In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time podcast, Amelia and Frank pull back the curtain on one of the biggest challenges in Australia’s building and design industry, the lack of communication and consistency between systems, departments, and even states. Following on from their previous podcast discussion about the five key systems involved in every building project, they dive deeper into how these systems often operate in isolation, creating confusion, delays, and frustration for homeowners and professionals alike.

Frank explains how licensing requirements, building codes, and approval processes differ drastically between states, and how even the National Construction Code (NCC) is interpreted differently depending on where you build. From bushfire regulations and thermal performance standards to planning terminology and Tasmanian-specific requirements, the pair highlight just how complex the landscape really is.

They also explore how Tasmania’s CBOS system and statewide planning scheme have helped improve consistency, while acknowledging that constant regulation changes and communication barriers between authorities still pose major challenges. Throughout the episode, Amelia and Frank share their insights on how Prime Design acts as the “translator” between these disconnected systems, bringing together planners, engineers, surveyors, and councils to ensure clients’ projects move smoothly through approvals.

If you’ve ever wondered why building can feel so complicated, or what really goes on behind the scenes to get your permits approved, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a revealing look at the hidden complexity of Australia’s building process and how expert coordination makes all the difference.

An episode not to be missed! If you love this episode be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any in the future.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Frank and Amelia pull back the curtain on one of the biggest misconceptions in the industry, that building designers just “draw plans.” They reveal the hidden complexity behind every project, explaining how designers must navigate five parallel systems planning, building, site and infrastructure, technical disciplines, and title/legal implications each with its own rule book, language, and bureaucracy. These systems don’t communicate with each other, leaving homeowners stuck trying to make sense of red tape, conflicting interpretations, and ever-changing regulations.

Frank and Amelia share real-world examples of clients who faced costly setbacks after venturing too far outside the planning scheme and offer practical advice on how to avoid the same fate. They discuss the importance of due diligence before purchasing land or beginning an extension and explain why the true value of a designer lies in their ability to coordinate, interpret, and translate across all these systems and what can go wrong if you decide to coordinate these aspects yourself without the know how.

Whether you’re planning to build, renovate, or simply want to understand what really happens behind the scenes, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role of a building designer, the professionals who “speak all five languages, so you don’t have to.”

An episode not to be missed be sure to subscribe so you don't miss and episode!

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.