Master Builders Victoria October-December 2024 Members Magazine by News Corp Custom Publishing

2024 MBV EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

CELEBRATING VICTORIA’S FINEST RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS

Protecting vulnerable workers

A key responsibility for employers

PAGE 35

Future proofing construction: the value of apprenticeships

Creating a skilled workforce

PAGE 44

Can I connect to natural gas?*

I am renovating an existing home with an existing gas connection

I have an existing home but have never had a gas connection

NEWCOPY

I am building a new home in a greenfield estate

I am building a new home on a brownfield vacant block

I am knockingdown to rebuild and was previously connected to gas

Estate did not obtain planning permit before 31 December 2023

Build design does not trigger a planning permit

Build design triggers a planning permit^

New build does not require a planning permit

New build triggers a planning permit^

*Assuming that gas mains supply is already available at location.

^Gas cannot be connected if a planning permit is sought after 31st December 2023.

Our

Story

Master Builders Victoria (MBV) was established in 1875 by a group of builders intent on raising industry standards. Over this 149-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, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), Policy, Technical and Builders Registration, People and Culture, 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.

Our purpose

Empowering people to build a better future.

Our vision

Leading a future-ready industry that builds a better world.

Our values

• 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

CONTACT:

Level 5, 232 Victoria Parade East Melbourne, VIC, 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555

E-mail: MBassist@mbav.com.au

Web: www.mbav.com.au

EDITOR: Sarah Belcher

MBV EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS

VICTORIA’S FINEST RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS

MBV RESIDENTIAL MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR SALTWATER

WARRANTIES VS WARRANTY INSURANCE WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR OR EMPLOYEE? HOW TO REDUCE RISK FOR YOUR BUSINESS BY USING THE NEW ‘OPT OUT’ NOTICES

PROOFING CONSTRUCTION: THE VALUE OF APPRENTICESHIPS ADDRESSING SKILLS SHORTAGES AND CREATING A SKILLED WORKFORCE FOR TOMORROW

TRENDS IN CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIP COMMENCEMENTS

LANDS $7.5M IN SEED CAPITAL AI PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT AMONG THE PLANS

THE VICTORIAN BUILDING AUTHORITY CRACKS DOWN ON ROGUE PRACTITIONERS ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES RAMPED UP

BUILDING BETTER HOMES FOR THE FUTURE ONLINE WEBINARS AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE NOW

THE CONSTRUCTION TRUCKS AND COMMUNITY SAFETY PROJECT ROAD SAFETY VICTORIA: KEEPING THE COMMUNITY SAFER AROUND CONSTRUCTION SITES

MBV GREEN LIVING CONFERENCE

FOR THE FUTURE

EVENTS: A YEAR OF COLLABORATION AND CELEBRATION

SPECIAL MOMENTS AT MBV EVENTS

6 26 2

Master Builders Victoria

Key Contacts and Office Locations

For all general enquiries, phone MBV on (03) 9411 4555, e-mail MBassist@mbav.com.au, or contact our key services using the details on this page:

KEY CONTACTS

CEO: Michaela Lihou

Executive Team

Executive Director, Collaboration & Innovation: Corrie Williams

Executive Director, Commercial & Corporate | Chief Legal Counsel |

Company Secretary: Tristan Moseley

Executive Director, People & Member Services: Giovanni A. Abelardo

Directors

Director Advisory & Projects: Sam Smith

Director Master Builders

Training Institute: Anh Tran

Director Member & Industry

Engagement: Gavriel Berkowitz

Director Policy & Industry

Collaboration: Caroline Speed

Financial Controller: Simon Thrasis

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

COPY TOBE UPDATED

Stuart Allen, Gareth King, Mark Little, Ross O’Neill, Lisa Paddle, Steven Hedger MM&S

Mark Phillips, Luke Hurley, Lawrence Pigot, Leon Quinn, Brenton Russo Housing

Lisa Hollingsworth, Rebecca Bishop, Angela Perry, Nancy Italiano General Contracting

Geoff Purcell, Matthew Gilmour, Michael Clemenger, Richard Hansen, Dale Kennedy, John Lehmann

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

OFFICE LOCATIONS

Melbourne

Level 5, 232 Victoria Parade

East Melbourne, VIC, 3002

GPO Box 544

Melbourne, VIC, 3001

Phone: (03) 9411 4555

E-mail: MBassist@mbav.com.au

South Melbourne

MBV Leadership Simulation Centre (LSC) 49 Brady Street

South Melbourne, VIC, 3205

E-mail: trainingenquiries@mbav.com.au

Wodonga

35 Hovell Street

Wodonga, VIC, 3690 PO Box 700

Wodonga, VIC, 3690

Phone: (03) 9411 8070

E-mail: membershipadmin@mbav.com.au

Our spirit of excellence

Dear members,

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the year’s achievements and the path forward for our industry. This time last year, Victoria introduced its Housing Statement, a significant step toward addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our state — ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, quality housing. While the commitment is clear, the targets set remain challenging.

At Master Builders Victoria, we remain supportive of the government’s goals, but we believe crucial reforms are necessary for the industry to meet these expectations. A crackdown on illegal building works is essential to maintaining trust in our sector and safeguarding quality standards. Additionally, we urge the government to secure the future of our industry by providing adequate incentives and support for apprentices, ensuring that we have a skilled workforce capable of meeting future demands.

We are also closely watching the progress of the Domestic Building Contracts Act review, which we hope will deliver much-needed clarity and certainty for both consumers and builders. The review’s potential to resolve long-standing ambiguities could significantly improve the working relationships between all parties involved in construction projects. We also recommend reviewing the domestic building insurance system to bring greater transparency for builders and increased consumer protection, ensuring a system that works effectively for everyone.

Our commercial and civil members have also navigated a challenging industrial relations environment. Despite these pressures, our members have shown remarkable resilience, continuing to deliver essential infrastructure and commercial projects across the state. MBV has been proactive in advocating on your behalf, ensuring your interests are heard in policy discussions. Our ongoing commitment to advocacy and leadership ensures that we are standing strong with our members, no matter the challenges ahead.

Despite this, there is much to celebrate in our industry’s commitment to excellence. This was never more evident than at our 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards, held on 11th October at the Palladium, Crown. Our awards provided a platform for our members to showcase the very best in Victorian residential construction, and the calibre of entries was truly inspiring. I sincerely congratulate all nominees, special commendations, and winners. Your work reflects the high standards we continue to uphold in our industry — whether through innovative design, sustainable practices, or exceptional craftsmanship, each of you plays a vital role in shaping the future of Victoria.

On behalf of our team, we hope 2025 offers renewed strength and opportunity, and we look forward to connecting with you at our inperson or online events.

