y y y p y focuses on developments curated from various publications, impacting building design practices, with actionable insights for your professional work.
VALE CRAIG CANTWELL
It is with deep sadness that we share news of the passing of Craig Cantwell on February 25, 2025.
Craig was the founder and director of Balanced Design Studio, a dedicated and skilled building designer and thermal performance assessor who had been a valued member of Design Matters Nartional since 2006.
Craig was a well-respected professional and friend to many in our community. His contributions to our industry and organisation will be remembered fondly.
Our thoughts are with his wife Lisa and children Sam, Esther and Martha during this difficult time.
ESSENTIAL UPDATES
This week's industry news continues to highlight challenges in housing affordability and construction, with taxation and regulatory costs featuring prominently. Several reports examine the need for smaller, more efficient homes and the resistance to density in some regions. Energy efficiency standards continue to evolve, with Western Australia preparing for 7star requirements. Meanwhile, diversity in the construction industry advances with notable success stories and new government initiatives to support women in male-dominated sectors.
UPDATED PRACTICE NOTES NOW AVAILABLE
Design Matters National has recently updated our practice notes. This collation of materials for members gathers all the webinars and support resources to help members become familiar and proficient when it comes to compliance with the new Energy Efficiency Standards and associated building design principles. The resource will be updated as more materials become available. Members can access the complete collection through the Members Resource Portal. We encourage you to review these updated materials to support your professional practice.
In this newsletter you can expect:
Housing taxation and regulatory costs
Energy efficiency standards
Home size and density discussions Gender equity in construction
National
Construction Code updates
Townhouse and Low-Rise Code FAQ release
HOUSING TAXATION AND REGULATORY COSTS
The mounting cost of taxation and regulation on housing development has been highlighted in multiple reports this week The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has released its 2025 edition of the Taxation of the Housing Sector report, revealing a doubling of housing taxation in just five years. According to HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon, "Australia has an acute shortage of housing because governments continue to tax new home building and impede productivity in the sector" (HIA Media Release).
Sourceable reports that these taxes, charges and other regulatory burdens are adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to the cost of new homes and apartments. The Centre for i l i (C )
According to The Urban Developer, these costs are particularly evident in Sydney, where half the cost of a new house and land package reportedly goes to taxes and regulatory charges. The report states that $576,000 of the median package cost consists of government taxes, regulatory costs, and charges.
In Canberra, builders are expressing frustration over approval processes. The Canberra Times quotes builder Xavier Duffy, who states, "Red tape is just killing us," noting that delays in securing approvals have made project h d li l
Industry Connection: The rising costs of taxation and regulation directly impact design practices and project viability. Our March 26 Ask a Planner: Navigating the New Townhouse and Low-Rise Code webinar addresses one approach to streamlining approvals, offering essential insights for designers seeking to work efficiently within regulatory frameworks.
TOWNHOUSE
The Victorian Government has just released a comprehensive FAQ on the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code, providing valuable clarification on how the code will be applied. This timely resource explains the new provisions and addresses common questions about implementation
The FAQ is now available at: https://www planning vic gov au/guides-andresources/guides/all-guides/residential-development/townhouse-and-lowrise-code
This release comes at a perfect time for our upcoming Ask a Planner: Navigating the New Townhouse and Low-Rise Code webinar next Wednesday. Presenters Ashley Thompson and Melanie Ryan will dive deeper into these provisions, helping you understand how amendment VC267 might change your business practices.
With strong registration numbers already, this session promises to be an informative exploration of Victoria's significant changes to residential development assessment. We encourage you to join your colleagues in this important discussion that will help you navigate the practical application of these new regulations.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert insights on the code that could streamline your design approval process Reserve
HOME SIZE AND DENSITY DISCUSSIONS
A series of opinion pieces and analyses this week have examined Australia's approach to housing size and density. The Guardian published a compelling argument for building more smaller houses rather than fewer large ones. The article questions the efficiency of constructing "outrageously spacious" homes with multiple living areas, bathrooms, and parking spaces during a housing crisis. The author suggests rethinking planning rules to encourage smaller, more affordable housing options
The discussion around housing density continues in Western Australia, where WAToday explores Perth residents' reluctance to embrace apartment living. Despite medium and high-density housing being the norm globally, the article examines why Perth residents resist abandoning large single-family homes for the benefits of apartment living, dubbing it a "fear of heights "
ABC News reports on research suggesting Australia may need to rethink its high population growth model. Researchers note that the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically in the last three years, potentially requiring reconsideration of our global trading patterns and reliance on high immigration for growth The report also emphasises the need for tax system reform as the federal election approaches (due by May 17, 2025).
