On 1 February 2021, the Victorian Government banned the use of certain types of Aluminium Composite Cladding (ACC) in certain circumstances.
What is banned?
ACC with less than 93% inert (or non-combustible) material is now
banned from use in future buildings which fall into either of the
following categories (also known as Type A and Type B in the
Building Code of Australia Vol 1):
- Residential buildings (including public buildings such as hotels and aged care facilities) with more than 2 storeys; and
- office buildings, shopping centres, warehouses, parking structures and factories with 3 or more storeys.
When does the ban apply?
The ban applies to any application for a Building Permit made after
1 February 2021 for a building in Victoria.
Who is covered by the ban?
Any person who is involved in the carrying out of the building work
in question – not just the Building Surveyor.
Further Information
Further information on the Victorian Government's ban can be
obtained from this site:
https://www.vic.gov.au/banning-dangerous-cladding-and-keeping-victorians-safe
What's happening in WA in relation to
ACC?
The WA Government has already concluded a significant and
comprehensive audit of ACC in WA – the report of which can be
found here:
https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/atoms/files/final_state-wide_cladding_audit_0.pdf
Local Governments have been working with the State Government, the Building sector, building owners and occupiers to deal with the issue of ACC in the existing buildings for a considerable period of time. Usually, this takes the form of the issuing of Building Orders by the Local Government.
Building Orders are a very effective tool for the rectification of unsafe buildings which are already in existence, however any rectification will take time.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
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