2024 MBV REGIONAL APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS Victoria’s
2024-25 MBV STATE BUDGET SUBMISSION
Advocating for our industry and members PAGE 23
the redeveloped Bendigo Law Courts, designed by Wardle Architect in collaboration with Dja Dja Wurrung, Barapa Barapa and Boon Wurrung artist Racquel Kerr.
Shaped through strong partnerships with Court Services Victoria and Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, the building contributes to the civic revitalisation of Bendigo's city precinct. Through the site’s connections to its built and cultural heritage, the building becomes part of, and for, the community.
The Rawlinsons Australian Construction Handbook 2024 serves as an indispensable resource for professionals in the construction industry, offering comprehensive insights, data, and guidance for various aspects of construction projects across Australia. Renowned for its accuracy and reliability, this Handbook has been a staple in the industry for decades, continually evolving to meet the dynamic demands of the construction sector.
At its core, the Handbook provides detailed cost information, including material and labour costs, which is crucial for estimating project budgets accurately. This information is meticulously researched and updated to reflect current market conditions, ensuring that users have access to the most relevant data for their projects. Whether it's estimating the cost of a new residential development or a large-scale infrastructure project, the Rawlinsons Australian Construction Handbook offers valuable insights that help stakeholders make informed decisions.
In addition to cost data, the Handbook also covers a wide range of topics essential to the construction process. This includes construction methodologies, building regulations, sustainability standards, and project management best practices. By consolidating this information into a single, easy-to-navigate resource, the Handbook streamlines the planning and execution phases of construction projects, saving time and reducing the likelihood of costly errors.
One of the standout features of the Rawlinsons Handbook is its focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. With increasing awareness of climate change and resource depletion,
construction professionals are under growing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. The handbook provides guidance on sustainable building materials, energy-efficient design principles, and green construction techniques, empowering users to minimize their environmental impact without compromising on quality or safety.
Furthermore, the Rawlinsons Handbook is not just a static reference manual; it adapts to the evolving needs of the industry. Updates and revisions are regularly incorporated to reflect changes in regulations, advancements in technology, and shifts in market trends. This commitment to staying current ensures that the Handbook remains relevant and reliable in an ever-changing landscape.
Additionally, the Handbook offers valuable insights into regional variations in construction costs, helping professionals tailor their estimates to specific locations across Australia. This localized approach ensures that projects are budgeted accurately, considering factors such as labour rates, material availability, and regulatory requirements.
The Rawlinsons Australian Construction Handbook 2024 stands as an essential companion for anyone involved in the construction industry in Australia. Its comprehensive coverage, accurate data, and commitment to excellence make it an invaluable resource for professionals, educators, and students alike. As the industry continues to evolve, the Handbook will undoubtedly remain a trusted guide for navigating the complexities of construction projects in the years to come.
Master Builders Victoria (MBV) was established in 1875 by a group of builders intent on raising industry standards. Over this 148-year period, our organisation has grown to become the pre-eminent industry voice, with over 6,000 members.
We support members with specialist updates and advice across legal, contracts, OHS, policy, people and culture and employment and industrial relations (EIR) matters, as well as providing industry connections and networking opportunities.
Not only are we a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #3935), but we proudly operate a state-of-the-art simulated learning centre where we provide industry-leading training with our comprehensive training courses.
We believe our accomplishments are the result of maintaining our ‘members first, all the time, every time’ approach throughout everything we do.
Empowering people to build a better future.
Leading a future-ready industry that builds a better world.
• Members first – all the time, every time
• Brave enough to be different
• Do the right thing, even when no one is watching
• Always find another way
332 Albert Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002
Tel: (03) 9411 4555
Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au
Web: www.mbav.com.au
EDITOR: Sarah Belcher MBV Marketing Manager
Produced by News Corp Australia for Master Builders Victoria
EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR: Alyssa Welke
06 FROM THE PRESIDENT
07 FROM THE CEO
34 STATE OF THE INDUSTRY QUARTERLY ECONOMIC SNAPSHOT
46 QUARTERLY CALENDAR OF EVENTS
66 DIRECTORY
8 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ACCELERATING PROGRESS
18 2024 MBV REGIONAL APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
CELEBRATING OUR INDUSTRY’S NEXT GENERATION
23 2024-25 MBV STATE BUDGET SUBMISSION
ADVOCATING FOR OUR INDUSTRY AND MEMBERS
27 BUILDING WELLBEING INDUSTRY WELLNESS TRAINING MODULES
28 APPRENTICE ENGAGEMENT
TAKING ON AN APPRENTICE
32 TEMPLATE INDUSTRY ENTERPRISE
AGREEMENT CFMEU EA 20-23
ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS
38 PRIME COST ITEMS
WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW TO USE THEM IN YOUR CONTRACTS
43 BUILDING 4.0 CRC
45
STUDYING MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION
HAZARDOUS MANUAL HANDLING ADJUSTING RISK CONTROLS
47 2024 MBV LOCAL NETWORKING EVENTS
MARK YOUR CALENDAR THIS YEAR
48 REVIEWING AN IMPROVEMENT NOTICE
WHAT TO EXPECT
50 2023 MBV EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN SUSTAINABLE HOMES
53 QUALITY DOCUMENTATION
PREPARING FOR SUCCESS
56 NATIONAL CONSTUCTION CODE 2022
LIVABLE HOUSING, CONDENSATION MANAGEMENT, ENERGY EFFICIENCY
59 INTERNAL MBV COMMITTEES
LEADING A FUTURE-READY INDUSTRY
63 PEOPLE AND CULTURE
HELPING BUILD AND ELEVATE YOUR PEOPLE, POLICIES AND PROCESSES
64 BUILDER REGISTRATION
OVERVIEW OF THE PROCESS
For
CEO: Michaela Lihou
Executive Team
Executive Director, Commercial & Corporate | Chief Legal Counsel |
Company Secretary: Tristan Moseley
Executive Director, Collaboration and Innovation: Corrie Williams
Executive Director, People & Member Services: Giovanni A. Abelardo
Directors
Director Member & Industry Engagement: Gavriel Berkowitz
Director Master Builders
Training Institute: Anh Tran
Director Advisory & Projects: Sam Smith
Director of Finance: Carly Hooke
MBV Board of Management
President: Geoff Purcell
Deputy President: Lisa Hollingsworth
Housing Chair: VACANT
Specialist Contractor Chair:
Gregory Cole
General Contracting Chair: Matthew Gilmour
Regional Chair: Stuart Allen
MM&S Chair: Mark Phillips
Housing Sub Contractor Chair: Raymond French
General Board Member: Danielle Bartolini
MBV Electoral Council
Regional
Stuart Allen, Gareth King, Mark Little, Ross O’Neill, Lisa Paddle, Peter Crawford, Steven Hedger
MM&S
Mark Phillips, Luke Hurley, Lawrence Pigot, Leon Quinn, Brenton Russo, Riccardo Mucci
Housing
Lisa Hollingsworth, Rebecca Bishop, Angela Perry, Nancy Italiano
General Contracting
Geoff Purcell, Matthew Gilmour, Michael Clemenger, Richard Hansen, Dale Kennedy, John Lehmann, Ashley Levin
Specialist Contractor
Gregory Cole, Danielle Bartolini, Alexander Crosby, Nigel Cunniffe, Dean Dannock, Angela Stevenson, Ashley Tonkin-Hill
Housing Sub Contractor
Raymond French, Howard F Hunter, Mark Flynn, Belinda Egan, Adam Rosenblum, Shane Gardner, Konstadinos Giambalkaris
Melbourne
332 Albert Street East Melbourne, VIC, 3002 GPO Box 544 Melbourne, VIC, 3001
Phone: (03) 9411 4555 e-mail: mbassist@mbav.com.au
MBV Building Leadership Simulation Centre (MBV BLSC) 49 Brady Street
South Melbourne, VIC, 3205 e-mail: info@blsc.com.au
35 Hovell Street
Wodonga, VIC, 3690 PO Box 700
Wodonga, VIC, 3690
Phone: (03) 9411 8070
e-mail: membershipadmin@mbav.com.au
Dear members,
As we commence 2024, your commitment to excellence and improvement of the building and construction industry serves as motivation for us all.
It is essential to recognise there continues to be many opportunities amid ongoing difficult but clearing conditions. While the path ahead may present its share of obstacles, it is within these challenges that our industry’s strength is revealed. We must continue to reinforce our shared focus to overcome each hurdle and continue building towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
This year marks a new chapter for Master Builders Victoria with the establishment of the Housing Sub-Contractor Sector Committee and the welcome addition of a new Director to our Board of Management. This historic milestone marks a significant step in our journey toward inclusivity and representation. For the first time in our 148year history, housing subcontractors have a dedicated platform to voice their perspectives and contribute to shaping our industry. With their valuable insights and contributions, we can confidently assert that Master Builders Victoria represents our industry’s diverse tapestry.
Reflecting on the resounding success of our recent International Women’s Day Breakfast fills me with immense pride and gratitude. With over 800 attendees, it stands as a testament to the momentum behind our efforts to promote
diversity, equity, and inclusion within our industry. Beyond its significance as our largest International Women’s Day event to date, the Breakfast embodies our commitment to celebrating the invaluable contributions of women in our industry and inspiring the next generation of leaders. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, empowerment, and opportunity, we enrich the fabric of our industry and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
As we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead, I thank each of you for your support. With your collective commitment and strength, I am confident we will navigate the year ahead with resilience, optimism, and steady determination.
Geoff Purcell
Dear members,
Stepping into 2024, it is with a genuine sense of optimism that I extend a very happy new year to each of you. As we continue to navigate the landscape of our industry, I am eager to share with you some of the exciting initiatives that not only define our path forward but also present abundant opportunities for our members.
At the forefront of our journey this year is our 2024-25 State Budget Submission — a crafted roadmap reflecting our commitment to our industry’s prosperity.