In contrast to Perth's resistance to apartments, The Urban Developer reports that Victoria is expanding its Ground Lease Model to deliver 1,200 more homes across Melbourne's inner suburbs by 2031. Housing Minister Harriet Shing announced plans for 400 social homes and up to 300 affordable homes along Racecourse Road at Flemington, as well as 800 homes at Alfred Street, North Melbourne, including at least 300 social homes.
South Australia is taking a different approach, with Premier Peter Malinauskas announcing plans to axe urban growth boundaries Adelaide Now reports this move will open up land in five major areas for potentially 61,000 new homes, with the Premier making "a veiled dig at his former boss" while outlining these plans to ease the housing crisis.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS
Western Australia is preparing for a significant shift in home construction as the May 1, 2025 deadline approaches for implementing 7-star energy efficiency standards. Build Australia reports that new homes and apartments will soon be required to meet minimum 7-star requirements under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). The change promises healthier living spaces and reduced power bills for homeowners but will require innovative design approaches and highperformance materials
This transition reflects the ongoing evolution of energy efficiency requirements across Australia and the growing emphasis on sustainable building practices.
Industry Connections: For designers working to meet increasingly stringent energy efficiency standards, our April 2 Smartcrete Webinar: A Better Way: Designing and Building with Sustainable Concrete addresses one important aspect of sustainable construction The session explores how concrete, a fundamental building material, can be used in more environmentally responsible ways to support energyefficient design
Our May 20 Ask an Assessor: Windows and Glazing in an Energy Assessment session addresses key considerations for both apartment and single-family home design, helping designers create comfortable, energy-efficient spaces
BUILDING INDUSTRY REFORM AND INNOVATION
Support for Victoria's building reform is growing, with Sourceable publishing an opinion piece advocating for the changes. The article draws parallels to the significant building industry reforms implemented in the early 2000s following the 2001 collapse of HIH Insurance, suggesting current reforms are similarly necessary.
Meanwhile, innovative approaches to construction are emerging across the country. The Urban Developer reports on a "Timber Revolution" in Western Australia, where developers and builders are increasingly embracing timber construction despite various challenges. This shift represents an important move toward more sustainable building materials.
The National Construction Code (NCC) is also in the spotlight, with The Fifth Estate interviewing former head of the Australian Building Codes Board, Neil Savery, about delays in the release of NCC 2025. The article notes that the announcement of the delay was "so discreet that we nearly missed it," raising questions about the timeline for this important regulatory update.
Industry Connection: Staying informed about building code changes and reform is essential for design practitioners. Our April 30 Building Practitioner Pre-Registration Course for VBA provides comprehensive preparation for those seeking registration with the Victorian Building Authority, covering the latest regulatory requirements and compliance considerations.
GENDER EQUITY IN CONSTRUCTION
The construction industry is taking significant steps toward greater gender diversity, though challenges remain. Build Australia reports on calls for a comprehensive plan to attract more women to construction, noting HIA estimates that the industry needs 83,000 additional trades immediately to meet Australia's housing demands.
Inside Construction highlights a success story in this area, profiling Dominique Gill, founder and managing director of Urban Core, a multiple award-winning construction company with $80 million in annual revenue. As a female-led builder employing 50% women, Urban Core demonstrates the potential for diversity in the industry. Gill also promotes construction careers to schoolchildren through NexGen, a not-for-profit she launched in 2022
Further supporting these efforts, the Albanese Government has announced 11 new projects under the Advancing Gender Equality in Gender Segregated Industries program. These workplace and industry-level initiatives will share in $16.9 million to make workplaces safer, more respectful, and more equitable for women, particularly in traditionally male-dominated industries like construction (Federal Government Media Release)
Architecture AU reports on a new resource that provides unprecedented insights into gender representation in the field. The Parlour Data Bank has consolidated a century's worth of architectural registrations and nearly four decades of architectural graduations in Australia, organised by state and gender. This marks the first time this information has been made publicly accessible, offering valuable data on the profession's gender dynamics from 1924 to 2024 and architectural graduations between states and genders from 1987 to 2023.
Industry Connection: Our March 21 Women of DMN: Networks of Success panel and lunch event in Perth provides a timely forum for discussing these issues. The distinguished panel of industry leaders will share their experiences and insights on navigating and succeeding in the design industry, contributing to the important conversation about gender equity in our field
Sarah Urbani | Urbani Design
Cara Little | Little Cribb Design
Debbie Bute | DB Design Studio
Anne Courtney Bennett | Courtney Bennett Architects
Join us at the Caesarstone Showroom at Homebase from 12:00PM (AWST) for an engaging 25-hour session where these accomplished professionals will share their experiences, insights, and advice on navigating and succeeding in the design industry
Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow professionals and learn from some of the industry's most respected voices. Registrations are closing soon!
