Did you know our Geelong Chapter is leading the charge for Movember? Check out the lads down at the barber getting a close shave back on the 1st of November! We are super proud of their initiative and intention to help grow awareness around men’s health, especially mental health.
For more information check out the ALDE (Geelong) Mo Bros & Sistas page for more information on how to donate and support them: https://au.movember.com/team/2441638
The Association of Land Development Engineers (ALDE) invite you to attend the ALDE 2024 Conference. This event promises to be a significant gathering of professionals, experts and thought leaders in the field of land development engineering.
Monday, 19 August – Wednesday, 21 August 2024
Mantra Lorne
Connecting the Pieces: Crafting the Future of Land Development
As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the world of land development engineering, our conference theme, ‘Connecting the Pieces: Crafting the Future of Land Development,’ will explore the latest trends, advancements and best practices in the industry. We are confident that this event will offer valuable insights and networking opportunities for all attendees.
Click on the link for more information: https://gems.eventsair.com/alde-2024/
Engaging Keynote Speakers: We have invited top-notch experts to share their knowledge and experiences, providing you with fresh perspectives on the future of land development engineering.
Connect with peers, potential collaborators and industry leaders during our networking and social events.
Explore the latest products, services and technologies offered by leading companies in the field.
Stay tuned for our detailed conference agenda, which we will send in the coming weeks. We believe that you will find it to be a compelling mix of educational content and ample networking time. Registration details and further information will follow soon. Register your interest via the link below to stay up to date with conference details as they become available.
Register for more information here: https://gems.eventsair.com/alde-2024/expressionofinterest/Site/Register
Please save the date, and we look forward to seeing you at the ALDE 2024 Conference. For any enquiries in the meantime, feel free to reach out to us at registration@gemsevents.com.au.
We are excited about this event and anticipate an inspiring and productive gathering. Together, we can shape the future of land development engineering.
Kind regards,
ALDE 2024 Committee
P: +61 2 9744 5252
E: registration@gemsevents.com.au
ALDE has put forward a proposal in relation to the revision of the minimum experience levels for sewer and water construction auditing with the goal being to provide individuals with an opportunity to progressively gain competencies while learning on the job.
Last month ALDE participated in a Melbourne Water hosted industry forum; the Urban Planning and Development Strategic Collaboration Group.
The purpose of this new group is to identify and overcome challenges to the urban planning and development sector.
The group brings together many of the key players in this space; from industry bodies such as the Property Council of Australia (PCA) and the Urban Development Industry of Australia (UDIA), to government organisations including the Department of Transport & Planning (DTP) and Victorian Planning Authority (VPA).
The purpose of the Group is to deliver the objectives below, within a water context:
Discussion themes centred around;
In conjunction with 12d, ALDE will be introducing industry specific training for the land development industry in 2024.
The Self Paced Online Training Course will combine the theory behind the Land Development process, with the application of 12d Model for road and stormwater design tasks, tailored to Victorian requirements.
The course will make use of 12d Solution’s Self-Paced Online Training (SPOT) platform, through the Civil & Surveying Institute.
Kim Dinh, Chair of the ALDE Education Subcommittee & Cameron Lowe of 12d recently introduced the program to our members at the July member forum. View Presentation here
BETA testing of the program will commence very shortly and the training course is set to be rolled out towards the start of 2024.
The Water Industry Liaison Committee (WILC) has stakeholders represented from water authorities in the metro and regional areas, and industry associations (ALDE, Civil Contractors Federation (CCF), UDIA, ACSV and contractors that undertake significant capital works for the water authorities.)
ALDE raised the following for discussions at WILC:
Melbourne Retail Water Authories (MRWA) have launched a Safety page and are seeking feedback on the content.
If you would like to contribute, please direct any feedback to our executive officer Karen Leoncelli.
Yarra Valley Water (YVW) has news for the land development industry in relation to an Eduction Review, Redeye Cad Drawings and the move to GDA 2020.
Yarra Valley Water Eduction Review
YVW is undertaking an eduction review along similar lines to Greater Western Water due to the following:
Redeye CAD drawings
YVW has recognised issues in relation to CAD drawing requirements for development works and are currently working through with the Redeye administrators to address them accordingly. ALDE will be providing feedback on the drawing standards for YVW.
If you would like to contribute to the ALDE response, please get in touch with our executive officer, Karen Leoncelli.
Yarra Valley Water GDA2020 update:
Yarra Valley Water has moved its spatial GIS data from GDA94 to GDA2020. While consultants can still submit as-constructed data in GDA94, they prefer for all data to be supplied in GDA2020 from now on.
A combined communication from all Melbourne water retailers will be provided to the land development industry shortly and will allow consultants time to shift in work practices from GDA94 to GDA2020.
ALDE recently held the UDWAG meeting with Melbourne Water(MW) and provide the following updates for our members:
Project-Based Issues
Melbourne Water have implemented a new customer service team and escalation process to improve turnaround times on queries.
MW are using this dedicated hotline to gauge their overall level of service and this is being closely monitored for performance. Over the past couple of months, Melbourne Water have used this process to reduce escalation call back times down from 20 days to 4 (and they are looking to further improve on this figure month to month). All April 2023 service tickets are now closed.
The hotline’s dedicated service officer will have full access to the file for every project and can easily confirm if a document is received, who the project has been assigned to and provide a follow up for you. An escalation process can also be used if you have concerns.