Let’s carry forward the spirit of excellence we’ve seen throughout 2024 and continue to lead a future-ready industry that builds a better world. Warm regards,

Michaela Lihou CEO, Master Builders Victoria

Members lead the industry

Dear members,

As I reflect on my second year as President of Master Builders Victoria, I am struck by the progress our industry has made despite the complexities we continue to face. Victoria’s building and construction industry is a cornerstone of our state’s economy, providing essential housing and infrastructure that supports growing communities and fuels economic growth. Yet, our industry is not without its hurdles, and our members’ persistence, skill, and adaptability allow us to meet those challenges head-on.

This year, more than ever, we’ve seen an incredible drive for excellence across all aspects of the industry, from innovative building practices to sustainable designs shaping the future of Victorian housing. Our members’ pursuit of excellence was brought to the forefront at our 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards on 11th October, showcasing our members’ skills and determination to continually lead the industry. I extend my deepest congratulations to all nominees, special commendations, and winners. Your work represents the pinnacle of what our industry strives to achieve, and I am honoured to celebrate your contributions to building a brighter future for our state.

While we celebrate these successes, we must also remain vigilant regarding ongoing issues that threaten the integrity of our industry. We will continue to push for the reforms needed to create an environment where builders and contractors can operate without disruption and in line with best practices.

NEWCOPY

MBV has continued to advocate on behalf of our members throughout 2024, engaging with the government and regulatory bodies to ensure that the Victorian building and construction industry remains robust, competitive, and sustainable. Our focus has been on promoting fair and transparent regulations, improving industry standards, and ensuring our members have the support they need to thrive. As we move into 2025, MBV will continue to support our members in navigating the complexities of the regulatory landscape while also driving the critical changes that will benefit both the industry and the communities we serve.

We recognise the challenges ahead but remain committed to ensuring that our members can continue to do what they do best — build. With our ongoing advocacy and support, I am confident that 2025 will bring new opportunities for growth, innovation, and progress within our industry.

Finally, I would like to thank our members for their continued dedication and the entire MBV Team for their hard work throughout the year. I wish everyone a safe and prosperous new year and look forward to what we can achieve together in 2025.

Warm regards,

Geoff Purcell President, Master Builders Victoria

2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards

Celebrating Victoria’s best residential builders

We are thrilled with the resounding success of our 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards!

Held at the stunning Palladium, Crown, this year's event was a memorable evening. There were 279 entries competing across 32 categories; drawing an impressive crowd of 960 builders, suppliers, sponsors and industry professionals. It was a night that truly celebrated the best in the residential sector of our industry!

The evening kicked off with Red Carpet Host, Jayde Cotic, conducting a live interview on Channel 10 with MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou. They talked about the significance of these prestigious awards and their impact on Victoria’s building and construction industry.

As members arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The awards ceremony was then launched with a phenomenal opening act, performed by the exceptionally talented performers of Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance. Our event MC, the ever-popular Comedian and Actor, Stephen Curry, kept everyone entertained with plenty of laughs and anecdotes as we came together to celebrate and recognise Victoria’s finest residential builders.

MBV Members showcased a remarkable array of projects that highlighted

diverse styles, sustainability efforts, and innovative designs. This year’s entries demonstrated a commitment to pushing boundaries, from eco-friendly homes that set new benchmarks for sustainability to luxurious custom builds that redefine modern living.

Among the many categories, three prestigious titles stood out: Regional Master Builder of the Year, Young Builder of the Year, and, of course, the coveted Master Builder of the Year. Each of these awards reflects not only individual excellence but also our collective commitment to elevating standards and practices in residential construction.

The Regional Master Builder of the Year award honours builders who have made significant contributions to their local communities, with this year's nominees demonstrating a deep understanding of regional needs. The winner, Bruce Lee Builder, showcased a captivating architectural extension that seamlessly integrates with an existing inner-city cottage home. This project beautifully connects the new with the old, resulting in a chic and inviting family residence. We were particularly inspired by the Young Builder of the Year award, which recognised emerging talent in our industry. This award highlights the next generation of leaders who bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the field. This year’s winner, Matthew Tennent,

demonstrated exceptional skill and innovation, often incorporating cuttingedge technology and sustainable practices into projects. His passion for the craft and commitment to excellence signal a bright future for our industry.

One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the Master Builder of the Year, awarded to Saltwater Builders for their memorable Paradise Drive project. This prestigious title recognises Saltwater's exceptional achievements in this remarkable undertaking. Their unparalleled craftsmanship, strong commitment to quality, and unwavering dedication to building excellence truly set a benchmark for all of us. This project exemplifies the potential for greatness in residential construction and inspires striving for similar heights.

As we reflect on the night, we want to emphasise the importance of participating in these awards. Entering our MBV Excellence in Housing Awards is not just about recognition, it’s an opportunity to showcase your hard work, gain visibility, and connect with peers. These awards are more than just a night of celebration, it is a testament to the creativity, innovation, and community spirit that defines our industry.

Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to excellence.

Together, we are shaping the future

2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Award Winners with MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou, and MBV President, Geoff Purcell

of residential construction, and we can’t wait to see what remarkable achievements await us in the coming years.

Meg Frazer MBV Events Team Leader

Above: Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance entertaining the 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards crowd

Right: 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards Centrepiece Event Sponsor, Foundation Technologies

We sincerely thank our generous 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards Sponsors for supporting such an important evening for our industry:

Centrepiece Event Sponsor: Event Sponsors:

Largest crowd to date at our 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards at the Palladium, Crown

MBV Residential Master Builder of the Year, Saltwater Builders Director, Robbie Dunball

2024 MBV Residential Young Builder of the Year, Matthew Tennent, of Vigor Homes

2024 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year, Bruce Lee Builder Directors, Bruce Lee and Casey Lee

2024 MBV Best Renovation/Addition Under $300,000 award winner, Macedon Ranges Building Services

Guest MC, Actor and Host, Stephen Curry welcomes the crowd at the 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards

2024 MBV Best Renovation/Addition $300,000-$500,000 award winner, Zeal Projects Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Renovation/Addition $500,000-$750,000 award winner, Elevate Building Group

2024 MBV Best Display Home $250,000$300,000 award winner, SJD Homes

2024 MBV Best Renovation/Addition Over $1M award winner, JBM Group

2024 MBV Best Renovation/Addition $750,000-$1M award winner, Wellington Builders Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Display Home $300,000$350,000 award winner, Metricon Homes

2024 MBV Best Display Home $750,000$1M award winner, Roseleigh Homes

2024 MBV Best Display Home $350,000$500,000 award winner, Lowe Living

2024 MBV Best Display Home $500,000$750,000 award winner, Beachwood Homes

2024 MBV Best Custom Home $400,000-$500,000 award winner, Dynes Construction Company Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 award winner, Willoworks

2024 MBV Best Custom Home $800,000$1M award winner, L.V.D Group Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Custom Home $1M-$2M award winner, Saltwater Builders

