LNP Leader Deb Frecklington has vowed to make protecting Queensland’s subcontractors a key election issue after the Palaszczuk Labor Government failed to take responsibility to fix the building industry.
Ms Frecklington said more than 50 building companies had collapsed on Annastacia Palaszczuk’s watch.
“I’m going to call a Commission of Inquiry into the building industry because that’s the right thing to do,” Ms Frecklington said.
“We’ve seen embarrassing leadership from Annastacia Palaszczuk on an issue hurting hardworking Queensland subcontractors and their families.
“Some 7000 subcontractors have been left empty-handed to the tune of half-a-billion dollars because of the non-payment scandal.
“The LNP’s policy for a Commission of Inquiry into the building industry is the sensible platform to deliver change and restore confidence.
“A Commission on Inquiry would have the same powers as a Royal Commission to get to the bottom of dodgy practices.
“There is no easy fix, but this inquiry will allow subbies to be heard.
“The public deserves answers and I will call a Commission of Inquiry into Queensland’s building industry if elected in October 2020.”
The Royal Commission would 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.
Shadow Minister for Housing and Public Works Michael Hart said hard-working subcontractors deserve to be paid.
“A police taskforce dedicated to fully investigating and prosecuting under existing laws also has in-principle support from the LNP,” Mr Hart said.
“Industry experts have been demanding greater enforcement and compliance.
“A Royal Commission is the best way to safeguard the future of subcontractors while cleaning up the industry.”
