CPD Opportunities

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Maintaining your CPD is key to staying at the forefront of the building design industry, ensuring your skills and knowledge remain relevant in an ever-evolving landscape. At BDAA, we bring the best of the best directly to you through a variety of events, workshops, and webinars led by industry leaders. Our CPD modules are designed to help you stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and regulations, giving you the tools to excel in your career.

Explore and book upcoming CPD events through this page, and continue your journey of professional growth and excellence.

Advance Your Career

Gain a competitive edge in the building design and energy assessment industries by completing BDAA’s comprehensive CPD Program. Stay informed, enhance your credentials, and position yourself as a leader.

Master Key Skills

Dive into specialised CPD Modules designed to expand your expertise and meet your professional development goals.
These modules offer everything you need to stay ahead.

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Stay Connected

Network with industry leaders and gain valuable insights through BDAA’s exclusive CPD events. Whether virtual or in-person, these events provide the tools and connections to elevate your practice.

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Building Designer CPD

Requirement

Must complete a total of 20 CPD points each year - 10 formal points and 10 informal points

If a member of the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA) is licensed or registered in a state that requires continuing professional development (CPD) for licensing or registration, then the CPD requirements set by the state licensing authority will take precedence over the CPD requirements set by the BDAA.

Thermal Performance Assessor CPD

Requirement

Must complete 12 CDP points each year - 6 formal points (Technical Knowledge) and 6 Informal points (General Knowledge)

Assessors must complete at least 12 CPD points in each year of accreditation. One point will equal to a minimum one hour of time spent undertaking the CPD. At least six of the CPD points must be completed in technical training.

CPD Requirements and Guidelines: Your Questions Answered

Whether you’re meeting mandatory requirements or exploring voluntary participation, our CPD program is designed to enhance your expertise and ensure you stay compliant with the latest industry standards. Explore the FAQs below to understand more about your CPD journey.

FAQ Section:

Why is CPD Essential?

Answer: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is critical for maintaining high standards in your work. It helps you stay updated with industry advancements, enriches your knowledge base, and supports your professional conduct. The BDAA CPD program is customized for building designers and thermal performance assessors, ensuring that all members have opportunities for meaningful learning and growth.

Who Needs to Report CPD Annually?

Answer: CPD reporting is mandatory for Full Members, Full Fellows, Chartered Members, BDAA Accredited Designers, and ABSA-accredited Thermal Performance Assessors.

What is the CPD Points Requirement?

Answer: Building designers must complete a total of 20 CPD points annually, consisting of 10 formal and 10 informal points. Thermal Performance Assessors are required to earn 12 CPD points each year, with at least six points being formal (technical training) points.

Is CPD Participation Voluntary?

Answer: CPD is mandatory for certain membership levels, but it remains voluntary for Practice, Associate, and Student members. Even though it’s not required, CPD participation is highly encouraged to support professional growth.

How Do I Submit CPD Points?

Answer: CPD points from BDAA activities are automatically recorded on your personal membership page. If you complete CPD activities through third-party providers, you will need to manually log these activities on your membership page to receive credit.

What Are Formal CPD Points for Building Designers?

Answer: Formal CPD points focus on essential technical training and advanced learning opportunities specific to building design. These points are typically earned through structured activities such as accredited workshops, seminars, and targeted training sessions. By participating in these, building designers deepen their expertise and ensure they remain compliant with evolving industry standards. 

What Are Informal CPD Points for Building Designers?

Answer: Informal CPD points encompass broader, general knowledge activities that contribute to professional growth within the industry. These points can be earned through attending industry-related events like conferences, participating in chapter meetings, engaging in business development, or other professional activities. Building designers can earn up to ten informal points annually through these activities.

What Are Technical (CAT 1) CPD Points for Energy Assessors?

Answer: For energy assessors, Technical CPD points (Category 1) are earned through training that directly enhances technical skills relevant to energy assessments. These include activities such as participating in NatHERS workshops, attending software training sessions, or completing specialised courses in energy efficiency. This category emphasises the technical knowledge essential for accurate and effective energy assessments.

What Are Knowledge (CAT 2) CPD Points for Energy Assessors?

Answer: Knowledge CPD points (Category 2) for energy assessors are aimed at enhancing general professional knowledge related to the field. These points can be accrued through attending industry conferences, completing relevant online modules, participating in peer discussions, or other knowledge-sharing events. These activities help assessors stay informed on broader industry trends and best practices.

What Are the Reporting and Compliance Requirements?

Answer:
The annual CPD reporting cycle is determined by your membership type within the BDAA as follows

• Accredited ABSA Assessors – Your CPD reporting period aligns with your ABSA accreditation cycle and must be completed prior to the due date of your accreditation.
• BDAA Accredited Members – Your CPD reporting period aligns with your accreditation cycle and must be completed prior to the due date of your accreditation.
• BDAA Non-Accredited Members – Your CPD reporting period aligns with your annual membership cycle and must be completed prior to the membership renewal date.

Members are required to retain evidence of their CPD activities for a minimum of five years. This information may be recorded and maintained through each member’s personal portal page.
The BDAA conducts regular audits to ensure members remain compliant with CPD requirements.

What If I Need an Exemption or Appeal?

Answer: If you cannot meet the CPD requirements due to extenuating circumstances, you may request an exemption by submitting a written explanation to the BDAA Management Committee. Each request will be individually reviewed based on its merits and context.

How Does CPD Benefit My Career?

Answer: Engaging in CPD demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence. It enhances your credibility, keeps your skills sharp, and supports compliance with industry standards, positioning you as a trusted professional in building design or energy assessment.

For More Information:

For further details or assistance with CPD requirements, members can contact the BDAA at [email protected]. Join us in our commitment to continuous professional growth and excellence in building design.