In our Budget Submission, we have focused on measures that will allow our industry to continue delivering crucial infrastructure and building homes
for Victorians. As one of the industry signatories for the Victorian Affordability Partnership, this year’s budget proposal aims to address the pressing need for new homes in Victoria. The Housing Statement has set a bold target to deliver 80,000 new homes annually, or 800,000 new homes, over the next ten years.
It is vital that the State Government supports our industry by addressing skills shortages, improving planning delivery to ensure future developments meet the needs of our communities and looking towards innovation and sustainability to help deliver these additional new homes. Measures to promote housing affordability and provide certainty for building and construction businesses will ensure that Victoria’s economy will continue to thrive as an economic enabler for the years ahead.
Housing affordability: a home is not just a structure; it’s the cornerstone of dreams and aspirations. In addressing the pressing need for accessible and affordable housing, our Budget Submission meticulously allocates resources to initiatives that enable the delivery of more homes to be built. By embracing inclusivity, we are poised to create a housing landscape that resonates with the diverse needs of our communities.
Skills and training: a skilled and empowered workforce is at the heart of our industry’s resilience. Aligned with this vision, our Budget Submission dedicates substantial resources to comprehensive skills and training programs. These initiatives are not merely about filling skill gaps but cultivating a dynamic, forwardthinking workforce capable of navigating the challenges of tomorrow.
Supporting building and construction businesses: our Budget Submission introduces targeted support mechanisms to bolster the endeavors of our members’ businesses. Whether through financial incentives or streamlined processes, we aim to create a network that nurtures growth, innovation, and sustained success.
Innovation and sustainability: The path to a future-ready industry is paved with innovation and sustainability. Our Budget Submission reflects a commitment to driving change – investing in research, embracing eco-friendly technologies, and championing sustainable
construction practices. Through these initiatives, we position our industry not just as a player but as a global leader in responsible and forward-thinking building solutions.
A copy of our 2024-25 State Budget Submission can be found on our website.
On Friday, 8th March 2024, more than 800 people joined us for our 2024 MBV International Women’s Day Breakfast. Now in its fifth year, the Master Builders Victoria International Women’s Day Breakfast serves as a poignant reminder of the opportunities embedded in diversity. It is a platform for our members to engage in discussions that not only accelerate progress but also present a chance to reshape the narrative of our industry. At MBV, we have a strong focus on supporting women in our industry and encouraging the next generation of young people and Apprentices to enter the industry. We look forward to continuing to promote diversity through several channels.
Despite the challenges that may persist, the prevailing sentiment within our industry is one of resilience and optimism. As we collectively navigate the opportunities and hurdles that 2024 presents, I am confident that our members will emerge stronger, more innovative, and well-positioned to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
To all our dedicated members, we thank you for your continued support of MBV and our work on your behalf. Thanks to you, we can directly support our industry in both growth and sustainability.
Your dedication is the driving force behind the opportunities that await us, and I express my heartfelt gratitude for your support.
Michaela Lihou CEO, Master Builders Victoria2024-25 MBV State Budget Submission
Our fifth International Women’s Day (IWD) Breakfast showed to be our largest IWD event yet with over 830 attendees arriving at the iconic venue Centrepiece, to celebrate the 2024 IWD theme — Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress. The morning was led with inspiration from MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou who spoke about the importance of celebrating women and girls entering and working across our industry, ways that we can pave the way for accelerated and inclusive future and the importance of economic equity, particularly across the building and construction industry.
Our Guest MC, Australian Olympian and Former AFL General Manager of Women’s Football, Nicole Livingstone OAM OLY took us through her experiences in working towards equity for women across male-dominated industries and kept our attendees eagerly joining in the conversation.
Attendees enjoyed a presentation from Special Guest Speaker, Australian Interior Designer and TV Personality, Shaynna Blaze that highlighted some of the impressive trials and triumphs of her career.
After a great start to the morning that was filled with networking, engaging presentations, and sharing breakfast together, we heard from our Guest Panellists:
• Kapitol Group Head of People & Culture: Alice Hanna,
• Bunnings Trade Head of Trade Solutions: Penny Gray; and
• Empowering Women in Trades Chief Operating Officer: Melinda Davis. Together, they shared insights into overcoming barriers for women across our industry, how organisations can ensure women feel valued, respected, and empowered in the workplace and the ways they have seen our industry invest in women.
Manresa Constructions Pty Ltd Contract Administration Cadet, Taylor Hammersley happily left our 2024 MBV IWD Breakfast after winning a $1000 Bunnings voucher thanks to our IWD Centrepiece event sponsor, Bunnings Trade and we’re still hearing about all the positive impact the learnings from our event have had on our members’ teams and the wider industry.
We extend a huge thank you to our 2024 IWD event sponsors who have made this morning one to remember for everyone.
2024 MBV IWD event photo gallery
Guest Panellists: Bunnings Trade Head of Trade Solutions, Penny Gray, Empowering Women in Trades Chief Operating Officer, Melinda Davis, and Kapitol Group Head of People & Culture, Alice Hanna
MBV President, Geoff Purcell and MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou with MBV Board of Management members, Stuart Allen and Gregory Cole
MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou delivering her address
MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou with Guest MC, Nicole Livingstone OAM OLY, and MBV President, Geoff Purcell
Presenting the Welcome to Country is Uncle Tony Garvey
Bunnings Trade have been providing innovative building and hardware solutions for over 130 years. We believe in long-term partnerships based on trust and taking the time to understand our customers’ needs so that we can build the right solution, every time.
Bunnings Trade have been providing innovative building and hardware solutions for over 130 years. We believe in long-term partnerships based on trust and taking the time to understand our customers’ needs so that we can build the right solution, every time.
Bunnings Trade have been providing innovative building and hardware solutions for over 130 years. We believe in long-term partnerships based on trust and taking the time understand our customers’ needs so that we can build the right solution, every time.
WHOLE OF BUILD SOLUTIONS
DEDICATED BUILDERS TEAM
DEDICATED BUILDERS TEAM
OPTIONS
can supply product solutions from foundation through to fit-out, including prefab frames and trusses, commercial windows, kitchens and appliances, flooring, façades and more.
We can supply product solutions from foundation through to fit-out, including prefab frames and trusses, commercial grade windows, kitchens and appliances, flooring, façades and more.
We can supply product solutions from foundation through to fit-out, including prefab frames and trusses, commercial grade windows, kitchens and appliances, flooring, façades and more.
DEDICATED BUILDERS TEAM
Our Account Managers can partner with your business to provide 1:1 support with quotes, product sourcing and project management. Plus, our Trade Specialists in-store can help arrange orders for pick-up or delivery.
Our Account Managers can partner with your business to provide 1:1 support with quotes, product sourcing and project management. Plus, our Trade Specialists in-store can help arrange orders for pick-up or delivery.
Our Account Managers can partner with your business to provide 1:1 support with quotes, product sourcing and project management. Plus, our Trade Specialists in-store can help arrange orders for pick-up or delivery.
DELIVERY OPTIONS
We know how important it is for deliveries to turn up on time. That’s why we have a range of delivery options, from crane trucks to utes, to make sure you get what you need, when you need it.
We know how important it is for deliveries to turn up on time. That’s why we have a range of delivery options, from crane trucks to utes, to make sure you get what you need, when you need it.
We know how important it is for to turn up on time. That’s why we range of delivery options, from crane to utes, to make sure you get what when you need it.
To find out how we can help your next project, contact your Account Manger or call 133 062.
To find out how we can help with your next project, contact your Account Manger or call 133 062. Helping
To find out how we can help with your next project, contact your Account Manger or call 133 062.
Helping business is our trade.
The National Construction Code of Australia (NCC) sets the standard for safety, health, amenity and sustainability in building and construction. But the risks of using non-compliant products are real and can leave installers, builders and suppliers liable for cost of replacement, rectification and consequential damages. The LYSAGHT® range of Australian-made steel building products has been developed, tested and manufactured to not only meet our country’s demanding climatic and geographic requirements but also to provide building designers, builders and owners with the confidence that comes from using our guaranteed compliant products.
The National Construction Code (NCC) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, health, and amenity of buildings in Australia. To enhance compliance with the NCC, two key measures — specifying Australian-made steel building products and conducting product testing according to Australian Standards — can prove instrumental. This feature delves into the significance of these measures in maintaining and elevating construction standards across the Australian building industry.
• Australian steel: choosing Australianmade steel building products aligns with the broader goal of supporting the domestic industry. A preference for locally sourced materials not only contributes to the national economy but also holds distinct advantages for compliance with the NCC
• Quality assurance: Australian-made steel products are subject to stringent quality control measures. These products consistently meet, and often exceed, industry standards, providing a foundation of structural integrity and reliability
• Traceability: the transparency embedded in the supply chain of Australian-made products facilitates traceability, a critical factor in satisfying the NCC’s stringent requirements, which demand a meticulous understanding of the origins and composition of construction materials
• Environmental considerations: beyond quality, the emphasis on environmentally sustainable practices in locally produced steel aligns seamlessly with the NCC’s commitment to fostering sustainable building practices
• Timely delivery: reduced lead times for Australian-made products contribute significantly to timely project completion — an aspect intricately tied to the NCC’s stringent timelines and requirements
In tandem with the specification of Australian-made steel products, subjecting
LYSAGHT® products are tested at Lysaght’s own NATA accredited facility
materials to thorough product testing according to Australian Standards emerges as an indispensable step in ensuring compliance with the NCC. This facet delves into the realm of safety, performance, and the durability of building materials.
• Safety assurance: rigorous testing, a hallmark of Australian Standards, provides designers with reliable product performance data to inform their structural design removing ambiguity and reducing the risk of structural failures, thus securing occupant safety — a cornerstone of NCC regulations
• Durability: product testing scrutinises the durability of materials, aligning seamlessly with the NCC’s emphasis on longevity and resilience in building and construction. This aspect not only safeguards investments but also contributes to the sustainability of structures over time
• Compliance: meeting the specified Australian Standards inherently ensures compliance with the relevant sections of the NCC. This provides a streamlined and coherent approach to regulatory adherence, reducing complexities in navigating the NCC landscape
NCC compliance and LYSAGHT® products
As a BlueScope company, Lysaght has a long term commitment to both local manufacturing and adherence to Australian Standards.
