Consumer protection is the core function of a regulator.
I am dedicated to focusing the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) on its fundamental goal of improving consumer outcomes.
It is clear the performance of the Authority has fallen well short of this standard.
This is why I commissioned Weir Legal and Consulting to conduct an independent review of seven of our most complex consumer cases.
The report, Victorian Building Authority – The Case for Transformation, is an important tool in understanding the context for past decisions, learning from consumer experiences and informing how we make changes.
It identifies significant practitioner misconduct and ineffective regulation compounded by poor complaint handling.
A combination of these factors and an imperfect civil legal process has resulted in ongoing emotional and financial stress for the seven consumers.
I apologise for the role the VBA has played – we can and will do better for all Victorians.
The report clearly identifies examples of where the VBA failed to use its powers to their fullest extent, and didn't treat consumers with the respect they deserve.
These cases are truly heartbreaking, and I'm appalled at how badly each individual has been let down by practitioners, the VBA and the building system.
I support all 20 recommendations in principle and am committed to implementing them expeditiously with the Government's support. We are undergoing a major reform program to transform the Authority and prioritise and protect consumers.
Governance, regulatory operations, systems and organisational culture are all being overhauled
Safe and compliant buildings are a shared responsibility by all players in the building system – practitioners, building surveyors and the Authority.
Victorians should expect nothing less than buildings that are safe to occupy, compliant with legislation and regulations and built to last.
