Intersect, Sept 2018

EDITION 8

S E P T 2 0 1 8

THE

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Contents COVER STORY – MERRICKS BEACH HOUSE

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

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INTER VIE W: MARC BERNSTEIN

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MARKE TING TOPICS

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T E C H N O LO G Y 23 INDUSTRY NEWS

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INSURANCE TOPICS

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E M P L O Y M E N T M AT T E R S

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JOB MARKET

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DISCLAIMER Publication of an article or inclusion of an advertisement in this edition does not infer that the BDAV agrees with the views expressed, or message conveyed, nor does it imply endorsement of products. In addition, the BDAV does not accept responsiblity for any errors or omissions. No content may be reproduced without the written permission of the BDAV. Requests should be lodged to The Editor, at info@bdav.org.au.

Cover Story – Merricks Beach House

COVER STORY – MERRICKS BEACH HOUSE

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P R E D O M I N A N T U S E O F R E C Y C L E D S T E E L M AT E R I A L S

S PA C I O U S VA U LT E D L I V I N G Z O N E S W I T H AT T R A C T I V E O U T L O O K

S MA L L F O OT P R I N T A L LO W S MAX I M U M F U N C T I O N A L I T Y W I T H R E D U C E D E N E R G Y U S E

Design Unity won the award for Residential Design: New House $300K600K construction cost in the BDAV’s 2018 Building Design Awards for their Merricks Beach House project.

The judges said the project demonstrates an excellent use of composite materials, with a significant openness in the design utilising the outlook to the external rear zone of the property, positioning it well in its natural environment. The internal and external forms clearly demonstrate a connection by way of colour, with a seamless flow. The overall character reads basic, minimal, simple, however comfortable! The minimalist approach has also proven to be timeless, with the opportunity to change internal soft furnishings without the need to change the form.

Warren Jenkins of Design Unity was enlisted to design this home for intended dual purpose. Located in sleepy Merricks on Westernport Bay, the residence needed to serve for now as a weekend getaway. In the future, the owners intend to retire there; they hope the home will foster tranquillity and

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“ The project demonstrates an excellent use of composite materials, with a significant openness in the design utilising the outlook to the external rear zone of the property, positioning it well in its natural environment. ” ANTONIO CALABRO J U D G I N G PA N E L

reflection. The family also wanted the home to have a modest footprint and blend into the natural environment.

To accomplish this brief, Warren’s key design idea for the new home was to introduce a sense of verticality. Going up brings visual interest, a sense of the dramatic, and abundant natural light. It also allowed him to create a striking form that would solve the family’s pragmatic requirements, and also provide them with something unexpected.

To gain the strength required to create this verticality, Warren turned to recycled steel, aware of the durability of the raw material but also its significant carbon footprint.

“The structure is constructed from recycled steel members marked for the scrap heap when the factory they were intended for was not built,” he explains. The industrial span of the steel allows for the “amazing cantilevered forms and large clear spans through the external and internal living zones,” he says.

Continued page 9.....

C over S tory – M erricks B each H ouse

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Externally, to the rear of the home, this translates into a large louvered roof over an alfresco zone. It provides sun protection in summer, yet allows natural light to stream into the home in the winter months. Inside, a vaulted ceiling is the centrepiece of the living room with an open kitchen recessed alongside this space.

Another important vertical element Warren included was to make the most of the established gum trees on the site. These provide privacy and tranquil ambience. Warren’s scheme includes floor to ceiling glazing to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection with the trees.

Key elements in the design were the orientation of the home around a north-facing sun court, and a blade wall that serves both as feature and function. It provides thermal support to the home and includes a fireplace – a lovely place for entertaining.

Warren described this home as having both an ‘industrial and organic feeling’, a successful juxtaposition largely achieved through the use of the steel forms.

DESIGNER

Design Unity Pty Ltd www.designunity.com.au

BUILDER

Owner/Builder

PHOTOGRAPHY

Matthew Mallett Photography

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C over S tory – M erricks B each H ouse

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“ The residence needed to serve as a weekend getaway, and for the owners to retire there in the future. The family also wanted the home to have a modest footprint and blend into the natural environment. ” — WA — RREN JENKINS, DESIGN UNITY

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T H I N K S U S TA I N A B LY, D E S I G N S U S TA I N A B LY, L I V E S U S TA I N A B LY BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas, discusses sustainable design, and what you should consider prior to commencing the design of your sustainable building project.

The conversation around climate change is heating up and, as our natural resources diminish further each year, it is quickly becoming apparent that we must act now to save our planet.

Across all industries, sustainability is becoming a key focus and the design world is no different. Buildings make a significant contribution to our global energy consumption in both production and running costs. And now, there is an increasing expectation that all buildings should be equipped with sustainable features to reduce the energy footprint and impact on the environment.

So, what is sustainable design? Sustainable design or ‘green design’ seeks to reduce negative impacts on the environment and lower our reliance on natural resources. It is simply reducing waste and working sustainably within our natural environment as much as possible.

Designing a sustainable building is a complex balancing act.

It requires careful consideration of a multitude of materials and factors including daylight, solar heat gain, landscaping and ventilation, to ensure all elements work together sustainably to successfully fulfill the client brief.

The complexity behind sustainable design incorporates two design principles - passive and active design.

Passive design uses natural energy such as sunlight or wind to achieve a result without electricity, while active design harnesses solar and wind technologies to produce electricity for the home.

These two design principles are the very foundations upon which an environmentally friendly home is created. Through saving energy, producing energy and the collecting of rainwater, the demands placed on the local energy infrastructure can be significantly reduced, which in turn, ultimately reduces energy bills and adds comfort.

So, what should you consider prior to commencing the design of your sustainable building project?

1.

THERMAL MASS

Thermal mass is a material with the ability to absorb and store heat energy, which can be given off later. High density materials such as bricks, tiles and concrete have a high thermal mass as they can retain heat. Lightweight materials such as timber have a low thermal mass. Appropriate use of thermal mass can make a significant difference to the heating and cooling of your home.

However, it requires careful balancing, as too much thermal mass can reduce thermal comfort, and increase energy usage.

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E N E R G Y R AT E R S

To find the right balance with thermal mass, designers use energy raters to help design thermal mass and window volume, as well as insulation.

Energy raters are more than a statutory requirement; they are essential to creating an energy efficient home.

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M AT E R I A L S

Every material utilised has an environmental impact. There is an environmental cost in extracting raw materials, refining them into building products and transporting them to the construction site. As a result, it’s important to consider using recycled materials where possible in order to reduce landfill and ultimately, the impact on the environment. Insulating your home should also be front of mind, as incorporating glazed windows and effective insulation materials can reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

4.

L O C AT I O N

Designing a building is not only about how you design it and what materials you will use, but also where the project will be located. Location is a very important consideration – is the site close to public transport, work, schools and shops? Reducing the reliance on transportation vehicles leads to a significant reduction in energy consumption.

5.

LIFESTYLE

Design should reflect the owners’ lifestyle to ensure it meets their needs and avoids wasted resources. For example, is the heater always on when it’s cold or do you prefer to wear an extra jumper? What kind of appliances will you need and how efficient are they? Practical designs and multiple-use spaces are key to creating a home that provides maximum satisfaction with minimal ecological impact.

My advice? Think carefully about sustainability in the planning phase.

