Security for subcontractor payments a step closer

Queensland’s subcontractors are closer to being better protected from non-payment, with the Palaszczuk Government today releasing the Security of Payment discussion paper. 

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the community and industry would be working together to ensure better financial security for subcontractors and their workforce across the state.

“The Palaszczuk Government is determined to finding a fair and reasonable solution to this complex issue,” Mr de Brenni said.

“We have situations where some small business operators go to bed thinking how they are going to keep a roof over their head.

“Getting the right outcome will instil further confidence in the building and construction industry, and better protect Queensland’s small business operators, including mums and dads.

Mr de Brenni said the Palaszczuk Government wants key stakeholders from the community and industry to get involved in the process, to improve working conditions across the state. 

“Key issues the department found were varied and included insolvency in the contractual chain, unjustified payment delays and instances where retention money was used as cash flow rather than for defects,” he said.

“The recent Senate inquiry on the Insolvency in the Australian Construction Industry has raised security of payments as a challenge facing all states and territories. 

“We will look at the trials that are underway in other Australian states and territories, and we are broadening our scope to analyse data from countries such as New Zealand, England and Scotland.

“Workshops are planned in early 2016 to help people have their say and I urge everyone in the industry to get involved in the process, that way we can find the best solution going forward.”

Contributors can complete the online survey at www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au, or provide a written submission. This can be emailed to securityofpayment@hpw.qld.gov.au or posted to: Security of Payment Discussion Paper, GPO Box 2457, Brisbane QLD 4001.

Submissions close 5pm on Thursday, 31 March 2016.

Queries regarding the discussion paper can be directed to securityofpayment@hpw.qld.gov.au

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Media contact: Alex Chamberlain 0447 164 197