World-first building law sets new global benchmark for safety and accountability

Western Sydney University has welcomed the release of the International Model Building Act (IMBA), a world-first model law developed by the International Building Quality Centre (IBQC) to help countries strengthen the safety and regulation of their building industries.

The IMBA offers a clear, adaptable legislative framework that countries can use as a guide when reforming their building laws. For the first time at an international level, it brings together all elements of building regulation into one integrated model.

The policy framework was led by Adjunct Professor Kim Lovegrove, Chair of the IBQC and Conjoint Professor at Western Sydney University, in collaboration with a multinational IBQC drafting coalition that included members from both hemispheres.

Adjunct Professor Lovegrove said the integrated framework could revolutionise building regulations in some parts of the world.

“Reforming Governments have the opportunity to create more transparent and holistic regulatory systems, which in turn helps clarify who carries responsibility,” said Professor Lovegrove.

“When construction defects arise, it is often homeowners and communities who bear the burden. Establishing strong accountability measures and clear avenues for resolving disputes is essential.

“These guidelines influence investment confidence, market stability, and regulatory credibility, in both developed and emerging economies.”

While previous international work has largely focused on technical building standards, the IMBA is the first to outline a complete legislative structure. It provides a practical reference that can be adapted to different legal systems and national contexts.

Professor Catharine Renshaw, Dean of the School of Law, said the collaboration reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to applying legal research in ways that improve systems and outcomes internationally.

“We value this opportunity to engage in comparative regulatory initiatives that bring together academic scholarship and practical reform,” said Professor Renshaw.

“This work provides important thought leadership for countries seeking clearer, safer and more accountable building systems.

“The University is proud to have contributed to these best practice guidelines and we congratulate all involved.”

The legislative drafting was undertaken by Gemma Varley, former Victorian Chief Parliamentary Counsel and former Law Reform Commissioner.

The work was also supported by Professor Robert Whittaker AM, Conjoint Professor at Western Sydney University and IBQC Board Member, who was one of the Board members that sanctioned the Act’s release.

The Act outlines essential features of an effective building regulation system, including:

• Risk based building classifications
• Licensing and registration requirements
• Independent building inspections and certification
• Clear lines of responsibility for builders, designers and regulators
• Fair and proportionate liability rules
• Mandatory insurance settings
• Enforcement powers for regulators
• Dispute resolution systems resolution systems

The ‘IBQC Model Building Act’ is available to download here.

ENDS.

27 February 2026
Photo credit: via Unsplash
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media and PR Advisor