Released 01/10/2025
The ACT Government has today opened applications for licences under the Property Developer Licensing and Regulation Scheme to individuals and entities undertaking residential development projects involving three or more dwellings.
The scheme will require property developers to rectify serious defects in their projects and extends the chain of accountability beyond just licensed builders and other licenced occupations.
“With significant reforms underway to increase the supply of homes in the Territory, this comes with an expectation that these homes are well built,” Minister Steel said.
“Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most Canberrans will ever make. Purchasers should feel secure and protected when they buy a new property in the ACT, not faced with the financial consequences of poor quality construction."
The system will promote public confidence in the standard of residential development in Canberra and ensure that residential development is undertaken by competent developers encouraging quality and the prevention and rectification of defects.
“Competent developers who are committed to quality residential construction and rectify defects on their build should have nothing to fear from licencing,” said Minister Steel
Minister Steel said licensing would be mandatory whenever a property developer sells a unit off-the-plan, lodges a development application or applies for building approvals.
Certain developers, such as registered not-for-profit aged care providers, will be exempt from the scheme when undertaking prescribed residential building activities.
“This will make sure that Canberrans know who is behind a development at the earliest stages of the development process,” Minister Steel said.
“The introduction of this scheme brings developers into the chain of responsibility for building outcomes - alongside builders, certifiers and other licensed professionals. It’s a significant step forward in protecting consumers and improving standards across the industry."
The opening of licence applications is supported by the commencement of the new Property Developers Regulation 2025 and a Property Developers Code of Practice.
Licensing will become mandatory from 1 October 2026. For more information on the scheme and how to apply, visit the ACT Planning website.
- Statement ends -
Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases