G20 summit has interesting implications for Brisbane CBD unit owners

Security issues are at the forefront of Grant Mifsud’s mind. The Archers Body Corporate Management’s senior body corporate manager suggests that smaller complexes in Brisbane’s CBD may be ill-prepared for the G20 leader’s summit.

November's G20 summit has Mifsud warning that due diligence around implications from security breaches, particularly in buildings without an on-site manager, are worth thinking about today.

Bodies Corporate are urged to ensure that complexes are prepared and residents have been notified of any restrictions, should their building be within a CBD restricted area.

“It is the body corporate’s responsibility to change their operations for the duration of the G20 summit and we are encouraging those in small complexes without an on-site manager to act now and put a security and communication strategy together,” he said.

“It is imperative that all Brisbane residents understand the effects of the G20 on their buildings which may include total lock out, restricted entry to the building and common areas, heavy police presence and gridlocked traffic in the CBD.”

Some apartment blocks in the CBD have already engaged specialised security consultancy companies to undertake audits, such as M on Mary Apartments, on Mary Street, where building manager Paul Hibberd is waiting one more month for the result of the audit.

“We are beginning preparations as early as possible to ensure all of our residents are informed of what the affects will be and what is expected of them over the G20 weekend,” Hibberd said.

“Come June, we expect to have one of our full time staff trained up as an in-house G20 liaison that will provide a central point of contact for all residents at M on Mary.”

Mifsud suggests that security recommendations are introduced as early as possible, with readily available information, so that tenants and residents are eased into the changes.

A member from the G20 Group is usually able to visit your building to identify issues, which is helpful for those with smaller complexes. They can also help train an in-house G20 liaison that will become the central point of contact for residents.

A full-time trained security guard is also recommended by Mifsud for the duration of the summit.