Author: Andrew George
Practice area: Public Order
Andrew is a founding Director of Doogue + George, ranked by Doyle's Guide as a Leading Criminal Defence Lawyer in Victoria (2026) and an LIV Accredited Criminal Law Specialist since 1995 with over 30 years of experience across all Victorian courts, tribunals and Royal Commissions. His depth of experience in this area means clients receive accurate, considered advice.
View full profile →Andrew authored this content and last revised it for accuracy on 5th August 2026.
What is the offence of Fail to Comply With Emergency Order or Building Order?
This offence applies where a person or body corporate does not comply with a legally issued emergency order or building order requiring specific building works or actions to be carried out under Section 118 of the Building Act 1993 (Vic).
Key points
- Order applies: the accused is subject to a valid emergency order or building order.
- Non-compliance: the required remedy or direction is not completed within the specified time.
- Court: prosecuted as a summary offence in the Magistrates’ Court.
The maximum penalty for Fail to Comply With Emergency Order or Building Order is 500 penalty units ($104,550.00 — as at 2026–27) for an individual and 2,500 penalty units ($522,750.00 — as at 2026–27) for a body corporate.
Common defences may include not being subject to the order, having already completed the required works, not receiving the order, or being unable to complete the works due to circumstances beyond control.
Have you been accused of Fail to Comply With Emergency Order or Building Order?
Interview
This offence has the potential to lead to large financial penalties if not handled properly. This charge should not be treated lightly. You should get advice from one of our experienced lawyers before engaging in an interview. We can assist you by speaking with the investigator to get as much information as possible, discuss any advantages and disadvantages in making a comment.
We realise that going to an interview is stressful and we can also accompany you if you feel more comfortable having someone present on your side.
Pleading Not Guilty
You may dispute this charge because of one of the following reasons:
- You didn’t receive an order,
- You completed the works,
- You are in the process of completing the works,
- There is something out of your control preventing you from completing the works.
Just because you have been charged with this offence does not mean you should plead guilty. It is important to speak to an experienced lawyer who will challenge the prosecution evidence on your behalf.
Our experienced lawyers are experienced court advocates and will devise a defence strategy for you which will increase your prospects of success.
Pleading Guilty
You may decide that the best outcome for you will be pleading guilty to this charge. Given its serious nature, it is important to engage a lawyer to represent you to make submissions on your behalf.
We conduct pleas on behalf of our clients every day and know what Magistrates need to hear to arrive at a fair and just outcome.
Sentencing
Sentencing in the Magistrates’ Courts of Victoria
Which court will the case be heard in?
This is a summary offence and is heard in the Magistrates’ Court.
What is the legal definition of Fail to Comply with Emergency Order or Building Order?
The term ‘building’ includes ‘structure, temporary building, temporary structure and any part of a building or structure’.1
Examples of Fail to Comply with Emergency Order or Building Order
- Failing to comply with Council’s order to replace footings with approved sized timber;
- Failing to dig foundations to the required depth;
- Failing to repair a structure that is at risk of collapsing.
Legislation
The legislation for this offence can be found on section 118(1) of the Building Act 1993.
Elements of the offence
The prosecution must establish:
- The accused is subject to an emergency or building order; and
- Particulars of remedy or direction stipulated in the order were not adhered to within the time frame provided.
Defences
Defences to this charge might be that you were not in fact subject to the order or that you have already performed the works. Often people will plead guilty, so it is important to explain the circumstances of the offending and explaining your personal circumstances to urge the Court to impose a modest fine.
Questions in cases like this
- Have you received an order from Council?
- Has the works already been done?
- Do you still own the property, or have you sold it?
The decision on whether to plead guilty or not guilty to this charge can best be made only after a careful examination of the strengths of your case. Contact a defence lawyer to assess the strength of your case.
Maximum penalty for section 118(1) of the Building Act 1993
For a person, the offence of Fail to Comply With Emergency Order or Building Order (s118(1) of the Building Act 1993) carries a fine of 500 penalty units ($104,550.00 — as at 2026–27) as the highest possible sentence. For a body corporate, the maximum penalty is a fine of 2,500 penalty units ($522,750.00 — as at 2026–27). The sentence received will obviously depend on many factors including in relation to the particular case. It is important to remember that serious breaches of this provision will attract a higher penalty.
Case study related to Fail to Comply with Emergency Order or Building Order
Other important resources
Frequently asked questions
What is an emergency order or building order?
Who can be charged with this offence?
What conduct can amount to non-compliance?
What penalties apply if found guilty?
When can the charge be disputed?
[1] Building Act 1993 (Vic), section 3.
