A code of conduct for developers
‘Developer’ may not technically be a four-letter word, but its definition is nothing but filthy if you live in this city. But is that really fair?
Most developers I’ve had the opportunity to work with are really keen about great outcomes – for design, for sustainability and for the city ARCHITECT AMY DEGENHART
The f-word is bad, the c-word even worse … but the d-word? On the Gold Coast, that’s the dirtiest of them all. ‘Developer’ may not technically be a four-letter word, but its definition is nothing but filthy if you live in this city.
But is that really fair?
While history shows our city was once something of a wild west in terms of industry regulations, standards and planning, these days most developers (note: not all) are mindful of creating a legacy for both their company and the Coast in terms of good design and better buildings.
And, of course, making money. But that’s all part of good business, right?
Well, profit has been a bit of a problem in the wider building industry over the last few years. Witness the demise of construction companies such as Gold Coast-based Condev and Pivotal Homes.
In the wake of these crashes, Queensland created the Developer Review Panel – a response to industry feedback about the role of developers, the need to examine the impact of their financial and operational capacity, ethical behaviours and work practices.
It’s a panel that was devised not necessarily to blame developers, but to consider how they can better play their part in addressing underlying risks in the construction sector, as well as ensuring they benefit urban design.
And to that end, our architects have since drafted a solution: a developer code of conduct.
Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter president and Gold Coast award-winning architect Amy Degenhart says the code of conduct would include public and transparent registration and traceability, as well as minimum education and skills requirements.
“This shouldn’t be something for developers to worry about, I think most would welcome some sort of formal recognition of their standards,” says Ms Degenhart, who is also a member of the Urban Development Institute of Australia.
“While there have been problems in the development industry, overall I think Queensland developers have a very good reputation. Unfortunately, they have been haunted by that ‘dodgy developer’ cliche.
“The code of conduct would be a way to prove this industry has high standards.
“Architects have our own code of conduct and it’s something that not only do we take pride in, but it ensures we are always delivering quality, otherwise it’s our career on the line.”
Ms Degenhart says the Institute has recommended a nuanced approach to developer licensing and regulation, including disclosure requirements for financing, while avoiding a double-up of legislation and unnecessary red tape that could slow down an industry dealing with a critical housing shortage.
In practical terms, she says it’s about ensuring that all players in development and construction, including buyers, know what – and who – they are dealing with.
It’s a lesson illustrated on the Gold Coast during the collapse of developer Ralan Group and its Ruby project in Surfers Paradise.
Approvals were gained for six towers worth $2 billion and housing more than 2200 apartments, but only one was built before the collapse.
More than $277 million in off-theplan buyer deposits were believed to have been spent by Ralan Group to cover previous losses and costs, while contractor Hutchinson Builders ‘had no inkling’ the developer was on the brink of collapse and was negotiating contracts to build the second and third towers on the Surfers Paradise site when administrators were appointed.
“That was an extreme event, but it’s all about making sure buyers and contractors are given more than glossy marketing material when they are making decisions,” says Ms Degenhart.
“The register would formally document whether any developer has been slow or remiss with their financial obligations, including payments to contractors. Not only does that provide transparency but it also encourages prevention.
“And for those who do the right thing, it’s further proof.”
And Ms Degenhart says it’s time the Gold Coast learned to take pride in the legacy created by its developers.
“Most developers I’ve had the opportunity to work with are really keen about great outcomes – for design, for sustainability and for the city.
“We’re already good but we can always be better. And with the Olympics coming, why not be exceptional? That’s the idea behind this code of conduct.”
It’s an idea worth developing.