The Tasmanian government will introduce new legislation to combat rampant copper and scrap metal theft that is costing the state’s construction industry millions of dollars.
Small Business Minister Guy Barnett said thieves targeting copper cabling, plumbing and other metals are hitting families, small businesses and construction sites hard while causing extensive damage.
“Our government is focussed on protecting small businesses and home buyers, and that’s why we are working with industry to stamp out copper theft,” Barnett said.
“We are working with the building industry to develop legislation that will crack down on the theft of copper and other metals from job sites.”
Police Minister Felix Ellis said metal theft creates major disruption, drives up costs and poses serious safety risks through exposed wiring and damage to essential services.
“This work will target those doing the wrong thing and toughen penalties for those offenders,” Ellis said.
“We will learn from other jurisdictions and ensure Tasmania Police has the powers it needs to crack down on this criminal activity.”
Industry groups have welcomed the government’s response to their concerns.
Civil Construction Federation chief executive Andrew Winch said metal theft puts “massive pressure” on the cost of building and construction.
National Electrical Communications Association Tasmania executive director Ben Shaw said copper theft is “rife at the moment”, costing electrical contractors millions in materials, revenue and lost productivity.
“The financial impact is significant, but the disruption and damage caused to projects can be even greater,” Shaw said.
Master Builders Tasmania CEO Jenna Cairney said builders have “had a gutful” of thieves targeting sites across the state.
Housing Industry Association executive director Ben Price said the crackdown would help builders get on with their jobs.
“Builders are fed up with seeing materials walk off site,” Price said. “It hits the bottom line, hurts hard-working Tasmanian businesses and slows the job down.”
The government is developing the legislation with industry groups including the HIA, CCF, Master Builders Tasmania and NECA.
