Western Australia is transitioning to mandatory registration for building engineering work.
The registration framework covers four prescribed areas:
- structural
- fire safety
- civil
- mechanical
Registration for structural and fire safety engineers commenced from 1 July 2024, with civil and mechanical registration commencing from 1 July 2025. A transition period applies until 1 July 2027.
Until then, suitably qualified engineers may continue performing building engineering work without registration. From 1 July 2027, registration becomes mandatory for affected building engineering work, subject to the transitional arrangements.
The scheme distinguishes between practitioner and contractor registration. Engineering businesses should check whether registration is required for the individual engineer, the contracting entity, or both.
Professional Indemnity Insurance is relevant to the contractor registration framework and should be reviewed against the class of work being undertaken.
Firms preparing for the 2027 commencement should consider their disciplines, business structure, existing registrations and insurance arrangements before the transition period ends.
For current transition dates and registration requirements, see the Western Australian Government building engineering registration guidance.