Lysaght commenced manufacturing steel building products in Australia over 100 years ago and has grown to be the country’s largest rollformed products manufacturer. Lysaght locally sources its base products including COLORBOND® steel and ZINCALUME® steel from BlueScope, in keeping with a commitment to sustainable and responsible sourcing.
Sleek, modern home with DOMINION® walling
BlueScope’s Port Kembla and Western Port manufacturing facilities have both achieved certification to the global ResponsibleSteel™ initiative — the global steel industry’s multi-stakeholder sustainability standard and certification program, designed to ensure that customers, stakeholders and consumers can be confident that the steel they use has been sourced and produced responsibly. Similarly, Lysaght’s commitment to product quality and testing has long been a core component of its success. Lysaght established its in-house product research and testing facility over 50 years ago. At this NATA accredited facility Lysaght is able to conduct rigorous and ongoing development and testing of products to ensure ongoing alignment with Australian Standards, and now NCC requirements. Regulatory authorities are increasingly requiring documented evidence of compliance. Since 2019, Lysaght has released a series of documents including supplier declarations and product advisory bulletins; detailing how its products comply with the NCC. The company’s website is a valuable reference source for builders, architects, building owners and others with an interest in NCC compliance details.
To enable direct referencing, Lysaght references the NCC in its technical documentation. All LYSAGHT® products are manufactured and tested to the Australian Standards referenced in the applicable product documentation. Lysaght can also provide project-specific product testing certification from its own NATA accredited facility if required.
For more information about Lysaght and NCC compliance visit: lysaght.com
We would like to congratulate all winners and nominees of our 2024 MBV Regional Apprentice Awards once again.
We saw incredible talent at each event throughout February and March this year and we have thoroughly enjoyed honouring the hard work and dedication
We thank our 2024 MBV Regional Apprentice of the Year Award Sponsors for making this event series extra special for everyone:
across our industry; celebrating the impressive accomplishments of Apprentices, their employers, and their educators throughout Victoria’s regions. Nominated Apprentices are judged on their interview preparation, passion for their work and achievements, their plans for their career, on-site safety and their
individual qualities including: leadership, the ability to work collaboratively and problem-solving. Each of our Regional Apprentice Award winners progress to our 2024 MBV State Apprentice of the Year Awards held at Marvel Stadium on 9th May 2024. We look forward to sharing this special evening with you.
Left: Samuel Graziotin, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Gippsland Finishing Trades Award
Middle: Dale Harris, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Gippsland Future Builder Award
Right: John Saxton, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Gippsland Chairperson’s Award
Left: Mitchell Welsh, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Ballarat Chairperson’s Award
Middle: Devon Orr, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Ballarat Developing Leader Award
Right: Tyson Strachan, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Ballarat Future Builder Award
Left: Phillip Robichaud, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - North East Structural Trades Award
Middle: Fraser McCarty, winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - North East Developing Leader Award
Left: Vincent McLindon winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Bendigo Chairperson’s Award
Middle: Emmie Banfield winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Bendigo Developing Leader Award
Right: Cain Berryman winner of the 2024 MBV Apprentice of the Year - Bendigo Junior Apprentice Award
We actively advocate on behalf of our members for items to be considered in the next Victorian Government budget cycle. Our 2024-25 Budget Submission was sent to the Victorian Treasurer, Tim Pallas, in January after being ratified by our MBV Board in late 2023.
As one of the industry signatories for the Victorian Affordability Partnership, this
year’s budget proposal aims to support the Victorian Housing Statement. We represent over 6,000 stakeholders across the building and construction industry, and they range from both large and small Builders, Tradespeople across the domestic and commercial sectors, as well as Apprentices, Suppliers and Manufacturers. Building and construction is one of the largest sectors in our state’s
economy. When local government tax is included, it accounts for over 59 percent of the state’s tax revenue – the total building and construction work completed in the 2022-23 financial year was valued at $72.09B; equivalent to 12.7 percent of the state’s Gross State Product (GSP). Our industry has one of the largest multiplier effects on our economy, every $1M worth of building activity generates a total of almost $3M in economic activity and supports nine full-time jobs across our economy.
Throughout our Budget Submission, we focused on measures that will allow our industry to continue delivering crucial infrastructure and building homes for Victorians. The Housing Statement has established an ambitious goal to provide 80,000 new homes each year, amounting to 800,000 new homes within the coming decade. It is vital that the State Government supports our industry by addressing skills shortages, improving planning delivery to ensure
future developments meet the needs of our communities and looking towards innovation and sustainability to help deliver these additional new homes. Measures to promote Housing Affordability and provide certainty for building and construction businesses will ensure that Victoria’s economy will continue to thrive as an economic enabler for years ahead.
Our Budget Submission draws upon feedback from across our industry and focuses on the following priority areas:
1. Supporting building and construction businesses
2. Skills and training
3. Innovation and sustainability; and
4. Housing affordability
1. Eliminate ambiguity and make ways for all to contribute
We have identified near and long-term measures which will offer support to our industry to sustain and grow its
considerable contribution to Victoria, including:
• Contractual relief is needed for business certainty, sustainability and maximising the contribution of everyone across our industry. This includes Victorian Government contacts being shared more equitably between the government and industry, and shared across commercial and residential projects with contacts that are standardised and consistent to avoid costs and delays
• Domestic Building Contracts Act reforms create a fit-for-purpose and clear regime for all consumers, including for consumer-contractors, and accommodate modern methods of construction; and
• Appointing a dedicated Minister for Building, Construction and Infrastructure to oversee strategy and our industry
Skills and labour shortages in building and construction are ongoing and are chronic in many trades. Training for local entrants and migrants into the workforce needs to be aligned to our industry’s needs. We have proposed Budget initiatives to enable our industry to reduce skills and workforce shortages, including:
• Engaging with the industry to establish a tailored Visa program to alleviate labour shortages, including a review of the Temporary Skill Visa framework and guidelines
• Lowering the Skilling Australians Fund Migration Levy to make it accessible to more employers
• Increasing financial support for apprenticeship commencements/ completions and commit multiyear funding to establish a new Mental Health Training Program for Apprentices in all trades; and
• Introduce a compulsory Continuous Professional Development scheme to ensure skills and practices are current and sound
Conventional and tested building and construction methods will endure, but modern methods of construction have also become part of the solution to a changing and at times challenging environment. To build more homes, modern methods of construction such as prefabricated and modular buildings are needed. Modern methods can also contribute to sustainability and create additional jobs across our industry. We have proposed budget initiatives to boost and support innovation and sustainability, including:
• Creating an industry-led construction innovation consortium that enhances collaboration between government agencies, industry and stakeholders – similar to the UK’s Construction Innovation Hub model
• Creating a policy environment that de-risks adoption of innovation, along with consistent, ongoing support and incentives for practitioners and consumers (including Builders as consumers); and
• Investing in the development of digital databases and designs, such as materials passports that align with compulsory product certifications and the National Construction Code 2022
4. Make quick, pragmatic changes to get more homes built sooner
Meeting the new homes targets
will require an average of around 30,000 additional homes to be built each year compared to recent years. The government has already made commitments to funding social and affordable housing, including $1B for 1,300 new homes across regional Victoria. We have proposed Budget initiatives to encourage our industry to help deliver the housing affordability priority, including:
• A collaborative tendering process that sees smaller Contractors involved in state-owned/funding housing developments; creating efficiencies and reinforcing our whole industry’s ability to support the surge in building required
• No additional property-related taxes are introduced until the impacts of current tax settings on housing affordability are reviewed, and that stamp duty is replaced by a broadbased land tax; and
• Building high-density residential buildings is incentivised by faster and smarter planning approvals and subdivision practices, state-led land activation, and more cohesive energy and design requirements
We will continue to work with the Victorian Government on its current reforms and press for the adoption of Budget priorities endorsed by our MBV members.
A copy of our 2024-25 State Budget Submission can be found on our website.
I am happy to give my recommendation to use Waterstop Streamline. It is the only modern looking product that I have seen that positively connects the shower screen to the waterproofing in a completely leak free way...
Mr Albert Aeberhard Builder, Hotondo Homes Group ACT
By using Waterstop Streamline I know the shower will be perfect every time. It has to be, because this product is designed to dictate placement of all of the other components to make up the complete shower. It’s virtually impossible to stuff it up.
Mr Glen Whitehead Managing Director, BJM Developments
With so many new products on offer in our industry it is difficult to find time to investigate them all. We are very glad we made time for this one.
Mr Dennis Wright Building and Project Manager, Beazley Homes
My business has expanded rapidly since we started using the Waterstop Streamline hob and now I have tilers voluntarily recommending the Waterstop system – and me – to other builders. Everyone that uses it loves it.
Waterstop is easy to order with efficient delivery. It has given us the edge on our competitors and is our preferred method of waterproofing and tiling showers.
Mr Fred Meddings Managing Director, Watertight Australia (Waterproofers)
IF YOU ARE ONE OF OUR COMPETITORS READING THIS AD PLEASE IGNORE.
Switching to the Waterstop Streamline system has been a fantastic result for the company. It ticks all the boxes by being modern, sleek, easy to install and failsafe.
Costly repairs associated with leaking shower trays are now a thing of the past.
Luke Pearce QLD Construction Manager, Devine Homes
Tony Glover Tony Glover Tiling & Waterproofing
Waterstop Streamline – Why would anyone use anything else to build a shower?
At last someone has got a product together that not only works, but it looks good and is so easy for every trade to work with. It even comes with step by step instructions on the protective tape.
