TOMBSTONE TERRITORY

THEY call it tombstone legislation. Governments only introduce lifesaving laws in reaction to mass fatalities that shock the nation or, in the case of the towering inferno that claimed many lives in London, the world.

Fire Protection Association Australia CEO Scott Williams used the “tombstone’’ terminology last year when commenting on the Queensland Government’s refusal to identify two Gold Coast buildings with non-compliant cladding like that linked to highrise fires in Melbourne and Dubai.

He said experience showed that unfortunately a disaster like the Childers backpacker hostel fire that killed 15 was needed before governments reacted.

The State Government has maintained its silence on which Gold Coast buildings had non-compliant cladding, which is deeply concerning – especially when, as far as is known, residents remain in the dark. They have a right to know if their buildings could erupt in flames as quickly as the Lacrosse Apartments in Melbourne, the hotel in Dubai or the London tower.

To its credit, the Government has introduced legislation to crack down on cladding and force removal of dangerous materials. But note, that has yet to pass.

There is the question of what might be contained within cladding. Non-compliant, combustible materials could be hidden within and not obvious until tested in a laboratory – well beyond the scope of contractors.

At a federal level, Gold Coasters will be astounded by the ridiculous amount of time it has taken for a Senate inquiry into non-conforming building products. It began with the previous parliament but a final report is not due until October 31. Submissions reveal marked disagreement on who should have ultimate responsibility.

Punitive measures are poor. Queensland legislation will mean fines of up to $120,000, but we suggest this is insufficient to stop the rot with overseas suppliers. What will the Senate propose?

Huge amounts of material are imported, yet Border Protection argues ensuring compliance with the National Construction Code should be at the point of installation and not the ports. The Institute of Building Surveyors says the ACCC and state regulators should have responsibility at point of supply or entry. In the meantime, lives are at stake. Strong leadership is needed.