We should aim for a six-star energy rating as a minimum, but this should only be the starting point. Instead, we should look at the bigger picture and at how we can significantly reduce our overall ecological footprint.

An environmentally sustainable home is an investment for life so, as design professionals, let’s play our part in the race to save the planet by incorporating sustainable design solutions in everything we do.

F rom the P resident

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InterVIEW

INTERVIEW

Melbourne Design Studios won this year’s BDAV Building Design of the Year and several other awards.

We thought it timely to interview Marc Bernstein from MDS, who shares the following thoughts with us.

How did you feel when you were announced as winner of the BDAV’s 2018 Building Design of the Year?

It was a huge surprise, but what a nice one! Really felt very proud at that moment to be honoured with this amazing prize, and super thankful to a fantastic repeat client and a wonderful team in house couldn’t have done it without either of those!

What is/are your favourite project/s that you have worked on, and why?

Each project is individual, and if there wasn’t something in them that I loved (be it an awesome client, a great brief, a wonderful site or even a combination of them all) I probably wouldn’t have taken them on.

For me, projects are almost like a little baby that starts to grow in your mind and then comes to life - and then you have to suddenly let go…. If I’d have to pick one - I often come past the Birkenstock HQ in Clifton Hill that’s won us the Building Design of the Year in 2014, and it still fills me with great memories!

To date, my biggest business/design challenge has been?

On a business level, managing cashflow and workflow are always hard . We are passionate about what we do, so often we spend a lot more time designing and detailing things than envisaged, or even during Contract Admin, so it’s time that we hadn’t allowed for originally which, of course, then has an impact on both workflow and cashflow.

What actually happened was that we were in the process of setting up Melbourne Design Studios at that time, and the BDAV was so wonderfully helpful with any queries and issues we had, and was able to provide us with agreements and contracts and contract admin forms and all sorts of advice and assistance, that the question should really be why wouldn’t you!

My favourite Australian building is?

Heide 2. When I first saw it, I was in total awe of the simplicity and beauty of this mid-century modernist gem.

My favourite international building is?

Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki by Timo & Tuomo Suomalainen.

I didn’t actually know it existed before I got there (and I do apologise for that ignorance!). So I kind of stumbled upon it by accident when visiting Helsinki some years ago. Don’t know if it was because of the surprise effect as well, but it really blew me away, the light and the serenity inside, and the way it was built into the rock, just beautifully detailed. Love it!

My words of wisdom for a student building designer are?

My favourite finish is?

Make it your passion, and you will thrive!

Any natural product - a warm and textured timber finish on the outside or a beautifully veined natural stone internally.

When I was a child I wanted to be?

The architectural style of the home I grew up in?

A writer. I actually did start to study German and the English language and literature at university, before ditching that and doing what I do now.

Hah, I don’t think there’s a style label that could be put on it. I would call it “Suburban Functional Post-War Modernism” with a bit of 1970s retro interiors - brown bathroom tiles with green toilet suites, wallpaper, pine clad ceilings , the whole works! ... Growing up in Germany though, the typical family home of that period (and often still today), is actually divided into two flats, one downstairs and one upstairs, usually for the extended family to live in. Plus we had a shop at the front which used to be my granddad’s bakery & corner store.

So when I grew up, my grandma and auntie were living downstairs and we were upstairs, and we would all share parts of the house and garden - true multi-generational living, that is celebrating a huge comeback back at the moment!

I joined the BDAV because?

Ingrid (Hornung) said I should :-)

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Outside of work, I am passionate about?

Outside of work? There’s a world outside of work? Gotta go check that out now ...

At the moment I am reading?

“A series of unfortunate events” - love reading kids’ books at the same time my kids read them. Much better than watching a movie together, as you all have your own pictures and can talk about how similar or different they are. Also reading a (much less exciting) book called “Fat-Logic” at the moment - really need to shed those extra pounds :-) My life in 4 words?

Crazy & Chaotic, Exciting & Invigorating.

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Marketing Tips

Workplaces: Wellness + Wood = Productivity

“Until recently, we’ve really not had a whole lot of evidence to support that common hypothesis that having things like wooden surfaces in the office would be good for your wellbeing.”*

“What I found and got really excited about was that there’s a really strong association between the presence of wood and wellbeing. I’ve rarely seen a data set or a study which has shown such a clear link.”*

“If you’re a worker and you could see no wooden surfaces at all from your workplace, 53% of that type of worker was satisfied with what was going on in their workplace.

When you move that up to having eight or more wooden surfaces - we’re talking things here like wooden chairs, wooden panelling on the walls, wooden floorboards, even quite small wooden items- but if you get to eight or more, then 82% of people were satisfied with their work.”*

“Having wooden surfaces in your workplace is strongly associated with: improved worker wellbeing, workplace satisfaction, and with all the positive things that can flow from that like improved productivity.”* N E W S . B D AV. O R G . AU

Download the free report - Workplaces: Wellness + Wood = Productivity at woodsolutions.com.au/ wood-at-work

*Associate Professor Jacki Schirmer, Health and Wellbeing Researcher, University of Canberra

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HOW TO BUILD A BET TER LINKEDIN PROFILE

Verity Campbell talks about improving your LinkedIn profile Last month, we took a look at the benefits of LinkedIn for knowledge-sharing, networking, recruitment and referrals. But there’s no point in having a profile if it’s not up to scratch.

Rather than an afterthought, we encourage our clients to see LinkedIn as an important tool in their marketing suite. A lacklustre profile is a missed opportunity but, by investing a little bit of time and following a few steps, you can maximise your profile.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROFILE PICTURE

As we know, first impressions count. On LinkedIn, your profile picture is your first introduction, so make it count, keep it professional and ‘on-brand’. This means no selfies, no party shots with drink in hand and no shots taken at a distance – your face should make up the majority of the profile picture space.

Your photo should also be recent and reflect you in your natural work mode. For example, if you wouldn’t usually wear a suit to work, then there’s no need to wear one for your profile shot.

And if you’ve got multiple staff on LinkedIn, and you haven’t already done so, it’s worth investing in professional photos to ensure quality and consistency across your staff profiles.

S H A R E N E W S A N D R E G U L A R U P D AT E S

Last, but certainly not least, you need to regularly share any relevant news, articles or updates with your LinkedIn network. Just as you would share news across Instagram or Facebook, share it across LinkedIn as well. This not only helps keep your profile up-to-date and active, but it helps people find your business and generates traffic back to your website, boosting your page rank and making you easier to find on Google.

I N C LU D E A B AC KG R O U N D I MAG E

You can also make your profile stand out by including a background image. Despite this being a free and user-friendly feature, it’s one not readily utilised by our clients. As designers, the option to include a background image is a no-brainer, providing free real estate to showcase your latest work or key project.

D O N’ T S K I P O V E R YO U R S U M MA RY

K E Y TA K E AWAY S

• Invest in a good picture. People like visuals on your profile and your professional photo is the most important one. And don’t forget to add a background image.

• The summary section is prime real estate on your profile, so make the most of it.

