Hundreds of Tasmanian businesses and infrastructure projects will benefit under new permit extensions granted by the Government, following advocacy by industry bodies, including the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), to amend the COVID-19 Disease Emergency (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2020 and begin reviving the Tasmanian building and construction sector.

The decision will see local building, plumbing, demolition and partial completion permits extended under the Building Act for a further six months. NECA has been calling for the extension to ensure builders and property owners can continue their projects without incurring the extra delay and cost of extension application.

Suresh Manickam, CEO of NECA, said:

“This is a welcome step NECA has been advocating for; we are pleased the government has allowed further time for property owners and businesses affected by the emergency period, to undertake necessary work that will benefit the Tasmanian economy.

“This is a great first step in supporting businesses and infrastructure pipelines in uncertain times.  We believe there is still more to be done, including: Jump-starting Small Businesses, Unlocking Infrastructure potential, Regulatory, taxation and systemic reform and ensuring Energising the future through upskilling subsidies.”

Further detail on these recommendations and more information on NECA’s Four Point Plan can be seen here.

For more information about legislative changes, visit the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) website www.cbos.tas.gov.au.

ENDS