2024 MBV Best Custom Home $2M-$4M award winner, Vigor Homes Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Custom Home Over $4M award winner, Agushi Group

2024 MBV Best Multi Unit Development — Up to 3 Units award winner, Balmain & Co

2024 MBV Best Multi Unit Development — 4 to 12 Units award winner, Virgon Constructions

2024 MBV Integrated Housing Development award winner, Balmain & Co

2024 MBV Best Multi Unit Development Over 12 Units award winner, Lowe Living

2024 MBV Best Kitchen in a Display Home award winner, Lowe Living

2024 MBV Best Kitchen Under $40,000 award winner, Turn Group Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Kitchen Over $40,000 award winner, and Best Bathroom Over $30,000 award winner, Latitude 37

2024 MBV Best Bathroom in a Display Home award winner, Roseleigh Homes

2024 MBV Best Bathroom Under $30,000 award winner, Stroud Homes Ballarat

2024 MBV Excellence in Health and Safety award winner, Evans Building Group Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Sustainable Home Under $1M award winner, North South Homes Pty Ltd

2024 MBV Best Sustainable Home Over $1M award winner, Vigor Homes Pty Ltd

WE HAVE OFFICES! MOVED

Master Builders Victoria (MBV) have temporarily relocated our East Melbourne Office, to allow for renovations.

We re-opened in our new location on Monday 11th November 2024 and until further notice, our East Melbourne Office will be located at Level 5, 232 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002.

Additionally, Master Builders Insurance Brokers have re-located to 33 Agnes Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002.

For shop purchases during this period, please call 03 9411 4555 or visit mbav.com.au

Support the Parents in your workplace: Book a Lunch & Learn Workshop

Gain access to our expert facilitators on topics specifically catered to suit your team’s needs.

Our most popular topics

Ensuring a Healthy Work-life Balance

Resetting From Work to Home

Self Care & Wellbeing

How to Manage Kids and Technology

What does the Lunch and Learn workshop involve?

60 minute session held online via Teams or Zoom, hosted by a The Fathering Project facilitator

Suitable for workplaces looking to support their staff who have families and improve their wellbeing at work

Interactive session with Q&A’s

Actionable tips and strategies to support staff

2024 MBV Residential Master Builder of the Year

Saltwater Builders

Director of Saltwater Builders, Robbie Dunball, has a keen eye for detail, thirst for knowledge and strong passion for working with timber which all led to the team at Saltwater Builders being awarded the 2024 MBV Residential Master Builder of the Year, and nobody was more surprised than Robbie.

“To be honest, I’m still in a bit of shock. We were thrilled to win our category which was the Best Custom Home $1M to $2M, but we were really surprised to get the nod for the big award over the much bigger budget categories” Robbie stated.

Robbie and his Sorrento-based team at Saltwater Builders crafted the stunning award-winning four-bedroom home at St Andrews Beach, featuring

a three-metre cantilevered roof to the front and double height entrance combining honed blocks and timber cladding.

With this project located just 500 metres from the ocean, while the views were stunning, it also meant the build site was extremely exposed with wind and rain playing havoc during winter as Robbie and his team were trying to get framing and cladding up and finished.

“That really was one of the toughest parts of the build, dealing with the elements when we were trying to wrangle cranes on the site to lift roof sheeting and trusses. That really was the most difficult thing we faced” shared Robbie.

Looking back, it wasn’t a straightforward path into building for Robbie who started at university with a different career path

in mind — “I actually started off doing a polymer engineering degree at uni, but it didn’t take me too long to work out that university wasn’t really for me! So later that year I started labouring on building sites, then took on a Diploma in Building at RMIT before I started my apprenticeship when I was 22” he told us. While he might be busy running his company, Robbie still loves spending almost every day on the tools. “I pride myself on being a good Carpenter I guess, first and foremost. And there was a lot of timber in this house, and I like working with natural products like timber and stone, so I’m really careful to make sure that we achieve the very best finishes possible” Robbie shared.

Describing himself as ‘fussy’, Robbie insists on being on-site every day to

make sure everything runs smoothly, and any possible issues are resolved as quickly as possible — “I’m really lucky that I’ve got a great team working with me. I think most of them I’ve used for nearly a decade, so we all work together well and get on really well. And I think you can see the results of that solid teamwork in the houses like this, that they deliver” said Robbie.

Robbie also took on an Advanced Diploma in Architectural Design to add to his skill set.

“I did that at night school and finished it about four years ago. I like to keep across things, and I think it’s obviously better and easier to converse with architects when I’ve got some idea of where they’re coming from. So, it’s been pretty useful.”

This is not the first time the Saltwater Team have been recognised for the quality of their work, picking up two wins in 2018 and a commendation in 2021.

When it comes to his success in the business, Robbie says ”not swanning around and ranting and raving because you’re the boss” and paying his trades early works pretty well.

“So, every time an invoice comes in it’s usually paid within a day or two... max. So therefore, all my trades are happy to come on-site because they know they’ll get paid on time. I get great work, and they get paid fast. It’s pretty simple!”

And the future for Robbie and Saltwater Builders? — “I don’t plan to rule the world. I just want to keep building on the Southern Peninsula, working on interesting builds that challenge me and maybe get to play a bit more golf. I’m pretty happy with where I am” he said.

Master Builder of the Year — Residential winning project, Paradise Drive, St Andrews Beach

2024 MBV Regional Residential Master Builder of the Year

Bruce Lee Builder

Bruce Lee Builder Director, Casey Lee and his team are so proud of their achievement of winning the title of 2024 MBV Regional Residential Master Builder of the Year

Bruce Lee himself said “it was like winning the Brownlow medal – maybe even better – and such great recognition for the hard work that our small team dedicates to each and every project we take on.”

Based in Mildura, the Bruce Lee Builder Team worked closely with their clients during the entire course of their awardwinning build, and they say their positive working relationship really enabled them to ‘push the envelope’ on this inner-city project in the regional city.

“At the beginning of the build, the clients strongly suggested that they wanted us to provide as many options as possible and were open to any changes that

we thought might improve the home. The fact that they were so keen to collaborate really set this project apart from the beginning” said Casey.

An ambitious three-storey extension to a Victorian cottage on a tight block in the heart of the rural city, was made a little more challenging with the limitations of only a 900mm wide front gate access with looming overhead power lines and an existing full height, rendered stone front wall, which the owners were intent on keeping.

“It was pretty tight. We had no onstreet parking, we could only access a busy back lane and ended up having to crane most things in from an adjacent block over the next-door neighbour’s house. The local WorkSafe Victoria representative lived on an adjacent corner to the site, so they were keeping a close eye on our progress, but luckily we

didn’t have any issues to concern him!” Casey shared.

The knock-on effects of COVID-19 meant sourcing timber and structural steel was an issue for the build with local sources struggling with demand.

