. Example is how should we approach compliance with PracticeNote 55 for energy efficiency for projects over and under 50% volume increase now. What isexpected?

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

59 More of John Prendergast. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

60 A MINISTER FROM THE BUILDING MINISTERS FORUM. 2/27/2019 6:05 PM

61 Speakers on Energy rating. What is the expected role of the Building surveyor n relation tochecking and implementing the requirements in the construction.

2/27/2019 6:03 PM

62 Experts in penetration protection Civil claims and advise in how to l;limit exposure Code markhow these relate to certification and BS practices

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

63 N/A 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

64 motivational speaker 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

65 Interstate and International speakers are more interesting than the same old faces. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

66 IFEG authors to explain how their document has status and acceptance in industry yet reallysays nothing of value when we get down to it.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

67 Stephen Kip 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

68 N/A 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

69 Sue Eddy 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

20 / 36


70 Stephen Kip 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

21 / 36


Q12 How likely is it that you would recommend attending thisconference to a colleague?


15%16

46%51

39%43

25

0

-50 50

-100 100

25NPS

DETRACTORS (0-6) PASSIVES (7-8) PROMOTERS (9-10) NET PROMOTER® SCORE

22 / 36


Q13 What information do building surveyors need from the VBA rightnow to help you do your job better?


# RESPONSES DATE

1 1. More guidance with legislation interpretation. Additional practice notes showing more thedifficult/ 50-50 scenarios.

3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * Transition of levy payments for permits lodged but not determined before 30 June 2019. * Anassurance towards concentrating on technical matters with informed audit processes (eg) jointinspections with approved plans rather than audit inspections with no plans and a largeconcentration on administrative matters that has been typical of audits.

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Clarity from the VBA around the respective roles/expectations of: (a) Private BuildingSurveyors; (b) Municipal Building Surveyors; and (c) VBA. There is considerable overlap in theroles of all parties, especially in cases where there are complaints rec'd about a particularproject. These roles should be clearly defined and clarified, if amendments required tolegislation etc. This should be pursued following consultation with a stakeholders.

3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 PI scheme to be overhauled so PI is made available in the immediate future. BAMS is anexciting project, would be excellent if the system could receive the Council lodgements as acentral database as currently its a very fragmented process as councils have different electroniclodgement systems.

3/4/2019 12:29 PM

5 How do we (VBA) work and operate and how to provide the building surveyors with rightinformation. And address some concerns such as 'Directions to fix' that was mentioned duringthe conference)

3/4/2019 11:08 AM

6 1.Levies & Permit Numbers why are we reinventing the wheel, look at QLD - perfect! 2.Suggested Fee scale for classification of works. 3. De-Registration of DBM. 4. Enforcing thatwithin 3 years all INL/BSL continue education and apply for unlimited registration

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

7 Better contact Numbers a phone list (only issued to B.S) 3/4/2019 9:25 AM

8 More direction in relation to enforcement. More information in relation to the BAMS process andhow this is going to slow down the permit process.

3/3/2019 9:33 AM

9 Feedback from the issues raised by the collective. Also a much better & consistent technicaldepartment that can offer support to Building Surveyors.

3/2/2019 7:01 PM

10 Legislation Application - answering technical advice - a 1 day course in doing BuildingApprovals (The law and methods)

3/1/2019 3:34 PM

11 Clear and consistent answers from the technical department would be good, they are good to todeal with and i like the way we can ask questions but some questions still go unansweredsometimes

3/1/2019 12:30 PM

12 Assistance in post cladding audits for MBS 3/1/2019 12:06 PM

13 Less administrative duplication. Eg. 5 year renewals cost each building surveyor 1 days lostproduction.

3/1/2019 10:59 AM

14 After reading the VCAT Lacrosse (Judges) Findings and understanding that the buildingsurveyor could be liable for up to 33% of overall liability, is concerning. Builder didn't receiveanything? The ambiguity of the Building Code of Australia and recent amendments in BCA 2016(Amendment) to give clarity on combustibility, appears to be a neglect from the ABCB. Rightnow building surveyors need Guidance and assistance with making appropriate decisions. Ifguidelines were improved to enable robust decisions to be carried out specifically forcommercial type buildings for parts of the Act, Reg's and VBA's interpretation of some parts ofthe BCA, this would assist Victorian Building Surveyors make decisions with confidence, in thecurrent climate issues such as inspections for commercial buildings, who inspects? sometimesnot always registered engineers? Certificates of Compliance (Reg.126) when requested arerefused to be given by engineers which is completely unacceptable to remove themselves fromany liability of the design, 50% rule meaning and interpretation of the subtle changes to 'relates'written under Building Regulations 2018. Improvements towards accountability of eachperson/company and anybody in the supply chain. Recognition and promotion of the Role of aBuilding Surveyor, not promoting quality but defined to a statutory role throughout the buildingprocess.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

15 Again, not my department so NA from me. 3/1/2019 9:39 AM

16 How to make their Building Orders more enforceable. Also an explanation as to how Council'smanage to prosecute orders regularly, however the VBA see most orders as unenforceable.

3/1/2019 7:07 AM

17 templates and process maps 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

18 Better technical support (responses to queries etc). 2/28/2019 9:33 PM

19 feedback from audits not just when something is wrong, training about correct Directions to fixwhen referred to vba,

2/28/2019 9:20 PM

20 Support, communication and commit to work together to improve the industry 2/28/2019 5:54 PM

23 / 36


21 When we need help a response that isn't a copy and paste of the act / regs would be good.Suggest deregistering building surveyors who are part of the 5% (Suggest its higher then this)and start auditing and de-registering draftsman who are clearly incompetent.

2/28/2019 4:28 PM

22 N/A 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

23 As an MBS, clear direction on dealing with cladding issues relating to medium and low riskrated buildings.

2/28/2019 3:15 PM

24 Assurance that if we refer a matter it is dealt with in a timely manner. 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

25 It is very simple THE VBA JUST HAVE TO DO THERE JOB AS THE REGULATOR. 2/28/2019 2:45 PM

26 - Proactive communication of all/ay changes moving forward (Eg. levy changes). - Following upand enforcing Orders and Directions rather than simply closing these without action. Thebuilders continue to do the same thing as they are not scared of the ramifications. - Personally, iwas impacted by the changes in courses which the Regulations recognised (2017 InterimRegs.) which stopped me completing the degree i was undertaking. This has strongly affectedmy ability to reach my BS-U. Information regarding mutual recognition, acceptable experienceetc

2/28/2019 2:23 PM

27 A commitment that this was not a one off 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

28 not wasting time in not accepting Section 37 referrals due to wording and labelling themunenforceable. Remove Section 37 process from the legislation I say but not the Regulationitself . Over regulation doesnt produce a better outcome . Competency creates a better outcomeEngage and educate builders out there as 95% of them are honestly incompetent this is whyRBS's are being dragged into litigation due to the builders lack of competency.

