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New Bushfire Building StandardsFollowing Australia’s worst ever natural disaster the Victorian government has introduced tougher building standards for homes, targeting high bushfire risk areas. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 21st April 2009 - Back to News Bass Coast Shire Council Municipal Building Surveyor, Tim Blankenstein, said the state government has brought forward the adoption of the Australian Standard for Design and Construction of Buildings in Bushfire Prone Areas.
"The standard was due to be adopted by all Australian states and territories in May 2010, but it is now effective in Victoria from 11 March," said Mr Blankenstein.
"The new standard will apply throughout Victoria to all new homes, additions and outbuildings within six metres of a dwelling as part of the application for a building permit.
"Every application will undergo a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) assessment which will determine the method of construction to be used to better protect properties from the threat of bushfires.
"The aim of the standard is to help save lifes and property," explained Mr Blankenstein.
Based on 2008 building permit statistics for new homes, 80 per cent had the lowest rating BAL assessment. Any home with this rating would not require additional measures under the new standard.
"This means that the introduction of this standard is not likely to affect the majority of homes built in Bass Coast," said Mr Blankenstein.
"However residents who live in an area that is assessed to be at greater risk of bushfire must meet the provisions of the new design and construction standards in building or extending their home."
According to the Building Commission, adopting the new standard will provide greater protection from bushfires in the future and is an important step for community safety.
The Building Commission is conducting a consumer and industry campaign that will include running seminars throughout Victoria to explain the regulation changes.
For more information contact the Building Commission Bushfire Building Advice Line on 1300 360 320 or visit the website www.buildingcommission.com.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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