Licensed and Registered Surveyors

So you know what a surveyor is. What is a licensed surveyor then?

Or a registered one?

And how are they different from ordinary land surveyors?

In short, to be a licensed or registered surveyor is to reach the pinnacle of the land surveying profession. Licensed and registered surveyors have to undergo extensive training to reach their status.

Find out more about what they do and how they do it below…

Licensed and registered…?

First things first – what’s the difference between a licensed and a registered surveyor?

Well, practically speaking, not much.

Due to to different legislation, the terms licensed and registered surveyors are used in different states. In Victoria, for example, we refer to licensed surveyors. In New South Wales, it’s a registered surveyor. Ultimately though, the two terms stand for the same thing – a surveyor that has been awarded direct management responsibilities in our land boundary system.

This means they do a lot more than just measure blocks of land. Read on to find out what exactly…

At the top of the land surveying field

Registered and licensed surveyors are the pre-eminent experts in their professional community, and as a result, they have a unique position within the legalities of land ownership.

They define, manage and protect the space around us. 

• Define: by providing a comprehensive understanding of land, water and the air above it, its surrounds and its environment
• Manage: by interpreting and navigating legal aspects of land ownership
• Protect: by defending developments and projects from impediments 

When you need a little expertise

As such, from the smallest plot to multi-million dollar developments, the world in which we live is organised and legal ownership parameters are determined through the expertise of licensed and registered surveyors. 

Since they are the experts in cadastral (also known as land management) law, planning and titles, they are the only professionals authorised by the government to legally define boundaries and prepare subdivision plans. This means that licensed and registered surveyors forge strong relationships with government agencies and can provide insight into gaining approvals.

The path ahead

Want to learn more about the road to becoming a licensed or registered surveyor? It varies from state to state – so take a look at the study pathway links to the right of this page.

Of course, there are a number of other surveying jobs that fall under the umbrella title of surveyor. To find out more about them, head over to our roles page.