LNP Leader Deb Frecklington has today announced she will call a Commission of Inquiry into Queensland’s building industry, if elected in October 2020.
Ms Frecklington said more than 50 building companies have collapsed in Queensland on Annastacia Palaszczuk’s watch.
“The Premier promised the world when she was elected but after more than 4 years she has failed to deliver,” Ms Frecklington said.
“Builders are falling over, subbies aren’t getting paid and homeowners are being left devastated.
“7000 sub-contractors have been left empty-handed to the tune of half-a-billion dollars and more developers risk closing their doors for good.
“Hard-working Queenslanders aren’t being paid what they’re owed.
“The commission of inquiry will have the same powers as Royal Commission.
“It will also investigate how developers are gaming the system with the support of banks to protect both their self-interests and the role of senior government figures who were warned of major collapses and failed to act.
“The system is broken.
“There is no easy fix, but this inquiry will allow people to tell their story, with the key focus on sub-contract payments.
Shadow Minister for Housing and Public Works Michael Hart said businesses have gone bust, sub-contractors are out of pocket and dream homes have turned into nightmares for families.
“The LNP has also given in principal support for the establishment of a dedicated police taskforce to fully investigate and prosecute under existing laws,” Mr Hart said.
“Industry experts have been demanding greater enforcement and compliance.
“A Royal Commission is the best way to clean up the industry to safeguard the future of sub-contractors who only want what they’re owed.”