2/28/2019 1:25 PM

29 Its very Simple... the VBA need to take away the GREY. YES, they don't make the legislationhowever they can influence. They are well area of the pressing issues for Private BuildingSurveyors however simplistic information to take away the legal opinions is what's neededurgently (ie, Define the Role of an RBS, Define the aspects to be inspected at a mandatorystage, Define the engagement of an RBS in relation to an OP issued, etc, etc) no more legalopinions... just BLACK and WHITE using the brilliant tool that we have all forgotten about, theMinisters Guidelines. NOTE Previous to MG14, the last time a MG was issued was in 2009, notgood enough when we are all well aware of the industry issues, let alone the most basicdefinitions… I truly believe the MG will provide for clarity in our roles, force VCAT to makeinformed decisions and help provided confidence with our PI insurers. 1. Simply no more GREY!! The BCQ and QBCC do an excellent job of this and their regulations are flexible andacknowledge that the construction industry is dynamic and thus allowing for Guidelines to beissued for change or clarity. 2. Introduce an inspectors registration that is has a limitation toDomestic Work ONLY... Currently the IN-L requires some commercial knowledge.

2/28/2019 1:06 PM

30 Easier access to technical information and support. 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

31 Better communication and they need to fulfil all there responsibility under the building Act. Thatis there job!

2/28/2019 11:44 AM

32 Assistance with preparing of notices and orders. More quicker responses to BS and BViqueeries

2/28/2019 11:43 AM

33 Forms and check lists 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

34 1. Education on acceptable standards when assessing high risk commercial buildings such asapartments. If they become aware of what is involved and required they may start to chargeappropriotly and stop undercutting each other. 2.Certification guidelines for illegal building work.concrete slabs cannot be checked to the same mandatory inspection levels. other comments/ideas 1. Audit program of BS to ensure all BS are accepting an adequate level of documentionincluding alernative solutions. 2. Audit of draftpersons / designers / fire engineers whereinadequate documentaion is found to educate industry and bring about change.

2/28/2019 11:31 AM

35 Advice on current legislative requirements. 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

36 Support 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

37 Up to date information regarding cladding, practice notes are brilliant, and ability to contact thetechnical part of the VBA for a timely and accurate ruling on things. Often e get told whateverwe think is ok

2/28/2019 9:36 AM

38 What are the timelines to clean up the registration process to make it more simple to apply?Who were the panel members again? The guy with the cream jacket was the best. What are themost common items on the proactive inspection reports to share the knowledge and what isrequired to achieve compliance? Clarify to owners what our role is? Educate owners that qualityinspectors are not registered practitioners so important not to blame the Building Surveyors ifitems are picked up to consumers.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

39 -How the PI insurance matter will be resolved and how the PI cost will be covered by individualsurveyors as it increases by a factor of 5! -The ability to contract the VBA and organise avoluntary audit to understand if our current practices are to the standard required without FEARof being punished if issues are identified. - Information session for administrative staff to ensurecorrect practices. Administrative staff are an essential part of the building permit process butare often untrained and rely entirely on other staff and RBSs to train them.

2/28/2019 9:15 AM

40 Help with and carrying out enforcement to stop poor practise and the push of badowners/developers/designers/builders pushing private building surveyors into rushing,overseeing, letting things go and not doing there job correctly.

2/28/2019 9:05 AM

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41 Easier access to the technical department and actually receive useful responses back. All toooften we hear "it is the Building Surveyor's discretion". That's great, until we have an incorrectinterpretation and find ourselves facing disciplinary action...

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

42 PI insurance needs resolution 2/28/2019 8:50 AM

43 Best practice procedures so we do not run foul of the VBA. I am not issuing building permits soout of main stream building surveying concerns.

2/28/2019 8:49 AM

44 Regular practice notes technically and legislatively based 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

45 More consistent protocols 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

46 online training. 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

47 Provide regulatory advice in writing to eliminate the various interpretations of the ACT &Regulations so that all building surveyors can confidently make consistent decisions to assist inconsistent behaviours. Hold other practitioners accountable for their shortfalls, not only buildingsurveyors. Educate all practitioners about their important role in the industry and the standardsrequired for documentation and work in relation to building permits in Victoria.

2/28/2019 8:21 AM

48 Clarity and support 2/28/2019 8:19 AM

49 updates 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

50 To provide good communication and to inform me that the main issues raised in the conferencewill be addressed.

2/28/2019 8:08 AM

51 A better interpretation of schedule 3 the practice note for when is a building permit required isrubbish. A good guideline for Councils in regards to what to do in the instance where a buildingpractitioner is involved in an alleged breach of section 16

2/28/2019 8:05 AM

52 How do we get BS-L to Bs- U who have 15 plus years experience. The Degree or Post gradCourses are not designed for these individuals..

2/28/2019 7:57 AM

53 An open line of communication and effective response times to queries. As the kingpin of theapprovals system it is imperative thtat the VBA provide the resources to facilitate this.

2/28/2019 7:49 AM

54 Feedback- what is consistently being misinterpreted by our industry and how to address 2/28/2019 7:47 AM

55 BCA 2019 changes 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

56 Guidance towards doing it right 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

57 When the VBA Web site is updated with information alert all practitioners so we can chinoiserieto review. We certainly dont sit and troll over then Web site on a daily basis.

2/28/2019 5:25 AM

58 Panel of bs to be able to get opinions on bldg and reg problems that arrise from time to time 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

59 Having a reliable technical advisory line would be a very valuable resource. Getting timelyadvice via email would be great.

2/27/2019 10:45 PM

60 Affordable insurance, responses to compliance certificates and VBA backing during issueresolution - VBA do your job!!

2/27/2019 9:14 PM

61 Any of the subject matters raised by the audience. 2/27/2019 8:59 PM

62 improved accessibility to support, not being critical as the VBA have a great deal of valuable infoon their website but the functionality needs improvement.