Along with the portrait and background image, the summary section • Beef up your experience with key achievements, including any awards and links to media and projects. is prime real estate at the start of your profile that is often overlooked, so don’t leave it blank. Yes, crafting your own bio can be tricky, but • Keep your profile up-to-date through regular status updates, the purpose of LinkedIn is to invite people to connect, so you need news-sharing and any interesting and useful content. to tell them a little about yourself and your experience. Avoid making potential connections scroll through and decipher your work history. • Make sure your profile speaks directly to your target audience and make it relevant to their needs and interests.

Instead, use your summary to tell them what you want them to know up front.

• And one last tip, don’t forget to join industry groups and follow companies to get relevant content. This also shows potential B E E F U P Y O U R E X P E R I E N C E W I T H S O M E D E TA I L connections that you are connected and involved in your industry.

You can easily add some weight to your profile by adding in a bit of Verity Campbell Communications background under your work history. Simply putting your role, the company and duration of employment doesn’t give much insight.

Writing, marketing and communications for design and Consider listing key projects, milestones, awards and achievements related businesses. Join our newsletter for new ideas, tips during your time, and utilise the options to add in links or media and advice: www.veritycampbell.com.au/newsletter attachments to further bulk up your work history. And if your You can connect with our company on https://www.linkedin. past employer has a company page, ensure you are linked to it. com/company/verity-campbell-communications/

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Technology

Graduates Get designs on your future.

If you’re a Graduate of Building Design or Interior Design, why not consider a Graduate Membership of the Building Designers Association of Victoria. It’s a great pathway to ensure your future career plan or vision comes true.

Amongst other benefits – including free job listings – BDAV Graduate Membership enables you to network with practitioners running their own design practice – who could be your future employers.

To see what your future holds, go to www.bdav.org.au or contact the BDAV at info@bdav.org.au

TODD’S APPS

A monthly review of must have, worthy of looking or just plain interesting apps that are relevant to the design industry. Compiled by Todd Pearce, MBDAV.

SCHLAGE SENSE

HUE SENSOR

SONOS

Anyone contemplating a smart lock – the Schlage Sense is worth a look. Not only can it do the usual unlock from your phone and keyless entry tricks, but, coupled with the app, it’s quite a handy bit of kit. Completely compatible with home kit if you’re invested in Apple infrastructure; however, as a standalone app it allows you to assign individual codes to up to 30 people. These codes can then be assigned to only operate at certain times of day and only on certain days if you wish.

The lock app will give you complete history of the comings and goings of each code and will even flash up a message on your phone if you ask it to, every time the lock is accessed.

If you’re using siri products you can even use “hey siri – unlock the door” and it will comply. Easy to install and even easier to use.

It was only a little while ago we discussed the Hue sensor – however I’ve recently realised it has another string to its bow. Typically, the sensor’s main purpose is to turn the Hue smart lights on and off when there’s movement detected at different times, ambient light levels and the like. However, I just realised that they also sense the temperature. This is reported on the Home Kit app – which is interesting to know in terms of various temperature zones.

I haven’t quite worked out if the temperature can be used to operate any automation functions, but I thought it was cool so thought I’d point it out for anyone using the Hue suite of products, in case you hadn’t seen it yet.

Another little update snippet here. The latest Sonos updates now allows airplay integration. Simply put, those who are used to the Apple air play found on various speaker systems is now joined by Sonos. So, with the appropriate updates, you can now see the Sonos system and access it via the normal airplay method. Great news for those who have both systems or just want to allow others to quickly connect and play their content to the Sonos set up. A good little update.

If any other members use or know any new or interesting websites, tech or apps, please feel free to drop me a line and I’ll share it with the other members.

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Industry News

M U T U A L R E C O G N I T I O N A P P L I C AT I O N

VBA WINS RIGHT TO APPEAL FEDERAL COUR T DECISION O N M U T U A L R E C O G N I T I O N A P P L I C AT I O N The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has won the right in the High Court of Australia to appeal a decision of the Federal Court that overturned the Administrative Appeals Tribunal’s (AAT) decision to permit character to be taken into account in relation to applications for registration under the Mutual Recognition Act 1992 (Commonwealth).

The Mutual Recognition Act provides for recognition of occupational registrations by interstate regulators where the categories of registration are equivalent.

The application by Mr Nikolaos Andriotis was refused by the Building Practitioners Board (BPB) on the basis that the applicant was not of good character. The BPB’s finding concerning Mr Andriotis’ character was affirmed by the AAT. However, the Federal

Court overturned the AAT decision, finding that a registration authority has no power to consider an applicant’s character in deciding a Mutual Recognition Act application.

Sue Eddy, VBA Chief Executive Officer, welcomed the High Court’s decision to allow the VBA to appeal the decision of the Federal Court, saying it will ultimately result in a judgement from the court that will settle current legal uncertainty relating to Mutual Recognition.

“The VBA sets a high standard for registering building practitioners in Victoria compared to other states,” Ms Eddy said.

“It is crucial that people who are granted registration have the knowledge and

experience required to perform their work safely and also are of good character.

“An express objective of the Building Act 1993 is to protect the safety and health of people who use buildings, which is why it is essential for the VBA to be able to assess whether an applicant is of good character and, more recently, a fit and proper person, before registering them in Victoria,” Ms Eddy said.

“The VBA will continue to pursue consumer protection and we make no apologies for having in place stringent requirements to obtain registration as a building practitioner in Victoria.”

No date has yet been set for an appeal.

BUSHFIRE ASSESSMENTS

Keystone Alliance Bushfire Consultancy was born out of the requirements for building design and construction in designated Bushfire Prone Areas as a result of the “Black Saturday” fires of 2009.

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713 Plenty Road Reservoir Vic 3073 Tel: 9478 8991 Fax: 9478 8997 Email: enquiries@keystonealliance.com.au www.keystonealliance.com.au

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ADVERTISING OR PROMOTION OF DOMESTIC BUILDING WORK

The Master Builders Association of Victoria has issued an alert to its member about the recent amendments to Victoria’s Building Act 1993 and the introduction of Building Regulations 2018, which have introduced new laws on how domestic builders advertise and promote their business.

BDAV Members who are domestic builders should be aware of the requirements. In essence, all registered domestic builders must provide the name of the registered building practitioner and their registration number(s) on any advertisements or written statements offering to carry out domestic building work. This is irrespective of their business type (sole trader, partnerships and companies) and the value of the domestic building work they undertake.

In addition, the name and registration number(s) of the registered building practitioner must be clearly legible in the advertisement or statement. In other words, it must include the name in full (i.e. its full company name if incorporated) and of a font size and type that can be read.

MBAV considers that this interpretation by the VBA of the regulations in relation to “advertising or written statements offering to carry out domestic building work” is too broad. MBAV will be seeking further clarification from the VBA on this.

However, as the law is in place, it is important that members remain compliant.

As such, Master Builders recommends that all forms or documents or correspondence that is used to provide a contract, quote or estimate to clients should always include the builder’s name in full and registration number(s). We advise that this information also be included in your business cards.

Where you have existing current advertising or promotional material that does not have the builder’s name or registration number on it, we advise that they be updated with the new requirements where possible. One way to achieve this is to use stickers or other means to ensure that the builder’s name and registration number(s) is included in a way that is clearly legible.

MBAV also recommend that any material promoting your business in newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, etc, should also include the registered builder’s name in full and registered number(s). Similarly, it is also recommended to include the registered builder’s name in full and their registered number(s) in a prominent location of your business’ website or social media account(s), i.e. on the opening landing page near the bottom or top.

