BPAD
BPAD is the accreditation scheme for bushfire consultants in Australia. A BPAD Level 1 assessor determines the BAL rating required before a DA or building permit.
Ask Chalkline about this →BPAD (Bushfire Planning and Design) is the national accreditation scheme for practitioners who assess bushfire risk and prepare BAL certificates in Australia. The scheme is administered by Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) and was established in 2006.
There are three BPAD accreditation levels. Level 1 (BAL Assessor) determines Bushfire Attack Levels using simplified AS 3959-2018 methods and is the qualification required for standard residential BAL assessments. Level 2 prepares full bushfire hazard assessments for planning applications. Level 3 handles complex projects such as subdivisions and large-scale development.
In NSW, BPAD practitioners are recognised by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) as Suitably Qualified Consultants. For a DA or building permit on bushfire prone land, the BAL certificate must be prepared by a BPAD-accredited assessor. The certifier checks that the certificate is accurate and consistent with site conditions.
Also known as: Bushfire Planning and Design practitioner, BPAD accredited assessor.
Category: Compliance & approvals.
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Last updated: 2026-05-07. Verified: 2026-05-07. Quarterly review for currency.