FAST TRACKED APPROVALS FLOW FROM NEW PLUMBING LAWS

Scenic Rim Regional Council is on target for the introduction of Queensland's new plumbing laws on 1 July 2019.

The streamlined framework of the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 and Plumbing Regulation 2019 aims to deliver fast tracked plumbing approvals to save businesses and individuals time and money and enhance community safety.

Mayor Greg Christensen said that while the new laws provide tougher penalties for plumbers, drainers and gasfitters who endanger public health and safety, they will also allow the fast tracking of plumbing applications associated with dwellings and sheds in areas connected to water and sewerage.

"Under the new laws, Council will assess plumbing applications on a two-day turnaround for premises to be connected to water and sewerage. Previously, the statutory assessment period was 20 days," he said.

Council has engaged with key stakeholders in raising awareness of the new fast track approval process and the new laws and held an information session in Beaudesert in May for plumbers, service agents, builders and building certifiers.

Information packages to assist stakeholders in the submission of plumbing applications have been developed and will be available as the new laws take effect.

Cr Christensen said Scenic Rim's approach to adapting its processes prior to the introduction of Queensland's new plumbing laws have provided a model for other local governments.

"We have gained efficiencies in our customer service interactions and there will be benefits for the development industry in the fast tracking of approvals," he said.