In June 2022, the Territory Government established the Building Compliance Taskforce to review and audit the certification status of all buildings and building works on government owned land.
The purpose of the Taskforce is to provide strategic advice to government on appropriate pathways to compliance with the requirements of the Building Act 1993.
A number of buildings and building works on 298 specified land parcels, some predating self-government, have been identified as not receiving occupancy certification upon completion of construction.
The Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Logistics (DIPL) is undertaking work to achieve occupancy certification for as many buildings and building works as appropriate.
While this process occurs and on recommendation of the Taskforce, an exemption from requiring building occupancy certification under the Building Act 1993 will be issued to the specified land parcels.
This exemption does not mean any of the identified buildings are not suitable for occupancy. This is a legacy administrative matter.
Government buildings are subject to a stringent repairs and maintenance program to ensure ongoing safety and functionality.
To assist in achieving compliance of exempt buildings and building works, DIPL will continue to undertake the following actions:
– establish a panel contract of building certifiers, who, as part of their work, will undertake inspections
– complete audits of buildings and building works on specified land parcels
– obtain occupancy certification where possible
– assess the adequacy of the Building Act 1993 and make recommendations where required in consultation with industry.
Information regarding the exemption list can be found at
Quote attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Planning & Logistics, Eva Lawler:
“The Territory Government is dedicated to the ongoing upkeep and enhancement of our vital infrastructure assets, including schools, healthcare facilities, and police stations.
“Today we draw a line in the sand on these legacy building administration matters that have existed for many decades across the Territory.
“The exemption issued today comes off the back of advice from the Building Compliance Taskforce who have provided recommendations to government to achieve compliance in line with the Building Act 1993.
“While an exemption has been granted, work continues to obtain occupancy certification for these buildings, and all new buildings will obtain occupancy certification.”
Northern Territory Government
