Are there state-specific rules for consultant scopes?

Yes. The consultant scope guides apply Australia-wide, but these items vary by state or territory. Rules change often. Always check the official source before you engage anyone.

• Energy rating: 7-star NatHERS plus Whole-of-Home applies in QLD and VIC (since 1 May 2024), the ACT and SA (since 1 Oct 2024); NSW uses BASIX aligned to 7 stars. NT and Tasmania have differed from the national standard; WA adoption should be confirmed. Check: NatHERS and your certifier.
• Engineer registration: QLD: must be a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ). VIC: registration mandatory in civil, structural and other prescribed areas. WA: building engineers registered since 1 July 2024. NSW and NT have their own schemes. Check: Engineers Australia state registration, Consumer Affairs VIC.
• Building designer licence: QLD: QBCC "Building design (low rise)" licence needed to prepare plans for houses. VIC and TAS also register or accredit designers. Other states: check whether registration applies. Check: QBCC or your state regulator.
• Certifier name and forms: called certifier (QLD, NSW) or building surveyor (VIC, WA, SA, TAS, ACT). QLD uses design and inspection certificates from engineers and others (Forms 15 and 16). Confirm which your certifier needs.
• Building regulator: VIC: the Victorian Building Authority's functions moved to the Building and Plumbing Commission from 1 July 2025.
• Bushfire consultants: NSW: BAL certificates from councils or NSW RFS-recognised consultants (NSW RFS). WA: accredited BAL assessors and bushfire planning practitioners (WA guidelines).
• Owner-builder permits: each state sets its own owner-builder permit, course and value threshold. Check with your state building regulator (e.g. QBCC, NSW Fair Trading, VIC Building and Plumbing Commission).
• Planning pathway: names and triggers differ (e.g. complying development in NSW, code assessment in QLD, planning permit in VIC). Check with your council.