Mr Andrew Shailer Andrew Shailer Tiling
Using Waterstop Streamline in all our shower areas has made life easy for waterproofing and our tilers. They are so simple to install and always look very professional. I recommend to all my clients to use the Waterstop Streamline system in their shower areas.
Mr Kerry Blake Director, Blake’s Waterproofing
We would like to remind our members to utilise our free ‘Building Wellbeing’ online learning modules that we created with Hope Assistance Local Tradies and Gambler’s Help
Our member-exclusive online learning
modules aim to address common mental health challenges that exist within our industry.
These modules are designed to equip our members and their teams with the fundamental knowledge and skills to assist your co-worker, friend or loved
one who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide, gambling harm or substance misuse.
Throughout our short videos, experts talk us through common signs of someone who might be struggling with their wellbeing and where they may be able to find assistance towards a healthier future.
These modules are followed by a short quiz; complementing the content in the videos. This is a great addition to any onboarding process or workplace refresher training.
If you are a MBV member and you would like to enrol into our ‘Building Wellbeing’ learning modules and work towards sharing knowledge about wellness across our industry, please e-mail wellness_committee@mbav.com.au
Apprenticeships play a key role in addressing the labour and skills shortages currently facing our industry.
They offer mutually beneficial arrangements for aspiring Tradespeople to gain experience in a trade and for businesses gaining an extra pair of hands to assist with works.
Taking on an Apprentice may seem too complicated, especially for small businesses, so we have provided some
general guidance and outlined the minimum requirements of engaging an Apprentice for you to consider.
What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships combines practical experience at work with off-the-job training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Apprenticeships provide training in a skilled trade, such as carpentry or bricklaying. Generally, they can take up to four-years to complete.
How do I find and set up an Apprentice?
One way find an Apprentice is to visit the
Master Builders Victoria Careers Hub.
Our Careers Hub is designed to connect those looking for an opportunity across the building and construction industry with our MBV members.
Once you have found an Apprentice, the Australian Apprenticeship Support Networks (AASNs) provide a free service to facilitate the sign-up of the apprenticeship. They can assist with:
• Organising the Training Contract
• Assessing eligibility for incentives and subsidies
• Finding an Apprentice; and
• Support throughout the apprenticeship
To qualify as an apprenticeship, there must be a Contract of Training in place between the Apprentice and the employer and it must be registered with a Registered Training Organisation RTO. Please note that there is no such thing as ‘trial’ apprenticeship paid at Apprentice rates.
Where you engage an Apprentice directly, we recommend you formalise the employment relationship in writing through a letter of engagement. Putting a letter of engagement in place sets expectations and ensures there is no ambiguity regarding employment terms and conditions. The letter of engagement outlines items such as:
• Role and responsibilities
• Award coverage
• Probation period
• Ordinary hours of work and hourly rate of pay
• Leave entitlements; and
• Notice of termination
There are also other mandatory steps you must undertake as part of the onboarding process such as: collecting the employee’s details, providing them
with the superannuation choice form and form and giving them the Fair Work Information Statement. At MBV, we have a checklist that we can provide our members so nothing is missed.
What are the minimum terms and conditions for Apprentices?
The National Employment Standards apply to all employees across our industry, including Apprentices. Therefore, Apprentices receive entitlements such as: annual leave, paid personal leave, compassionate leave, public holidays and, notice of termination.
Apprentices are also covered by Modern Awards. Modern Award coverage depends on the industry the Apprentice is working in. However, the majority of MBV members will be covered by the Building and Construction General Onsite Award 2020 (Award). The Award sets the minimum terms and conditions of employment, Apprentices are entitled to all provisions under the award, including annual leave loading.
The Award also sets a minimum rate of pay for Apprentices depending on the industry they are working in, their age at the commencement of their apprenticeship, the stage of apprenticeship and their trade qualification. Apprentices are paid their base rate of pay for all ordinary hours worked, including when they are absent from work to attend off-the-job training. Apprentices are also entitled to overtime rates where they work beyond eighthours on any given day.
Employers are required to reimburse Apprentices for course fees charged by training providers, including costs for prescribed textbooks.
Apprentices are entitled to a daily travelling allowance, where they start and finish on a construction site and they
make their own way to the construction site each day. This allowance is a percentage of the full allowance based on the stage of their apprenticeship. What else might I need to consider?
You must ensure your Apprentice is registered with LeavePlus. LeavePlus is the construction industry portable long service leave scheme. Most Apprentices that work on-site are captured under this scheme. Ensuring that you have adequate WorkCover Insurance that covers the Apprentice in almost all situations is vital.
Apprentices are entitled to superannuation contributions too. An employer’s superannuation contributions is 11 percent (which will increase to 11.5 percent on 1st July 2024) of an employee’s Ordinary Time Earnings. Do you need further assistance or more information?
If you would like further information and templates on becoming a master of apprenticeship engagement, please contact the MBV employment and industrial relations team on (03) 9411 4555 or eir@mbav.com.au.
Our MBV website also has further information regarding AASNs and subsidies.
Please note the information contained in this article is for general purposes only. It does not constitute professional or legal advice.
Kate Campbell MBV Employment & Industrial Relations Advisor
&
Previous research has consistently shown that women tend to retire with less super than men. The latest statistics show a 25 percent difference, with the median balance for those aged between 60 and 64 at $211,996 for men and $158,806 for women.1
Why women accumulate less super
• Unpaid care: women are more likely to take more time out of paid work to care for families2
• Part-time and casual employment: women are more likely to work parttime and represent only 42 percent of full-time workers3
• The gender pay gap: on average, women earn 22.8 percent less than men and are generally underrepresented in management2
• Longer lifespan: women also live longer than men4, which means it’s even more important they have enough super to last in retirement
What can you do about this?
The good news is that more recent research has shown the gap slowly closing over the last decade due to an increased focus on this issue and improving the retirement outcomes for women.5 This further highlights the importance of advocacy and education by super funds.
There are also actions you can take to improve the outcomes:
• Make sure your employer is paying your super: employers must pay the minimum Super Guarantee which is 11 percent of your wages
1 The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia, ASFA Research: An update on superannuation account balances, November 2023, https://www.superannuation. asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2311_An_update_on_ superannuation_account_balances_Paper_V2.pdf
2 Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Women’s economic security in retirement Insight Paper, February 2020, https://www.wgea.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/ Women%27s_economic_security_in_retirement.pdf
3 Workplace Gender Equality Agency, Australia’s Gender Equality Scorecard, December 2022, https:// www.wgea.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/
• Top up your super by making extra contributions: even small amounts can make a big difference in the long-term
• Combine your super: consider consolidating your super into one account and avoid paying multiple fees
• Find your lost super: there is $16B
WGEA-Gender-Equality-Scorecard-2022.pdf
4 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Life expectancy hits a new high, 4 November 2021, https://www.abs.gov.au/mediacentre/media-releases/life-expectancy-hits-new-high
5 Roy Morgan, Women are (slowly) closing the superannuation gap, 18 April 2023, https://www.roymorgan. com/findings/9203-superannuation-gender-gap-closing
6 Australian Taxation Office, Check your myGov account for your share of $16 billion in lost and unclaimed super, 27 February 2023, https://www.ato.gov.au/media-centre/checkyour-mygov-account-for-your-share-of-16-billion-dollars-
in lost and unclaimed super across Australia.6 Find out if yours is one of them by logging into MyGov and linking your ATO online account
• Seek advice and education: the Cbus Super team is available to assist members and we offer a range of education webinars at no extra cost
There’s a lot you can do to boost your super and improve the quality of your retirement. And if you need help, call Cbus Super on 1300 361 784.
This information is about Cbus Super. It doesn’t account for your specific needs. Please consider your financial position, objectives and requirements before making financial decisions. Read the Employer Handbook, relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination to decide if Cbus Super is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au
United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 (Cbus and/or Cbus Super)
Over the last few months, we have received several questions about a replacement template industry enterprise agreement for the CFMEU EA 20-23. This industry template for many
members passed its nominal expiration on 30th June 2023, leaving concerns around potential industrial action and no certainty around wage increases from 1st March 2024.
To provide some clarity, we have provided answers to the common questions we have received from members.
Q: When are we likely to see a new template industry agreement?
A: At the time of writing, we anticipate that a template industry agreement will be circulated in industry during the second quarter of the 2024 year. However, this could be subject to change, and we will continue to keep you informed should there be any major changes to this timeline.
Q: Do I have to sign the industry template agreement?
A: No. It is a business decision whether to make the industry template agreement. You should consider factors such as your operating environment,
clients, employees, costs and the conditions contained within the template as to whether you use it.
We understand that many of our members may face industrial pressure to have an industry template agreement in certain segments of the industry. We remind members that it is illegal for someone to coerce you to make an enterprise agreement or discriminate against you based on your industrial instrument (i.e., type of enterprise agreement).
Q: Can I make the industry template agreement through MBV?
A: Yes. We find many members prefer
to engage the MBV employment & industrial relations (EIR) team to make the industry template enterprise agreement. You can trust us as your employer association, to guide and support you through each step of the process and ensure we represent your best interests. We can even help facilitate discussions with the union if necessary.
Q: What if I wanted to make a different enterprise agreement or continue to be covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020?
A: We can advise you about appropriate industrial arrangements for your circumstances. Whether you decide to continue to use the Award or have a bespoke company enterprise agreement, we help you put in place arrangements that are suitable for your business circumstances.
Our EIR team has helped countless members make bespoke company enterprise agreement that are not based on the industry agreement template.
Q: What role has MBV played in the development of the industry template agreement?
A: Following feedback from our survey, industry forums and direct member engagement, MBV has acted as a representative voice for industry. We have sought to influence outcomes on certain clauses through dialogue with employers and the union. We have tried to ensure that workable and sustainable arrangements are in place for all industry stakeholders, small or large.
Q: Where can I get further information?
A: If you are after further information on the industry template or would like advice on your industrial relations strategy, please call the MBV EIR team for a confidential discussion on (03) 9411 4555.