Melbourne Water Statutory Developer Services Leadership Team
Melbourne Water has transformed the model of Statutory Developer Services (now Urban Planning and Development) and has brought in significant new skills and experience. View more details about the team and their experience in this Melbourne Water newsletter.
Flood safety and people safety in terms of risk – registered engineers and interpretation of the act
Applications assessed by the Statutory Developer Services team are required to comply with the relevant legislative framework and supporting decision guidelines, at the discretion of Melbourne Water in its capacity as the floodplain management authority.
Key decision makers within our Statutory teams are empowered to exercise discretion in limited circumstances where evidence-based data allows. Reviews of Melbourne Water decisions can be done via VCAT, the Building Appeals Board or other relevant appeal bodies.
Historically, MW would have allowed matters to be resolved post permit and work through this with developers/ consultants, but this approach is not viable with the risk profile associated with interim works for unresolved sequencing of development.
As a regulator, Melbourne Water is required by legislation to assess applications against specific policies within the Victorian Planning System.
Urban Development & Planning Newsletter
MW released their Urban Development & Planning Newsletter with news on driving Performance Outcomes & their KPIs, new Interim Guidelines for Sea Level Rise, the Maribyrnong Flood Review & Enquiry & more. Read it here
The ALDE Safety & Environment Subcommittee has prepared the following update in relation to On Site Rock Crushing to our members.
Melbourne is currently in the middle of a significant pipeline of construction project lead by Victoria’s “Big Build” infrastructure projects. Plants, quarries and cartage companies are providing priority service to high profile government projects which has resulted in increased competition in the private sector for the remaining local suppliers.
Infrastructure Australia’s December 2022 Market Capacity Report cautioned of an emerging capacity risk in Melbourne’s local markets where quarry closures are preceding the opening of greenfield sites. Producers themselves note that approvals for new quarries and or extensions of consents at existing facilities are very difficult, taking up to 10 years in some cases.
Due to such extended timelines, there is currently a real risk of a quarry ‘gap’ occurring in Melbourne’s supply chain. As a result, recycling virgin rock is becoming more popular on land development sites in Melbourne’s north and west. The decision to introduce rock crushing capabilities into a land development site is something that requires careful consideration to the site-specific risk and opportunities.
The ALDE Safety & Environment Subcommittee has highlighted some things to consider in relation to recycling virgin rock on land development sites:
The annual ALDE/ Winslow Golf Day was held at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club on Monday 1st May 2023, the event was presented by Winslow Constructors as naming rights sponsor for the 14th year in a row, with additional on course sponsorship support from Cossill & Webley, Precinct Land, Breese Pitt Dixon, AGIG, SPIIRE, DCE and R&S Grating for the on-course games for the day.
The event was able to raise funds for Camp4Cancer a charity formed and run by a group of close friends with its sole purpose to raise much needed funds for cancer research, in particular the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation. Since 2015 Camp4Cancer with the help of Winslow Constructors have donated in excess of 250k to the Peter Mac Cancer Foundation.
MAJOR PRIZE WINNERS
Winner of the ALDE Cup (consulting members only) Kyan Rafferty (Precinct Land)
Winner Official handicap – Kyan Rafferty (Precinct Land)
Runner up Official Handicap – Tim Chamberlain (Precinct Land)
3rd Place Official handicap – Alvin Tian (Taylors)
Winner non-official handicap – Thomas Vanderlay (Winslow)
Runner up non-official handicap – Josh Munro (Taylors)
3rd place non-official handicap – Jack Massie (Jaydo)
OTHER ALDE SPONSORED ON COURSE COMPS
ROYAL MELBOURNE GOLF CLUB SPONSORED ON COURSE COMPS
Congratulations to Travis Shreeve (Tonkin & Taylor) for collecting the Darche swag at the auction!
ALDE was once again pleased to be able to assist Winslow in contributing $5 from each ticket sale for a total of $1,350 to go towards Camp4Cancer.
Photos from the day can be found here
ALDE has been consulting with the Melbourne Retail Water Agencies (MRWA) on a practical way to adopt the requirements of the Victorian Professional Engineers Registration Act 2019 (PER Act) into their submissions.
The MRWA made changes to the design drawing templates in response to the new legislation.
The requirement for a civil and structural engineer to be registered in Victoria came into effect on October 2022.
Engineering Professionals must register with the Business Licencing Authority if they wish to continue legally providing Professional Engineering Services unless they are working under the guidance of a registered engineer or working only within a prescriptive standard.
MRWA supports the Victorian Government’s initiative to recognise the importance of engineers through a statewide registration process and considers the preparation of sewer and drainage documents as Professional Engineering Services.
Read the complete MRWA position here
MRWA proposes changes to the ‘Title Blocks’ MRWA design drawing templates to clearly identify the Registered Engineer involved in the process and abide by the PER legislation.
The MRWA design drawing template now includes:
1. Registered Professional Engineer’s name and registration number
2. Sign-off on each design revision by the Registered Professional Engineer (instead of the authoriser).
The 100 Series water and sewer design standards drawing examples (PDF and AutoCAD files) have been amended on the MRWA portal website and are ready for use on projects.
All designs submitted from 1 July 2023 will be expected to adopt the new template and show the Professional Registered Engineer on the drawings.
The MRWA will be checking this requirement is being met on design submissions and after 1 July 2023 will not accept designs that do not include these changes.
Notification of changes to the ARCUS accreditation system will be advised in the near future.
