THE public will be protected from substandard construction practices in the ACT with the announcement of new legislation passed by the Assembly today.

“Before today, the Construction Occupations Registrar could only consider whether an applicant would be eligible to be licensed based on training and competency, and whether the applicant was disqualified in the ACT only,” he said.

“This was too narrow for the Registrar to fully consider the impact on public protection, requiring the legislation to be amended.

“Under the changes, the Registrar will be able to refuse to grant or renew a licence if a person has a history of non-compliance in other States or Territories as well.”

“The Registrar will now also be able to request a skills assessment from a licensee, to find out if they have the construction skills and knowledge to carry out work competently.

“It is imperative that the Construction Occupations Registrar has the authority to protect the needs and interests of the Canberra community.

“New provisions will also help prevent ‘phoenixing’, where an operator sets up a new construction business while an already existing business is wound up or subject to occupational discipline.”