Doing the above recommendations will ensure that the new laws are complied with and avoid non-compliance, as failing to do this could mean that a building practitioner may face a penalty of up to $9,600 (60- penalty units) per offence.

The VBA has been writing to builders to tell them that the regulations “Require the name and registration number of a building practitioner, including companies, to be clearly legible in their advertisement and statements. This applies to business cards, posters and further advertising.

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A D D I N G VA LU E . . . W I T H T R E E S

by Jai Cheswick OK, so you design or build houses and you know nothing about trees except that trees have roots, and roots damage foundations, and trees have leaves, and leaves get into gutters and downpipes.

Not a good start I’ll admit. Your amazing building designs would look even more amazing with the use of correct trees within the landscape. Aesthetically they act as foils or reinforcers of the development’s shape and style and add value financially.

Did anyone buy a house in Toorak or Armadale that didn’t have trees around it?

Often landscapers plant, with good intentions, trees they have seen on gardening or renovation shows. Yet without understanding the growth habits and maintenance requirements of trees, the full added value of their use rarely materialises.

P Y R U S C A L L E R YA N A

LAGERSTROEMIA

Commonly used in the larger gardens designed by the likes of Paul Bangay, I cannot say any of the Calleryana varieties (Chanticleer, Bradford or Capital) are suitable for the modern smaller garden.

These are big trees, despite the marketing hype, and even the narrowest comes in at 11m high and 3m wide. Often mistakenly used down the narrow side of a block, these trees need some space to really add any aesthetic value to a home.

An old favourite, the Crepe Myrtle is a slow growing native of the Indian sub-continent reaching 4m within about 10years.

Over the long term, it has fantastic bark colourings, but can look very drab and ‘sticky’ during the winter months, unless part of a larger evergreen planting scheme.

CORYMBIA FICIFOLIA

Dwarf 3m x 3m varieties are quite common-place today, making varieties like ‘Orange Baby’ or ‘Baby Orange’ very useful in small native themed gardens.

Councils love them as they attract insects and birds, adding a great opportunity to add native trees where space is tight.

H Y M E N O S P O R U M F L AV U M

A subtropical native that is becoming more popular in narrow spaces all over Melbourne.

I’ve used it successfully in Altona Meadows (Queen of Peace School) and in Brighton (semi-tropical themed landscape). It has a tall slim open habit and can be pruned and shaped to fit a small courtyard. Fantastic creamy yellow flowers will fill a garden with wonderful summer scents, only matched by that of the Chinese Star Jasmine. continued on page 31....

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C U T T I N G P O W E R B I L L S W I T H S O L A R PA N E L S F O R 6 5 0 , 0 0 0 H O M E S

A re-elected Victorian Labor Government will help Victorians save around $890 a year on their power bills with half price solar panels at no up-front cost.

This will save the typical Victorian household up to $2,225 for installation of an average 4kW solar system and help them save $890 a year on their electricity bills.

“We know the cost of living is going up and it’s getting harder to make ends meet.

That’s why the government is helping families with their energy bills. We will help put solar panels on your roof to cut your electricity bills by around $900 a year,” said Victoria’s Premier, Daniel Andrews.

A new independent agency, Solar Victoria, will be established to work with industry, regulators and training organisations to deliver the program, which will create almost 5,500 new jobs.

Jeff Kennett and the Liberals privatised Victoria’s power industry, promising competition would lead to cheaper electricity prices, but the only winners are energy companies making big profits while Victorians pay higher prices.

The government is putting power back in the hands of Victorian households with the new Solar Homes program, which will see solar panels installed on 650,000 homes over ten years.

Under the $1.24 billion program, Victorians will be able to install a solar panel system for half price and pay the rest of the cost back over four years with an interest-free loan.

Safety is paramount, and a re-elected Labor Government will invest $9 million to support accreditation of 4,500 electricians to install solar panels. Solar panel systems will only be installed by accredited solar installers using approved products to ensure the highest safety standards.

This massive investment will bring the number of homes in Victoria with solar panels to one million within ten years, which will save Victorians $500 million a year on their electricity bills once the program is complete.

It will also cut our carbon emissions by almost four million tonnes – the same as taking one million of Victoria’s 4.6 million cars off the road – and generate 12.5 per cent of Victoria’s 40 per cent target for renewable energy by 2025.

A D D I N G VA LU E . . . W I T H T R E E S ( C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 0 )

MAGNOLIA

These evergreen varieties can often look quite sad after a year or two in the ground. This is commonly due to poor planting technique, water-logging and underfeeding. All the evergreen magnolias can be clipped into tight hedges if required, yet, given some space and TLC, they will form wonderful stocky small trees bearing scented creamy white large flowers.

I could write a lot more about trees and

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buildings and how a good tree in a garden can really add to a development.

Instead, as a footnote, I will mention that there is also a huge amount of research being done into the value of trees within well-designed gardens in regard to mental health and wellbeing. As someone that has experienced mental health issues in my earlier years, I can fully appreciate their value around the home and within the wider urban community.

However, we know Victorians are struggling with higher electricity prices right now.

That’s why the Labor Government will immediately invest $68 million to launch the Solar Homes program.

Victorians will be able to immediately install a solar panel system and get half of the cost back via a 50 per cent rebate.

This will be expanded to include the interest-free loan from July next year, under a re-elected Labor State Government.

The 50 per cent rebate on solar panel systems will be available to Victorians with a household income of up to $180,000 who live in their own home valued at up to $3 million. This means almost nine out of ten Victorians who own their own house are eligible.

Find out more at www.solar.vic.gov.au.

Landscape Plans • Landscape Planning Applications

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A U S T R A L I A ’ S B U I L D I N G S M U S T B E B U I LT F O R A Z E R O C A R B O N F U T U R E

Energy standards in Australia’s National Construction Code must be urgently upgraded if new buildings are to be fit for a zero carbon future, according to a new report recently released.

Built to Perform, prepared by the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) and ClimateWorks Australia, shows setting stronger energy standards for new buildings in the Code could, between now and 2050, reduce energy bills by up to $27 billion, cut energy network costs by up to $7 billion and deliver at least 78 million tonnes of cumulative emissions savings.

“Australia needs to transition to a net zero emissions economy by 2050 to meet our commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement.

But new analysis by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy shows Australia scores the lowest in energy efficiency amongst all developing countries. Although market-leading Australian companies are demonstrating world-class commitment to a sustainable built environment, the market alone cannot fix this problem,” said ASBEC Executive Director Suzanne Toumbourou.

“All of the buildings being built today will still be operating in 2050, at a time when we will need to be at or near net zero emissions.

Our Building Code needs to be ‘zero carbon ready’, ensuring that today’s new builds are prepared to operate in a zero carbon future.”

“We welcome proposed improvements to the 2019 National Construction Code to advance energy performance in commercial buildings and adjust the requirements for residential buildings,” said Ms Toumbourou. “However, to meet the full potential of the Code, we need to shift away from ad-hoc, periodic updates. Governments must agree to a longer-term plan with targets and a clear,

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regulated and transparent process for Code updates out to 2030, starting with a step-change in residential standards in 2022.”

