Research

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Purpose

We have a statutory function to conduct or promote research relevant to the regulation of the building and plumbing industries.

Our research program supports our objective to improve consumer outcomes as a trusted regulator and the approach described in our Regulatory Policy Statement.

Objectives

The research program is a key strategic platform that gives us the evidence to inform our regulatory decisions and influence improvements to the building regulatory system.

It helps us better understand major regulatory harms or problems, the needs of consumers and how regulatory interventions can be shaped to improve consumer outcomes.

Our research makes a difference.

We conduct research and partner with reputable and prominent research institutions or consortiums to lead research. Through our research findings or research partnerships, we:

identify and address harms or regulatory gaps in the built environment
use research insights to inform programs that improve consumer safety and the way we regulate
collaborate with stakeholders to enhance practitioner competencies and maximise improved outcomes for the community
support initiatives to drive innovation and improvements in the industry.

View a short video that demonstrates our approach to prioritising research that addresses the most significant harms in the built environment, and collaboration with reputable research institutions to deliver research that provides evidence to improve the building regulatory system and the quality of the built environment in Victoria.

Strategic focus

Our research focus is on achieving one or more of these strategic outcomes:

Safe (or safer) building and plumbing work with fewer major defects
Skilled and competent practitioners
A technologically advanced and innovative industry.

While some outcomes of our research are tangible or visible in the short term, much of its impact can only be measured over time as we engage with key stakeholders and the community to influence changes and drive improved consumer outcomes

Research approach

Our research program comprises:

managed research – where we commission or undertake the research
sponsorships, partnerships and research grants – where we collaborate with industry, academia and government on research.

The research we undertake is primarily applied research, with research projects or collaborations seeking to find solutions to specific problems or to advance our understanding of systemic issues and options for resolution.

We engage with relevant stakeholders early when considering research topics and involve them in the design and delivery of projects or collaborations. This helps us to ensure the relevance of our research, and to widen our reach and impact.