Land, and the law relating to it, is fundamental to the economy of Victoria. It is the foundation on which our cities and communities are built and is supported by the accurate definition of property boundaries.
Licensed surveyors play an important role in this as they are the only people authorised by law to perform cadastral surveys. Only licensed surveyors can determine the positions of property boundaries.
To become a licensed surveyor in Victoria, a person must prove to the Surveyors Registration Board of Victoria that they understand the legal framework relating to land and property boundaries.
Licensed surveyors must have detailed knowledge of the Acts of Parliament and subordinate legislation relevant to land ownership and development. They must also have an in-depth understanding of the Acts and regulations relating to cadastral surveying.
The government and community entrust licensed surveyors to accurately determine the positions of property boundaries to avoid disputes over land ownership. This also enables buildings and other infrastructure to be built in their correct positions.
The Acts and regulations listed below are most relevant to licensed surveyors in the practice of their profession.
- Planning and Environment Act 1987
- Property Law Act 1958
- Subdivision Act 1988
- Subdivision (Procedures) Regulations 2011
- Subdivision (Registrar's Requirements) Regulations 2011
- Surveying Act 2004
- Surveying (Cadastral Surveys) Regulations 2015
- Survey Co-ordination Act 1958
- Survey Co-ordination Regulations 2014
- Transfer of Land Act 1958.
Surveyor-General Victoria is responsible for delivering the requirements of the following Acts and the regulations made under them:
- Surveying Act 2004
- Survey Co-ordination Act 1958
- Geographic Place Names Act 1998
To view these and other Acts and Statutory rules that operate in Victoria, please visit the Victorian legislation website.
Page last updated: 11/07/23