Our history
In 1984, a significant incident occurred in Bibra Lake, Western Australia where a bulldozer punctured a high-pressure gas pipeline. This caused significant damage to the bulldozer, and nearby infrastructure. Fortunately, the bulldozer operator survived without injury.
As a result of this incident, Foundation Members (Telstra, SECWA (now ATCO Gas Australia and Western Power) and Water Corporation) created what was then known as the Perth One Call System. By the 1990s, all states and Territories followed suit to form state Dial Before You Dig organisations consisting of Member organisations from Australia’s infrastructure asset owners and non-asset owners.
For over three decades, DBYD state and national entities provided an essential service to members and the industry, protecting utility assets and preventing harm to people. To ensure we remain relevant and provide the best possible service to our members, the combined DBYD boards came together to consider how to challenge the status quo. While we have a proud history, effective service, and enviable brand, we were challenged by members on our future focus and efficiency. Internally, we also saw opportunity for streamlining the organisation and increasing agility.
As a result, all state and national DBYD entities agreed to transform into a single national organisation known as Before You Dig Australia (BYDA). This transformation delivered higher levels of operational efficiency, with more focused support to members, users and the wider community. Through all the changes, BYDA is committed to leading the industry towards a future where zero damage, zero harm and zero disruption are not just goals, but realities.
Our organisation
Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) is the leading voice for utility damage prevention in Australia. We strive for zero damage, zero harm, and zero disruption. We are dedicated to preventing injury and reducing damage to the complex networks that provide essential services to millions of Australians every day. In partnership with utilities, local councils, government agencies, and private enterprises we champion safe work practices around utility infrastructure.
Our services
We provide the Australian community free safety tools necessary to identify and avoid above and below ground utility services. These tools include the BYDA referral service to obtain underground utility information and the Look up and Live app to obtain overhead powerline information. These free safety tools play a vital role in supporting safe work practices and are essential for anyone planning work near utilities. In addition to these tools, we provide member-based services to reduce the risk of asset damage and facilitate operational efficiency.
Our vision
Before You Dig Australia is focused on achieving zero damage, zero harm and zero disruption.