Independent laboratory tests commissioned by local manufacturers have revealed that imported Chinese windows and doors are failing to meet Australian standards, with catastrophic failures in extreme weather conditions. The tests, conducted on aluminium windows and doors increasingly used in newly built homes and offices, showed that 87% of imports failed to meet minimum Australian standards.
Shocking Test Results
Scott Kelly, CEO of Ventora Group, expressed shock at the findings. "My gut reaction was one of just pure shock," he said. The pressure testing simulated extreme weather, including thunderstorms and strong winds battering a 108-kilogram door panel. Kelly warned of water ingress leading to mould and safety risks, particularly for children. "If you have water ingress into a home, the carpets get wet, the walls get wet, and before you know it, you’ve got mould in your house," he said. "If there’s a young child walking past there at that point in time, I think it’s a huge safety issue."
Industry Concerns
The issue remains largely undiscussed by builders, developers and certifiers until catastrophic failures occur, such as the imported steel roof on a Melbourne leisure centre that collapsed mid-construction in 2022. Clinton Skeoch, CEO of the Australian Glass and Window Association, noted that many new market entrants may lack experience in Australia. "I think we have a lot of new entrants in the market that probably haven’t dealt in Australia previously," he said.
Impact on Local Economy
China’s property slump has led to an influx of surplus building materials in Australia, including engineered timber and aluminium windows and doors sold at around half price, hurting local manufacturers. Kelly said, "Well, I think it’s damaging to the entire industry and, importantly, damaging to the Australian economy." Property owners are urged to ensure installed products meet standards.
