Opposition Leader Shane Love MLA has welcomed today’s announcement that embattled
Perth builder Niche Living has withdrawn its State Administrative Tribunal deregistration
appeal, relinquishing its building contractor license and finally ending a nightmare for
thousands of Western Australian families.
“I am pleased that after years of struggling to get assistance or clarity, Niche customers
should now be able to access home indemnity insurance and get on with building their long
awaited homes,”
“While this resolution is good news, like many Western Australians I am shocked Niche
directors will suffer no financial penalties, with taxpayers, including Niche customers, now
liable for an indemnity bill which could be as high as 40 million dollars.”
Mr Love said this case highlighted the need for robust registration requirements for builders.
“I note under today’s agreement Niche directors will not be eligible to register as builders for
the next 10 years – more detail must be provided on just how this will be enforced and
monitored.
“Customers deserve assurance these same directors won’t crop up in connection to
construction adjacent businesses somewhere down the line and inflict the same pain they
have suffered through,”
“The practice of building companies allowing themselves to collapse and starting up again
under another name, must be stamped out.”
Mr Love condemned the time it took for the Cook Labor Government to reach a resolution
for Niche customers, saying it is indicative of the Government’s failure to take seriously the
building crisis in Western Australia.
“The problems for Niche have been worsening over years, not months.” Mr Love said
“It took a thorough investigation by driven journalists working closely with Niche customers,
and some pressure from the Opposition, for this Labor Government to pay attention.”
“Accessible solutions for customers has been my priority every step of the way.”
