Domestic building dispute resolution in Victoria

Domestic Building Resolution VictoriaA new agency to address building disputes has been established by the new Minster for Consumer Affairs.Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria, which will begin its operations early next year, will be able to conduct compulsory dispute resolution and issue binding orders before a matter ends up at VCAT or in the courts.The free service will be led by Chief Dispute Resolution Officer, Gina Ralston, who is the former Director of Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria. Under new reforms, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal will have new powers in certain circumstances to award costs against an unsuccessful party, if they had refused to participate in dispute resolution, or did not participate in good faith.Builders must also provide consumers with an information statement before they sign a building contract, outlining the rights and responsibilities of each party.