Engineers Australia has welcomed the McGowan Government’s approval for the preparation of new regulations to register building engineers.

Around 900 building engineers (including engineer technologist and associates) are expected to be registered as part of a reform package to improve regulation of Western Australia's building industry.

Engineers Australia Chief Engineer Jane MacMaster said the new regulations will be a significant step forward for the industry.

“Governments around Australia are attempting to reduce the risks of buildings being evacuated or left uninhabitable and infrastructure like bridges and roads being unsafe. Registering engineers is a critical part of tackling this problem.” Ms MacMaster said.

One of the main benefits for registering engineers in the building sector in WA is to reduce the risk to public health, safety, and welfare. There are also economic benefits, particularly with today’s supply and skills constraints, in more efficient use of materials and less rectification work.

“Engineers are trusted everyday by the community, often without realising how much is created by them. The buildings we live in and the infrastructure we use daily relies on engineering skills to make them a reality,” MacMaster said.  

“Most engineers provide their services competently and ethically, however, use of the title ‘engineer’ is unrestricted and therefore it has become a generic term. Without registration, anyone can claim to be an engineer and provide engineering services without the appropriate qualifications and competencies.

“We thank the McGowan Government for their commitment to improving building standards and look forward to working with them to develop the regulations.”

Media enquiries

Lisa McKoy
0468 366 691
[email protected]