Media Release: Clayton Utz team advises NSW Government on "global first" infra-tech project set to transform the building industry

Sydney 1 July 2021: A multi-disciplinary Clayton Utz team has advised the NSW Department of Customer Service (NSW DCS) on a suite of tailored contracts to support a world-leading technology solution described as a "game-changer" for the building industry and an example of the NSW Government innovatively enabling a market-led solution.

The NSW Government will pilot its Building Assurance Solution platform (developed by KPMG) which relies on a blockchain solution to track a building's provenance beyond basic compliance. The solution essentially creates a digital fingerprint or property DNA for buildings - enabling the building industry, current and prospective owners, regulators and insurers, among others, to compare and assess the trustworthy index for different buildings.

The core Clayton Utz team comprised partners Ken Saurajen (IP and Technology) and Lina Fischer (Major Projects and Construction), and senior associate Monique Azzopardi (Public Sector). 

It is anticipated that the Building Assurance Solution will initially be used to road-test buildings which are undergoing cladding rectification as part of the NSW Government's cladding remediation program.  A working model is due to be functioning in six months.

Commenting on the project, Clayton Utz Major Projects partner Lina Fischer said:

The Building Assurance Solution is truly cutting-edge and is a NSW Government initiative with tremendous potential. It was an absolute pleasure to work with the Department and the NSW Building Commissioner, David Chandler, and his team, in connection with this important project.

Technology partner Ken Saurajen added:

This matter builds on Clayton Utz's impressive track record in the emerging infra-tech space and yet again demonstrates our ability to support clients on first-of-a-kind projects through truly cross-practice and cross-sector collaboration.