2/27/2019 8:54 PM

63 from what I hear better response and feedback to direction to fix and building orders for privatebuilding surveyors. are needed

2/27/2019 8:48 PM

64 -For designers / builders etc to comply with building laws. Access to all laws (incl BCA,standards etc) should be free. -Reduce the cost of applying for VBA modifications and / orperformance solutions. -Audit findings against practitioners (including VCAT & Supreme courtmatters) should be decifered by the VBA to determine what is going wrong most often, whataffects the consumer most, review legislation to see if there is a shortfall (ie lack clarity,misunderstood, too open to interpretation, flood of building industry with substandard chineseproducts etc), improve course ciriculum, improve laws, legal advice, clear conciseinterpretations, creat tailored workshops, retraining re performance assessments and/or publishliterature to address matters to achieve consistency in the industry. Adopt a concept of constantimprovement (Not unlike a air crash investigation process). Such investigations find its neverjust one thing. The building surveyor is low hanging fruit, when you need someone to blame, butit’s never just the building surveyor. The building surveyor cannot fund or afford the resourcesneeded to re-educate owners, architects, draftsperson, builders etc. The VBA is the onlyauthority that can achieve a great outcome in collaboration with building practitioners. -Introduce a 4 year cadetship scheme (or similar) so that businesses can employ students andinvest in them (ie imparting 30+ yrs of experience and expertise) without fearing that they’llleave within two years, resulting in a loss to the business, no return of investment, basicallytrained a person for someone else (usually big business). The failing of this process affectsmany things including succession planning which is vital in building surveying. -Free interactivewebinars for practitioners

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

65 access to technical support for interpretations of legislation scrutinise the drafting practitionersworkmanship so they improve

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

66 Enforcement assistance 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

67 Interpretation and education on new legislation amendments. 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

68 Better communication and ability to unite rather than the current perception of us against them 2/27/2019 7:27 PM

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69 Publish (via the VBA email to all RPBs & arch's), issues that have been identified onsite and indocumentation during audits even if these are incidental to the purpose of the audit i.e. whilereviewing files as part of the cladding audit it has been identified that architects anddraftsperson are not identifying the street address in the title block just the project name. Thiswill show the wider industry that audits are being undertaken and their work is being looked at,reinforce the standards, encourage greater consistency.

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

70 1. Insurance guidance (ASAP); and 2. Give more ongoing support and training for RBS's (CPD) 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

71 give directions 2/27/2019 6:57 PM

72 - Immunity for MBS? - resourcing concerns should be looked at. - MBS to report under the CEOof Council and have adequate resource

2/27/2019 6:55 PM

73 1) VBA mail needs to return with live info as changes happen. 2) Promote proactive inspectionfindings; compliance, non-compliance, risk profile, common themes, expectations, resolutions,etc. 3) training on how to prepare enforceable DTF, Notices and Orders to save everyone timeand money, including time and money of VBA 4) more fact sheets to support us when werequest the builder or drafts person to fix their plans. The box gutter info sheet us a goodexample

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

74 A positive affirmative publicity campaign which acknowledges the conflict, but informs thecommunity that these are just a small percentage of the industry, and when these people areouted for their deficiencies, a swift approach rather than the usual long protracted watered downvariety, seen as just a slap on the wrist by others which then doesn't promote good practice

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

75 More information on future regulations and P/I insurance 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

76 greater access to technical staff when needing answers. enforcement of notices and ordersincluding written directions not just fobbing them off. We cannot regulate real problem jobswithin private practice we rely on the VBA to help

2/27/2019 6:39 PM

77 a common approach by VBA and RBS in interpretations of a myriad of common Act and Regprocess/admin/compliance matters

2/27/2019 6:36 PM

78 Too many to list. A starting point would be to address the matters raised within the workshops. 2/27/2019 6:32 PM

79 A definition on significant damage - protection works. 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

80 Provide clear written advice from tech and reg. Like it was when Dennis Hogan ran thedepartment. The technical standard at the VBA is very low.

2/27/2019 6:28 PM

81 N/A 2/27/2019 6:15 PM

82 You need professionals and experienced people who can give Regulatory advice that isconsistent. You haven't got them right now and unlikely to get them. The Govt hasn't supportedthe industry for 20 years, so they are no longer around or they wont come as they arepractising. If you could give this Regulatory advice, then create a portal that provides peoplewith visibility on this advice

2/27/2019 6:13 PM

83 More communication Legal assistance More dissemination of information. Email everypractitioner with each and every practice note as it is issued More practice notes foradministrative actions More information on how to deal with FP1.4 for commercialbuildings(cladding)

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

84 Clear and consistence regulatory guidance for regulation matter. Alternative insurance optionsshould insurers pull out of the market. Strong and timely support for enforcement action onnotices, orders, directions and for non complying partitioners.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

85 Technical support on products being used on complex projects. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

86 INTERPRETATION OF THE NCC REGARDING CLADDING/EXTERNAL WALLDEFINITION/ATTACHMENTS CLARIFICATION, ETC. AS THE VBA IS THE CENTRAL HUBTHORUGH WHICH ALL ADUTIS/ENQUIRIES/INSPECITONS ETC.,PASSES, IT WOULD BEOF ENORMOUS ASSISTANCE IF THAT GATHERED INFORMATON COULD BEDISSEMINTAED - NOT NECESSARILY BY PRACTICE NOTE BUT MORE IN INFORMATIONBITES WHICH PROMPT THE BUILDING SURVEYOR TO MEASURE THEIR WORKPRACTICES TO SEE IF THEY ARE UNWITTINLGY MAKING THE SAME MISTAKES WHICHARE BEING MADE BY SIGNIFICANT NUMBERS OF OTHER BUIDLING SURVEYORS.

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

87 To instigate a minimum documentation push. Introduce a requirement that the draftsperson is tosign of on there drawing that they have included all the things required listed in the practice notor there own BDAV checklist. Stop talking lets get out there and push for that so that when wereject the documentation it dosn't just get shopped around. Or Introduce directions to fix forDraftspeople and we send the VBA our lists of things that need to be fixed on all drawings sothey can build a profile of who can't produce effective plans.. Produce a proforma for estimatingcost of works. We have used many methods but at every audit we are wrong..over and under...