“If developers and manufacturers know how the Code requirements will evolve over the next 15 years, this will provide the regulatory certainty industry needs to plan and invest in new technologies, delivering higher building energy performance at lower cost.” said Professor Tony Arnel, Chair of ASBEC’s Building Code Task Group and President of the Energy Efficiency Council.

“Even this conservative analysis shows that, by 2030, improvement in Code energy requirements could reduce energy consumption of new buildings by up to 56 per cent. This could be achieved through simple, cost-effective energy efficiency measures such as improved air tightness, double glazed windows, increased insulation, outdoor shading, and more efficient air conditioners, hot water systems and lighting,” said ClimateWorks Project Manager Michael Li. “With the costs of solar PV and battery storage rapidly reducing, adding on-site renewable energy into the Code could deliver significant additional gains.”

Although there are upfront costs associated with these improvements, these are small (less than 4% for detached homes) relative to overall construction costs and land prices.

“While the Code is important, it can only take us part way to net zero,” said Ms Toumbourou. “Improving compliance and enforcement with Code requirements is paramount, as well as improving appliance energy standards, retrofitting existing buildings, providing building owners and occupants with better information, and driving faster decarbonisation of the electricity grid. The Code should be seen as one part of an integrated strategy to deliver a zero carbon building sector by 2050.”

“Delaying action will mean that many of these opportunities are lost,” said Mr Li. “A three-year delay in further upgrades to building energy performance standards could lead to a further $2.6 billion in wasted energy expenditure and lock in an additional 9 million tonnes of emissions by 2030, increasing to 22 million tonnes by 2050.”

The report: Built to Perform: An Industry Led Pathway to a Zero Carbon Ready Building Code, is available for download at: https://www.asbec.asn.au/research-items/built-perform/

www.lsplanning.com.au

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V I C T O R I A L E A D S O N N AT I O N A L A P P R O A C H T O C L A D D I N G I N S U R A N C E

Victoria is pushing for an Australia-wide approach to deal with an impasse in professional indemnity insurance (PII) facing the building industry, as the combustible cladding issue affects professional premiums.

At last month’s Building Ministers’ Forum in Adelaide, Victoria’s Planning Minister, Richard Wynne, said work must be done with the insurance sector to help quantify risk, particularly around cladding cover for building surveyors.

Concerns relate to the tightening market for professional indemnity insurance for building practitioners, with reports of new exclusions in PII policies that exclude insurers from liability for claims from products such as cladding.

“The message from the insurance industry is clear: only a national, coordinated approach to the issue will result in real change,” said Minister Wynne.

“The industry needs to work together to ensure the public is safe from combustible cladding and that building practitioners continue to be adequately insured.”

Increases to insurance premiums have also been reported, with fears this may raise costs in the construction sector.

The meeting of Building Ministers from across Australia in Adelaide resolved to develop a national approach to the issue, in consultation with the Building Regulators’ Forum, the insurance industry and industry stakeholders.

They agreed to: • Engage the insurance sector and relevant stakeholders in developing an approach to information and data provision which supports accurate risk quantification by insurers

• Detail the steps being taken across jurisdictions to more effectively manage risks in the building sector • Work with industry to explore what non-regulatory steps can be undertaken to demonstrate change to the insurance industry, such as new codes of practice and professional standards by peak bodies.

The BDAV’s upcoming CPD webinar, on Monday, 17 September 2018, will deal with Cladding and Insurance Issues. Details and registration available at: www.bdav.org.au.

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T H I N K B R I C K AWA R D W I N N E R S

Think Brick Awards 2018 Showcases Unprecedented Quality in Design and Craftsmanship

The Think Brick Award winners were recently announced, showcasing unprecedented quality in innovation and creative use of clay bricks, concrete masonry and roof tiles in Australian contemporary architecture.

As Australia’s richest design awards, now in its 12th year, the Think Brick Awards handed out a record $70,000 in prize money to a collection of ‘one of a kind’ designs.

CEO of Think Brick Australia, Elizabeth McIntyre said, “With a new category this year, as well as a joint winner for the Horbury Hunt Award, we handed out $20,000 more prize money than last year to these designs that are incredible examples and initiatives of outstanding Australian design.”

L E A R N I N G & T E A C H I N G B U I L D I N G – M O N A S H U N I V E R S I T Y, C L AY T O N C A M P U S B Y J O H N WA R D L E A R C H I T E C T S – J O I N T W I N N E R O F T H E H O R B U R Y H U N T C O M M E R C I A L AWA R D

“Brick is used in a fabric-like way to produce an object that sits in this space in a sumptuous form. Its geology meets the woolly jumper.”

(Image bottom: Peter Bennetts).

A PA R T M E N T H O U S E B Y K E R S T I N T H O M P S O N A R C H I T E C T S – W I N N E R O F T H E H O R B U R Y H U N T R E S I D E N T I A L AWA R D

“The way they’ve infilled the perp end of the glass is bespoke and elegant. It’s a really brave and confident resolution of the design outcome.” (Image, top right: Trevor Mein).

“The calibre at the awards last night highlights that the best designers and architects in Australia are choosing brick, concrete, and tiles in their designs to put them ahead of the curve.”

M E L B O U R N E Z O O, P R E D AT O R P R E C I N C T P L E D G E WA L L B Y O L A S T U D I O – W I N N E R O F T H E B R U C E M A C K E N Z I E L A N D S C A P E AWA R D

The announcement of the new entrant category saw a 60 per cent increase in entrants this year, and the finalists and winners are some of the best designs seen by Think Brick.

“This project mediates between the built form and the landscape through its sculptural elements. It really is a beautiful union between masonry and a garden wall typology.”

(Image: right, centre: Drew Echberg).

“From the Think Brick Awards, it is evident that Australia leads the way in design. There are some world class winners from the awards, showing exemplary conception of design, choice in material, craftsmanship, and execution,” said Mrs McIntyre.

HIGHBURY GROVE BY RITZ&GHOUGASSIAN K E V I N B O R L A N D M A S O N R Y AWA R D

Major trends in design and architecture were uncovered on the night.

“We see masonry enclose a garden, but also used as a threshold between the interior and exterior. This project completely challenges the cliché that concrete blacks are banal, cold or utilitarian.”

“A major trend emerging from the winners and finalist is a move to interpret and incorporate the beautiful Australian landscape in their designs. Also, a move to create warmth in the design through use of material is also another stand out trend,” said Mrs McIntyre.

The 2018 Think Brick Award category winners were as follows.

The comments are from the 2018 jury, which comprised Sam Klopper, Klopper & Davis; David Brand, OOF! Architecture; Miriam Green, Tribe Studio; Stuart Vokes, Vokes and Peters; and Fooi-Ling Khoo, OOF! Architecture.

AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY – BANGKOK BY BVN – J O I N T W I N N E R O F T H E H O R B U R Y H U N T C O M M E R C I A L AWA R D

“The architects are able to use brick and exploit its ability to absorb light. The texture changes its perception as you move closer to it.”

(Image, top left: John Gollings).

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T H E B E E H I V E B Y R A F FA E L L O R O S S E L L I W I T H L U I G I R O S S E L L I A R C H I T E C T S – W I N N E R O F T H E R O B I N D O D S R O O F T I L E E X C E L L E N C E AWA R D

“An essay in tactility and authenticity where the architects had a real understanding of the product. They’ve taken the roof tile, understood what to do with it and used it in a new and Australian response.”

