Board Briefing December 2024
Welcome to the December briefing from the AIBS Board. This update includes information for members on the recent Board meetings held on 30 October and 5 December 2024.
Strategic Risk Workshop
During the one-day face-to-face meeting in October, the Board conducted a comprehensive review of strategic risks. The workshop had a specific emphasis on setting the risk appetite for the organisation and reviewing the assessment of risks presented by the CEO.
Chapter Structure Workshop
The Board conducted a review of the AIBS Chapter Committee structure, with a view to enhancing the understanding and effectiveness of the structure. Improvements were tabled in relation to the nomination and appointment process for Board Directors that are also Chapter Chairs, and it was agreed to develop an induction pack and to deliver an induction webinar for incoming Chapter Committee members in early 2025.
Member Engagement and Support
The Board reflected on the positive changes delivered to members in October, including the new modular CPD Program and the new Cooperation Deed established with the Victorian Building Authority, to allow AIBS accredited members to have a smoother pathway to registration in Victoria.
The Victorian Professional Development Day was well received by members, with 157 delegates in attendance. The NSW/ACT Conference, which is the largest of the AIBS conferences, was attended by 458 delegates. The Tasmanian Professional Development Day was opened by an address from the incoming Executive Director of CBOS and was followed the day after, with in-person meetings between AIBS and CBOS. This is part of AIBS’ efforts to establish close working relationships with regulators across the country.
Governance Matters
The recent elections for the Board and Chapter Committees resulted in the appointment of a Board member for each Chapter and the formation of Chapter Committees for QLD/NT, NSW/ACT, and TAS. At the recent Board meeting, members were endorsed for co-opted roles on the VIC, SA, and WA Chapter Committees, resulting in a total of six formed Chapter Committees for AIBS.
Additionally, at the December Board meeting, Wayne Liddy was appointed as AIBS President and Richard Attiwell was appointed as Vice President. Troy Olds, who previously served as President the past six (6) years and left a significant legacy, remains on the Board representing the SA Chapter.
To support the Board in financial and risk matters, the AIBS Finance and Risk Committee has been established. This committee is supported by Luke Neller, the QLD/NT Director, and Roland Wierenga, the TAS Director.
The AIBS Specialist Advisory Groups and National Accreditation Panel provide invaluable support to AIBS. The members for the 2024-2026 term have now been confirmed. We extend our sincere thanks to those members who did not renew their terms for their dedicated service.
NCC Moratorium
Recently, prominent Members of Parliament have called for a ten-year moratorium on the implementation of any changes to the National Construction Code (NCC). AIBS opposes any delays in implementing changes to the NCC and is currently developing a response to ensure that the industry's voice is heard on this matter.
AIBS Professional Standards Scheme
As part of the next evolution of the AIBS Professional Standards Scheme (PSS), AIBS has developed the Professional Practice Standards that set out the core facets of professional practice expected of building surveyors that operate under the scheme. The Standards have been issued to members for consultation and will underpin the new AIBS Audit Program which is currently in development.
Operational Performance
AIBS has continued to improve on its financial performance, delivering better than budgeted results for the year to date, driven by increases in membership and accreditation revenue and strong attendance at conferences and webinars. In addition, AIBS has continued to reduce costs including in the areas of office lease expenses and financial audit services. The restructure of the leadership team under the CEO, and appointments to the key positions is now complete.
Professional Development and Performance
Academic Accreditation
Following a review, the AIBS membership category of Accredited Academic has been redefined as Academic Member. Eligibility for this category is limited to individuals who are not actively practicing in Building Surveying, hold academic qualifications in building surveying, and are solely engaged in academic activities.
To Close
The AIBS Board and staff, would like to thank our members for your ongoing support through 2024, and wish you all a safe and happy holiday season. The AIBS office will be closed from 23 December 2024 and reopens 13 January 2025.
Issued on behalf of AIBS Board Directors
Wayne Liddy, President
Fiona Jolly, Independent Lead Director