Edition 49, September 2007

Queensland Fire and Rescue Service targets budget accommodation compliance

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is urging owners and occupiers throughout northern Queensland to ensure they comply with budget accommodation regulations.

Providers of budget accommodation have an obligation to be aware of and comply with regulations designed to ensure safety. Recent investigations undertaken by the QFRS have uncovered several overcrowded residential premises.

In two cases in the Bowen area, building owners housing more than 20 people, mainly backpackers and fruit pickers believed to be residing temporary in the area, were issued with notices.

A further six notices have been issued instructing owners and occupiers to reduce the numbers of residents staying in their accommodation to below six, in accordance with budget accommodation legislation.

The Queensland Government introduced some of Australia's strongest fire safety regulations for budget accommodation following the Childers hostel fire tragedy.

Investigations and follow-up inspections are continuing and prosecutions may follow if premises fail to comply.

For more information visit www.fire.qld.gov.au/buildingsafety/

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