Building minister Anoulack Chanthivong has embraced the Building Commission NSW, warning plumbers across the state to verse themselves on their supervision requirements to avoid facing fines.

In an upcoming targeted compliance campaign, only plumbers with a NSW Government-issued contractor license or supervisor certificate can do plumbing work without immediate supervision. This is to ensure work is carried out to required standards.

Starting June 2025, Building Commission NSW will direct targeted compliance activities at various sites across the state.

The commission can issue fines of up to $1,500 per breach, if workers without the correct license are found to be unsupervised.

The Building Commission is also rolling out a wide-ranging awareness campaign to assist plumbers across the state to adhere to the rules.

The campaign will consist of direct emails to plumbers across the state, distribution of newsletters and engagement with peak bodies, including industry and training organisations.

On top of this, TAFE NSW and the commission have launched a plumbing, drainage and gas fitting regulation short course that also prides regulatory knowledge and practice skills that are required by all plumbing professionals.

Anoulack says that the building industry will be sure to stay in check due to a strong regulatory presence.

“Building Commission NSW inspections have revealed a concerning lack of awareness about plumbing supervision requirements or even some plumbers deliberately cutting corners,” he says.

“The point of these requirements is to make sure young apprentices work in a safe environment supported by more experienced workers who will ensure work is done to the required standards while also [passing on skills to the next generation of plumbers.”

Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education minster Stave Whan says that the short course will be a key program to ensure that plumbers are aware of their supervision requirements.

“The course provides engaging, flexible and industry-responsive learning where students can progress at their own pace and have access to the course for up to six months from the day of enrolment,” he says.

“By offering this micro-skill fully discounted to Certificate IV in plumbing students, TAFE NSW and Building Commission NSW are helping graduates build the right skills from day one.”