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Construction of Buildings (ABPL90292)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
Contact information
Semester 1
Subject Coordinator
Vidal Paton-Cole
Vidal.paton@unimelb.edu.au
Overview
| Availability | Semester 1 - On Campus |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject introduces the construction of detached and multi-unit low-rise residential buildings with an emphasis on Australian construction practices, standards, and methods. Students will develop relevant knowledge of local building techniques and compliance requirements applicable to the Australian residential construction sector. The key functions and performance requirements for the main elements are discussed in relation to material selection, structural design and construction methods.
This aim of this subject is to introduce students to the intersection of construction techniques, contemporary practice, building legislation, developments in sustainable design principles, and advancements in materials technology and their influence on the construction of low-rise residential buildings. This is particularly important for students who are entering the program without a cognate undergraduate degree. The subject also includes an introduction to services within a residential context, and discusses various topics related to building pathology and maintenance.
Incidental costs
Students will be required to purchase personal protective equipment (steel-toed boots, hard-hat, hi-vis vest and safety goggles); cost approx. $90 to $120 per person. Students may use equipment from a previous subject if these are in good working condition.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of the subject, students should be able to:
- Develop the ability to understand building and construction terminology;
- Have a fundamental understanding of the regulations pertaining to the planning and construction of residential buildings;
- Have a comprehensive understanding of the activities involved in the construction of a residential building from site works, builders plant, substructure, superstructure, internal construction and finishes, up to and including domestic services;
- Provide an introduction to building maintenance and pathology, and an understanding of the basic principles of sustainable design as applied to a residential building.
Generic skills
At the completion of the subject, students should have developed the following skills and capabilities:
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings.
- Ability to communicate construction solutions by means of sketches and drawings
- Clear and succinct understanding of all the planning, construction and operational aspects of residential construction
- Ability to understand the choice of structural system, and to propose and evaluate alternative systems.
Last updated: 6 November 2025