K A R D I N YA C L O S E B Y H O N E D A R C H I T E C T U R E + D E S I G N – W I N N E R O F T H E N E W E N T R A N T AWA R D

“A simple and elegant design response to a stunning landscape.

As a project it celebrates the mass of blocks it uses to create a series of parallel walls.”

To see all the winners, go to www.thinkbrick.com.au.

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WOODSOLUTIONS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NE T WORK

WoodSolutions Introduces Great New Initiative for Young Professionals There was an excited buzz in the air at the first meeting of the WoodSolutions Young Professionals Network, which was recently held in the sophisticated event space in the offices of the Australian Institute of Architects. Developed for a significant demographic of young, early-career professionals who are enthusiastic to learn and develop new skills, but lack the time or means to do so, this initiative looks to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of timber construction for application on future projects.

With the first session dedicated to introducing some of the more common engineered timber products

and reviewing a selection of exciting local and international projects, future events are expected to review all facets of modern timber construction including: sustainability, design, technology, fire rating, construction, and more. However, while a great opportunity for attendees to up-skill in the quickly growing world of timber construction, the true value of the event is in meeting like-minded peers working in other fields within the construction, architecture, and engineering industry. With time, we expect to see a strong network of timber-savvy professionals develop, supporting the growth of timber in tomorrow’s industry. To foster the development of this network we have made a concerted effort to maintain a friendly, informal feel, encouraging questions and stimulating discussion.

Following an overwhelmingly positive response received from the first event, WoodSolutions look forward to running the event on a monthly basis, with periphery events involving site visits, external training, or events in partnership with other industry groups.

If you are a young professional and are keen to learn more about the group, find the Facebook group at www.facebook.com.au/WSYPN Alternatively, queries can be referred to Laurence Ritchie, who can be contacted at laurence.ritchie@woodsolutions.com.au If you are a little too experienced to attend this event (but still young at heart), you may be interested in attending one of the many other free and open WoodSolutions events – simply check their event calendar at www.woodsolutions.com.au.

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PHOTOS: DEAN GORDON & ASSOCIATES

SEEN AT THE BDAV 2018 ANNUAL DINNER

ENERGY RATER INSURANCE ALSO AVAILABLE

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Insurance Topics

B U I L D I N G D E S I G N E R I N S U R A N C E M A R K E T U P D AT E

by Chris Webber

• Determine if the buildings where these materials are used in are type A or B construction projects;

Insurance has been highlighted in the building industry lately with most of the concerns surrounding cladding and other non-conforming building materials. At this stage, building designers remain relatively untouched by the change in the insurance market and continue to have access to insurance policies that meet their registration requirements with the VBA.

• If they are, we recommend that a desktop assessment is completed by a Building Surveyor as soon as possible.

This hasn’t been the case for other building practitioners, most notably Building Surveyors, Certifiers, Fire Engineers and Architects. These practitioners are traditionally those involved with the design and construction process of high rise buildings, municipal buildings and other ‘at risk’ commercial properties.

These practitioners are finding it very difficult to get insurance cover that meets the VBA’s requirements as their policies either have non-conforming building products exclusions or, if they don’t have an exclusion, they have experienced sizable increases in their premiums, with some upwards of 400%.

The issues in Australia have been compounded by events occurring in the UK, especially from an insurance point of view. Significant claims have already occurred.

With regard to the BDAV Insurance package, we have worked extremely hard to ensure that the insurance policy remains compliant with VBA requirements and we are pleased to advise that it does not have any exclusions for non-compliant building materials.

In the past couple of months, we have come across some building designers that have an exposure to these non-confirming building products. We are working with these members to help minimise their exposure to a claim occurring. For members who believe they themselves may have worked with these non-conforming materials in the past, we suggest the following steps: • Speak with your insurance provider as soon as possible and definitely before your next renewal;

By following these steps, you will have a clearer indication as to whether a claim notification will need to be made on your professional indemnity insurance. The advice we have received, is that if a potential issue has arisen, you are better to make notification now rather than wait for any correspondence to be received.

At Webber Insurance, we are closely monitoring the insurance markets, legislative changes and rulings together with other non-conforming building material related issues, both in Australia and abroad. We will continue to keep members up to date and informed on changes that may affect them.

B D AV I N S U R A N C E P R O G R A M – U P D AT E D I N S U R E R & P O L I C Y W O R D I N G

Over the past six months, we have been working to improve the BDAV Insurance Program to ensure that it remains the ‘best in market’ for Building Designers.

For the first time, we have introduced multiple options of coverage limits to allow members to choose a limit that is suitable to their business. Our premium structure has also changed allowing us to offer extremely competitive premiums for all members.

The market leading BDAV insurance policy now offers the following benefits, usually not covered in a professional indemnity policy: • Work performed by Sub-Contractors • Fee Recovery/Mitigation of Loss Cover • Delay Costs Cover • Statutory Liability • Third party Cyber and Privacy liability • In-house claims handling

Gain the skills you need to become a NatHERS accredited assessor CPP41212 Certificate IV in NatHERS Assessment - Available ONLINE Fee For Service $3,650 | Funded $1,825 | Concession $365 www.wodongatafe.edu.au | info@wodongatafe.edu.au | 1300 MY TAFE (1300 69 8233) All courses that are not marked with an asterix (*), lead to an Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) qualification or statement of attainment.

Training may be delivered with funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments upon individual application, assessment and approval. If funding is utilised, this may affect opportunities to access additional funding in the future. RTO 3097

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I nsurance T opics

40

B U I L D I N G D E S I G N E R I N S U R A N C E M A R K E T U P D AT E

(CONTINUED)

Not only that, by partnering with Webber Insurance, you also receive: • Your excess waived for first claim (conditions apply) • Unlimited Retroactive cover - all your past work will be protected under this policy • Access to the BDAV Engagement Agreement at no cost • Confidence that your broker knows your industry However, the best thing is that getting a quote is now simple - it’s all completely electronic and offers you options.

If you just want a quick price to see how competitive we are, complete your details here - https://www.webberinsurance.com.au/ bdav - via our Quick Quote and we will come straight back to you with a price - it should only take you 30 seconds to complete!

If you would like a full written quote, please complete our simple online proposal form – https://www.webberinsurance.com.au/bdav-new-application. Most quotes will be sent back to you the same day.

Did you know that Webber Insurance can also assist you with the following insurance covers: • Contract Works Insurance • Business Insurance • Cyber Insurance • Management Liability Insurance • Business Travel Insurance • Domestic Insurances - Home & Motor Our team is here to help. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us on 1300 668 553; email us at bdav@webberinsurance. com.au or jump online to our website and chat with us via LiveChat.

We look forward to helping you this year with your insurance requirements.

Chris Webber is the Managing Director of Webber Insurance Services with Diplomas of both Insurance Broking and Risk Management. Webber Insurance Services is the approved Insurance Broker of the BDAV. For any enquiries, please call 1300 668 553 or email bdav@webberinsurance.com.au.

ATA R E B R A N D S T O R E N E W

The Alternative Technology Association (ATA) has changed its name to Renew. The name was selected from an extensive list of alternative names, and was the overwhelming favourite based on: • Its ability to elicit a positive emotional reaction: a sense of energy and optimism.

• The definition that suggests an attempt to extend the future of a healthy environment.

