Monthly Archives: October 2014

Northern Territory up-date on consumer protection reforms

The last Resort Fidelity Fund was introduced in January 2013 amid uproar within the Territory builders.

The Giles Government promised a review within 12 months however it was bought forward and a short review of 3 to 4 weeks was announced on 19th June 2013 by Minister Chandler.

The outcome in December 2013 was totally disappointing as the review failed to meet its terms of reference and was wasted.

We have met with a number of Territory Ministers that share our views and we await the outcomes, and look forward to Chief Minister Giles input to resolve the acute concerns of our industry.

Victorian up-date on building reforms

The Napthine Government announced a complete overhaul of the Consumer protection Framework in May 2013 to be implemented in 2014 and 2015.

Unfortunately the Parliamentary process has not been supported and the reforms have stalled and will not become law in this term of Parliament.

This situation has pleased the trade associations as they wish the status quo to remain and have the insurance facilitated by them, and in particular not see the warranty insurance become part of the One Stop Shop principle under a Statuary Fund that would directly compensate consumers without any third party vested interest.

We are pleased to announce the position of the Napthine Government prior to the election on the 29th November 2014 as provided to the BCA yesterday by email from our Attorney General/Finance Minister Mr Robert Clark.

From: robert.clark@parliament.vic.gov.au
Date: Tuesday, 7 October 2014 3:05 pm
Subject: Domestic building consumer protection reform

“The Napthine Government is committed to implementing the domestic building consumer protection reforms we have previously announced, which will provide better, fairer and simpler regulation and protection for both consumers and builders..

A re-elected Napthine Government will re-introduce legislation to implement the reforms following the resumption of Parliament after the election.”