QLD Government announces overhaul of building industry regulator

The Queensland Building Services Authority will be replaced by a new independent Queensland Building and Construction Commission as part of the biggest change to the industry regulator in more than two decades.

Minister for Housing and Public Works, Tim Mander, said the State Government has released a 10-point action plan that will reform regulation of the building and construction industry in Queensland.

“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.”

Mr Mander said the reform responds to 41 recommendations handed down by last year’s Parliamentary Inquiry.

He said 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.

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

Mr Mander said government consulted an independent panel of industry experts to achieve a balance between the interests of consumers and contractors.

“These 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,” he said.