News – Building Newsflash
Purpose
The purpose of this Newslash is to advise local governments and other residential care industry stakeholders the Departments of Local, Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation and Emergency Services are considering a fire safety improvement strategy for Queensland’s existing residential care buildings.
Background
The improvement strategy is the next phase of a fire safety investigation program which began following the Childers’ backpacker fire in June 2000.
In July 2006 the State Coroner, during the inquest into the Childers backpacker fire, encouraged clear and enforceable fire safety measures to safeguard residents of high occupation buildings.
Public Benefit Test (PBT)
A PBT is being undertaken to assess the impacts, benefit and costs of an education program or potential regulatory options. Economic Associates Pty Ltd has been engaged to conduct the PBT and consult with industry on the need for, and the suitability of a range of cost effective improvement options.
The PBT will be advertised in the Courier Mail and regional papers on 19 May 2007. Stakeholders will be invited to participate in workshops and/or provide written submissions.