Please note the information in this article is accurate at time of writing. Nothing in this article constitutes professional advice. It is general in nature only.
MBV employment and industrial relations team
The state of the industry
Our industry’s resilience continues to shine through
As we approach the end of the 2023–24 financial year, many industry professionals will be reflecting on the current financial year and what lies ahead.
The Victorian Government’s Housing Statement has set some very ambitious targets for our industry to work towards.
The latest quarterly economic snapshot (pages 36, 37) for Victoria indicates a slight softening for building approvals
for residential construction and a greater reduction for multi-unit developments. This will not surprise those in the industry, as the need to balance costs and risks against the fundamentals of project feasibility continues. While inflation has eased, interest rates remain high for both industry and consumers. In addition, there are the necessary carbon and energy performance targets to contend with and the associated
implications for skills and training, not to mention the building retrofit workforce.
Based on these trends, changes will be needed in regulatory and tax settings, as well as industry participation, to reach the number of homes envisaged in the State Government’s Housing Statement – building up to 80,000 homes per year for a ten-year period.
Real-world sector experiences tell us prevailing challenges and barriers continue to hamper business certainty and sustainability, and are standing in the way of our industry’s potential to build.
Industry participation
A significant hurdle to project viability is the lack of access to trades and a pipeline of new and appropriately skilled entrants into the industry. It will not be news to many that the building and construction industry needs to get better at attracting and retaining more people. This includes enticing a more diverse workforce, including women and people from diverse backgrounds who typically do not perceive building and construction as a choice for them.
Allied to this is the need for our industry to embrace new ways of working; creating new types of construction jobs.
Our industry’s message about the opportunities of working across our industry needs to be reframed to positively reach:
• Women — who account for 51 percent of the population, but typically, our industry remains unappealing to them
• Students in late primary and early secondary school — as they make decisions on what subjects to focus on, they should be provided with the right type of information when it comes to career options across the building and construction industry
• People with transferrable skills from other industries looking at moving into the building and construction industry; and
• Migrants and people from diverse backgrounds who may not have a clear understanding of the various career paths available for them across our industry
The most recent quarterly economic snapshot for Victoria (pages 36, 37) shows there was an increase in the number of people working across our industry – almost 29,000 to 361,878 since the last quarterly snapshot. We want to ensure that this number keeps growing and provides a sound foundation for building and construction
across Victoria.
To help shape our industry’s message, we are developing programs to link school students with engaging information and possible placements with MBV members. We plan to target younger year levels with information on what a career in building and construction may look like for them. This follows the findings from our commissioned research in 2023 that showed young women make career choices earlier than their male counterparts (Scott-Young, C. M., Borg, J., and Borg, N.2023, Embracing gender diversity post-COVID: Improving the attraction of women to construction trades apprenticeships. RMIT University.)
Supporting and empowering our industry
At MBV, we continue to constructively engage with key Ministers, agencies, and stakeholders, and we recognise the collective ongoing effort to make positive and meaningful changes to address our industry’s skills shortage. We acknowledge the State Government’s work to reform building and planning systems and the attempt to remove barriers and create fast-track processes. The aim of aligning the new Plan for Victoria with the Housing Statement initiative is commendable. However, bolder steps and collaboration are needed, including: reducing building and planning red tape and backlogs, purposefully training more skilled labour, creating fit-for-purpose contracting arrangements, and providing more productive incentives and protections for Builders and consumers.
We have outlined our agenda for improvements and changes within our 2024-25 MBV State Budget Submission, which should be tabled in Parliament in late May. We are eager to see what support there is in the 2024-25 State Budget and associated government reforms to create an environment where Builders can get on with what they do best — building. 2024-25 MBV State Budget Submission
50,911 13,320 15,025
Building approvals 12 months to December 2023
Building Work Commencements
September Quarter 2023
Building Work Completions
September Quarter 2023
Multi-units account for 35.8% of total building approvals
18,240 multi-unit
32,671 detached
Rising interest rates and inflation have led to declining building and construction activity
Interest rates have increased to 4.35% as of January 2024
Value of Non-Residential Work Done: September Quarter 2023
$4.85 Billion Non-Residential Work Done
$3.44 Billion Private Sector Work Done 29.1% Non-Residential Works invested by Public Sector
37,406 Civil Construction Builders 110,407 Residential/Commercial Builders
Renovations: $278,357 (- 9.6%) Average Loan Values 3 months to December 2023 (Quarterly Change) Construction New Dwelling: $575,682 (+ 1.3%)
Purchase New Dwelling: $552,018 (+ 4.4%)
Purchase Residential Land: $342,332 (+ 4.8%)
Purchase Existing Dwelling: $596,978 (+ 1.3%)
What they are and how to use them in your contracts
Whilst you should aim to fix all items and specify items of work in a contract, prime cost items and provisional sum allowances can be useful for situations where this is not possible.
Prime cost item
The Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (The Act) defines a prime cost item as, ‘an item that either has not been selected, or whose price is not known, at the time a domestic building contract
is entered into and for the cost of supply and delivery of which the Builder must make a reasonable allowance in the contract.’
Fixtures and fittings are commonly included as prime cost items within
domestic building contracts such as handles, stovetops and ovens. A homeowner may wish to select these items at a date later than when the contract was first entered into.
The Builder’s profit, supply of materials and installation are included within the contract price for prime cost items.
Provisional sum
The Act defines a provisional sum as ‘an estimate of the cost of carrying out particular work (including the cost of supplying any materials needed for the work) under a domestic building contract for which a Builder, after making all reasonable inquiries, cannot give a definite amount at the time the contract is entered into.’
A provisional sum is an ‘all-inclusive’ item as it accounts for both the provision of materials in addition to the installation or labour cost – landscaping is an example of an item commonly included as a provisional sum in a contract.
How to include prime cost items and provisional sums into your contracts
The law requires that if any prime cost items or provisional sum allowances are included, the contract must contain a separate schedule for each item or sum that sets out:
• A detailed description of the item or the work to which the sum relates
• A breakdown of the cost estimate for each item or sum (outlining at least the estimated quantities and a unit cost); and
• If the Builder proposes to charge any amount in excess of the actual amount of any increase to the item or sum, how that excess amount is to be determined
You can find these schedules in Item 21 and 22 of the Appendix section of the MBV New Homes and Home Improvement Contracts.
allowance, the homeowner must pay the difference and where specified, pay the Builder’s margin.
Calculation of Prime Cost Items and Provisional Sums
It is not enough to simply ‘hazard a guess’ when determining the prime cost and provisional sums to include in a contract. The Act provides that it is an offence to include an allowance that is less than the reasonable cost for supplying the item. Reasonable care and skill must be undertaken by the Builder to ensure that the figures are as accurate as practicable at the time.
Note that under Section 20 of the Act, the Builder warrants that any provisional sum has been calculated with reasonable care and skill, taking into account all information reasonably available at the date the contract is made, including the nature and location of the building site. In addition, the Builder should aim to include as much detail as is practicable when describing these items. This allows for greater transparency and limits ambiguity which may lead to disputes during and after works are complete.
Key message
It is always preferable that where an item of a component of work is known, that these details be clearly detailed and specified in the contract.
Under the Act, the Builder is required to provide to the homeowner evidence of costs incurred for any prime cost item or provisional sum. Invoices, receipts, or other relevant documentation relating to prime cost items and provisional sum allowances must be provided to the owner as soon as practicable, otherwise the Builder could be subject to a penalty under the Act. Copies are typically also provided at the next stage of a payment claim.
When actual costs differ from allowances
Clause 9.5 of the New Homes and Home Improvement Contract states that when the actual cost is less than the prime cost item or provisional sum allowance, the Builder must deduct the difference from the contract price.
Conversely, Clause 9.6 of the New Homes and Home Improvement states that when the actual cost exceeds the prime cost item or provisional sum
Accordingly, prime cost items and provisional sum allowances should only be used in circumstances where at the time of entering into the contract, the Builder after making all reasonable inquiries, cannot give a definitive amount for that item of component of work. It is important that where prime costs and provisional sum allowances are used in a contract, the correct procedure for selection and claiming payment must be followed or else penalties and/or disciplinary action may result.
For more information, contact the MBV legal team on (03) 9411 4555.
Monique Burns MBV Senior Legal Counsel/Legal Manager
Imported NON-COMPLIANT
The unique markings on the longitudinal and crossbars of the mesh do not match the markings on the quality certificate sent to the customer.
1. Verify the markings on the mesh MATCH the markings on the certificate.
If they don’t match, return the mesh to the supplier as non-conforming product.
2. Buy steel mesh from a SRIA member.
ALL SRIA members hold current JASANZ accredited 3rd party certification to prove their mesh conforms to AS/NZS 4671.
Don’t take the risk of having to replace the building or structure because you used non-conforming steel mesh.
MBV Senior Advisor, Future Built Environment, Dr. Philip Alviano, has represented the MBV team by taking part in the Building 4.0 Cooperative Research Centre (CRC), who have completed numerous projects looking at the future of construction.
In early February 2024, the CRC undertook an International Research Tour of San Francisco and the Greater Bay Area where they visited a number of research institutions and met with many building and construction organisations to learn about trends, challenges and considerations across the building and construction industry in the San Francisco and the Greater Bay Area in America.
From this research, we have gained an insight into the many similarities and challenges they have with the Australian building and construction industry. These include: a current housing shortage, the rising costs of materials and labour and a
skills shortage, with the expectation that 40 percent of this areas workforce will retire within the next few years.
The tour group visited a number of off-site construction companies that employed a range of methods and technologies to improve the efficiency of the process and the quality of the finished product.
This tour group also took partipated in an Industrialised Construction
Forum at Stanford University where topics included: using industrialised or off-site construction methodologies when renovating for improved energy efficiency, how to maximise the effectiveness of off-site construction, lessons learnt from recent construction innovations and industry transformation plans.