Should you have any questions or wish to discuss these requirements further please contact
the relevant water retailer representatives:
Ryan Leon (ryan.leon@yvw.com.au ) – Yarra Valley Water
Bruce Johnson (bruce.johnson@sew.com.au ) – South East Water
Nick Rhoden (nick.rhoden@gww.com.au ) – Greater Western Water
Greater Western Water (GWW) has successfully switched its geographic system map base to GDA2020 (Geocentric Datum of Australia 2020).
The change, which took place on 19th of February, ensures the alignment of the locations of building developments on GWW’s asset maps. The initiative is being led by Land Victoria and all Victorian water corporations are required to make the switch.
This project forms part of GWW’s program of work, aimed at transforming the way GWW captures, uses, manages and shares spatial information about its assets.
GWW’s project team is on stand-by to provide any additional support its partners and contractors may need. GWW will support the submission of as-contracted plans in GDA94 to allow business partners to transition to GDA2020.
Please ensure all as-constructed plans submitted clearly state datum.
Find out more or get in touch
Visit the Land Victoria website to find out more about GDA2020.
If you have any questions, please contact the GWW project team on OurSpatialOdyssey@gww.com.au
After a successful inaugural event, the ALDE Leadership in Land Development Luncheon is back again in 2023.
With a similar focus on featuring industry leaders, sharing diverse perspectives and encouraging engaging discussions, we hope many of you will join us and set the tone for the year.
The theme for 2023 was ‘Transformation’ and you can view the Event Report here
The Local Government Infrastructure Design Association (LGIDA) has considered the matter of Registered Victorian Professional Engineers and has decided that it is currently up to each individual Council to determine their individual requirements. It is likely that a future edition of the Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) will formally review the checklists that will incorporate the ability for Councils to have Registered Professional Engineers (RPEs) sign-offs where appropriate.
Most Councils will be requiring sign-offs to be undertaken by RPEs who are able to verify, when checking plans and/or documentation, RPE independence from specific developments; and are in a position to meet any reasonable specific requirements of the individual member Council.
Melbourne Water (MW) and ALDE meet on a regular basis to discuss the needs of the land development industry and our membership made up of consultants and suppliers. The following outlines some of the discussion from our recent Urban Development Water Advisory Group (UDWAG) Technical meeting (keeping in mind the current caretaker period limits what can be discussed and agreed).
DELWP Guidelines for Development in Flood Affected Areas
There is a discrepancy between the DELWP Flood Guidelines and the Melbourne Water LDM regarding the VxD values accepted. Melbourne Water has provided feedback to DELWP on the difference and asked for clarification and an update of the Guidelines to reflect that. While the Guidelines are being reviewed by DELWP, Melbourne Water have indicated that the DELWP Guidelines are the most recent and most up to date document. They should therefore be the primary source of guidance. Where these guidelines and expectations are difficult to meet on a project, direct negotiation with Melbourne Water is recommended.
Melbourne Water response times
Melbourne Water are looking for opportunities to streamline their processes and shorten their response times. They are going to release further communication around this in the near future however we have some preliminary advice.
If the development project lends itself to a change in the drainage scheme, its best to start discussion with Melbourne Water ahead of the permit process to negotiate the best outcome.
Melbourne Water recommend the following steps:
Project Escalation inside Melbourne Water
Another great tip highlighted in the meeting was that all email signatures at Melbourne Water include an escalation manager. Whilst we always encourage direct discussion with the assigned officer at Melbourne Water, if you feel the need to escalate your concern, now you can easily see the person you need to speak to next. Remember email addresses at Melbourne water are FirstName.LastName@melbournewater.com.au
A workshop focused on Unconscious Bias, facilitated by Warwick Cavell of Profitable Conversations was held Thursday 20th October by the Diversity and Inclusion Subcommittee. You can access the presentation here
ALDE and its members are committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse industry and enabling a sustainable and equitable business landscape where people feel pride and belonging. The event provided awareness to help identifying biases within our own thinking, to assist in breaking down unconscious patterns.
The Diversity Council Australia Inclusion@Work Index showed the incredible impact that inclusion can have on people and culture, showing that workers in inclusive teams are:
Diversity Council Australia also provides infographic of the state of inclusion in the Australian workforce here
The ALDE Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee has an LGBTQIA+ information sheet for our members.
The ALDE Safety and Environment Subcommittee is pleased to release the 2022/23 Safety Booklet.
This booklet is a safety guide for engineers and visitors to sites where land development works are in progress.
It is an introduction to onsite safety for engineers and site visitors who are not familiar with land development and is also designed as a refresher or reference guide for those who may have substantial experience in land development.
Land development sites can pose serious risks, with potential hazards created by deep trenches or holes and slippery surfaces that can cause serious injury or even death. These sites are typically of a large scale and contain powerful vehicles and equipment.
You can access the new ALDE Safety Booklet here
Thanks to all our member consultancies who supported the publication of the ALDE Safety Booklet:
Cossill Webley, KLM Spatial, Peak/Colliers, PGA, DCE, Millar Merrigan, Reeds Consulting, SPIIRE, SMEC, Taylors, Urban Design & Management, Creo, GHD, BPD, Calibre, Tomkinsons, Precinct, Beveridge Williams.
South East Water has advised that they will be transitioning to GDA 2020 in October 2022.
As per their statement:
“The transition from Map Grid of Australia 1994 (MGA94) to (Geocentric Datum of Australia 2020) GDA2020 is in full swing across Australia as demonstrated by;
– In October 2017 GDA2020 was formally defined as the national datum for Australia
– Victorian cadastral surveys (with limited exceptions) must adopt GDA2020
– The Victorian Digital Asset Strategy nominated GDA2020 as the datum for the management of spatial information
How South East Water is managing the change
At South East Water, to keep our spatial information consistent, we’re migrating our internally managed spatial systems from a datum of MGA94 to GDA2020 in October 2022.