2/27/2019 6:03 PM

88 Real time guidance in relation ti interpretation of new legislation in particular non defined areasi.e. protection of adjoining property. Insurance issues

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

89 - More clarity on insurance - More risk spread on other stakeholders - Assistance from the VBAin a timely manner

2/27/2019 5:52 PM

90 Provide a clear list of what type of cladding an be used (not a list of the ones that can't). Fundcadets at Councils to prevent a massive shortfall very soon

2/27/2019 5:52 PM

91 VBA needs to lift it game in all areas of its operations, including the development of CPD,information and training materials and resources.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

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92 There is enough information available - we need the authority that registers and allows us tooperate to support us when we seek help, not criticize and turn every fault, problem, omissionby others as our fault.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

93 Why not, a condition on planning permits for us building surveyors, to assess buildings againstNCC compliance prior issuance of planning. Could VBA make suggestion to planning minister?

2/27/2019 5:48 PM

94 Clarification on gray areas 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

95 More information on changes the upcoming process changes 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

96 N/A 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

97 Assistance, guidance with VBA follow-through with notices and orders. VBA representations todraft notice and orders to an enforceable standard. Fining of practitioner who don't comply withnotices and orders.

2/27/2019 5:33 PM

98 nothing in particular 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

99 Technical experts how provided written advice rather then "it's up to the building surveyor".Slam this dick heads out of industry who are doing the wrong thing not by mistake (Sam Coco)!

2/27/2019 5:32 PM

100 When change is occurring BS need the information about changes before the change occurs.Clear and concise information relating not only to the change but why so that there is clarityaround the intention, remove the political speak

2/27/2019 5:31 PM

101 Answer emails in a more timely manner 2/27/2019 5:27 PM

102 more relevant information, regulation changes, proposed regulations, 2/27/2019 5:25 PM

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100.00% 89

88.76% 79

66.29% 59

Q14 If the VBA was to run training sessions for building surveyors, whattopics would you like covered?List three and why.


# TOPIC SESSION 1 DATE

1 How to correctly complete enforceable directions, notices & orders 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 Legislation changes. 3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Cladding taskforce audit process 3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 transparencey - scope of vba work 3/4/2019 11:08 AM

5 Inspections are they required or could builders self-certify therefore taking ownership ofresposibilities.

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

6 Legislation changes and how they affect the B.S. 3/4/2019 9:25 AM


8 Enforcement 3/3/2019 9:33 AM

9 Legislation applications for Building Permits 3/1/2019 3:34 PM

10 Illigal works 3/1/2019 12:30 PM

11 Dealing with illegal buildings. Each council has a different interpretation on what is required toresolve.

3/1/2019 10:59 AM

12 Interpretations and Consistency with Decision Making - To enable a consistent approach acrossa very subjective field.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

13 Enforcement Action 3/1/2019 7:07 AM

14 Processes 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

15 Energy rating for building alterations and additions 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

16 Process improvements 2/28/2019 5:54 PM

17 Advice for Building Surveyors to assess and certify illegal works. 2/28/2019 4:28 PM

18 Performance Based Design & IFEG 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

19 For PBS, how to draft accurate or legitimate Building Notices and Orders 2/28/2019 3:15 PM

20 New building permit number system 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

21 Handling of structural inspections and correct way to sign off the structure - there is a massivedisjoint between the regulations and 'common practise'

2/28/2019 2:23 PM

22 How good the performance based system is for the consumer? 2/28/2019 2:11 PM

23 Writing effective Building Notices/Orders 2/28/2019 2:01 PM

24 Protection work process 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

25 protection works again 2/28/2019 1:25 PM

26 DTFBW, Notice and Orders - so that the referals can be actioned 2/28/2019 1:06 PM

27 The process on how regulations are implemented 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

28 legislation so we are all on the same page 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

29 NCC 2019 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

30 Compliance 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

31 Protection works - setting a standard on when BS should be requesting it. 2/28/2019 11:31 AM

32 BAMS, no body yet understands this 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

33 Failures of the ESM system 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

34 Accepting and interpreting performance solutions 2/28/2019 9:36 AM

35 What does best practice look like in detail? 2/28/2019 9:16 AM

36 Direction to fix, notice and orders 2/28/2019 9:15 AM

37 Enforcement 2/28/2019 9:05 AM


Topic session 1

Topic session 2

Topic session 3

28 / 36


38 Hot topics from the technical team. What are some of the main questions Building Surveyorsare asking? Why aren't these published from time to time?

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

39 A session listing or stating the issues the VBA most commonly detect that building surveyorsare interpretting wrong or just doing wrong - so steps can be taken to adjust.

2/28/2019 8:49 AM

40 Responsibilities and functions 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

41 Insurance its the basis for our activities 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

42 protection works 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

43 Act & Regs legal interpretations 2/28/2019 8:21 AM

44 education 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

45 Understanding legislation to ensure prescribed and approved forms are completed correctly 2/28/2019 8:08 AM

46 Council interation with the VBA 2/28/2019 8:05 AM

47 Performance Solution acceptances 2/28/2019 7:57 AM

48 Alt solutions - competitive advantage to those who don’t require them 2/28/2019 7:47 AM

49 cost of business and pricing projects 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

50 Legal liability 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

51 Notices and Orders 2/28/2019 5:25 AM

52 Bldg classification 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

53 Protection works under BR2018 2/27/2019 10:45 PM

54 Professionalism and serving the public/clients 2/27/2019 8:59 PM

55 Process QA 2/27/2019 8:54 PM

56 buiding notices and orders 2/27/2019 8:48 PM

57 Performance assessment of most typical matters that arise. 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

58 workshop the Small Lot housing code 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

59 Enforcement 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

60 Legislation changes 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

61 Review of notices, orders and direction to fix - how the VBA has changed things for the better. 2/27/2019 7:27 PM

62 Mandatory upgrade triggers in the Building Regulations. There is still a lot of variation ininterpretation and application of this rule (deliberate and via ignorance).

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

63 How to respond and deal with non-complying designs. 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

64 ESM and it hasent been done for a while 2/27/2019 6:55 PM

65 DTF, notice and orders, to ensure VBA will proceed with discipline action 2/27/2019 6:49 PM

66 performance solutions 2/27/2019 6:46 PM

67 Regulations changes 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

68 registration and qualification of practitioners 2/27/2019 6:39 PM

69 conflict of interest matters 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

70 When does design advice fall within the realm of constituting design work and in turn constitutea conflict of interest. This is important to ensure every practitioner abides by the samestandards.

