Tough new laws to prevent building industry tragedy

The Palaszczuk Government has strengthened workplace health and safety with tough new laws passing the Parliament.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the new laws would see the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) play a greater role in ensuring safety in the building industry.

Under the new laws the QBCC will take into account the conduct of a company, including their record of safety, when considering the suspension or cancellation of a licence. The laws also create an obligation on QBCC licensees to notify the QBCC about activities on a building site that might present a work health and safety issue.

“In 2012, 20-year-old Jason Garrels died of an electrocution that should never have been able to happen,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Because of the advocacy of Jason’s parents Lee and Michael, the QBCC will now play a strong role in ensuring safety on site through our licencing system.

“Put simply these laws mean that if you fail to protect workers, you will not have the right to have a construction licence in this state.

“Because of the Garrels’ advocacy these changes will save lives.”

Jason Garrels’ father Michael welcomed the Palaszczuk Government’s tough new measures.

“Had these proactive laws been in place in 2012 I believe the disgusting site Jason died on would not have existed,” Mr Garrels said.

“And had his death still occurred then at least the regulator could have cleaned out the dodgy uncompliant and dangerous licence holders from the industry.

“These laws will make Queenslanders safer, and I would like to thank Minister de Brenni and the Palaszczuk Government for taking such strong steps to improve safety on worksites.”

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Media contact: Tristan Douglas 0447 164 197