• Shares a connection to the history of the organisation with its publication ReNew. The name change won’t change what the ATA does. Indeed, the ATA says: “we are building on our foundations, and accelerating and scaling up our impact.”

“We will still work closely with our 6700+ members and our network of 14 active branches throughout the country. We will keep publishing our market-leading sustainability magazines Renew and Sanctuary and running our popular events Speed Date a Sustainability Expert, EV Expo and Sustainable House Day.” “We will advocate even more strongly that all Australians should live in comfortable, affordable, healthy homes that are resilient to a changing climate.”

Why do this now? The ATA believe it is time to move to the next stage and gear up to tackle the challenges currently being faced.

“There is an urgent need to reduce our carbon emissions to curb the impacts of climate change. All Australians should live in comfortable, healthy and resilient homes that consume minimal energy, water and resources, and produce zero emissions from energy and transport. ATA was at the vanguard and will continue to be ahead of the game.”

“With the general public searching widely for innovative ways to live more sustainably and increased media attention on viable solutions that arise from such innovation, we have a greater opportunity than ever to make an impact,” said the ATA.

Ph: 03 9370 9599 www.clause1.com.au

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Employment Matters

EMPLOYEES, VOLUNTEERS, CONTR AC TORS, INTERNSHIPS – THE TITLES GO ON AND ON

by Evelyn Morraitis

We all know that we are great designers, energy raters and architects. Let’s face it, BDAV members are good at what they do; documentation, working drawings, specifying and so on and so forth.

But there are many of us who haven’t been through business school or have a double degree in building design and human resources. Given that almost 90% of BDAV members are either sole practitioners or run a small business, therefore making resources limited, the BDAV prides itself on providing a repertoire of business services to our members. While it is expected that the BDAV’s reference material focusses on the technical side of the job, there is likewise an extensive emphasis placed on the process of hiring an employee. In accordance with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the VBA practitioner registration process and the Building Act 1993, the following key points apply to building designers and architects: • If you are completing a project that is over the total amount of $10,000, you must be a registered practitioner with the VBA. • As a registered practitioner you are required to have appropriate insurances in place. For the category of Draftsperson, professional indemnity insurance is required.

• If you are utilising a contractor for a project over $10,000, then the contractor must be registered, and therefore have their own insurance.

• An employee more than likely will not be a registered practitioner.

W H AT I S T H E D I F F E R E N C E B E T W E E N A C O N T R A C T O R A N D A N E M P LOY E E?

On a side note, the copyright will always sit with the employer (unless specified otherwise in employee contract) but the employee will own moral rights. The same however cannot be assumed for the relationship between you and the contractor, and volunteers as a matter of fact; copyright will be owned by the contractor or volunteer. Therefore, it is recommended that an agreement is put in place if you are wanting to be the author of copyright.

An employee with an architectural degree or undertaking an architectural degree - whether that be Bachelor/Masters of Architecture - fall under the Architects Award 2010. A designer or draftsperson undertaking an Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) falls under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2010.

C A N A S T U D E N T O R G R A D U AT E B E A C O N T R A C T O R T H E N ?

Anyone can be a contractor, provided they have an ABN and pay tax and superannuation. But if they are conducting architectural works or drafting for works greater than $10,000, they must be a registered practitioner or architect and have professional indemnity insurance.

• Contractors are required to have an ABN. • Contractors have to pay their own tax and superannuation.

• Contractors do not receive paid leav.

• Contractors can set their rates.

The above does not apply to employees.

W H O I S A N E M P LOY E E T H E N?

When hiring an employee who will be engaged in drafting, whether it is a student, graduate or someone with 15 years’ experience but is not registered, the employer must be a registered practitioner with the VBA, or an architect registered with the ARBV. The employee’s work will be your responsibility, as their work and documentation will fall under your practitioner number.

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W HY N OT J U S T H I R E A V O LU N T E E R T H E N?

• Volunteers should not be conducting the same duties or performing the same role that a paid employee is doing. This could eventuate into a serious legal case. The same rule can be applied for an unpaid internship and work experience • Volunteering only occurs in the not-for-profit sector.

• Volunteering is aimed to benefit the community.

To view all of the BDAV practice notes in regard to hiring an employee, please login to the members area of the BDAV’s website, at www. bdav.org.au. In particular, note Employment Templates MN023-2017.

Evelyn Morraitis is the BDAV’s Membership & Corporate Partnership Officer

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Job Market

JOB MARKET

WE ARE HIRING!

We are looking to expand our team with a highly motivated full-time Architect/ Project Leader. Brandrick Architects is an Echuca-based architectural firm with projects throughout regional Victoria. Our portfolio has a wide variety of projects of various scales including commercial, residential, educational, and government buildings. Our mission is to be the architectural practice of choice in the region by offering a diverse range of services and providing high-quality sustainable architecture with flair and imagination beyond expectations. The successful applicant requires a minimum of five years’ experience. Applications should include a cover letter, resume and references emailed in PDF format no greater than 10MB by 31/8/2018 to nataliem@brandrick.com.au.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

PA S S I O N AT E A B O U T E N V I R O N M E N TA L D E S I G N ? B E PA R T O F O U R T E A M !

Positive Footprints, leading sustainable house design and construction, seeks ing someone who shares the passion for advancement of good environmental design to join our family. The successful applicant will be required to perform all design roles from inception design, and town planning application to completion of full sets of construction documentation for our building team. We promise the work to be interesting and challenging, with full/part-time or flexible hours if required, and support for further professional development. Current registration as designer/architect and experience in ArchiCAD is essential. Great communication skills and sound knowledge of building codes and Australian Standards, experience in contract administration will be highly regarded. Please send your portfolio to info@positivefootprints.com.au.

B U I L D I N G D E S I G N E R S E E K S O V E R F LO W W O R K

Experienced building designer seeks contract/overflow work after hours or weekends. Qualified (Adv.Dip Building Design) and technically-minded. Experience in town planning and working drawings for both custom residential and townhouse developments as well as 3D visualisation. Please contact Paul to discuss any opportunities on 0433 702 304 or p.ritter27@hotmail.com.

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CONTRAC T DRAFTING POSITION – WORK FROM HOME

Contract building designer/draftsperson required for overflow work in the coming months, and hopefully a more full-time role for the months of Jan-April 2019. I am a sole trader working from my home office and require assistance getting on top of my current workload prior to taking maternity leave at the beginning of 2019. Ideally, I would like someone who can help me out over the next five months on a more causal/part-time basis, and then build up to a point where they can take over a lot more work while I’m on maternity leave. After this time, there is definitely still potential for ongoing work for the right person. The ideal candidate would be someone with excellent knowledge of the BCA and ResCode, a good understanding of thermal performance within design, and very confident with new home and unit designs (must have a good grip on the planning scheme). You will work from your own location, so your own computer with AutoCAD is a must. For more information or to submit your interest for this position, please contact Alesha via email only: alesha@lecadli.com.au.

DRAFTSPERSON/BUILDING DESIGNER REQUIRED

Murley Design, a small design firm located in Black Rock, requires an enthusiastic experienced draftsperson to assist in the documentation of all facets of residential design. You will be proficient in AutoCAD, SketchUp and Windows programs. You will have a sound knowledge of the BCA and ResCode. An immediate start after Christmas is available to the successful applicant. Please email resume to rohan@murleydesign.com.

