Sustainability Declaration latest form of eco-facism

Published: 19 November 2009.

Contributed by Nick Buick of Refreshweb

The property market has become the latest victim of the Labor government’s eco facism with the introduction of the new “Sustainability Declarations” legislation quietly rushed through parliament and passed into law this week. Heralded by many as an Orwelian attack on human rights, these new laws become effective January 1, 2010 and force property sellers to complete a sustainability declaration before a property is marketed. There are further obligations for both sellers and agents. Heavy fines are issued for sellers who fail to comply or for filling out the declaration incorrectly.

Andrew Bolt of the Herald Sun referred to the new legislation as ‘an extraordinary and utterly pointless intrusion into the lives of the public. A totalitarian instinct runs through the green faith. ’

Opposition planning spokesman David Gibson said the mandatory form was "a confusing and complex document only available in English and printed in very small type font, making it very hard to read." "Many people would be forced to hire someone to help them determine the energy rating of their home. We support their intention but once again Labor has botched the delivery," he said.

REIQ has also heavily criticized the Bligh government over the legislation. “The declaration – which will impact tens of thousands of Queenslanders every year - is going to have a dramatic impact on the selling process and passing it into law just weeks before it is implemented does not give sellers enough time to become adequately informed,” REIQ managing director Dan Molloy said. “The declaration will be a major headache and expense for absentee owners as they may need to engage a consultant to complete it on their behalf.... No doubt a new industry of sustainability specialists will be created so yet another piece of paperwork can be completed before a property can be sold.”

You can download a complete copy of the questionnaire here: http://www.dip.qld.gov.au/resources/form/sustainable-housing/declaration.pdf

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