Bushfire Survivors for Climate Action has responded to NSW Planning Minister Anthony Roberts’ decision to scrap a requirement to consider the risks of floods and fires before building new homes.

BS4CA president Jo Dodds said, “For people like our members, who’ve lost everything they own in climate-fuelled floods and fires, it’s pretty hard to swallow a planning decision like this that places people in new homes without any regard for their future safety from these catastrophes. 

“The minister gives us this callous decision in the aftermath of the recent floods, while people are still mopping up, mourning loved ones, realising that they are not insured, and wondering how the hell to get back on their feet.

“Where’s the duty of care? Where’s the logic in putting homes into risk zones without any regard for the consequences? 

“And it looks like the new Design and Place State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) will be scrapped. This policy would require new homes to have adequate ventilation and other aspects of liveability and basic comfort. We’re seeing a major outbreak of black mould in homes across Sydney right now, for instance. That’s a direct consequence of two things – homes built to substandard quality and a rapidly changing climate. 

“I’ve heard too many people question why someone would build a home in a fire or flood risk area. There’s too much blame towards them. Here’s the reason this happens – because governments and planning authorities give these projects the green light and claim they’re cutting red tape. They’re not. They’re just opting for the quick buck solution – and putting lives at risk.”