@JimmyT said:
So maybe the need for approval isn’t as “likely” as you think.
It was the HIA that said approval was “generally” required. I was citing them!
But it seems councils routinely allow licensed builders, surveyors, fire safety officers etc to implement and even approve their requirements. Still, if a builder was accused of issuing an exemption certificate incorrectly, one would hope the council or the licensing authority would investigate.
For what it’s worth, my council (inner city Melbourne) states:
“Building Permits are generally required for: Internal work to your house that requires windows or walls to be moved or altered”.