“We couldn’t purchase any framing timber in Mildura at the time, so we had to purchase all our timber out of Swan Hill which is a two-and half-hour drive away, and that was all based on what they were allocated from the plant at the time, so you couldn’t really pre-order a full load. We were lucky to get whatever we could, when we could” Casey told us.

A second-generation Builder following in his dad Bruce’s footsteps, Casey says one of the most challenging design elements that his team and the Electrician needed to work with was the lighting.

“LED strip lights were positioned

throughout the home, both internal and external and most of these weren’t purchased in a premade aluminium extrusion. The LED strip light that surrounds the timber ceiling was created by dropping the height of the ceiling by 35mm and machining a border from timber in the same species as the ceiling to form the recess” he said.

“We also machined a recess above the stone bench in the kitchen and above the TV in the lounge. The LED strip lights also highlight the oak steps as you transition from the cottage to the modern extension, and while the stair nosing was manufactured to accommodate the LED strip light, it just didn’t sit right so I had to cut all of the recesses 1mm wider. It was certainly a tedious task but ended up looking great!”

Thinking outside the box to remove awkward exposed circular steel columns in both the bar area and the master bedroom that were part of the original engineering plans, and discussing with the owners and the Architect about the benefits of reducing the plan’s original slab height on the extension by 200mm to improve the flow and connectivity between the original cottage and the extension, were two design solutions that were accepted by the clients, and really added to the home’s functionality.

“Our team also recommended to the client that they should install a skylight to the entry hall which was built with a pitch to maximise the light coming into the hall as you enter, and it turned out to be a great feature.”

Casey also takes great pride in the company being recognised as an accredited MBV Green Living member and recycling whatever they could was

an important focus for their awardwinning project.

“We do take recycling seriously and all material that could be recycled such as concrete, bricks and cardboard was recycled. All materials that could be repurposed during the demolition phase of the project were removed carefully and sold for reuse. The original 1960's front door and side light was removed carefully and sold to another builder’s customer. This door has now been repurposed and takes pride of position in another home that was renovated locally. To think this door could well be used for another 30 years is pretty amazing” said Casey.

Casey describes building a home as a similar feeling to being a surrogate mother — “you look after the project like it’s your own and care for it so personally that when it comes to handover it can be a little emotional knowing everything that has been gone into achieving the end result that your whole team is so proud of” he stated.

“And that moment of handover, it’s the best part of a build — by a golden mile! When you get to walk through the job with the client and see their reaction and appreciation, it doesn’t get any better!” Casey warmly shared.

2024 MBV Residential Young Builder of the Year

Matthew Tennent

He has a family background full of accountants and isn’t all that comfortable about being in the spotlight, but his sound head for business combined with his passion for building has seen Matthew Tennent awarded the title of 2024 MBV Residential Young Builder of the Year

“It all feels a bit surreal to be honest. Any good building company isn’t run by just one person, it’s a huge team effort. I’m one of the youngest people in our team and I’m just lucky that I’ve always had the support of the older guys who have just been incredible mentors” Matthew shared.

After a less than stellar Year 12

performance, and a business degree on the horizon which Matthew wasn’t really excited about, it was his uncle who suggested he should have a go at a building apprenticeship for a year — asking Matthew “what have you got to lose?”

Matthew took his uncle’s advice and got a job with a company working on renovations and extensions, but things didn’t go quite to plan.

“I found it really hard, and I think I was surprised that I found it so hard. To be honest, I just wasn’t very good at it. I found it quite difficult trying to see the vision of what you’re building before you had built it” Matthew said.

Matthew was rapidly losing interest in the job and got a bit distracted, and it didn’t end well with him eventually losing that first job. Just a few weeks later, he decided to give it another go, this time with a focus on trying to get a job with a carpentry company that concentrated on building new homes.

“I think I was attracted to the fact that new builds are more systemised, and I think that suits the way my brain works. So, I went back in with a full strategy to be successful and made the commitment to myself that I was going to do it and put everything into it. Losing my job was a real wake up call, because I felt like I’d failed, and I hadn’t

failed at too many things before. So, when I got that next position, I gave it absolutely everything I could, mentally and physically — I was the very best apprentice I could be, and my boss gave me everything he could in return and trained me really well” he said. Fast forward to 2024 and Matthew now leads the team at Vigor Homes which he established in 2006 and has grown from a residential carpentry organisation into a multi-million-dollar business which specialises in luxury architectural builds. His approach to running Vigor Homes has combined his entrepreneurial business skills and his passion for delivering complex construction projects and created a relatively unique business model in the residential sector. Matthew and his team work on a profit share basis, and he says it’s one of the most successful things he has introduced into the business.

“Two of my senior managers came from positions where they had been running businesses. And I know you can’t build a really successful business by yourself, and I know those guys work just as hard as I do, so profit sharing seemed a sensible option to get the very best

out of everyone. We have a strong focus on business sustainability. Because the reality is there’s no point building a beautiful home if you can’t afford to pay your subcontractors or your apprentices.”

“My Dad — one of the accountants in our family — is an absolute legend. And I know on one of our least profitable jobs where we made the decision to go lean, he said to me ‘you’ve made a business decision to do that, but what happens if the market doesn’t correct in the next 12 months, how are you going to get back that buffer?’ I thought they were pretty fair questions. So, my mind is always focussing equally on delivering amazing homes and running a tight, profitable business. Because I can’t do one without the other successfully” Matthew shared with us.

Builder’s warranties vs. warranty insurance

What’s the difference?

It is easy to confuse builder’s warranties and warranty insurance – two protections that sound similar but serve very different purposes. Whether you are a builder or are another building and construction professional, understanding the difference between these two forms of protection is essential to ensuring compliance, managing risks and avoiding costly disputes.

What is a builder’s warranty?

Builders’ warranties are outlined in Section 8 of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (DBCA). These warranties establish the minimum standards that domestic builders must meet in their work. A breach of these warranties may expose builders to legal action from homeowners seeking to enforce these rights.

Builders' warranty cannot be waived or modified through a contract. Section 10 of the DBCA explicitly prohibits any agreement that limits a homeowner's right to pursue legal action for breaches of the warranties outlined in section 8. This means that even if a builder attempts to limit their liability through a contract, homeowners retain the

right to take legal action if a warranty is breached.

How long does builder’s warranty apply for?

Builders' warranties carry a ten-year limitation period, starting from the date the certificate of occupancy or final inspection is issued. Notably, these warranties ‘run with the land’; meaning that both the original owner and any subsequent owners can bring a claim for defects during this period.

What does builder’s warranty cover?

