Embattled home builder Nicheliving has reached an agreement with the Western Australian government, ending a legal battle and surrendering its building license for ten years. Directors Ronnie Michel-Elhaj and Paul Bitdorf are barred from re-registering under any name. The pair will not face fines or be pursued by insurers. Customers who have been displaced for years will now access up to $200,000 through Home Indemnity Insurance to complete their homes. Despite the building ban, Michel-Elhaj and Bitdorf can still work in the property sector, launching a new real estate agency.
Commerce Minister Sue Ellery emphasized the importance of getting homes built and stopping Nicheliving from operating further. Customers expressed frustration over the years of displacement and unfinished homes. Taxpayers are expected to foot a $40 million insurance bill to fix the mess, while the company avoids any financial penalty.