To best support transition to GDA2020 we’ll accept spatial data and asset information on both MGA94 and GDA2020 datums. Our preference is that data be supplied on GDA2020.
Supporting specifications and standards will continue to be revised into the future to reflect this transition from MGA94 to GDA2020.
“As GDA2020 is now our official datum, the transition to GDA2020 is something every organisation needs to make. At South East Water we’re doing so at a time reflecting the requirements of our many stakeholders,” said Manager Asset Information System, Heath McMahon.
The future of MGA94
At the moment we haven’t made a decision on how long we’ll still accept data provided on MGA94 but we’ll give the industry as much notice as possible when we do decide. In the short term we’ll continue to accept data on MGA94.
Need to get in touch?
If you have any questions or need more information, you can contact Heath on heath.mcmahon@sew.com.au
The 28th edition of the ALDE Annual General Meeting was held on Tuesday 6th September attended by General Members at the Wine House in Southbank.
It was a great opportunity to reflect on our achievements for the year in the various areas of interest based on the work of both the Executive Committee and the organisations’ themed Subcommittees.
Full board nominations and positions will be published shortly.
Ways in which ALDE have served our members in 2021/22 are;
To further work to our mission of “representing the voice of our consultancy members, to raise the profile of our profession and guide the technical standards.”
You can view a copy of the Annual Report to Members here
A transcript of the speech on the night by President Sehon Pellew can be viewed here
To enquire about renewing or starting a membership, please contact our Executive Officer Karen Leoncelli.
ALDE has received an update from the Melbourne Retail Water Agencies (MRWA) for guidance on how the Registration of Engineers Act will be administered in an engineering design and construction framework.
‘The MRWA have sought legal advice regarding the Professional Engineers Registration Act 2019.
Taking into consideration the legal advice, the MRWA are endeavouring to obtain a consistent approach on how the Act will impact the current interface between the accredited consultant and the MRWA.
While this work continues, it has been agreed the MRWA will not require Accredited Design ‘Checkers’ to be Registered Engineers. Notwithstanding the MRWA position on this issue, compliance with the Act rests with individual companies.
The MRWA do not consider the MRWA (WSAA) Codes to be Prescribed Standards. On this basis, designs being completed by consultants for the MRWAs are considered to be Professional Engineering Services and will require the involvement of a Registered Engineer in accordance with the Professional Engineers Registration Act 2019.
The MRWA look forward to working with ALDE and your members to determine the best way to provide assurance of suitable Registered Engineer involvement in designs (for example, through the ARCUS system or a drawing sign-off process).
Note that it is still the responsibility of each entity submitting designs to ensure compliance with Professional Engineers Registration Act 2019 on or by 1 October 2022. ”
The MRWA represents Yarra Valley Water, South East Water & Greater Western Water.
For further information, please contact the ALDE Executive team.
The Conduit Newsletter is ALDE’s monthly E News publication sent in the third week of the month.
The newsletter features a round up of Victorian land development industry news, ALDE events, technical and authority updates.
Stay in touch with your industry and subscribe to The Conduit E Newsletter today!
Archive Topics covered
Vol. 23 August 2023 President’s Address (AGM and Board Nominations) Upcoming Annual General Meeting, Wear It Purple Day, ALDE Excellence Awards 2023 – Judging to Commence So Book Your Tickets, YEiLD Electrical Technical Event, Upcoming Member Forum No.185, ALDE Membership Renewals, IPWEA Vic Stormwater Management Foundations Course, Advocacy Updates – New Gas Connections Restricted, Water Industry Liaison Committee (WILC) Update, Melbourne Water Update -Performance Feedback Survey & Urban Planning and Development Strategic Collaboration Group, Main Drainage Subcommittee Update, Golbourn Valley Water Update, Greater Western Water Dispensation Forms Industry Notice, Get Involved in the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Member Events for 2023.
Vol. 22 July 2023 President’s Address (collaboration and partnerships with associate members) NAIDOC WEEK, Member Forum No. 184 (General Member Presentation, Reinforced Concrete Pipes Australia Presentation, Concrete Pipe Association of Australia Presentation, 12 & ALDE Self Paced Online Training Course Presentation,) ALDE Excellence Awards 2023 – Applications Open, ALDE Membership Renewals, Stormwater Victoria Erosion & Sediment Control Webinar, IPWEA Stormwater Management Foundations Course, Advocacy Updates – Safety & Environment Subcommittee Update On Worksafe Foundations for Safety Victoria, Melbourne Water Update -Performance Feedback Survey & Urban Planning and Development Strategic Collaboration Group, Melbourne Retail Water Agencies ARCUS Feedback, South East Water Update- New Accreditation & Revised Consultant Deed & New Customer Contributions, Greater Western Water Dispensation Forms Industry Notice, Yarra Valley Water Land Development Newsletter, Victorian Planning Authority Leadership Update and Protected Species found in Melbourne’s West, Get Involved in the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Member Events for 2023.