When assessing a domestic building warranty claim, it is important to determine whether an issue constitutes a breach of the warranty or simply a maintenance matter. Builders are required to provide the following warranties for domestic building work carried out under the DBCA:

• Builders guarantee that the work will be carried out in a proper and workmanlike manner, following the plans and specifications in the contract

• All materials supplied by the builder will be of good quality and suitable for their intended purpose. Unless

stated otherwise in the contract, these materials must be new

• The work must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including the Building Act 1993 (Vic) and its associated regulations

• Builders ensure that the work will be carried out with reasonable care and skill and completed within the specified timeframe

• For residential projects, the completed home should be suitable for occupation at the project's conclusion

• If the contract specifies a particular purpose or desired result, the builder guarantees that the work and materials used will be reasonably fit for that purpose or expected result

What is warranty insurance?

Warranty insurance (also known as Domestic Building Insurance (DBI)) is designed to protect the homeowner if the builder is unable to fulfil their obligations. This insurance is solely for the benefit of the homeowner, offering financial protection if the builder becomes insolvent, dies or disappears. The builder is not able to

make any claims against the DBI policy. For builders, the benefit of taking out DBI is compliance with legislation and protection from any penalties for noncompliance.

In Victoria, builders are required to have DBI eligibility to maintain their domestic builder's license with the Victorian Building Authority. For any works exceeding $16,000, insurance must be obtained for a building permit to be acquired, and therefore for any works to commence.

To obtain DBI, builders must first apply for eligibility which effectively acts as a ‘preapproval’ that allows them to purchase a certificate of insurance for the specific building project. Additionally, builders must obtain and provide homeowners with a copy of the warranty insurance policy before receiving or demanding any payment from the client, and failure to do so can result in severe penalties.

How long does warranty insurance apply?

Warranty insurance, unlike builders’ warranty, does not provide a ten-year coverage. Instead, it offers different coverage periods based on the nature of the defect:

• Structural defects are covered for up to six years

• Non-structural defects are covered for up to two years

Like builders’ warranty, warranty insurance also transfers to subsequent property owners.

What does warranty insurance cover?

Warranty insurance provides homeowners with protection for the following:

• Incomplete works up to 20 percent of the contract price

• Structural defects, such as foundation or frame issues

• Non-structural defects including problems with workmanship or materials

• Other losses, such as out-ofpocket expenses for temporary accommodation or the loss of deposit if the builder cannot complete the project

While both builders’ warranties and warranty insurance are essential, they serve different purposes. Builders’ warranties are legal promises a builder

must uphold regarding the quality of work; whilst warranty insurance provides protection to the owner only in the event that the builder has died, disappeared or become insolvent and is therefore unable to rectify defects or finish incomplete works. Understanding the distinction helps builders comply with legal obligations and provides homeowners with peace of mind. The information within this article is general information only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Should you require information and advice specific to your circumstances we invite our members to contact the MBV Legal Team on 03 9411 4555 or by e-mailing legalenquiries@mbav.com.au.

Amelia Nicolaides

MBV Junior Legal Counsel

State of the industry

Victorian Government reforms in response to the housing crisis

Victoria’s Housing Statement was released on 20 September 2023 and seeks the delivery of 80,000 new dwellings annually in Victoria. Current data shows dwelling commencements in the 12 months to August 2024 stand at 54,072 and are trending well below the target. Highlighting the challenge, just 638,500 new homes were commenced over the ten years to 2024, and this is the strongest total for a decade on record for Victoria.

Industry Challenges

We’ve let the Victorian Government know there are a range of headwinds facing the building and construction industry, creating an environment where the number of new dwellings being delivered is both below the target and trending downwards. These include:

• An overall increase in construction costs of 40 percent since 2019 due to materials shortages, supply chain challenges, and increased cost of labour and skills. Whilst materials and supply chains challenges have normalised, these costs have not returned to 2019 levels

• High wages and conditions on State Government projects are attracting labour and skills away from the private sector projects as well as increasing project costs in the private sector to the point where the projects are not feasible

• High land values, which particularly impact on the feasibility of infill projects such as apartments and townhouses

• The cumulative impact of new and existing taxes and charges adversely impacting on project feasibility

• High interest rates which have reduced the borrowing capacity for consumers

• Declining project feasibility and insufficient pre-sales preventing projects from obtaining finance

to proceed, even where planning permits are secured

• Commercial builders face a range of issues in relation to contracts that typically have low margins which are rapidly eroded with variations, time delays and latent conditions, particularly where all the risk sits with the Head Contractor

• Residential builders face a range of issues related to major domestic building contracts, including preliminary works, payment stages, and risk allocation, as well as delays in obtaining Letters of Eligibility and domestic building insurance, and in securing registration

• Frequent regulatory changes, which slow the delivery of new dwellings

• An insufficient pipeline of appropriate skills and labour, particularly due to a shortage of apprentices entering the system

• The VBA requirements for the registration of new builders are onerous, time consuming and act as a deterrent

MBV Recommendation

In response to these items, we have advocated for a range of reforms to unlock construction and support registered builders who are doing the right thing. Our recommended interventions are intended to support the goals of the Building and Plumbing Commission and Victoria’s Housing Statement target by preventing issues during construction, supporting builder solvency, and securing a pipeline of skilled trades.

A Summary of Victorian Government Announcements:

Activity Centres

The Victorian Government announced the release of 50 new Activity Centres around 50 train stations and tram stops in Melbourne’s inner suburbs to help deliver more than 300,000 additional homes across Melbourne by 2051.

Stamp Duty

The Victorian Government has confirmed it will expand off-the-plan duty concessions for 12 months. These concessions will apply for all off-theplan purchases of apartments and units plus specified townhouses regardless of price, to support feasibility of new projects.

Infrastructure contributions reform commitment

The Victorian Government announced its intention to introduce a simplified infrastructure funding mechanism, to support its push to stimulate the housing and development industry. This mechanism will replace the current mix of State and Local Government payments with a broad-based contribution collected at the State level. Framework for industry to plan for

NEW

180,000 homes

The Victorian Government has released a ten-year Greenfields plan with details about the delivery of future precinct structure plans. The plan pledges to “provide a framework for industry to plan for 180,000 homes”, representing a target of 30 percent of new homes in Greater Melbourne each year.

Building & Plumbing Commission

The Victorian Government announced an overhaul of the building regulator, replacing the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) with a new, more powerful watchdog – the Building & Plumbing Commission – to oversee the building and plumbing industries across the State. This regulator will bring together all aspects of building quality control – regulation, insurance and dispute resolution – into a single agency. The

regulator will also be granted tough new powers.

Victorian Building Authority – The Case for Transformation

The VBA has published an independently commissioned report - ‘Victorian Building Authority – The Case for Transformation’ detailing seven of the VBA’s most complex and challenging consumer cases, some of which span more than ten years. The report identified systemic failures of the VBA including issues with duplicated, delayed, lost or ignored complaints, as well as a dismissive culture towards complainants.

Double The Opportunity – With Two Homes on One Block

The Victorian Government announced that it will immediately commence an implementation review into how to fix the current system, where subdivision

processes take too long and discourage home building. The review will examine how planning and building systems can be streamlined, enabling more Victorians to add a second home, build two new homes, or subdivide a block into two lots.

