The Queensland Government has released the Terms of Reference for its landmark Inquiry into improving productivity in the construction sector.
Treasurer David Janetzki said the Inquiry was the first order of business for the Queensland Productivity Commission, after the Commissioner was formally appointed this week.
“The Commission’s first Inquiry will review the factors driving productivity in the Queensland construction sector and make recommendations for reform to improve productivity without compromising quality and safety outcomes,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“This important work by the Productivity Commission will drive up productivity and drive down cost pressures.”
The Terms of Reference require the Commission to investigate and report on conditions in the residential and non-residential construction sectors and examine policy and regulatory factors affecting productivity of the industry.
As part of the Inquiry, the Commission will undertake wide public consultation with stakeholders, including industry peak bodies, unions, construction businesses, and regulatory bodies.
With the Terms of Reference for the initial inquiry handed down today, the Commission is required to deliver a report to the Government within six months.
Minister for Housing and Public Works, Sam O’Connor said the Inquiry was a critical step toward fixing what’s broken in Queensland’s building and construction sector.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from builders across Queensland red tape and outdated regulations are stalling housing projects and driving up costs,” Mr O’Connor said.
“By launching this Inquiry, we’re getting on with the job of making it easier to build in Queensland because the current system isn’t working for builders and it’s certainly not working for the tens of thousands of Queenslanders waiting for a place to call home.”
The Government has also announced the appointment of Angela Moody as Productivity Commissioner.
Ms Moody has more than 20 years of experience in the private and public sector in policy development and evaluation, regulation and legislative reform, and corporate governance and commercial analysis.
Her experience has provided significant knowledge and capability across electricity, water, natural gas and public policy sectors, said Treasurer Janetzki.
Current Head of the Office of Productivity and Red Tape Reduction in Queensland Treasury, Dr Karen Hooper has been appointed to the QPC Board as a Commissioner.
“The appointment of these experienced and highly qualified board members is a coup for Queenslanders,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“Their combined experience will ensure the Commission delivers on our Government’s commitment to restoring respect for Queenslanders’ money and driving down cost of living pressures.”
The full Terms of Reference for the QPC Inquiry into opportunities to improve the productivity of the construction sector are available at qpc.qld.gov.au.
