Gladys Berejiklian appoints David Chandler as building commissioner

Gladys Berejiklian has appointed a NSW building commissioner amid increasing scrutiny on the sector following the discovery of cracks in several high-rises and potentially damaging cladding.

• Opal Tower unit sells for huge profit
• Opal Tower owners sue government

Premier Gladys Berejiklian has appointed David Chandler, the man who built Canberra’s Parliament House in the 1980s, as her new building commissioner to clean up the industry.

Mr Chandler will be responsible for investigating misconduct in the building sector and dishing out disciplinary action when required.

Ms Berejiklian said he will also oversee the end to end licensing and auditing across the building sector, and drive legislative reforms.

“David has more than 40 years’ industry experience, which will be invaluable as we move to restore confidence in the building and construction industry,” she said.

“We know there are national challenges affecting the industry, but this new appointment will play a key role in protecting NSW homeowners and driving critical reforms,” Ms Berejiklian said.

NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler (centre) following his appointment. Picture: Joel Carrett

Mr Chandler is a principal at CE Advisory and Adjunct Professor, SCEM, at the University of Western Sydney, and will be stepping down from these two positions before starting in his new role on August 14.

Mr Chandler said his appointment comes at a time when the building sector is reeling from the discovery of cracking in apartment buildings in Sydney, including Opal Tower and Mascot Towers.

“Recent events have reduced community confidence in how buildings are designed and constructed and how they perform, but I welcome the leadership and commitment being shown by the government to implement change that will strengthen the construction industry foundations in NSW,” Mr Chandler said.

Better regulation minister Kevin Anderson said 22 candidates applied for the position.

“David will lead the implementation of this reform and will advise the Government on additional reforms that may be needed to ensure better protections for homeowners and purchasers, and lift building standards across NSW,” Mr Anderson said.

Mr Chandler has been appointed for an initial two year term.

Premier Berejiklian said Mr Chandler’s role would be to “restore confidence” in the construction industry. Picture: Angelo Velardo