Vol. 21 June 2023 President’s Address (the power of communication,) National Reconciliation Week, International Women in Engineering Day 2023 INWED, ALDE Fine Food & Wine Event (link to presentation,) ALDE Excellence Awards 2023, ALDE Membership Renewals, Strategic Planning & Subcommittee Listings, New Members: Geelong City Council, Loetis, IPWEA Road Foundations Course, Advocacy Updates – Safety & Environment Subcommittee On Respirable Crystalline Silica (link to article and resources,) Environment Protection Agency Fine Issued, Melbourne Water Performance Feedback Survey, Healthy Waterways Strategy, Gippsland Water New Customer Contributions, Melbourne Retail Water Agencies ARCUS Feedback, South East Water Accreditation, Greater Western Water Feedback Survey, Victorian Planning Authority Streamlining for Growth Program Update, Country Fire Authority Guidelines, Get Involved in the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Member Events for 2023.
Vol. 20 May 2023 President’s Address (Reserve Bank of Australia outlook,) ALDE Winslow Golf Day report- links to winners and photos, Member Forum No.183 – Links to presentations from Stormy Water Solutions, IPWEA, Useful Engineering Tools & Resources from Tonkin+Taylor, IDAHOBIT – links to resources regarding LGBTQIA+ discrimination plus guide from the ALDE Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Fine Food & Wine Event, IPWEA Road Foundations Course, New ALDE Member – Barwon Water, Advocacy Updates – Safety & Environment Subcommittee Update about Onsite Road Crushing, Melbourne Water Update about improving turnaround times for Project Based Issues, staffing and their Statutory Developer Services Leadership Team, and approach towards Flood safety and People safety in terms of risk and the registration of engineers, Yarra Valley Water news about an Eduction Review, Redeye Cad Drawings and the move to GDA 2020, Greater Western Water Safety Alert on Excavation & Trenching, Water Industry Liaison Committee Update, Spotlight on ALDE Technical Subcommittees – Energy & Education and Local Government, Call Out for the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Member Events for 2023, ALDE Membership.
Vol. 19 April 2023 President’s Address (ChatGPT, Artificial Intelligence) StormWater VIC/ALDE VUDM Industry Engagement Session, Anzac Day, MRWA Updates for the Registration of Engineers, Winslow Gold Day 01 May, Upcoming Member Forum 10 May, ALDE Fine Food & Wine Event 30 May 2023, New Member Plasgain, ADVOCACY UPDATES: MRWA Updates To Title Blocks, ALDE & Melbourne Water, MRWA DAS Advanced Knowledge Training Module Updates, Greater Western Water Draft Eduction Controls Matrix, Spotlight on Technical Subcommittees: Hydraulic Services Sewer & Water Subcommittee, Hydraulic Services Drainage/Stormwater Subcommittee, Call Out for the Education Subcommittee, ALDE Member Events for 2023, ALDE Membership.
Vol. 18 March 2023 President’s Address (Women’s History Month,) StormWater VIC/ALDE VUDM Industry Engagement Session, Member Forum No. 182 (including presentations from Before You Dig Australia & a Safety Focus from the Civil Contractors Federation) 2023 ALDE Mentorship Program Commences, 2023 ALDE Female Executive Observership Program Commences, YEiLD Event Bogan Bingo, ALDE Winslow Golf Day Dates & Sponsorship, Spotlight on Cultural Subcommittees – Safety & Environment + Future Directions, ADVOCACY UPDATES – Melbourne Retail Water Agencies (MRWA) Title Blocks amendment, Local Government Infrastructure Design Association (LGIDA) Technical Committee Update Stormwater & Rainfall response, Greater Western Water makes the switch to GDA 2020, Melbourne Water Stormwater Survey, MRWA DAS Training Module Updates, Call Out for the Education Subcommittee, ALDE Event Calendar for 2023, ALDE Membership, The Conduit Archives
Vol. 17 February 2023 President’s Address (Interest rates and greenfield growth rates,) Transformation in the Land Development Industry – Leadership Luncheon Wrap Up, Congratulation Ken White OAM, Upcoming Member Forum 08 March, 2023 ALDE Mentorship Program Update, 2023 ALDE Female Executive Observership Program Update, New General Member – Water Studio, Spotlight on Commercial Subcommittees – Training + Governance (including Professional Practices,) ADVOCACY UPDATES – Updated South East Water Consultant Accreditation Deed, Austroads Guide to Road Design Review, EPA Feedback on Civil Construction, Building & Demolition Guide, Call Out for the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Event Calendar for 2023, ALDE Membership, The Conduit Archives
Vol. 16 January 2023 President’s Address, ALDE Leadership Luncheon Tickets Available, Vale Brett Bahen, 2023 ALDE Mentorship Program Extended, 2023 ALDE Female Executive Observership Program Extgended, Current Member Listing – General Members, Sustaining Members, Associate Members, Spotlight on Subcommittees – Diversity & Inclusion, Young Engineers in Land Development (YEiLD,) ADVOCACY UPDATES – Melbourne Water Urban Planning & Development Services Newsletter Released, Melbourne Water Team Contacts, Melbourne Retail Water Agencies (MRWA) Title Block Amendment, Updated South East Water Consultant Accreditation Deed, Essential Services Commission Greenfields Underground Negotiated Electricity Connection Consumer Standards, Call Out for the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, ALDE Event Calendar for 2023, ALDE Membership, The Conduit Archives.