2/27/2019 6:32 PM

71 Protection works 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

72 Building permit process 2/27/2019 6:28 PM

73 Fp1.4. No one in the industry is currently doing this. I see this as the next systemicproblem(leaky buildings). Architects are flippantly using a number of different cladding sandarchitectural features without detailing waterproofing, interfaces of materials etc. buildingsurveyors are NOT asking for performance assessments except my firm(as it seems). This isnot only costing me clients but I see thenon going problems associated with this practice.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

74 Energy efficiency provisions for additions and alterations including compliance with practicenote 55.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

75 Products used as attachments to achieve compliance with dts. Define "Attachment" clearer. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

76 CLADDING - BECAUSE THE CURRENT NCC SEEMS INCONSISTENT AND UNWORKABLE 2/27/2019 6:05 PM

77 Checking Energy rating assessment (As part of the new regs as well) 2/27/2019 6:03 PM

78 Protection of adjoining property - as not defined in Act or Regs 2/27/2019 5:56 PM

79 Insurance - because of how much it costs 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

80 protection of adjoining property 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

81 Performance based code and related administrative procedures. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

82 Documenting directions / orders 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

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83 Enforcement Notices 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

84 Check lists for plan checking and inspections 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

85 Process & Permits - what the VBA expects 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

86 Protection of adjoining property 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

87 Back to basic regulatory framework 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

88 PWN 2/27/2019 5:27 PM

89 regulation changes 2/27/2019 5:25 PM


1 VBA collaboration on correct interpretation of legislation 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 Audit & inspection processes. 3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Building Notices, Orders, Directions to fix guidance 3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 changing regulations 3/4/2019 11:08 AM

5 Form 15 & Form 16 type system as in QLD be introduced into Victoria 3/4/2019 11:03 AM


7 Resourcing and issues with lack of Building Surveyors 3/3/2019 9:33 AM

8 Common shortfalls in Certification and insepctions 3/1/2019 3:34 PM

9 Training and mentoring scheme pathway for new inspectors/surveyors 3/1/2019 12:30 PM

10 Insurance & Consultation with Insuring Bodies - To enable Building Surveyors to make informeddecisions about price setting.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

11 Essential Safety Measures 3/1/2019 7:07 AM

12 enforcement action 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

13 stategies for future audits 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

14 Top 10 things identified as poor practice in audits 2/28/2019 5:54 PM

15 Discuss the future of Building Surveying. What is the average of a Building Surveyor? Is theregoing to be a significant amount of retirees in the next 3-5 years?

2/28/2019 4:28 PM

16 Conflict of interest 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

17 ESM inspections including identifying different smoke and thermal detectors, fire fightingequipment etc.

2/28/2019 3:15 PM

18 Business management 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

19 Defining 'design work' and how far our role can do. Eg. Preparing Report and consentapplications? Attending design meetings?

2/28/2019 2:23 PM

20 Protection work 2/28/2019 2:01 PM

21 Document 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

22 documenting performance bases regulatory process 2/28/2019 1:25 PM

23 Registrations process for IN-L and BS-L.... need to encourage those currenlty in the industry toapply !

2/28/2019 1:06 PM

24 How to train a graduate when I'm not a certified trainer 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

25 Current building isssues 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

26 Relevant Standards 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

27 Preformance solutions 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

28 Issuing correct and enforcable notices to fix, notices and orders to allwo VBA to enforce matters. 2/28/2019 11:31 AM

29 Protection work, no one does this well 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

30 Impact of bad regulatory decisions on MFESB 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

31 Explaining the notice and orders process and explaining the power private building surveyorshave and need to start using more

2/28/2019 9:36 AM

32 How will the Registration Process look like? 2/28/2019 9:16 AM

33 Protection works (particularly for residential applications -small retaining walls) 2/28/2019 9:15 AM

34 Fool proofing the Protection Works process to avoid delays and AVOID GOING TO APPEAL! 2/28/2019 8:58 AM

35 Inspections 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

36 Clearer definitions of the functions of practitioners 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

37 enforcement 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

38 What is the role of the relevant Building Surveyor 2/28/2019 8:21 AM

39 other practitioners 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

40 Discuss compliance- the VBA should assist Councils in fulfilling their compliance obligations. 2/28/2019 8:05 AM

30 / 36


41 S233 dispo's 2/28/2019 7:57 AM

42 how to gain registeration as a BSU (what experience is needed)) 2/28/2019 7:41 AM

43 Conflicts of interest 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

44 Professional practice 2/28/2019 5:25 AM

45 Waterproofing 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

46 Referring Direction to Fix / Building Orders to VBA 2/27/2019 10:45 PM

47 ESM’s 2/27/2019 8:54 PM

48 NCC Changes 2/27/2019 8:48 PM

49 VBA approved building permit management software training 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

50 Get in a vcat member to talk about the issues they are seeing 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

51 Inspections 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

52 Performance solutions 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

53 PI Insurance review and less onerous obligations ofd the building surveyor 2/27/2019 7:27 PM

54 Part 15 of the Building Regulations. Area with a lot of inconsistancy due to poorly draftedregulations..

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

55 How to issue enforceable Notices and Orders. 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

56 More technical sessions as i dont see much around 2/27/2019 6:55 PM

57 Role of building surveyors in issuing building permits, inspections and CFI/OPs so consistentpractices are adopted state wide

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

58 uniform approach to illegal work responses by municipalities 2/27/2019 6:46 PM

59 Enforcement 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

60 common pitfalls and ways to protect against them 2/27/2019 6:39 PM

61 engagement ie offer & acceptance to act as RBS 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

62 Issuing legally valid Direction to Fix and Building Notices and Order. Important to ensurebuilders and owners are not excused from conforming with directions or orders on the basis ofan administrative law error.

2/27/2019 6:32 PM

63 Performance solutions 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

64 How to conduct r167 mandatory inspections 2/27/2019 6:28 PM

65 Admin functions. New refs were introduced and there are several unresolved issues which mayaffect building surveyors down the track if we are doing things incorrectly

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

66 Protection works and explanation of minimum standards based on Act and Regulations. 2/27/2019 6:08 PM

67 Private Building Surveyors roles and responsibilites after the issuing of Occupancy Permit 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

68 PI INSURANCE - AND THE POSSIBLITY FOR A GOVERNMENT LEVY SYSTEM (SIMILARTO THE BUILDING PERMIT LEVY) AND RUN BY THE VBA

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

69 Enforcement...With the VBA taking up the slack and backing the Private Building Surveyors.Otherwise it is too hard and unpaid work so leave it or turn a blind eye and sing it off.