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
The construction sector faces multiple challenges beyond gender diversity. Real Estate Australia reports on claims by property veteran Tom Panos that tradies expecting "huge daily payouts" and developers unwilling to build due to skyrocketing costs are driving the housing crisis. Panos states, "Let's be clear, it's not a housing problem we've got, it's a construction problem," suggesting that some tradespeople earning as much as $234,000 annually are contributing to affordability issues.
These comments highlight the complex interplay of factors affecting housing supply and affordability, from labour costs to material expenses and regulatory requirements.
Industry Connection: Understanding the economic realities of construction is vital for designers creating viable projects Our April 15 Swinburne University of Technology Tour: 3D Printing and Emerging Construction Technologies offers insights into innovations that may help address some of these challenges through more efficient construction methods and potentially reduced labour requirements.
PERTH DESIGN WEEK HIGHLIGHT: AURA CASA OPEN HOUSE
As part of Perth Design Week, we're proud to highlight an exceptional open house event featuring the award-winning Aura Casa on March 21.
Located just 5km from Perth's city centre at 45 Armadale Cres, Coolbinia, this breathtaking family oasis showcases the perfect marriage of contemporary design and nature. The home features light concrete architecture, high-end finishes, and eco-friendly innovations.
Designed by Built Ink with interiors by Urbani Design, this masterpiece won Interior Design, Kitchen Design, and Bathroom Design at the Building Design Awards 2024.
All three creators will be present to share insights into their journey and vision behind this exceptional project.
The event begins at 10:30 AM, and registrations are closing soon!
Register now for this rare opportunity to experience firsthand a showcase of design excellence and innovative thinking.
UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH 2025
Women of DMN: Networs of success - Lunch + Q&A
Panel
Date: Mar 21
Time: 12:00PM (AWST)
Location: Caesarstone
Showroom, Homebase
Duration: 2 5hrs
Panelists: Sarah Urbani | Cara Little | Debbie Bute |
Anne Courtney Bennett
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
Perth Design Week - Aura Casa Open House
Date: Mar 21
Time: 10:30 AM
Location: 45 Armadale Cres Coolbinia, WA 6050
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
DMN 2025 South Africa Study Tour Info Evening
Date: Mar 25
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: 1 Queens Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
DMN 2025 South Africa Study Tour Briefing
Date: Mar 25
Time: 2:00PM (AEDT)
Location: Online Duration: 1hr
Presenter: Mike Tuzee | Impact Events
Ask a Planner: Navigating the New Townhouse and Low-Rise Code
Date: Mar 26
Time: 10:00 AM Location: Online (AEDT)
Presenters: Ashley Thompson and Melanie Ryan
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) Services
Overview -- WA Members Only
Date: Mar 27
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Online (AWST)
APRIL 2025
Contract Administration Workshop
Date: Apr 12
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenter: Geoff Hoare
Smartcrete - A Better Way: Designing and Building with Sustainable Concrete
Date: Apr 2
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Online
Presenters: Clare Tubolets, Professor Vute Sirivivatnanon, Niki
Jackson, Jason Chandler
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
Breakfast of Champions in Hobart
Date: Apr 4
Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Hobart, TAS
Status: Registrations Closing Soon!
Contract Administration Workshop
Date: Apr 12
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Online (AEST) Presenter: Geoff Hoare
Swinburne University of Technology Tour: 3D Printing and Emerging Construction Technologies
Date: Apr 15
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Swinburne University of Technology, 427-451 Burwood Road, Hawthorn VIC
Status: Register Now
SBuilding Practitioner PreRegistration Course for VBA
Date: Apr 30
Time: 6:00 PM (AEST)
Location: Online
Ask an Surveyor: What constitutes a cadastral survey?
Date: May 15
Time: 2:00-3:00 PM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenters: Brodie Richards and Craig Sandy
Ask an Assessor: Windows and Glazing in an Energy Assessment
Date: May 19
Time: 2:00PM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenters: Matthew Graham and Russell Harris
JUNE 2025
Women of DMN Catch Up at NEXT DOOR 2
Date: Jun 6
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Next Door At Omar & the Marvellous Coffee Bird, Melbourne VIC 3185
FirstRate5 LIVE: Model Class 2 MultiDwellings (v3.2)
Date: Jun 20
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Online (AEST)
Contract Administration Workshop
Date: Jun 28
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenter: Geoff Hoare
Building a Successful Career: Winning Work & Keeping Clients
Date: May 26
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Online (AEDT)
Presenter: Britta Siggelkow
SEPTEMBER 2025
Building Practitioner PreRegistration Course for VBA
Date: Sep 17
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenter: Geoff Hoare
Contract Administration Workshop
Date: Sep 27
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Online (AEST)
Presenter: Geoff Hoare
SOURCES IN THIS ISSUE
The Guardian, ABC News, Build Australia, Sourceable, The Urban Developer, The Canberra Times, WAToday, Adelaide Now, Inside Construction, Architecture AU, Real Estate Australia, HIA Media Release, Federal Government Media Release