December 2022 President’s Reflection on 2022, ALDE Christmas Dinner, Subcommittee Chair Appreciation, Mentor Program Participation Certificate, ALDE Leadership Luncheon Event Information,16 Days of Action Against Gender Based Violence, 2023 ALDE Mentorship Program Closing Date, 2023 ALDE Female Executive Observership Program 2023, YEiLD Lawn Bowls Event, Geelong Subcommittee End of Year Lunch, New Member – Stormy Water Solutions, ADVOCACY UPDATES – EPA Publication Feedback Required and Survey for the Civil Construction, Building & Demolition Guide (CCBD,) Melbourne Water Newsletter Released, Melbourne Water New Construction Engineers & reallocated zones, ALDE Team Break, Call Out for the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, Melbourne Polytechnic Work Integrated Learning, ALDE Special Event for 2023 Leadership in Land Development Luncheon, ALDE Membership, The Conduit Archives.
November 2022 President’s Address – A year of The Conduit, Member Forum No.182 & Presentation by Mike Day from Hatch/Roberts Day into international and future urban trends, Rememberance Day 11th November, Unconscious Bias Workshop including links to presentation and Diversity Council of Australia resources, Movember, ALDE Mentor Program Expressions of Interest, ALDE Female Executive Observership Program Expressions of Interest, ALDE Strategic Planning Session, ALDE Leadership Luncheon Date for 2023, Ausnet Reshaping Gas Operations, Spotlight on ALDE Subcommittees Geelong and Gippsland, ADVOCACY UPDATES: LGIDA Registration of Engineers Update, Department of Transport Presentation to Gippsland Subcommittee, Melbourne Water (MW) update from Urban Development Water Advisory Group (UDEWAG) including DEWLP Guidelines for development in flood affected areas, MW response times and escalation of projects, Consulting Surveyors update on surveys by unlicensed surveyors, Call Out for the Diversity & Inclusion Subcommittee, Melbourne Polytechnic Work Integrated Learning, ALDE Membership, The Conduit Archives.
October 2022 Introducing the 2022/2023 ALDE Executive Committee, 2023 ALDE Mentorship Program, 2023 ALDE Female Executive Observership Program, 2022/2023 Safety Booklet, Mental Health Awareness Month, Engineering A Successful Career Event, MRWA Update on the Professional Engineers Registration Act, MRWA DAS Water Supply Design Advanced Module Course Dates, Infrastructure Design Manual Update, Greater Western Water High Voltage Powerline Strike Safety Alert, Yarra Valley Water Growth Summary & Price Submission Update & Reminders about Deed Application and Water Connection Fees/Forms/Dry Taps Locations, Melbourne Water Processing Times, South East Water Move to GDA 2020, Ausnet Greenfield Developer Industry Forum on ‘The Future Of Gas,’ Get Involved with ALDE Subcommittees, ALDE Member Events, ALDE Membership.
September 2022 Update on the Registration of Engineers Act, Annual General Meeting No.28 Roundup, YEiLD Subcommittee Nominations, Vale Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Women’s Health Week, R U OK Day, Member Forum No. 181 – Water Industry, YEiLD Engineering A Successful Career Event, New General Member – Afflux Consulting, Discovering Your Unconscious Bias Workshop, Advocacy Updates on the DEWLP 2019 Floodway Safety Criteria, Melbourne Water – Reference Numbers, EPA Act & The Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act, Performance Results, Get Involved in an ALDE Subcommittee, Curious Minds STEM Mentorship Program, ALDE Member Events, ALDE Membership.
August 2022 Update on ALDE Annual General Meeting & Board Nominations, Vale Doug Coomes, Wear it Purple Day, Roundup on the Diversity & Inclusion Committee Panel Discussion ‘ Take the Leap,’ New Gold Sustaining Member – Xylem Water Solutions, ALDE Safety Booklet, ALDE Membership Renewals, Advocacy Updates on South East Water Accreditation Deed, EDCM Technical Review, Wyndham Revised Style Guide, Get Involved in an ALDE Subcommittee, Curious Minds STEM Program, ALDE Member Events.
July 2022 Update on the Registration of Engineers, EA Women in Engineering Report, Naidoc Week, Diversity & Inclusion Panel Discussion, Member Forum No. 180 – Twin Wall Corrugated Drainage Pipes using Recycled Materials, Cyber Security & New Domain Renewal Changes, ALDE Member Survey Results, ALDE Newsletter Archive, Membership Renewals, Greater Western Water Education Policy, Integrated Water Management Planning & Urban Development, Industry Opportunities with Melbourne Polytechnic, Curious Minds STEM project for girls.
June 2022 National Reconciliation Week & Creating Reconciliation Action Plans, International Women in Engineering Day, Greater Melbourne Urban Water & System Strategy Consultation, Updated South East Water Fees, Victorian Planning Provision for Neighbourhood Batteries, Self Compacting Trench Backfill, Pavement Stabilisation Methods, New Road Design Guidelines, Industry Opportunities with Melbourne Polytechnic.
May 2022 Round up of the ALDE/ Winslow Golf Day, Member Forum No.179 – Inclusive Language in the Workplace (Diversity & Inclusion Committee) Registration of Engineers (Professional Development Subcommittee), Update on working with Crystalline Silica Dust, New Greater Western Water Development Deeds Processes, IDAHOBIT, Melbourne Water Statement of Compliance Update, Melbourne Water Model for Urban Stormwater Conceptualisation Guideline Industry Consultation.
April 2022 The Ausnet Rapid Earth Current Limiter Update, The Fine Food & Wine Event including ALDE Awards Presentation, ALDE Mentorship and Female Observership Programs commence, APA Gas Safety Awareness Update.