Homes in regional areas

The Victorian Government announced plans to create a new system for Property Developers to contribute to funding for local infrastructure, parks, and services in the areas where they build more homes. Additionally, the government announced the locations in regional Victoria for the first 1,000 homes funded through the $1B Regional Housing Fund.

The MBV Team look forward to continued consultation and further details about these reforms from the Victorian Government.

Victoria: Quarterly Economic Snapshot

Building Activity

63,880 4,888 52,679

New dwellings under construction as at 30th June 2024

New dwellings approved but not yet commenced as at 30th June 2024

New dwellings started - year to June 2024

4,461 New Home Building Approvals as of Aug 2024

1,520 Other new home

2,941 Detached

Change on same month last year

Owner Occupiers Investors

MBV STUDENT

MEMBERSHIP

If you’re an apprentice or student looking to build your career in the building and construction industry, we invite you to become a Master Builders Victoria student member. Membership helps with generating career opportunities, networking and keeping up-to-date with the latest industry news and developments.

A MBV student membership offers multiple, exclusive benefits including:

The opportunity to join MBV’s network of building and construction professionals, along with thousands of industry peers, businesses, trainers and potential employers

The reputational power of the MBV brand, helping to position yourself as an apprentice or employee of choice

Exclusive discounts on expertly delivered industry skills training

An exclusive subscription to MBV Communications, including magazines, newsletters, industry updates and more

NEW COPY

Special offers and discounts on MBV online shop products, such as branded clothing, PPE, publications, etc

Exclusive discounts on tickets to attend MBV events

MBV Student Membership regular price = $100 (excl. GST) per year (a small investment to make to support your career)

To take up this offer or for more information, contact our team on 03 9411 4555 or e-mail MBassist@mbav.com.au

What’s property’s next Power Play?

As billions flow into Australia’s renewable energy sector, partnerships between property and energy industries are key to unlocking new value.

Where are leaders placing their biggest bets?

Find out in “Power Play: Energising Opportunities in Property and Renewables,” a report by Procore Technologies and the Property Council of Australia.

Scan the QR code to get your copy now!

Are your showers ticking time bombs?

Despite builders best efforts, leaking showers are consistently listed in the top ten defects.

Sadly, sometimes this is due to substandard workmanship, but most of the time it is the design of the shower itself which is creating the potential for disaster.

Most contractors are at a complete loss as to why, but detailed testing has shown how, by the action of expansion and contraction, water is “pumped” along glue cavities to escape the shower enclosure, no matter how well it is water-proofed. The best way to prevent the problem is to seal the screen directly to the membrane, and NOT to the tiles.

Waterstop Streamline provides:

• Positive connection between screen and membrane

• Maximises floor area

• Provides a template for following trades

• Ensures correct fall to waste

• Complies with and exceeds AS3740

• Modern, cost effective, one-piece design

• 20 different shapes and sizes

• Minimum change for maximum benefits

Tech talk

FAQs

Our MBV Technical and Building Regulations Team are here to assist our members where they need support, here are a few FAQs that MBV members have been asking: Are floors in a wet area required to fall and drain to a non-required floor waste in a home?

Yes. The National Construction Code sets out the requirements where a floor waste is required and installed. While a floor waste may not be mandatory in a wet area outside of an enclosed shower in a Class 1 dwelling, there may be circumstances where they are required when using an unenclosed shower or a shower above a bath. So, always have your plans well detailed for your Building Surveyor to assess and approve compliance.

The requirements are quite different for Class 2, Class 3, and a Class 4 part of a building where the floor of a bathroom or laundry is located at any level above another sole-occupancy unit or public space. A floor waste must be provided to service the shower areas and the wet areas in these cases.

However, where a required or nonrequired floor waste is installed in a wet area, the fall of the floor must be graded to drain the floor to the floor waste.

Are the waterproofing requirements for a balcony the same as that for a wet area?

No. External waterproofing requirements for a balcony, roof terrace, podium or other similar surfaces are to be designed and constructed to prevent water entry to within the building structure.

The works will need to be designed and constructed in accordance with AS 4654 – Parts 1 and 2, which are referenced documents of the National Construction Code. Be sure to consider:

• Appropriate falls to the waste

• Overflow provisions

• Compatibility of materials (substrate, screeds and primers membranes)

• Curing time

• Maintenance of the work being carried out so as not to damage existing installations

• Sufficient termination heights of waterproofing

• Particle board is not used as a substrate

Am l permitted to carry out domestic building work when l am registered as a commercial builder?

Unless you are the owner of the land and carrying out the work as an owner builder, the answer is, no.

Under the Building Act, there is a penalty provision which prohibits a person to represent or imply that they are able to carry out domestic building work under a major domestic building contract if they are not registered in a category or class of registration permitted to carry out domestic building work.

Unless you are suitably registered in a category or class of registration as a domestic builder, you are not permitted to enter into a domestic building contract.

So, prior to entering a contract or carrying out domestic building work, ensure you are suitably registered as a domestic builder. If in doubt, we encourage members to contact our team for advice and support.

MBV members are welcome to contact our MBV Technical and Building Regulations Team on (03) 9411 455 or via e-mail at techandreg@mbav.com.au for anything relating to this article or other technical matters. This

Protecting vulnerable workers

A key responsibility for employers

If you are an employer, your obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) extend beyond basic compliance. You have a critical duty to provide and maintain a working environment that is not only safe but also free from risks to health, as far as is reasonably practicable. This responsibility includes implementing systems of work that are designed to minimise hazards and protect the wellbeing of all employees.

A proactive approach to safety begins with establishing clear values and standards of behaviour that foster a safe and respectful workplace culture.

When respect and open communication are prioritised, workplaces are more likely to be healthy, safe, and free from risks to both physical and mental health. The high cost of neglect

The consequences of failing to uphold these standards can be severe. Last year, Victorian employers faced fines exceeding $16M for safety breaches, following 153 successful prosecutions by WorkSafe Victoria. This serves as a stark reminder of the legal and moral imperative to protect your workers. Employers must have systems and processes in place to identify, assess, and mitigate hazards. This includes ensuring adequate training, supervision, and creating an environment where workers

feel empowered to voice concerns about their safety.

Supporting vulnerable workers

Everyone deserves to feel safe at work, but some employees may be more vulnerable to occupational safety and health (OSH) risks due to personal or job-related factors. Vulnerable workers include:

• Young people at work

• Apprentices

• Older workers

• New employees

• Inexperienced workers

• Migrant workers

• Workers for whom English is not a first language

• Agency, temporary, and labour hire workers

• Workers with disabilities

• Workers with underlying health issues

• Lone workers

These individuals may face heightened risks and require special considerations in a health and safety context. Vulnerability

WorkSafe Victoria

can stem from factors present before starting a job or may develop over time. It’s essential to recognise that vulnerability exists on a spectrum, and a person may experience varying levels of vulnerability throughout their career. Preventing workplace bullying

Workplace bullying is a risk wherever people work together. To protect vulnerable workers, it is crucial to implement measures that eliminate or reduce the risks associated with bullying, thereby safeguarding the safety and health of all employees.

By prioritising the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable workers, you not only fulfill your legal obligations but also contribute to a healthier, more inclusive workplace for everyone.

If you're concerned about your physical or mental safety at work, it’s important to know your rights and obligations and the rights of your workers.

Resources are available in multiple languages at worksafe.vic.gov.au

The MBV OHS Team is readily available to assist our members with any enquiries around vulnerable workers and/or regarding your obligations. Contact us by e-mailing ohs@mbav.com.au, or calling 131 450.

Carmel

Peterson

MBV OHS Advisor

Spotlight on scams

Last year, Australians made over 600,000 scam reports and lost $2.7B1

Superannuation is often targeted by scammers as most working adults in Australia will have a super account containing a significant amount of money.

As scams and cybercriminals get increasingly sophisticated, we must protect ourselves by staying informed and learning how to spot the signs of a scam to reduce the risk of falling prey. Here are a few ways scammers may try to access your super:

• Impersonation and phishing for personal details

Scammers may impersonate trusted organisations such as a bank or super fund, contacting you via SMS-es, calls and emails, and request you to take action via the links they provide. Clicking on such links may take you to a fake webpage where they steal your login information when you attempt to log in to your account.

A scammer could use that information to access your super account or myGov account to steal your personal information. They could then create another super account or a fake SelfManaged Super Fund (SMSF) in your name, then transfer the funds and withdraw them.

• Promises of high investment returns through an SMSF If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers may try to lure you into opening an SMSF through them, with false promises of high investment returns or unusual investment vehicles such as cryptocurrency.

Such scammers may attempt to build trust over a period of time to convince you to open the SMSF and provide them with authority to manage the funds. When

that happens, they’ll be able to access and withdraw the funds without your knowledge.

• Deepfake technology

With advancements in AI technology, scammers create realistic videos and audio clips impersonating high level executives or familiar voices. Please be aware if you receive a video call or voicemail asking for your superannuation information or other personal information. Always verify through secondary contact especially if it was unexpected. If it seems suspicious, it likely is.

How you can protect yourself

There are many things you can do to stay safe and reduce the risks of getting scammed.

• Ensure your accounts have strong, unique passwords and change them frequently. Where available, make sure you have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) enabled.

NEW COPY

• Check your account and statements regularly for any unusual transactions.

• Be wary of providing your personal identification documents to people you don’t know.

• Act quickly if something feels wrong. If you've shared financial

information or transferred money, act quickly by contacting your bank immediately. Help others by reporting to Scamwatch Report a scam

• Do your research and only engage licensed financial advisers. You can check if someone is licensed on MoneySmart’s Financial Advisers Register. You can also use APRA's Disqualification Register to check if someone has been disqualified.

Zero Harm

Enhancing emotional intelligence in the building and construction industry

In today's fast-paced world, mastering the art of emotional intelligence is key to navigating through challenging situations with grace and competence.

The Zero Harm training program is a collaborative effort by Master Builders Victoria and Carlisle Homes and offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and regulating emotions in the high-pressure environment of the building and construction industry.

The core focus of this program is to equip participants with techniques to:

1. Understand and regulate emotions: learn how to effectively handle emotions during difficult situations or interactions

2. Conflict resolution: develop skills to navigate and de-escalate conflicts with finesse

3. Resilience strategies: apply resilience and recovery strategies to minimise emotional harm postchallenging situations

The program melds traditional classroom-style learning with feedback workshops and live simulations to create a dynamic learning environment.

Participants also engage with real-life challenges and diverse personalities, honing their newly acquired skills for practical application in the field.

Why Zero Harm?

The Zero Harm training program underscores our industry's commitment to eliminating physical and psychological harm. By offering practical tips and techniques to manage conflicts and mitigate potential psychological harm, the course strives to enhance the overall well-being of workers and stakeholders. The Facilitators emphasise the importance of addressing psychological harm, given the rising rates of mental health challenges within the building and construction industry. By highlighting the significance of client relationships and the unique power dynamics involved, participants are encouraged to embrace difficult conversations with a proactive mindset.

Psychological health in focus

Statistics from Safe Work Australia highlight the urgency of addressing psychological health in the workplace. Mental health conditions account for a significant portion of workers'

compensation claims, with construction workers facing higher-than-average rates of mental health concerns.

Navigating client relationships is a critical aspect of any role within our industry. Participants are urged to enhance their communication skills to effectively manage challenging conversations and deliver unwelcome news with empathy and professionalism.

Employer's role

Employers play a vital role in ensuring the wellbeing of their employees, including their psychological health. The Zero Harm training program serves as a proactive step by employers to provide tools for enhancing both employee experiences and client satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Zero Harm training program sets a new standard for emotional intelligence and conflict resolution within the building and construction industry. By fostering a culture of care and empathy, participants are empowered to navigate challenges with resilience and grace, ultimately creating safer and more harmonious work environments for all.

Progress starts with understanding, and transformation begins with action. Embrace the journey towards emotional mastery and make Zero Harm a cornerstone of your professional growth.

If you are interested in learning more about this program, please contact our MBV Training Team at trainingenquiries@mbav.com.au

Finance solutions for builders & developers

Chocolate Money can help when:

Banks are saying there's not enough income

Your loan application doesn't 'meet the bank's standard credit policy

If a quick settlement is essential If what you want is more than the bank is prepared to offer.

Why Choose Us

Deep Industry Experience

Focus on excellent service! We have built connections with banks & private funders over the decades to find the best solution for every situation We have the connections We have been servicing Master Builders since 2003 and the broker of choice for the industry!

We aim to leave you with a sweet taste with every interaction We are fast, friendly and experts in the finance and construction fields

Our Services

Whether it’s to develop to sell or develop to keep, we have the expertise, connections & skill. to help you achieve your goals!

Finance

When you’re ready to purchase your first or next home, we specialise in helping to secure the cheapest & most appropriate loan for your situation.

If your clients can’t access enough funds to engage you for their next project, we can help them access the money they need Your clients

Independent contractor or employee?

How to reduce risk for your business by using the new ‘opt out’ notices

‘But they want to be engaged as a contractor…’ We’ve heard this from so many members that try to engage a tradesperson as an employee. Honestly, who can blame the tradesperson? By operating as a contractor, they earn ridiculously good money, manage their own work, and enjoy flexibility in their hours. Businesses also don’t mind proceeding on this basis either, as it suits the variable and projectbased nature of work.