We look forward to learning more from his research and sharing these insights with our members and our industry.
Building 4.0 CRC – International Research Tour of San Francisco and the Greater Bay Area Stanford University Industrialised Forum Off-site construction company, Factory Offsite who operate from a former submarine building warehouse
Engaging in tasks such as lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, or moving objects or individual items can constitute hazardous manual handling (HMH) in your work. This type of manual handling becomes hazardous when it involves repeated or sustained force application, sustained awkward postures, repetitive movements, single or repeated use of high force; leading to potential difficulty, exposure to sustained vibrations, handling live people or animals and dealing with loads that are unstable, unbalanced or challenging to hold.
HMH is the primary cause of injuries in workplaces across Victoria and contrary to common perception, HMH extends beyond lifting heavy objects — tasks like using powered hand tools, holding materials while installing and even using a keyboard can also fall under this category.
Injuries resulting from HMH are referred to as musculoskeletal disorders and can include sprains, strains, back injuries, soft-tissue injuries to wrists, arms, shoulders, neck and legs, hernia, as well as chronic pain.
To proactively manage risks, employers should routinely review and, if needed, adjust risk controls in their Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS). This is especially crucial when there are changes in work processes or environments.
In cases where existing risk control measures are deemed inadequate or upon the request of a Health and Safety Representative, a comprehensive review and adjustment of controls becomes essential.
Carmel Peterson MBV OHS AdvisorIt is so important for employers to remain informed about any updates to ensure they adhere to current regulations. To address proper manual handling across the workplace, employers are encouraged to identify and rectify potential risks. WorkSafe Victoria provides tools and guides in the Compliance Code: Hazardous Manual Handling which is accessible here — https://www.worksafe.vic. gov.au/construction-safer-manualhandling-posters
The MBV OHS team is readily available to assist our members with any enquiries around HMH and their obligations.
Contact us at
Following a roaring success in 2023, we are pleased to bring back our Local Networking Event series this year.
Our Local Networking Events are casual forums where members, suppliers and industry professionals meet over shared food to network, ask our MBV team questions and hear from a variety of Guest Speakers who provide presentations on local industry matters. These events often include games, prizes and live demonstrations from our
to its local area – proving Guest Speakers and information from local tenders and Council updates to tips on how to effectively manage finances when it comes to building and construction.
We encourage our members to take advantage of the networking opportunities at our 2024 MBV Local Networking Events – you never know who you may connect with.
These events will be held throughout the year at several locations and regions across Victoria and are not to be missed. Keep an eye out on our website and our events calendar to see when and where our next Local Networking Event will be.
What to expect
What is an improvement notice?
An improvement notice is a written notice issued by a WorkSafe Victoria Inspector pursuant to section 111 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (VIC) (OHS Act) that requires a duty holder (e.g. an employer) to rectify a perceived health and safety problem in their workplace.
Once issued, an improvement notice must be complied with before the day that is stated in the notice, failure to do so is an offence.
When is an improvement notice issued?
A WorkSafe Victoria Inspector has the power to issue an improvement notice if they reasonably believe that a duty holder:
a. Contravening a provision of the OHS Act or regulations; or
b. Has contravened such a provision in circumstances that make it likely that the contravention will continue or be repeated
An improvement notice should list the facts relied on by the Inspector to give rise to their reasonable belief along with other information set out in the OHS Act.
In most cases, a duty holder will consider the improvement notice and accept that an Inspector has a reasonable basis to hold the requisite belief.
However, in situations where this is not the case (e.g., because the facts that the Inspector is relying on are not correct), a duty holder can seek a review of an improvement notice. A duty holder should also consider whether taking the steps set out in the written notice will be evidence of admission of a breach of the OHS Act.
The internal and external review mechanisms available to duty holders are outlined below:
A duty holder to who has been issued with an improvement notice may apply to WorkSafe Victoria for an internal review of an Inspector’s decision to issue the improvement notice. An application for an internal review must be in the approved form (which can be found on WorkSafe Victoria’s website) and made within 14-days after the day on which the decision first came to the duty holder’s notice. An internal review application made outside this timeframe will only be considered at WorkSafe Victoria’s discretion.
A duty holder should also consider
IF NOT GRANTED
accompanying their internal review application with a request that the operation of the improvement notice be stayed pending the outcome of the internal review (stay application). If no stay application is made, the operation of the improvement notice will be taken to remain in force while WorkSafe Victoria conducts its internal review.
Once an application for an internal review is received by WorkSafe Victoria, it must undertake an internal review within 14-days. Within this time, WorkSafe Victoria must provide a written notice to the duty holder that sets out the result of its internal review — to affirm, vary or set aside the improvement notice (internal review decision). If WorkSafe Victoria fails to do so, then it can be deduced that WorkSafe Victoria affirms the Inspector’s decision to issue the improvement notice.
Alternatively, a stay application must be considered by WorkSafe Victoria within 24-hours. If WorkSafe Victoria fails to consider a stay application within this time, then it will be taken that they have granted the stay application.
If a duty holder disagrees with the result of an internal review (including a decision concerning a stay application), the duty
WITHIN 14 DAYS
WITHIN 24 HOURS
WITHIN 14 DAYS
WITHIN 14 DAYS
holder may apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for an external review.
A VCAT external review application must be lodged within 14-days of the internal review decision that is brought to the duty holder’s attention (or not brought to the duty holder’s attention, in the event that WorkSafe Victoria failed to complete its internal review within the 14-day period).
In conducting its external review, VCAT will ‘stand in the shoes’ of the Inspector and reconsider the decision to issue an improvement notice to the duty holder, based on the information it has received. Ultimately, they will be:
• Affirming the improvement notice
• Varying the improvement notice
• Setting aside the improvement notice and substituting its own decision; and
• Setting aside the improvement notice and sending the matter back to WorkSafe Victoria for reconsideration giving directions or recommendations
At any time during the external review, VCAT may also invite WorkSafe Victoria to reconsider its decision to issue the improvement notice.
Once again, a duty holder should
WITHIN 14 DAYS
consider accompanying their external review application with a request that the operation of the improvement notice be stayed pending the outcome of the external review. If not, the operation of the improvement notice will remain in force. If a stay application is made to VCAT, WorkSafe Victoria will be asked whether they agree to any stay. If they do not agree, VCAT may hold a preliminary hearing before deciding whether to grant a stay.
Employers and other duty holders should promptly seek legal advice if they receive an improvement notice that they do not consider has been issued correctly.
MBV members are always welcome to contact our dedicated OHS team at ohs@mbav.com.au for any queries relating to OHS, including improvement notices. We remain committed to assisting our members throughout their day-to-day operations.
Jay Durrant MBV OHS Manager
Last year’s 2023 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards Best Sustainable Home category was filled with excellent projects that have pushed the boundaries in construction quality to deliver a wide range of sustainability objectives including: energy efficiency, occupant comfort and waste reduction.
2023 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards — Best Sustainable Home Over $1M
The winner of our 2023 MBV Excellence
in Housing Awards — Best Sustainable Home Over $1M Award was Ovens & King Builders’ Orchard Court Passiv Haus project in Bright, Melbourne.
This Ovens & King Builders project reflects their client’s value for a highly sustainable home, inclusive of energy efficiency without compromising on an exceptional design and internal finishes.
The Orchard Court Passiv Haus project proudly achieved an 8.4 Star NatHERS rating and was built to the Passive House
standard. These accomplishments were achieved by using excellent passive solar design, external blinds, triple glazed windows with thermally broken frames and a post-construction tested airtightness of less than 0.6 ACH@50Pa.
The fresh, filtered air is provided with a heat recovery ventilation unit; eliminating pollen and dust and ensuring that carbon dioxide does not build up inside the house and balances the air temperature throughout. If required, additional filters
Designer: Mountain Creek Architecture Photographer: Richard Iskov — Little Brother Media
Designer: Hargreaves Design Group
Photographer: Michael Bottomer — Life Through a Lens
can be activated to prevent smoke and fine ash particles in the case of nearby fires.
This one-of-a-kind home has been built to be powered by 30 kW of solar panels and a 10 kWh battery – combined with the extremely low energy required to heat and cool the house, this home will produce more power than the house will use.
The Orchard Court Passiv Haus project received praise for not only its sustainability energy efficiency but also its high level of occupant health and comfort. The appliances throughout the home are able to continue to operate in the event of the loss of power from the grid and the inclusion of an electric vehicle charging point provides a costeffective transport option while all the water usage for the house and garden is provided by a large rainwater tank.
With over 37-years’ experience building award winning homes across Victoria’s North East area, Ovens & King Builders continue to deliver projects that have not only our awards judges but our industry
taking note of their accomplishments. 2023 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards — Best Sustainable Home Under $1M
The winner of our 2023 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards — Best Sustainable Home Under $1M Award was Coy’s Construction’s Kangaroo Ground Warrandyte Road project, located in Kangaroo Ground, Victoria.
Given the location of this impressive project, this home was built to comply with a BAL 29 bushfire rating. The Passiv Haus principles applied to this project included: minimising thermal bridges, air tightness and the inclusion of a heat recovery ventilation system.
Upon the project’s completion, blower door testing showed that the Kangaroo Ground Warrandyte Road project achieved a result of 1.31 ACH/50Pa which is well below the NCC maximum of 10 and will provide high indoor air quality.
The block placement of the home was carefully considered to maximise the benefits of passive solar design
by increasing sunlight exposure and preventing the removal of mature trees. This home’s energy efficiency was also boosted by using thermally broken double glazed windows and the insulation of the subfloor. A heat pump hot water system was included, and maintenance and durability challenges were mitigated by installing quality building wraps and battening the walls to create an air cavity and cladding with Axon cement sheet.
Coy’s Constructions maintained sustainability practices throughout their project’s management system including: minimising waste by ordering timber to size, the separation of material on-site into recyclable, reusable and sellable items and also minimising paper use by utilising an online paperless construction management system.