March 2022 International Women’s Day, Member Forum 178 – Trench Safety Alert from South East Water & Australian Contaminated Land Consultants Association (Safety & Environment committee,) the APA Compliance Clause, ALDE Subcommittees members – (Membership & Sponsorship & Commercial Governance,) Wyndham City Engineering Style Guide Review, Yarra Valley Water Developer Connection Commissioning Fee, Melbourne Retail Water Authority LD Shared Asset Tendering Industry Notice, Naturally Occurring Nickel on Greenfield Sites.
February 2022 Sub-committee and Safety Updates, Member opportunities: ALDE Mentorship Program & Female Observership Programs, ALDE Leadership in Land Development Luncheon Round Up, ALDE Subcommittee members – (Training & Commercial Governance,) Live 22kV Cable Cut, South East Water Safety Alert – Unsupported Trenches, DELWP Guidelines for Development in Flood Affected Areas, Melbourne Polytechnic Industry Collaboration.
January 2022 A great new event – The Leadership in Land Development Luncheon Series, A preview of the Registration of Engineers for Victorian Services, update on the ALDE Mentorship Program & Female Observership Programs, Industry Recognition for John Kilgour (ex Civil Contractors Federation,) ALDE Subcommittee members – (Safety & Environment, Future Directions,) Wyndham Spec Roadworks, Great Western Water Deed – Indemnity Insurance.
December 2021 Recipients of the 2021 ALDE Recognition Awards, Updates on the ALDE Mentorship Program & Female Observership Programs, New Event Focusing on Leadership in Land Development for 2022, Bill Foley Award Winner for 2021 – Stephen Watters (SMEC), Recognition Award for 2021 – Ken O’Neill (Melbourne Water,) ALDE Subcommittee Members – (Diversity & Inclusion, YEiLD – Young Engineers in Land Development,) Melbourne Water Newsletter, MRWA Portal Upgrade, VPA Sodic & Dispersive Soils, Wyndham Council Roadworks.
November 2021 Winners of the Inaugural ALDE Awards for Excellence, Member opportunities: the ALDE Mentorship Program & Female Observership Programs, Spotlight on Regional Subcomittees (Geelong & Gippsland,) Model Tender Document for Member Consultancies, Spotlight on Sewer Design, Extreme Weather Resources, Greater Western Water Delivery Partner Safety Award, Melbourne Polytechnic Civil Engineering Panel.
October 2021 An Introduction to the new ALDE Executive Board, Expressions of Interest for the ALDE Mentorship Program & Female Observership Programs, Advocacy & Affiliate Partners, New Affiliate Partner – Institute of Surveying and Civil Design Training (a 12D Subsidiary,) Higher Learning Partnerships with Monash University, Swinburne University & Melbourne Polytechnic, Mental Health Month, Trench Safety, Melbourne Water Processing Times, Review of Yarra Valley Water’s Land Development Manual, Wyndham City Council Roadwork Specifications.
The new Crystalline Silica regulations were approved and put into effect on November 15, 2021, and will be introduced in phases to provide duty holders enough time to prepared for the relevant changes to their duties and obligations. The second phase, commencement of “high risk crystalline silica work” reform, is set to commence on the 15 May 2022 and introduces new regulatory oversight of high risk crystalline silica work outside of engineered stone across all industries, including the construction and earth resources industries.
Crystalline silica dust is a hazardous substance which can lead to serious health effects if it is inhaled. When engineered stone products and/or material with high crystalline silica content (i.e., some forms of quartz, basalt, siltstone, and sandstone) are processed/excavated, for example by cutting, grinding with power tools and machinery, fine dust containing crystalline silica is released into the air. People working with these products, such as stonemasons and construction workers, are at high risk of being exposed to the dust if it is not controlled. Exposure can result in silicosis, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, kidney damage and scleroderma.
High risk crystalline silica work is work that is reasonably likely to result in an airborne concentration of respirable crystalline silica that exceeds half the exposure standard; or a risk to the health of a person at the workplace. The current exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica dust is 0.05 mg/m3 as a time-weighted average (TWA) airborne concentration over 8 hours. However, WorkSafe Victoria recommends that employers take a precautionary approach and reduce employees’ exposure to below 0.02 mg/m3 as an 8-hour TWA to prevent silicosis and minimise the risk of lung cancer.
Work Safe for high risk crystalline silica work requires a “crystalline silica hazard control statement”, which is a document that outlines the following:
· stating the associated hazards and risks, and
· describes measures to control the risks, and how these will be implemented, and
· if an analysis is required (under r319O), contains its results, and
· is readily accessible and comprehensible to persons who use it.
To assess if a site is deemed high risk, the regulation requires that before undertaking such work an employer and/or self-employed persons undertakes a risk assessment to identify whether the process or combination of processes is high risk, or identify that it is high risk work.
The risk assessment must take into account:
· the specific tasks or processes;
· the form of crystalline silica to be used;
· the proportion of crystalline silica in the material;
· previous atmospheric monitoring results;
· the likely frequency and duration of exposure to crystalline silica dust;
· any information about incidents, illnesses or diseases associated with exposure to crystalline silica dust at the workplace.
For further information please refer to more information from Worksafe
Prepared by the ALDE Safety & Environment subcommitee.
**UPDATE***
In June 2023. Worksafe recognised that increased awareness and behaviour change is needed to educate persons conducting a business or undertaking work about the risks inherent in working with silica and created specific resources.
Preventing exposure to crystalline silica dust
Video on Identifying High Risk Crystalline Silica Work
Key work health and safety statistics Australia 2022
The first Leadership in Land Development Luncheon for 2022 was a great success. Held at the Langham Hotel in Southbank Melbourne, this was the first time we offered an in person and hybrid event.
