New cladding rectification bill introduced today: Victorian Government helps home owners affected by combustible cladding, despite lack of national support
In July earlier this year, Urban.com.au reported on the announcement of the Andrews Labor Government funding scheme to help hundreds of vulnerable Australians who are living in a home that has been constructed using hazardous aluminium composite cladding. Today, the Building Amendment (Cladding Rectification) Bill 2019 is being brought into effect and will see the State investigating those accountable for the hazardous cladding, and cover any costs associated with rectification.
Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne commented that apartment homeowners should not have to endure the time, hassle and expense of dealing with building compliance issues which were caused “at no fault of their own”.
“…They shouldn’t have to deal with the cost and stress that court action can mean – so we’re pursuing wrongdoers on their behalf.”
- Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
A staggering $600 million has been allocated for Cladding Safety Victoria’s extensive project, where they aim to treat over 500 at-risk buildings (potentially more) over the course of five years. Any fines charged to accountable building practitioners will likely be reinvested into the rectification budget.
Mr Wynne also shared that the team were disheartened to learn that the Commonwealth Government would not be supporting their initiative,
“Combustible cladding is a national problem and we’re disappointed the Commonwealth Government has decided not to be part of the solution here in Victoria.”
- Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
To date, the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) have suspended two builders and surveyors over the installation of non-compliant cladding and nine show cause notices have been issued.
Lead image credit: Master Builders Victoria