Coy’s Construction’s were proud to have delivered this energy efficient, comfortable and healthy home in line with their clients budget and vision to incorporate Passiv Haus principles into the design.
Bradley Watts
PROJECT MANAGER, SHAPE
When you are consulting with a homeowner to carry out a building project, it is important that you ensure the documentation provided is descriptive enough for you to effectively price, prepare contracts and carry out the proposed building work. Our MBV technical and registration team receive numerous calls from members seeking information about the requirements for various design aspects of building projects. While we support our members, in many instances the answers should be detailed within the documentation for the project. Quality documentation is an integral tool that offers Builders a better opportunity to meet their contractual and legal
obligations as a Building Practitioner. Ensuring you have quality documentation prior to commencing any project will mean:
• You can provide a more accurate estimation of costs
• It assists your Trades to know what is expected of them when carrying out work on-site
• The documentation supports conversations between you, your client and the project team
• Potentially improved build quality; and
• A reduced likelihood of potential risks and claims
Each practitioner in the design and
construction chain each have a role to play. The Designer’s role is to prepare documentation that is sufficient to tender, for contractual purposes and to obtain building permits. The current legislation regarding obligations for Designers is quite vague, however that does not preclude others in the chain to ask for more detail regarding the design of the building. The role of the relevant Building Surveyor is to provide independent oversight and assess compliance of both the design and the construction of a building project.
Your role as the Builder is to carry out, manage and arrange the building works. The most effective way to do this is to follow the detailed documentation that has been approved by the relevant Building Surveyor. There may be instances where you may not agree with the design documentation which is fine but you should always discuss and raise these concerns with your client, the Designer and the Building Surveyor. Under no circumstances should you proceed without relevant approval.
If you have any queries about documentation, MBV members can contact our MBV technical advisory team at techandreg@mbav.com.au
• Double glazed windows and doors
• Superior energy performance
• U-Values as low as 1.9
• Embedded framing for clean sightlines
• Australian designed & manufactured AFFORDABLE, ENERGY EFFICIENT, ELEGANCE
Uw From 1.9
From roof colour to insulation, from appliances to landscaping elements, all the material selections made in a project form a part of the build’s overall sustainability — the outcome.
MBV members are tasked with the most important objectives; managing client expectations, design intent — and of course budget — all within site parameters and building compliance. When it comes to achieving or exceeding a 7-star energy rating as part of the National Construction Code 2022 requirements, few of these choices offer as much scope for variation and
flexibility as the selection and application of window and door systems as a major component of the thermal envelope of the building.
Well specified windows and doors can be the difference between a thermally efficient design which is delivered within the budget versus an over-engineered, high performing build that can confuse the most experienced specifier and possibly exceed the budget — perhaps unnecessarily.
Thermally broken windows have long held the title of one of the most energy efficient solutions by offering the broadest application for use. By
insulating the pathway for thermal transmission through the window frame, it’s a clever way to make the most from the durability of aluminium while reducing its conductivity – but extra components inevitably mean more assembly and a comparatively higher price tag.
So, is there a cost-efficient way to maximise energy gains, while maintaining strength and design flexibility, without necessarily turning to thermally broken windows?
That’s a question both asked and answered by leading supplier of aluminium windows and doors in Australia — Architectural Window Systems (AWS).
This fundamental question was asked over ten years ago and it led to the development of a more cost effective, energy efficient solution which also offers a contemporary design aesthetic in the current market.
Cue ComfortEDGE™
ComfortEDGE is an elegant, doubleglazed solution for residential applications that rivals the energy efficiency of thermally broken products. Its embedded frames provide a sleek design comprising fewer components than thermally broken counterparts, making it a cost-effective, wholly Australian-made option for Australian projects.
ComfortEDGE recognises that clever design doesn’t have to be complicated, and skilfully minimises the amount of exposed frame by embedding into the timber reveal, insulating against the environment, to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort.
ComfortEDGE truly is the perfect meeting point of form and functionality. It’s stylish and high performing, with U Values as low as 1.9 — placing you in the best position to meet 7-star energy provisions while keeping your budget on track.
How will you know if ComfortEDGE is right for your project?
AWS recommends consulting your specification expert early in the design process, taking a holistic approach to build sustainably and to meet energy compliance on budget.
For Designers looking to harness the vast possibilities afforded by Australian designed and manufactured architectural windows, give your AWS specifier team member a call and reap the rewards.
Contact AWS on 1300 026 189.
Additional changes to come into effect on 1st May 2024
We would like to remind our MBV members that whilst the National Construction Code 2022 (NCC) was adopted in 2023, a few additional key provisions will come into effect on 1st May 2024.
It is important for Builders to be aware of these new provisions, so we encourage you to consult with your project’s Designer(s) and the appointed Building Surveyor to ensure that the designs comply with the relevant provisions of the NCC.
These key NCC changes coming into effect include:
• Livable housing
• Energy efficiency; and
• Condensation management Livable housing
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) Livable Housing Design Standard will now become an integral tool for carrying out renovations or building a new home. The following considerations will need to be made:
• Having step-free access paths to the entry of the home
• The entrance to the dwelling needs to be step free, with a minimum clear opening width of 820mm
• Having minimum landing sizes at the dwelling entrance
• Internal doorways to have a clear
opening width of 820mm that serves access to a habitable room on the entrance level, access to the dwelling, a sanitary compartment or room containing a shower.
• Corridor widths should be a minimum of 1000mm
• A minimum of one shower must be hobless and step-free
• Reinforcing will be required behind wall linings to shower, bath, and toilet walls so grabrails can be readily fitted in the future; and
• Rooms with a shower and/or toilet will require minimum circulation spaces
Condensation management
The way we build and live in our homes can cause condensation which can be a significant health risk and can impact the durability of the materials within our home. The following changes have been made to reduce the likelihood of condensation:
• Ventilating roof spaces at the eave line and ridge
• The vapour permeance of the pliable membrane in the wall and roof
• Using exhaust fans to ventilate to the outside air
• Interconnecting fans with lights and a timer switch; and
• Make up air to rooms with ventilation system
Energy efficiency
Having an energy efficient home can support a reduction in consumer costs
for heating and cooling a home. In addition, it is a pathway to support the reduction in carbon emissions to counteract climate change. Key Energy Efficiency changes to consider are:
• Shifting from a 6 star to a 7 star energy rating
• Conducting a ‘whole of home’ assessment which considers the energy usage of domestic services, such as: the hot water system, the heating and cooling system, the pool, and the spa pump — this can be offset by the energy generated by a photovoltaic system
• Slab insulation requirements; and
• Class 2 apartment buildings or class 4 dwellings will need to achieve a 7 star rating, with each sole occupancy achieving a 6 star rating
• Designs for Class 2 – 9 buildings will need to consider the following:
» The systems that are used to monitor energy usage
» Electrical vehicle charging equipment; and
» The future installation for solar photovoltaic and battery systems
For further information about the additional NCC changes that will come into effect on 1st May 2024, visit the ABCB Resource Library, or if you are a MBV member, you are welcome to contact our MBV technical advisory team at techandreg@mbav.com.au
Chocolate Money has been servicing the lending needs of Master Builders Victoria members since 2003.
We are recognised as the industry experts for financing Builders and Tradies with their personal and business loans.
P:1300 137 539 www.chocolatemoney.com.au
You may recognise Chocolate Money Director, Harry Pontikis, who might be at the next MBV Local Networking Event so make sure you say ‘hi’ and introduce yourself.
DISCLAIMER:
The information is general in nature and not to be considered specific advice. Chocolate Money holds an Australian Credit License – 387277
All loans are subject to lending criteria assessment, fees & charges apply.
Rates correct at time of publishing.
No Doc type loans which assists with property acquisition, bridging facilities and residual stock funding. Allows fast access to funding and developers are finding it extremely appealing as a result of the ‘no fuss’ approach.
These type of No Doc loans o er:
• LVRs up to 65%,
• Starting at 9.95*% pa
• No commercial line fees
• No assessment fees and
• No commitment fees!
*Minimal documentation required - enough to satisfy legal requirements only.
* Rate for risk policy applies - the less information you provide, the higher the rate.
• Investment properties - 75% LVR, up to $10m loans, fixed rates.
• Commercial properties - 75% LVR, up to $10m, fixed rates.
• Land / Land banking purpose - 70% LVR, up to $10m, fixed rates.
• Construction - 70% GRNV, $2.5m, dual occ’s, multi-unit sites, partially completed development sites considered.
• Residual Stock - 70% LVR, $10m - not valued in ‘one line’
• Suitable for owner occupied or investment properties
• PAYG, self employed & amp; expat borrowers OK
• Interest Only during construction with option to go to Principle & Interest once complete
• Maximum loan up to $1.5m
• Metro regions only
• 8.29%* interest Only | *6.97% comparison rate!
• Up to 2 dwellings on one title OK
Working together to lead a future-ready industry that builds a better world
Not only are we deeply committed to collaborating with our industry and providing exceptional opportunities and advice to our members, but we champion the opportunity for our MBV team members to take part in a wide array of opportunities across our organisation. The result of having team members with diverse backgrounds working in different committees has seen us increase our industry engagement, create exciting new opportunities for all and implement successful initiatives across our team as well as our industry.
We have highlighted some of our internal committees that are working towards our shared vision to lead a future-ready industry that builds a better world.
Our Wellness Committee is made up of team members who are passionate about supporting and promoting a safe and healthy working environment. This committee includes representatives from various departments and roles, providing
a diverse perspective on wellness initiatives. Our Wellness Committee is dedicated to helping our organisation provide the necessary resources, support and atmosphere. This encourages health, wellness, and overall wellbeing, internally and externally, which is evident in the mental health module released to members in 2023.
Our OHS Committee is a committed point-of-contact for team members to address internal health and safety matters. Co-chaired by our people and culture and OHS teams, the committee includes representatives from management and our team. Its purpose is to facilitate the identification of hazards, conduct risk assessments, implement preventive measures, promote safety initiatives, and address concerns effectively. Through collaborative and open communication, the committee ensures the well-being of team members while minimising workplace accidents and injuries.