Our fabulous speaker Rachel Lunn of Melbourne Water shared some invaluable insights on her journeys within the land development industry. The industry panel featuring Monica George of GHD Australia and Sarah Watkins from Melbourne Water/Stormwater Victoria was a crowd favourite for their candour and interesting perspectives. Suzi Finkelstein from Women & Leadership Australia/Australian School of Applied Management spoke to the challenges females face within STEMs and broader industries.
You can read a full write up of this event on our LinkedIn page
A big thank you to our Event Sponsors: Millar | Merrigan, BildUrban, & The Civil & Surveying Institute & 12d Solutions.
Sign up to The Conduit Newsletter to be the first to know or follow us on LinkedIn for details.
This fantastic event will be back in 2023 with an exciting new lineup of speakers centred around the theme of ‘Transformation.’ View details here
ALDE Subcommittees
Ever wondered what happens on an ALDE subcommittee? A lot of our initiatives, direction and activities are undertaken by the fantastic volunteers who make up the various subcommittees. They meet regularly and workshop and co-ordinate a lot of the ‘behind the scenes’ of our organisation.
ALDE has 11 subcommittees and they cover a range of different areas of interest in relation to the running of ALDE, as well as the advocacy we undertake on behalf of the wider land development industry.
The subcommittees fall under various categories:
Strategic – Assist with the operations and directions of ALDE as an organisation.
Technical – Advocacy & collaboration with different authorities and stakeholders.
Regional – Region specific approach to local issues.
The goal of each subcommittee is to create communication lines within each area to allow fast and effective feedback to and from the Executive Committee, to resolve any issues as needed. All subcommittees are advisory only and can only act as directed by the Executive Committee. Sub-committees are required to meet at least 4 times per year.
An Executive Committee Member is required to be included in each of these subcommittees.
The full list of ALDE Subcommittees are:
The Regional Subcommittees are:
An ALDE representative is also invited to participate in a number of relevant external industry groups as part of our relationships with particular organisations.
We feature the current committee members in different editions of The Conduit Newsletter. If you would like to find a member of a particular Subcommittee, have a look through our Archives.
Applications for the ALDE Mentoring Program for 2023 are now open and will close on 20 December.
ALDE Mentoring Program Overview
A selection of the ALDE Executive Board’s senior professionals will act as mentors for early career professionals seeking to get exposure to liaising with authorities in framing and reviewing policy. Participants will have the opportunity to broaden industry networks, attend selected board meetings, participate/ coordinate industry events as well as learn new skills and gain the knowledge required to progress as tomorrow’s leaders.
The purpose of this is to cultivate the board members of tomorrow and provide the board with a fresh perspective and actively mentor the next generation of leaders.
Watch a video explaining the program here
Mentoring Program Objectives
Providing early career professionals opportunities to engage with experienced/ senior industry professionals, empowerment and building of confidence, through exposure to the wider land development industry. More specifically, the objectives are:
Comments from previous participants in the Mentor Program:
“The program was quite open and most importantly challenged you (as a mentee) to explore your options and think outside the box, it encouraged me to sit down and contemplate on what I was interested to learn about.
You are mentored by a senior engineer who has extensive experience within the land development industry, and I would strongly encourage anyone who has a passion for land development to consider this program; it is both beneficial and informative! “ Kerrolos Rofael
“I gained a greater insight into other areas on the land development industry as well as advice and suggestions on how I should go about making decisions, setting goals, and progressing in my own career and life in general.
I found the program extremely rewarding and would highly recommend.” Rebecca Saber
NB: 2023 applications for the Mentorship Program are now open.
For further information or to apply for the ALDE Mentor Program view the enrolment flyer
Applications close December 2022.
More Testimonials:
“There is a lot to consider whilst being in the land development industry and that there is no one right answer. The field is vast and there are a lot of moving parts that work hand in hand to complete a project.
The program is a great way to gain insight into the land development industry and what to expect from yourself and from others whilst working in the field. It is an open conversation where I felt comfortable talking about all things related to career progression/decisions.” Kent Diep
“I appreciated most the opportunity to connect with recognised industry professionals on a deeper level outside of the standard office setting, to discuss things pertaining to career and skills development. The program also facilitated connection between other like-minded young professionals. Highly recommend. ” Dennis Graf
APPLY FOR THE MENTOR PROGRAM NOW
(Image used under license from Freestock.com)
For the first time, ALDE will recognize engineering excellence in land development engineering with the inaugural ALDE Awards for excellence—it is the industry’s opportunity to recognise Engineering Excellence within land development engineering, amongst businesses and individuals. We have engaged the services of a production company with host Gavin Wood to bring this event in an engaging virtual format.
The ALDE Awards have been created with the purpose of:
Businesses within the land development industry can see tangible benefits in:
The winners for 2021 are:
FUTURE LEADER
Winner: ANGELA DURSTON-RYAN (Spiire)
High Commendation: HARRISON SPURLING (Spiire)
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE & INNOVATION
Winner: GROUND SCIENCE
High Commendation: SMEC
CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR
Winner: SPIIRE
High Commendation: BEVERIDGE WILLIAMS
SUB-CONSULTANT OF THE YEAR
Winner: TONKIN & TAYLOR
High Commendation: BLUE FROG
CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR
Winner: BILDURBAN
Watch the livestream of the Awards Ceremony here
For more details on the criteria refer to https://alde.com.au/awards/alde-excellence-awards/
The judges that assessed the entries were:
