Queensland approves new building industry regulator
Monday 2 September 2013 @ 1.14 p.m. | Industrial Law
The Queensland Parliament has taken a key step towards implementing a new building regulator, passing legislation to enable the establishment of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). The QBCC will replace the controversial Queensland Building Services Authority amidst reports of the Authority’s “flawed structure,” “unprofessional" culture, and perceived conflicts of interest because of its multiple functions.
According to Housing and Public Works Minister Tim Mander, the Commission will be responsible for licensing, dispute resolution and the Home Warranty Scheme, and feature internal divisions firewalled from each other to remove any conflict of interest.
“This marks the beginning of the biggest change to the way the building industry is regulated in more than 20 years,” Mr Mander said.
“The new QBCC will strike the right balance between consumers and contractors and will help build confidence in the industry, whether that’s the confidence to build a new home or the confidence to start or grow a business or pursue a career in the industry.”
Mr Mander said the creation of the QBCC was an important first step in the Government’s
10-point plan to reform building regulation in Queensland.
The Opposition voted in favour of the legislation, but Labor spokesman Bill Byrne
says he has reservations.
"I'm yet to meet anyone who can explain to me how a commission, as proposed under this bill, differs from the current authority and its capabilities or function in any great way," he said.
"In fact as far as I can see, the commission is merely just a name change, it's merely a branding exercise in some respects."
It is envisaged that the new Commission will progressively implement other initiatives
including reviewing the licensing and compliance arrangements for contractors and
reforms to allow rapid dispute adjudication. The new Commission is anticipated to
be operational by the end of the year.
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