The Victorian Building Authority has worked with industry and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to produce the new Regulations, following comprehensive review and consultation.

The 2018 Regulations reflect the changing nature of the industry and are designed to ensure that plumbing work in Victoria is carried out competently and safely. The majority of the Plumbing Regulations 2018 commenced on 18 November, with some regulations set to commence in late 2019

Key changes

The Plumbing Regulations 2018 largely reflect the Plumbing Regulations 2008. The main changes in the new Regulations are:

  • The introduction of an additional two-year period of practical experience requirement to be eligible for licensing;
  • Reclassification of Refrigerated Air-conditioning work and Type B Gasfitting work as main classes;
  • Clarification that routine service work on fire protection equipment is regulated under the fire protection class;
  • The creation of a new specialised class – ‘thermostatic mixing valve work’;
  • The introduction of new technical requirements for:
    • the laying of sanitary drains under buildings, and
    • backflow prevention devices where a hand-held spray may be used next to a water closet.

The new Regulations affect all registered or licensed plumbing practitioners in Victoria, their apprentices, the industry sectors in which they work, and anyone in the community who intends to undertake plumbing work.

More information

 

Source : www.vba.vic.gov.au