Last year, MP Elise Archer refused to support a parliamentary inquiry into deteriorated building standards in Tasmania. This was in the midst of the pandemic, at a time homeowners needed it the most. When it comes to building a home, Tasmania already has the worst protections for buyers (homeowners), in a legal environment heavily skewed in favor of builders thanks to strong lobbying.
The Law in Tasmania
All states in Australia except Tasmania impose mandatory building insurance. This protects residents of the state from falling into terrible despair come disputes involving builders and constructions. In Tasmania, residents do not have the security of building insurance. Instead, they have a plethora of troubles that stem from the lack thereof.
These include residents left stranded if their builder dies, goes bankrupt, or disappears. It’s common practice for builders to operate under shell companies so that they can declare bankruptcy and get away with not paying any damages.
In short, the lack of housing indemnity insurance in Tasmania has left residents without protection and in despair from numerous ruined construction projects. Families and couples trying to build or purchase a home in Tasmania often receive the warning of ‘buyer beware.’ Many still face struggles in building a house and constantly face the risk of losing the money invested in the builder. These families are now choosing to speak out on the injustices faced in their construction journey (see here for testimonies).
Unfortunately, politicians like Elise Archer are currently working hard to resist any changes to these circumstances. The same politicians who were elected by the people to protect their interests.
The Solution?
Labor MP, Jen Butler, brought up the need for a parliamentary inquiry into Tasmania’s lack of building insurance. Butler states that she hears devastating stories of Tasmanians facing losses from risky builders on a regular basis.
She also states that the parliament needs investigate the issues in Tasmania’s construction industry. This is the only way to protect the consumers as well as the building industry in the State.
MP Elise Archer’s Role
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Elise Archer however has left many Tasmanians frustrated with her. She has continuously opposed the idea of a parliament inquiry regarding this issue. Archer stated that while she remains aware of the problems faced by the residents in the area, an inquiry remains unnecessary. She goes on to state that many of the issues related to the legislation have been strengthened. Therefore, removing the need for a parliament inquiry.
However, her words fail to satisfy the countless individuals and families losing their savings to dodgy construction companies. The residents of Tasmanian deserve a parliament inquiry as this is the only way they may obtain transparent and relevant information regarding their construction projects. Many victims went on to state that the meeting held with MP Elise Archer turned out to be nothing more than a waste of time.
When the key politicians meant to protect these people are clearly in the pocket of building lobby groups, it appears unlikely that Tasmanians will have protections anywhere near states like Victoria for the foreseeable future.