2/27/2019 6:03 PM

70 Exposure of Building surveyor to litigation for all of the work when not responsible for thepractical construction of the work.

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

71 Liability - because we are always blamed for the whole project 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

72 bab applications - case studies 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

73 Pool Safety regulations and standards 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

74 Pulling apart complex alternative solutions - things to watch out for 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

75 Direction to fix 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

76 Swimming pool inspections (mandatory) 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

77 Performance assessments 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

78 Back to basic building permit plan checking 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

79 proposed regulations/changes 2/27/2019 5:25 PM


1 Building designer minimum paperwork requirements 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 VBA current and future policy directions 3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 Protection Works process and clarification (i.e. correct service of documents, 14 day period -how does this apply where adjoining owner(s) reside overseas?)

3/4/2019 4:41 PM

4 include other technical people other than building surveyors to inform about the regulations 3/4/2019 11:08 AM


6 Liability - PI Insurance for all Practitioners 3/3/2019 9:33 AM

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7 Example of Approval assessments - timing, things to watch, documenting decisions, etc 3/1/2019 3:34 PM

8 Combustible Cladding Outcomes 'Who should bear responsibility?' - To enable industry tounderstand that complexities, we know the Code requirements and issues but perhaps seekfurther understanding from a lawyers perspective. This one is obviously a big bite, but isperhaps a deciding factor in who continues in this industry.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

9 A clear explanation of roles and responsibilities of all BS's. 3/1/2019 7:07 AM

10 Planning 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

11 why enery raters and geotechs are not RBP's 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

12 Insurance of building surveyors 2/28/2019 5:54 PM

13 Advice regarding liability, insurance run off etc after an OP is issued. How long are youresponsible for?

2/28/2019 4:28 PM

14 Regulatory responsibilities 2/28/2019 4:14 PM

15 Communication skills 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

16 Acceptable standards for documentation provided 2/28/2019 2:23 PM

17 Who is your actual client 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

18 Follow up training sessions when practice notes are published 2/28/2019 12:33 PM

19 Building legislation in the pipe line 2/28/2019 11:44 AM

20 Performance solutions 2/28/2019 11:43 AM

21 Role of Council, VBA and RBS in enforcement 2/28/2019 10:29 AM

22 Failure of waterproofing external ingress and internal systems such as showers and foundations 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

23 A complete training session on the small lot housing code? I know this has probably neverraised before but I dont know if you realize this the SLHC was made by Town Planners andwritten by them but enforceable by Building Surveyors and we have had no training what soever.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

24 The new building permit numbering system 2/28/2019 9:15 AM

25 How to draft an "enforceable" Notice/Order. 2/28/2019 8:58 AM

26 Checking, codes standards and interpretation 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

27 better succession plans 2/28/2019 8:25 AM

28 How to educate the building practitioners on how to carry out their roles. 2/28/2019 8:21 AM

29 consistency 2/28/2019 8:14 AM

30 Education of surveyors and inspectors 2/28/2019 8:05 AM

31 Act and Regulation enforcement 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

32 Bal 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

33 Verification method FV1 2/27/2019 10:45 PM

34 How to deal with complaints 2/27/2019 8:54 PM

35 dealing with Places of Public Entertainment 2/27/2019 8:48 PM

36 VBA QA criteria that will be adopted for auditing building surveyors 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

37 Notices and orders 2/27/2019 7:45 PM

38 Process for dealing with illegal works. 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

39 Better support for building practitioners in enforcement and illegal building activity. Run a few tvadds on what the responsibility of the building surveyor is and the consequences of illegal andnon compliant building work

2/27/2019 7:27 PM

40 Mandatory Inspections. These are new regulations and it would be benefical for VBA/DEWLP toget feedback on their operation so far.

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

41 How to improve the image of the Building Surveyor 2/27/2019 7:15 PM

42 Performance solutions, determinations, fire peformance solutions ect, to ensure consistentapproach is adopted state wide

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

43 effect of water on buildings 2/27/2019 6:46 PM

44 Owner Builder building permits 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

45 Reg 229 231 233 234 Form 18 'Partial Compliance' 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

46 Documentation to be accompanied with a building permit application, important to providestandardised thinking with regard to what level of documentation is sufficient for the purposes offorming a view that works will comply with the Act and Regulations.

2/27/2019 6:32 PM

47 Registration pathways 2/27/2019 6:28 PM

48 Work through the BCA and how to apply it. Clause by clause. 2/27/2019 6:08 PM

49 Creating consistent regulatory guidence on all regulation matter as required. 2/27/2019 6:08 PM

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50 Multi unit developments including alteration to an existing dwelling (less than 25%). How manypermit/s should be issued? How does this affect CFI and OP?

2/27/2019 6:06 PM

51 HOW TO PALCE MORE RESPONSIBILITY ON THE DEISIGNERS AND BUILDERS TO GETTHINGS RIGHT RATHER THAN ASKING THE BUILDING SURVEYOR TO BE THE QUALITYCONTROLLER FOR ALL STAKEHOLDERS

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

52 How the VBA assess the cost of building work. 2/27/2019 6:03 PM

53 Insurance - Property developers [non class 1a & Class 10a residential; buildings] should beliable for on going 10 year insurance for development s.

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

54 Design input - because builders often think we run their projects 2/27/2019 5:52 PM

55 ESM regulations and standards. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

56 Refer Topic 1 & 2 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

57 Lightweight wall compliance 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

58 BAB process, BPB process for disciplinary issues. 2/27/2019 5:47 PM

59 Duty of care/ community expection of what a BS whether they are a PBS or MBS is, does 2/27/2019 5:31 PM

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Q15 Is there any further feedback you'd like to provide about theconference?


# RESPONSES DATE

1 Generally a positively formatted day that I enjoyed and came out with a positive attitude 3/5/2019 9:13 AM

2 * The lack of discussion following the BAMs presentation was very disappointing and anopportunity to improve missed. The time taken for the VBA to get where it has with theresources being used as opposed to the time the software providers will have to implenet thechange fields and test systems do not seem realistic for an efficient / effective implementation. *With the exception of BAMS I left the day hopeful that the VBA were listening rather than justtelling. The real feedback on the value of the day will be to see what action occur. All the best toall involved as this was a positive step towards improvement.

