The Tasmanian Government is coming down on dodgy builders like a tonne of bricks, with plans to introduce strong new protection measures for Tasmanians building or buying a new home.
Minister for Housing, Planning, and Consumer Affairs, Felix Ellis, said the Government wants to ensure that when Tasmanians put their trust in a company to build their future, that trust isn't broken.
"We will introduce strong new legislation to prevent corporate phoenixing of building companies, and importantly, provide more powers to our building licensing regulator," Minister Ellis said.
"Our building and construction industry is the backbone of the Tasmanian economy, building our homes, roads, and communities.
"Unfortunately, like any industry, there are some operators who may try to take advantage of Tasmanians trying to get ahead.
"It's these people that bring this great industry down, and our Government is saying no more.
"While we have already commenced work on a Home Warranty Scheme to support those who fall victim to corporate phoenixing, this is targeting the root of the problem and stopping it from happening in the first place.
"These changes will ensure all Tasmanians can have full confidence in the men and women that put on the high vis every day to build our state's future.
"An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is to help more Tasmanians realise their home ownership dream, and this strong new legislation will keep that dream safe."
The Tasmanian Government will consult on changes to crack down on phoenixing and ramp up the powers of the Administrator of Occupational Licensing to take decisive action against builders, plumbers, gasfitters, electrical workers and other licence holders where appropriate to do so.
