A registration scheme would be set up for NSW-based design practitioners, who must also be “adequately insured” as part of the state government’s efforts to reform the troubled building industry.

The requirements are among the measures in the draft Design and Building Practitioners bill, which was put up for public consultation last week.

The bill says design practitioners have to be “indemnified by insurance that complies with the regulations against any liability to which the design practitioner may become subject as a result of making the declaration or carrying out the work”.

NSW Better Regulation Minister Kevin Anderson describes the draft bill as “laying the foundations for major reforms within the building sector”.

“The bill will deliver stronger accountability in the building industry and help deliver confidence back into the industry,” he said.

“The reforms will lift the standards of buildings that are constructed in NSW by ensuring the professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings are accountable for their decisions.”

Closing date for submissions is October 16. Click here for more information.