3/5/2019 9:05 AM

3 May be expand the conference to other technical people too, so that all the technical people(builder, designers, engineers and building surveyors) are on the same page.

3/4/2019 11:08 AM

4 I found it rather concerning that when the chair hosting was asked if her industry still had a feescale she answered "absolutely" however the expert dismissed her answer and suggested webe fearless and ox on! The introduction of a fee scale would instantly raise the bar in ourindustry and still give the consumer the competition. It works for the lawyers as Bronwynconfirmed the day.

3/4/2019 11:03 AM

5 The VBA needs to work better with use B.S who are at the coal face 3/4/2019 9:25 AM

6 All good - thanks 3/1/2019 3:34 PM

7 Keep up the good work, i really appreciate the new attitude 3/1/2019 12:30 PM

8 The difficulty in attracting young building surveyors into the industry is 'grim'. I think the hardestpart will be trying to retain good building surveyors, as due to an ageing profession, the currentclimate of insurance I doubt many will still be around in the next bout of insurance renewals.Now the education is free at a Tafe level I congratulate the government for offering this level andreceiving record number applicants, but I question the level of academic that will be produced atthe end of the 1-2yr course, I believe a strong code of conduct is required (similar to Tasmania)to educate these students and get them on the right pathway from the beginning.

3/1/2019 9:58 AM

9 I thought the panel sessions were fantastically curated - great speakers overall who wereauthoritative and knowledgeable. Slido was a great addition to the event but needed to beaddressed in all sessions. Not sure if speakers had access to seeing what was going on,especially if presenting at the podium. Bronwyn was a brilliant facilitator. As an affiliated industrypartner, of course my main comment is that I'd like to see similar conferences held for otherstakeholder groups. I know you can't run 29 of these a year for each limited category so theremay be a way to bundle groups together e.g. landscaping, pools, fencing, waterproofing,retaining walls for a half day session with another bundled group (e.g. painting, plastering, tilingetc) in the other half of the day. That way you can make the most of the resources (venuefacilities and your staff) in one day. Could also save you some bucks if the morning lot finish upand then go away (you don't have to feed them all) and then the arvo group arrives already fed.You only need to cater a morning and afternoon tea. Regardless, you need to touch base withthe other classes and industries you regulate at least once a year. if that is not through thesesorts of conferences/workshops then it has to be in some other way. But these people who wantto do the right thing need to feel supported by you. Time wise, annually or up to 18 mths but nolonger between events would be my suggestion. You need at least 12 mths to see any changesoccur as we all know how long some things can take to action. Overall though, well done andfantastic to finally see some positive action from the VBA.

3/1/2019 9:39 AM

10 The conference was fantastic and a great ice-breaker between all parties. It is vital that the VBAtakes the feedback onboard and issues communications in response (constructive notdefensive).

3/1/2019 7:07 AM

11 Sue Eddy & Bronwyn Weir were very good speakers 2/28/2019 10:17 PM

12 Great step in the right direction 2/28/2019 9:33 PM

13 best venue and hospitality for last 7 years. 2/28/2019 9:20 PM

14 The conference was well organized by the VBA. Well done. 2/28/2019 3:15 PM

15 I hope the questions that could not be answered are followed up and responses made. 2/28/2019 2:53 PM

16 THE VBA JUST HAVE TO DO THERE JOB AS THE REGULATOR. 2/28/2019 2:45 PM

17 It was great! Hopefully all the of discussions lead to positive change and a stronger industry. 2/28/2019 2:23 PM

18 Practicing practitioner to run the conference. 2/28/2019 2:11 PM

19 I think doing one for builders would be good 2/28/2019 1:50 PM

20 no 2/28/2019 1:25 PM

21 Like most conferences... lost of question very few conclusive answers. if you want practitionersto continue attending, we need to walk away with direction and answers. Continue the surveysprior and provided technical responses on the day

2/28/2019 1:06 PM

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22 I think the proactive approach taken by the VBA is a great step forward in collaborating with theindustry and was welcomed by all. However, content of the presentation needs to be specificallyfocused on the Building Surveying/inspecting functions.

2/28/2019 12:33 PM

23 Well done extremely good conference. However the VBA must start acting accordance with thepowers that they have been given under the Building Act and the issues that were identifiedthroughout this conference. Your were able to get approx 500 building surveyors in one roomand ask for a honest opinion and you go it. If the industry can see via your actions that you havetaken us seriously then these conference's will be just as successful as this one was in thefuture. If not the next audience will not be so big. Again well done

2/28/2019 11:44 AM

24 I understand the conference was predominately about combustible cladding. Maybe somesamples of compliant and non compliant materials could have been presented.

2/28/2019 11:43 AM

25 One of the better VBA conference/meeting All speakers very engaging. 2/28/2019 11:36 AM

26 There wasn't a lot of opportunity to provide advice to the VBA on how to make the system work.Industry has a lot of practitioners who have excellent ideas on lots of specific areas of thelegislation and how they can better be administered and where the problems are. The VBA andDELWP need to engage with specific people in industry to help develop correct policy, guidanceand legislation.

2/28/2019 10:29 AM

27 Well organised and on time; important relative topic 2/28/2019 9:53 AM

28 The conference was easily the best one I've attended. Very positive. We need to build on thatmomentum, and to engage between the VBA, private and Councils to ensure a uniformapproach and to ensure each body complements each others actions

2/28/2019 9:36 AM

29 I thought it was fantastic and my only criticism would be is the focus also needs to be onBuilding Inspectors to attend as I bet there were none their and they are a huge part of thequality problem on site so somehow the conference needs to engage on the Building Inspectorsto attend.

2/28/2019 9:16 AM

30 The conference was very well run and helpful. Generally there was a sense of good will andcollaboration. It would be appreciated if the conference could have finished after the thirdsession i.e. around 2:30-3:00pm to allow people from regional areas to get home at areasonable time.

2/28/2019 9:15 AM

31 Need more Q&A time with VBA representatives. A couple of times things were just starting toget going and had to move on.

2/28/2019 8:58 AM

32 Generally speaking the conference was very good and i'm glad I attended, the test is whetherthe issues raised are addressed.

2/28/2019 8:50 AM

33 Good job, you will always get criticism as you can not please everyone. 2/28/2019 8:49 AM

34 Next conference needs to be in more depth and better target the industry 2/28/2019 8:29 AM

35 We needed to discuss the alternatives if PI insurance becomes unavailable which at themoment is more likely than not.

2/28/2019 8:25 AM

36 if the presentation could be made available online 2/28/2019 8:23 AM

37 In my view this is a conference we needed to have and need to ensure future regularconferences are held to provide better communication.

