WOBO recognises the issues related to building products and their inclusion within the construction process and notes Victoria’s reaction.

February saw the Victorian State Government’s prohibition of high risk external wall cladding products come into force.

Victoria’s Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne, announced that flammable aluminium composite panels and rendered expanded polystyrene would be banned for use as external wall cladding for all multi-storey developments into the future.

“These products are a high risk when used inappropriately or installed incorrectly. That’s why we’ve acted to ban them for new multi-storey buildings,” he said in a statement.

“This ban will ensure new developments are built to the highest standard to keep Victorians safe.”

The prohibited materials will not be allowed for use on apartment buildings, hotels, aged care facilities and other residential buildings with two or more storeys.

The ban also applies to office buildings, retail premises such as shopping centres, warehouses, factories and car parks with three or more storeys.

Aluminium composite panels can be used if they have a core of more than 93 per cent inert mineral filler.

“We’re continuing to act on the most up-to-date expert advice on cladding products, and anyone caught flouting this ban will face significant penalties,” Mr Wynne said.

Key points:

• Multi-storey developments will not be able to use flammable aluminium composite panels or rendered expanded polystyrene
• Penalties of $80,000 will apply to individuals and up to $400,000 for building companies
• Victoria’s Housing Minister wants a national approach to the issue of combustible cladding

www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-01/victorian-ban-on-combustible-cladding