FR5 EXPERT REQUIRED

For those looking for a start or gain further experience in a range of residential and commercial projects, our Melbournebased ESD consulting firm is looking to add to our growing team. Skillset will need to include at least one of the following: FR5 accreditations (or nearly completed); parttime (minimum 3 days per week) or full-time position; must be able to work initially in East Brunswick office location. Contact us today to get your foot in the door or to take the next step, by emailing admin@fraterconsultingservices.com.au.

STUDENT MEMBER SEEKS WORK

Experienced and passionate about sustainability and seeking an opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills within a building design and/or thermal assessment practice. Currently studying Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural). Completed CIV in NatHERS Assessment (FirstRate5) plus more. St Kilda based. Dedicated, reliable and respectful. Contact Steve to discuss my resume and possible opportunities in more detail on 0481 285 210 or stpettitt@gmail. com.

Q U A L I F I E D N AT H E R S A S S E S S O R S E E K S PA R T - T I M E W O R K

Accredited NatHERS Assessor seeks part-time work. Works remotely; 12 months’ experience with FR5 software; currently looking for 10-15 hours per week. Please contact dan@cubethermal.com.au.

Industry recruitment specialists for Architects, Building Designers, Property Developers and Interior Designers Remuneration advice, market updates, expert knowledge, permanent, temporary and contract recruitment.

Phone 03 9349 1055 www/bloomfieldtremayne.com.au J ob M arket

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NEWS SNIPPETS

PLANNING ONLINE SERVICES DISRUPTED A recent fire at the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning’s Nicholson Street office has caused tempo-

rary suspension of some online mapping services. All Victorian planning schemes are still available at Planning Schemes Online.

This includes PDF scheme maps which can be used to obtain information about zones and overlays. The Planning website is being updated daily as services are progressively restored, so check their website for the latest update at. https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/latest-news/30-august-update-on-planning-information-services

For more information on BDAV News, Events, CPD Courses and Awards, visit news.bdav.org.au.

BUILDING DESIGNERS

A U S T R A L I A N S TA N D A R D S PA C K A G E The 2018-2019 BDAV SAI Global BCA + Reference Standards Package for existing subscribers and BDAV members who have not yet subscribed is now available for purchase or renewal.

This annual subscription is an exclusive BDAV membership benefit which is available for 12 months’ purchase at $627.00; a reduction of over $1,700.00. To renew or subscribe, please visit our webshop at www.bdav.org.au, but ensure you are logged in as a member, as this item is not able to be viewed or ordered by non-members.

V I C T O R I A N C L A D D I N G A U D I T U P D AT E

A S S O C AT I O N O F V I C T O R I A

PO Box 174 Carlton South Vic 3053

PHONE

(03) 9416 0227

WEB

www.bdav.org.au

EMAIL

info@bdav.org.au

EDITOR

Giselle Grynbaum

The Victorian Building Authority has issued case studies that profile some of the buildings that have been assessed by the VBA in 2018 as part of the Victorian Statewide Cladding Audit.

These relate to apartments in Richmond and in Brighton, as well as an aged-care facility in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Go to www.vba.vic.gov.au.

pitched primarily at building designers, it will equally be of interest to other consultants and practitioners involved in the planning/building process.

S T I E B E L E LT R O N PA R T N E R S H I P

B D AV S T U D Y T O U R 2 0 1 9 , S O U T H A M E R I C A

The BDAV is pleased to announce that Stiebel Eltron have come on board as a sponsorship partner. They supply German engineered high quality instantaneous hot water systems, water filters, instant electric water heaters, solar hot water and room heaters for Australian homes. With showrooms in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, their friendly team are ready to assist with your enquiries, or free-call them across Australia on 1800 153 351. Or visit https://www.stiebel.com.au/

The BDAV is excited to announce next year’s BDAV Study Tour will head to South America in May 2019. This jam-packed tour, organised for the BDAV by Impact Events, promises to be the most exciting of our study tours to date, with a mixture of jaw-dropping architecture and bucket-list group excursions. Participants will visit Buenos Aires in Argentina, and Brazil – home to one of world’s most famous modernist architects and one of the first global ‘starchitects’, Oscar Niemeyer, who will be our ‘architect in focus’ for the tour. Early-bird savings available until 31 October 2018. For more information, go to: https://impactevents.eventsair.com/bdav-south-america/

CLADDING WEBINAR, 17 SEPT 2018 The recent focus in the media and industry communications on external building façade cladding has created confusion for practitioners, and has also resulted in a tightening-up of the insurance market. Join us at our next CPD webinar on 17 September 2018 when Chris Webber from Webber Insurance Services will present an overview on the Cladding issue, and its impact on insurance. Whilst the presentation is

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F I N A L C A L L : U P T O $ 8 , 0 0 0 AVA I L A B L E F O R W O M E N ’ S L E A D E R S H I P D E V E L O P M E N T

Women currently working in the construction sector have a final opportunity to register their interest in a scholarship worth up to $8,000 to support participation in a leadership development program. Funding must be apportioned by the end of September and it is unsure when these grants will be available again. Find out more and register your interest by completing the Expression of Interest form at https://www.wla.edu.au/consteng.html prior to 5pm on 21 September 2018.

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BDAV membership is the ultimate designers ‘must have’.

Membership Benefits include: • Belong to a true non-profit Association • Discounts on industry and business tools/services • Monthly Journal: BDAV News • Weekly eNews • Annual Awarded Magazine • Member updates • Continuing Professional Development: comprehensive program of seminars, workshops, webinars, and regional meetings • Documents for building projects: – project specifications – engagement agreements – indemnity documents – standard form contracts for residential and non-residential projects • Reference material, including a great suite of Practice Notes, Advisory Notes, and much more • Free* advice on matters including copyright, contracts, wages and conditions, legislative and regulatory requirements, etc • Access to Professional Indemnity Insurance through our preferred insurance agent • Accreditation for Thermal Performance Assessors • Lobbying and Representation • Annual Building Design Awards to promote your skills as a designer • Annual 10 Star Sustainable Design Challenge to promote knowledge of energy efficiency principles • Free website listing to generate referrals for your business in Find a Building Designer/Energy Rater

One look inside tells you that being a Member of the Building Designers Association of Victoria entitles you to many member benefits. Advantages such as important information to help you to promote your business, advice* for greater efficiencies, and especially our comprehensive Continuing Professional Development program, will assist you to reap the rewards.

• Free Job Listings for Members seeking staff or Members looking for work

Being a BDAV Member is a sound investment for your business – especially for sole-practitioners, who often work ‘in a vacuum’ and value peer support for advice and guidance.

• Help Desk

Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Fax: (03) 9416 0115 Email: info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au *Advice is of an elementary nature. Anything significantly complex should be referred to an appropriate professional advisor.

BDAV is an approved CPD Provider for the Victorian building industry, as administered by Victoria’s Building Commission.

• Student Scholarships/Grants/ Awards

• Online Member Forum • Access to latest information from the nation’s leading suppliers • Networking • Use of BDAV logo: provides recognition on your website and business stationery and much more!

designing amazing spaces

Building Designers can offer an incredible range of design skills to your project To get in touch with a BDAV building designer, go to www.bdav.org.au