About Us

Permit Approvals Plus was started by David and Andrea Short in 2013. Over more than a decade this family business has grown into a competitive, efficient, and client-driven practice.

We value clear, open communication and aim to return phone calls on the same day. Our approach combines thorough, practical advice with a focus on identifying issues early and helping clients understand their options.

Where possible, we carry out inspections in-house, maintaining familiarity with your project and continuity between permit assessment and site inspections. This helps keep our team informed and communication consistent throughout the approval and inspection process.

Strong relationships are central to how we work. We value the trust placed in us by homeowners, architects, building designers, engineers and builders, and take pride in being approachable, responsive and reliable.

The team

David Short

Director & Senior Building Surveyor

David is the founder and Director of Permit Approvals Plus, bringing more than 40 years of construction industry experience to his role. Since establishing the company in 2013, he has drawn on his background in both construction and building surveying to provide clear advice grounded in practical experience.

David began his career in 1983 with an apprenticeship, qualifying as a carpenter and joiner. He initially worked on residential projects before moving into commercial construction, where he progressed to foreman and site management roles. His experience spans multi-storey buildings, underground basements, shopping centres and schools, giving him an extensive understanding of construction methods and the challenges faced on site.

In 2008, David began his transition into building surveying, completing his Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Building Surveying at Victoria University. He became a Registered Building Inspector in 2010 and a Registered Building Surveyor in 2011.

David’s combination of trade experience, site management and regulatory knowledge informs his approach to every project. His practical understanding of construction, supported by extensive building surveying experience, makes him a valuable asset to owners, builders and design teams from design through to completion.

Andrea Short

Accounts & Office Management

Andrea helped establish Permit Approvals Plus alongside David in 2013 and has been an integral part of the family business ever since. From its early beginnings, she has supported the company’s growth through her work in accounts and office administration.

Andrea looks after the day-to-day accounts and administrative tasks that keep the office running smoothly. Working closely with David and the team, she helps maintain organised records, coordinates office requirements and provides ongoing support across the business.

Her longstanding involvement has given her a thorough understanding of the company and its day-to-day needs. With a practical approach and attention to detail, Andrea helps keep the administrative side of the business on track, supporting the team as they deliver building surveying services to clients.

Much of Andrea’s contribution takes place behind the scenes, but her organisation, consistency and commitment have been an important part of Permit Approvals Plus since its establishment.

Matthew Short

Building Surveyor

Matthew has worked full time at Permit Approvals Plus since 2016, developing his knowledge and experience across building permit assessments, mandatory inspections and regulatory compliance. He completed his Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Building Surveying at Victoria University and became a Registered Building Surveyor in 2025.

Working closely with David throughout his career, Matthew has gained practical experience conducting mandatory inspections, identifying non-compliant building work and preparing inspection reports. This experience has given him a thorough understanding of how approved documentation and regulatory requirements apply on site.

Over the past decade, Matthew has become an experienced and valued member of the Permit Approvals Plus team. He works with owners, builders and design teams to explain requirements, resolve compliance issues and help projects progress from the permit stage through to completion.

Rachel Fisher

Assistant Building Surveyor / Building Inspector - Pool Safety

Rachel has worked in the building surveying industry since 2017 and joined Permit Approvals Plus full time in 2019. Her experience spans client liaison, project coordination, problem solving and supporting senior staff with the regulatory duties involved in building surveying.

Rachel holds a Bachelor of Building Surveying from Holmesglen Institute and is registered as a Building Inspector - Pool Safety. Her qualifications build on the practical knowledge she has developed through working with clients, builders and the Permit Approvals Plus team.

Through her involvement in the day-to-day progression of projects, Rachel understands the importance of clear communication and practical guidance. She helps clients navigate the permit and inspection process, understand what is required and work through questions as they arise. Alongside her pool safety inspection role, she continues to support the team across a broad range of building surveying matters.