Toppling furniture Bill to be introduced to Parliament

  • Tenants will be allowed to affix furniture to walls, preventing them from toppling over  
  • New laws introduced following the tragic death of Reef Kite

The McGowan Government will introduce the Consumer Protection Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 to State Parliament this week, which will provide better protections to residential tenants and their children.

Amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act will allow tenants to secure furniture to the walls of their rental homes. They will also be required to repair any damage after their tenancy.

A landlord will only be allowed to refuse the tenant’s request to affix furniture in very limited circumstances - if there is asbestos in the house or it is heritage listed.

The changes follow the recommendation of the WA Coroner’s report, delivered in November 2017, into the death of 21-month-old Reef Kite. 

He was tragically killed in his family’s rental home by a falling chest of drawers in 2015.

Evidence at the inquest revealed the drawers had not been secured because the landlord did not give permission. 

The Bill also makes miscellaneous amendments that will improve the administration of a range of occupational licensing schemes.

This includes: reducing unnecessary red tape, facilitating online systems for submitting applications and information, and clarifying the entitlement of consumers to access industry specific insurance and compensation schemes.

Comments attributed to Acting Commerce and Industrial Relations Minister Francis Logan:

“Toppling furniture is a key child safety issue. Since 2001, 22 Australian children, under the age of nine, have died from toppling furniture. Anchoring furniture can save a child’s life.

“Some of these changes are long overdue so I’m pleased the McGowan Government will be able to introduce them to Parliament this week.

“The Bill amends outdated penalties in a range of Acts and ensures they remain in line with community expectations and continue to provide an effective deterrent.”

Minister's Office: 6552 6700  

Consumer Protection
Media release
07 Oct 2018

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