New South Wales Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, has appointed a new Building Commissioner for New South Wales.
David Chandler OAM has over 40 years experience in the building and construction industry and will assume the position beginning 14 August.
Premier Berejiklian said the appointment of Mr Chandler was part of the NSW Government’s commitment to implementing the biggest overhaul to building laws in the state’s history.
“David’s industry experience will be invaluable as we move to restore confidence in the building and construction industry.
“We know there are national challenges affecting the industry, but this new appointment will play a key role in protecting NSW homeowners and driving critical reforms.”
The Building Commissioner will be responsible for the investigation and disciplinary action for misconduct in the building industry while overseeing the end to end licensing and auditing across the building industry.
The Commissioner will also drive legislative reforms of the building industry, including consultation with industry.
This will include legislation to be introduced later this year requiring building practitioners to be registered, a new duty of care to make it easier for home owners to seek compensation against negligent building practitioners, and ensuring all buildings are designed and constructed to plans that comply with the Building Code of Australia.
NSW Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson, said the Building Commissioner’s priority will be to continue the extensive work that has already been started by the NSW Government to reform the building and construction industry.
“David will lead the implementation of this reform and will advise the Government on additional reforms that may be needed to ensure better protections for homeowners and purchasers, and lift building standards across NSW.
Mr Chandler has welcomed the opportunity to work with the Government to strengthen the building and construction industry.
“Recent events have reduced community confidence in how buildings are designed and constructed and how they perform, but I welcome the leadership and commitment being shown by the Government to implement change that will strengthen the construction industry foundations in NSW,” Mr Chandler said.
Engineers Australia has welcomed the appointment of Mr Chandler.
Engineers Australia CEO, Peter McIntyre, said, “Only urgent action will restore confidence in the building and construction sector and that the announcement is a positive sign that the NSW Government is serious about reform.
“NSW Building Commissioner is an important role and we hope that Mr Chandler will be given the support and resources he needs to implement the recommendations from the Shergold-Weir report, including the compulsory registration of engineers.”