The committee conducts regular monthly meetings and quarterly inspections of our offices, focusing on reviewing emergency preparedness and maintaining a secure working environment.
Our Privacy Committee comprises representatives from diverse levels and business functions, including C-Suite Executives, the legal advisory team, the legal and governance team, and the Master Builders Training Institute. This varied composition ensures comprehensive oversight, allowing us to uphold legal and ethical standards. Our Privacy Committee is instrumental in addressing privacy risks and promptly responding to incidents while maintaining compliance with regulations, both within our organisation and in communication with relevant regulators. Their critical role lies in safeguarding sensitive and personal information and upholding best practice standards in privacy for our organisation and our members.
Low Co2 emission products and cladding materials have suddenly become a very serious consideration in construction, not just in Australia, but around the globe
Some European countries such as Norway recently began applying an additional default add-on on pricing relative to the level of Co2, potentially turning a low tender price into the highest. They use an assessment scale of Co2 pollutive values, seriously affecting products like plasterboard which have little or no carbon capture sequestration value.
These Co2 pollutive assessments could be expanded to Australia through Federal Government intervention if the industry’s reluctance to change is not observed, especially as it moves towards the 2030 43 percent reduction accord.
FIRECRUNCH AUSTRALIA HAS 12 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE USE OF THESE REMARKABLE NEW LOW Co2 MgSO 4 magnesium oxide construction materials. It has supplied these Firecrunch products to major Australian and internationally based construction projects and those who accede to the use of Low Co2 pollutive cladding.
Increased Worldwide Demand for Low Co2 Construction Products
The huge surge in demand for low Co2 composites and high carbon sequestration products in cladding and general construction has over the last two years contributed to substantial new investment in high speed, computer driven production lines.
Inexpensive green solution, they are now currently priced similarly and sometimes lower than conventional 13mm and 16mm Fyrchek MR plasterboard, or similar fire rated plasterboard cladding products in Australia.
MgSO4 boards are screw-fixed with power tools. They have recessed edges on cladding (30mm wide) to enable the use of regular tapes compounds, providing a top class 4/5 surface finish after priming, undercoat, and two layers of water-based paint.
Pre-fabricated
Sydney
FireCrunch Australasia Pty Ltd
MgSO4 products are up to ten times stronger than plasterboard and enable a single 10mm sheet to achieve a fireresistant level (FRL) of 90/90/90 (90 minutes), otherwise requiring two layers of 16mm Fyrchek or similar plasterboard.
The product halves the material cost, site handling, installation, freight weight transport cost, crane up time and screw fixings materials cost. This increases a project’s bottom line and the return on investment.
MgSO4 composites have no paper linings and are therefore better suited to wet areas and humid climates.
As one multi-purpose material it covers fire, floods acoustics, termites, bacteria, mould and heavy impacts, while providing a longer life and low maintenance life.
This also affords a gradual reduction in the destruction of millions of oxygen generating, Co2 absorbing trees, to make paper-lined plasterboard.
Moving Forward
Responsible Architects and construction firms should consider embracing these new greener technologies in pursuit of contributing as much as possible to the reduction in global warming. Every step, no matter how small, is a contributor.
For more information see www.firecrunch.com.au
Peter JonesFireCrunch Australasia Pty Ltd Administration Director, FloodClad Australia
14,000 square metres of MgSO4 flooring at Amazon Perth, WA
modular, RAAF Fairfield
Helping our members businesses build and elevate their people and diversity policies, processes, and initiatives by providing tailored advice and services
As a leading voice across the building and construction industry, we remain committed to developing diversity, equity, and inclusion and successful peoplefocused outcomes across the workplace and we recognise the value a diverse and inclusive workforce can offer organisations across our industry. Our MBV people and culture team are assisting our members to enhance their people and diversity policies, processes, and initiatives by providing tailored advice through our people and culture advisory service.
Our experienced Advisors provide assistance from Human Resources (HR) policy and best practice workforce engagement advice, to diversity, equity and inclusion strategy support. Working with our members towards their people and diversity goals, our team provides advice on the following matters:
• Recommending HR policies and practices to have in place, beyond what is required by legislation and explaining what benefits and challenges they provide and why
• Creating and maintaining HR policies and practices that encourage an engaged and diverse workforce
• Advice on recruitment standards and how to attract the right talent
• Assistance in creating diversity, equity and inclusion strategy and statement documents
• Assistance in reviewing relevant
policy and processes (e.g., code of conduct, discrimination, bullying and harassment, recruitment, etc) as well as a comprehensive audit of documents and practices; and
• Providing guidance on creating a Reconciliation Action Plan
To take advantage of this MBV memberexclusive service, you can confidentially speak to one of our dedicated Advisors on (03) 9411 4555.
Everything you need to know
Throughout this article, we give you an overview of the builder registration process and how we can support you to take the next step in your career. Even if you aren’t looking to become registered right away, you can still take steps now to help get you get ready for when you do want to become registered.
If you want to undertake domestic building work directly for a client with a value over $10,000 you must be a registered Builder. You can be registered in a Domestic Builder (Limited) category which is specific to a trade or type of work such as carpentry or bricklaying.
With further experience, you can be registered as a Domestic Builder (Unlimited), which lets you carry out all types of domestic work.
In commercial construction, you must be registered to work on any project that requires a building permit. As with Domestic registration, there are
Commercial Builder (Limited) categories and a Commercial Builder (Unlimited) category.
How do I know I’m ready to apply for registration?
You generally need at least three years of experience to apply for registration with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) for an unlimited registration category, or one to two years for limited registration categories. You need to have carried out, arranged, or managed all aspects of construction associated with your registration category.
The application process involves submitting a portfolio of evidence, undertaking a multiple-choice exam, and sitting a two- to three-hour long interview with an Assessor from the VBA.
This process is designed to not only test your technical capabilities but also your ability to run a construction business that complies with all applicable laws.
In addition to the experience requirements, you need a strong familiarity with the legislation that applies to a construction business, including the OHS Act, Building Act, and Security of Payments Act.
You need to be able to quickly and confidently navigate the National Construction Code (NCC) to find and interpret the clauses and apply them to the work you are performing. Depending on your category of registration, you also need to be comfortable reading and interpreting various Australian Standards including: AS1684.4, AS2870, AS3740 and AS4773.2.
A good starting point to check if you’re ready to apply for a builder registration is to complete our free member-exclusive online builder registration awareness eModule. This module will give you an overview of the application process and includes a quiz to help you determine if you’re ready yet. What support can MBV offer me?
If you meet the experience requirements but want to top-up your existing knowledge or gain a deeper understanding of the application process, our builder registration program is right for you.
This seven-week program starts with a workshop on the VBA application process so you can start preparing your portfolio while you study. The first six sessions cover the legislation you’ll need to be familiar with and subsequent sessions cover the NCC and Australian Standards references you will need to know for your registration category. Our final session helps you prepare for your online exam and interview with the VBA.
Additional support we provide includes practice exams, mock interviews, and a review of your application before you submit it to the VBA.
Our builder registration program has
specific training pathways designed to support the needs of those working towards the following:
• Most commercial Builder registration categories
• Domestic Builder (unlimited) registration
• 10 out of the 29 Domestic Builder (Limited) registration categories, including:
» Carpentry
» Footings and slab work; and
» Bathroom, kitchen, and laundry renovation
What are the benefits of training with MBV?
Our builders registration program is designed to fit around your busy schedule — training sessions are held after hours and virtually so you can learn from home. We are known for our trustworthy, accurate and reliable training and we are here to deliver you the best possible training experience.
Our award-winning training is regularly reviewed and delivered by experts with extensive building and construction experience and MBV gives you the platform to connect with other Builders who share your passion in raising the standards across our industry. What if I’m not ready yet?
If you don’t think you have the required experience, you could start taking on additional responsibilities at work across a broader range of tasks. The areas of experience you need to demonstrate usually include being responsible for building permits, contracts and insurances, estimating, OHS and the technical aspects of construction.
You can always call and have a chat with our builder registration team who can help you identify any gaps in your experience and give you tips on how to close them.
If you don’t think you have the required knowledge, consider upskilling via studying the CPC40120 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) or the CPC50220 Diploma of Building and Construction (Building). We are offering a special 75 percent discount on the cost of our accredited qualifications throughout 2024, and in addition, you may be eligible for government funding. Contact our team at techandreg@mbav.com.au to find out more today.
• Building Law
• Mediation
• Building Law
• Appearances at VCAT and other Court venues
• Mediation
• Legal Advice for Builders
• Business Structures
• Appearances at VCAT and other Court venues
• Asset Protection
• Legal Advice for Builders
Telephone: (03) 9009 5800 Facsimile: (03) 9009 5899
• Business Structures
CR132526AA
• Asset Protection
Level 4, 530 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Also at Mitcham by appointment only.
Email: wre@wrelawyers.com.au
Web: www.wrelawyers.com.au
Telephone: (03) 9009 5800 Facsimile: (03) 9009 5899
Level 4, 530 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Also at Mitcham by appointment only.
Email: wre@wrelawyers.com.au
Web: www.wrelawyers.com.au
Halo connects you to near real-time Fleet visability
Toyota Halo is the latest innovation from Toyota, Australia’s leading fleet vehicle provider. Toyota Halo represents a shift to connected fleet management, using intelligent vehicle telematics to gather data on anything from a few vehicles to a nationwide fleet, providing end-to-end fleet insights from — almost anywhere 24/7.
Toyota Halo gives you a snapshot of where your fleet is* and how it’s performing so you can zero in on ways to enhance efficiency and optimise your business mobility.
Ready to reshape your business with Toyota Halo?
Your Association membership unlocks Toyota Fleet discounts across a great range of Toyota vehicles to help you find the right car for your lifestyle and budget.