2/28/2019 8:08 AM

38 Stop the conference becoming a vehicle for VBA propaganda- it was acceptable for the firstconference but the conference need to address the industry as a whole.

2/28/2019 8:05 AM

39 The conference needs to be more effective and be run as a workshop and asking the rightquestions of surveyors to gather the information. however beore theat the VBA needs to trulyunderstadn the issues out there

2/28/2019 7:49 AM

40 No 2/28/2019 7:00 AM

41 When it was advertised initially it was indicated that it was open for registers Private and Publicbuilding Surveyors. I noted some attendees were not Building Surveyors. Had i known that iwould have brought along two others from my office. Unfortunately the people that were notthere are ones that should be (the 5%ers), however I acknowledge that it is likely impossible tohave the attend. I think the no cost was a great aspect that would have encouraged people toattend.

2/28/2019 5:25 AM

42 No 2/27/2019 11:33 PM

43 This conference was a step in the right direction for our profession and about 10 years overdue. i hope this will become a regular occurrence which may be a challenge given how cynicalsome building surveyors have become. One area that is becoming a real problem for buildingsurveyors is maintaining mental health. This may not be an area that the VBA would haveexpertise in, but i think it has the potential of becoming a significant issue given the pressureswe are constantly facing. This is a clear and consistent theme i hear when talking to colleagues.

2/27/2019 10:45 PM

44 Thanks - in spite of my survey response, the conference was positively significant to me. 2/27/2019 9:14 PM

45 You are preaching to a profession that faces a number of challenges. The concern is thatseminars etc need to engage all practitioners to improve the value add that a BS adds to theindustry.

2/27/2019 8:54 PM

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46 I’ve written to the BC, BCC & VBA around five times over 8 years pointing out a shortfall inpractice note 32. it was republished about five times in that period with no case study thatcaters for commercial fitout works. I still come across major building property managers whobelieve non structural office or shop fit out building word does not require a building permit. Inmy view, this practice note has failed the commercial building sector where significant illegalworks greatly impacts life safety systems ( ie fire services, sprinklers coverage, egressprovisions, emergency lighting coverage etc)

2/27/2019 8:36 PM

47 dont wheel out the old blokes like John Prendergast who is only interested in retiring 2/27/2019 8:36 PM

48 Imperative Sue is there all day. Well done VBA on a GREAT conference. Haven’t seen thatmany building surveyors in one place for 20 years.

2/27/2019 7:45 PM

49 Longer question time. 2/27/2019 7:37 PM

50 All of the above 2/27/2019 7:27 PM

51 A lot of discussion about why people weren't choosing building surveying as a career path wasdominated by guys in their 50s who aren't the best speak on behalf of people in their teens. Iwould encourage the VBA to have small focus groups with recent graduates who will be able toprovide a better insight into the career decision making of teenagers. (I suspect liability & cost ofPI insurance is not high on the list)

2/27/2019 7:21 PM

52 - Need to push everyone back into the conference room much quicker after each break. - Thesupply of complementary note pads and pens would be nice. - Can the VBA start some sort ofinformational magazine or supply brochures about building issues or practices and/or newstopics relevant to RBS' & MBS's.

2/27/2019 7:15 PM

53 The conference was good, but a little shocked that the CEO did not even know how many DTFand Building Orders were being returned unenforceable. This seems like VBA staff have aculture of withdrawing support for the RBS and even causing investigations into the RBSsconduct in performing their statutory functions, which is actually bestowed on the VBA to carryout the legal enforcement.

2/27/2019 6:49 PM

54 I felt like the identification and outing of the problems within the industry, was an amazinglypositive approach. You can't fix things until you admit there is something to fix

2/27/2019 6:46 PM

55 No 2/27/2019 6:41 PM

56 The conference was very good and is in my opinion the 1st time that the VBA or Authorityreached out to the practitioners to seek common ground

2/27/2019 6:39 PM

57 No but thanks 2/27/2019 6:36 PM

58 Keep the communication open with all building surveyors. 2/27/2019 6:32 PM

59 I’m glad I attended I look forward to attending the next conference. 2/27/2019 6:31 PM

60 It's a start, but the VBA is so far behind I don't know if they can ever catch up. I would like you toprove me wrong.

2/27/2019 6:28 PM

61 You have no practical experience to give to people at the coal face. Thanks for the CPD points 2/27/2019 6:13 PM

62 It was very positive. Take note of what bs said and do something about it. Put pressure on theminister to make change. Make change that will assist building surveyors with litigation. This willassist the insurance industry in turn. There is a big problem with the way the act is currentlywritten and we need to be less liable. What happened to joint and several liability. It seems tobe the builder and the building surveyor every time. There is a reason for this. We needcertification form all disciplines. Make everyone involved in the process more accountable.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

63 It was a positive seminar starting with Sue Eddy. I would like to so a collaborative approachbetween VBA and Building Surveyors and we could be seen to help each other promote greatcommunity outcomes in a safe manner.

2/27/2019 6:08 PM

64 Overall well organised and ran. However didn't get all the answers that was asked. 2/27/2019 6:06 PM

65 THE FACT THAT IT WAS FREE MEANT THAT LARGE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE, INCLUDINGTHOSE LESS FINANCIALLY WELL OFF COULD ATTEND. EXCELLENT AND VERYINCLUSIVE STRATEGY.

2/27/2019 6:05 PM

66 Start producing Webinars of all activities and have CDP points attached. 2/27/2019 6:03 PM

67 Less detail and feed back re Cladding statistics and more detail on cladding out comes andpossible solutions [ case studies or mock examples]

2/27/2019 5:56 PM

68 VBA & Government really need to get their act together. Not very inspiring at all in terms ofleadership. Authenticity is a very important quality that should be considered and adopted.

2/27/2019 5:51 PM

69 Call me 0419 541 321 and happy to meet to discuss. 2/27/2019 5:51 PM

70 Better coffee 2/27/2019 5:48 PM

71 For BS having to travel from regional areas have the start time a little later Have the conferencefilmed and available incase you can't make the conference.

2/27/2019 5:47 PM

72 Great initiative 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

73 No - overall, a very worthwhile event 2/27/2019 5:34 PM

74 Nothing 2/27/2019 5:33 PM

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