Building industry regulator overhauled

The Newman Government will set up a new independent Queensland Building and Construction Commission to replace the Queensland Building Services Authority as part of the biggest change to the industry regulator in 22 years.

Housing and Public Works Minister Tim Mander said the Government had released a 10-point action plan to reform building regulation in response to 41 recommendations handed down by last year’s Parliamentary Inquiry.

“As one of the four pillars of economic growth in Queensland, the Government is committed to a strong building and construction industry and this action plan provides solid foundations for the industry to flourish into the future,” Mr Mander said.

“The initiatives outlined in the action plan will reform the supervision of the building and construction industry and will be implemented progressively.

“I expect the new Commission will be established by the end of 2013 with a professional governing board and Commissioner in place shortly after that.

“The new governing board will have real control over the future direction and performance of the Commission and will report directly to me.”

The Commission structure will include licensing, dispute resolution and Home Warranty Scheme management divisions which will be completely firewalled from each other to improve governance.

Mr Mander said an independent review panel of industry experts helped him develop the Government’s response, which focused on getting the balance between consumers and contractors right.

“Initiatives include reforms allowing rapid dispute adjudication during construction and more focus on the certification process to reduce the number of defects and disputes referred to QCAT,” he said.

“Other key initiatives include reviewing the licensing and compliance arrangements for contractors as well as developing an improved suite of domestic building contracts to ensure a balance between the interests of consumers and contractors is maintained. 

“The reforms will encourage enhanced education for consumers entering into a contract for building or renovating a home, with specialist material developed to support this ongoing customer education.

“The Commission will be retaining the Home Warranty Scheme but will look at ensuring greater clarity on the Scheme’s coverage for industry and consumers.”

Details on the Government’s 10-point action plan and copies of the Government’s Response to the Parliamentary Inquiry will be available on the Queensland Parliament website.

[ENDS] 29 May 2013

Media Contact: Janette Andrews 0414 248 982