The new definition of employment in Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act) will inevitably push many businesses towards engaging tradespeople as employees. This will particularly be the case where there is any doubt about the true nature of the engagement. It will be a splinter in the thumb of many within the building and construction industry, especially for contractor tradespeople who prefer to be their own boss.

Fortunately, there is an important carve

NEW COPY

out to the definition of employment in the form of ‘opt out’ notices. This article will explore the new definition of employment, how you can use opt out notices and the requirements for you to use them.

What is the new definition of employment?

From 26th August 2024, section 15AA was inserted into the FW Act to create a new definition of employment.

This newly inserted section outlines that whether a worker is an employee or a contractor is to be determined by the ‘real substance, practical reality and true nature’ of the relationship. This requires a consideration of how the relationship plays out in practice.

As part of the new definition, you will be required to consider various factors, like the degree of control and level supervision one party has over the other, whether tasks can be delegated and whether the worker is engaged to achieve a result, amongst many others. The new definition displaces the common law approach, set in Jamsek and Personnel Contracting, which outlines the nature of the relationship is to be determined by the terms agreed between the parties. This common law approach did not consider how the relationship plays out in practice but focused on what the parties agreed in writing. As parties could agree to the type of engagement, this approach

*Incl. GST EARLY-BIRD NON-MEMBER PRICE $50

*Incl. GST

provided clarity and certainty about the nature of the relationship.

The new definition of employment means that businesses will have to accept risks of misclassification when engaging contract tradespeople, which could result in civil penalties for sham contracting or opportunistic underpayment claims. This will mean tradespeople operating on a contractual basis may be requested or receive pressure to transition into employment. How do opt out notices work?

As a contractor tradesperson, you can opt out of the new definition of employment by providing a written opt out notice to the businesses that have engaged you to perform work. Where an opt out notice is provided, it will mean that the definition of employment in the FW Act does not apply.

If the definition does not apply, the test to determine the nature of the relationship depends on what the parties have agreed upon. In short, it reverts to the common law approach. If the parties have agreed for the relationship to be contractual, this is what will determine

the nature of the relationship.

Where you seek to use an opt out notice, we recommend that you have a written contractual agreement in place that reflects the relationship as a contract for services and has terms consistent with the worker being an independent contractor.

What requirements need to be met for valid opt out notices?

The contractor needs to provide a written opt out notice to the business.

The opt out notice must specify that the contractor does not want the definition of employment in section 15AA of the FW Act to apply. That is, they wish to remain an independent contractor.

The contractor must also declare that they believe they earn more than the contractor high income threshold, which is currently $175,000 per annum. It is sufficient for the tradesperson to make the declaration as to their earnings. They don’t need to report or independently verify their earnings with any third party.

What about superannuation, WorkCover and tax?

Statutory schemes governing superannuation, workers compensation

and taxation are separate to the definition of employment. These schemes have their own rules that may deem independent contractors as employees.

This may mean that irrespective of having received a written opt out notice or having a written independent contractor agreement in place, a business may still need to comply with these schemes.

What assistance can MBV provide to members?

The Employment and Industrial Relations (EIR) Team at Master Builders Victoria can help you understand the difference between independent contractors and employees. We have a template ‘opt out’ notice available to members as part of MBV membership. The MBV EIR Team also have an independent contractor agreement available to purchase.

For further information, please contact the Employment and Industrial Relations Team on (03) 9411 4555 or via e-mail at EIR@mbav.com.au

Intrim’s SK800 Shadowline® Skirting System provides a sleek, modern finish, without the need for additional metal angles— saving you time and money.

Available in primed MR MDF, it’s the perfect solution for new builds and renovations seeking a refined, contemporary look.

explore or download install instructions.

Future proofing construction: the value of apprenticeships

Addressing skills shortages and creating a skilled workforce for tomorrow

Employing and training an apprentice is a fantastic form of workforce development. With a variety of benefits, individuals, businesses and the wider building and construction industry can all gain a positive impact from the employment of apprentices. Help future-proof the industry against labour shortages

Amongst other industries, the building and construction industry is currently facing Victoria’s largest skills shortage, with 28 construction occupations in shortage (Victorian Skills Authority, State of the Labour Market, 2022, Victorian Skills Plan; ABS, Labour Force Survey, 2023, four-quarter average data, customised report; Victorian Skills Authority, 2023, Employment Forecast Dashboard 2023-2026)

With the median age of construction workers being 37 (ABS, Labour Force Survey, 2023) and 29 percent of Victorian construction workers being above the age of 50, it is estimated that there will be 18,200+ Victorian construction workers retiring by 2026, thus having potential to cause significant further shortages. To mitigate the impact of this, 17,400+ new workers will be needed by 2026 (Victorian Skills Authority Dashboard, 2023). To future-proof the construction industry, an influx of apprentices in the near future will be key to reducing skills shortages and keeping Victorian construction projects on track. Safeguard against future skills gaps within the business

Taking on an apprentice will also assist in safeguarding your business against future skill gaps, as you can train your apprentice to meet the specific needs of your business. When supplemented by their coursework, your apprentice can be moulded to deliver the skills

and standards you require. Having an apprentice on site will also create opportunities for existing employees to emerge as leaders and mentors. By nurturing the growth and development of both the apprentices and the emerging leaders, businesses can create a pipeline of talent to further the success of the business.

NEW COPY

With apprentices completing their coursework alongside their employment, they will be receiving up-to-date knowledge of theory, techniques and standards. This combined with their fresh enthusiasm, new perspective and unique ideas can help give your business a competitive edge.

Gain access to incentives and wage subsidies

While apprentices must receive a fair wage, these rates are calculated to reflect their learning journey and are slowly increased as the apprentice progresses through their training until they are qualified. To assist in offsetting the cost of labour, the Victorian Government has a range of incentives and subsidies that employers may be eligible for. These include Priority and Non-Priority Hiring Incentive payments up to $3,500, Priority Occupation wage subsidies up to 10 percent, and payroll tax exemptions.

Assistance in signing up and managing your apprentice from MBV and Apprentice Connect Australia Providers: As part of your MBV membership, the MBV Outreach and Future Skills Team are available to assist you with finding an apprentice. We can also help put you in touch with an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider, who will assist in managing paperwork, assessing eligibility for incentives and subsidies, and providing additional support to you and

your apprentice.

Ready to find an apprentice? Take advantage of the MBV Careers Hub, by posting your vacancy to our online jobs board by scanning the QR code.

If you would like further information, please contact the Outreach and Future Skills Team at careers@mbav.com.au or (03) 9411 4555.

Amber Dagher

MBV Outreach and Future Skills Officer

MBV STUDENT

MEMBERSHIP

A MBV student membership offers multiple, exclusive benefits including:

The opportunity to join MBV’s network of building and construction professionals, along with thousands of industry peers, businesses, trainers and potential employers

The reputational power of the MBV brand, helping to position yourself as an apprentice or employee of choice

Exclusive discounts on expertly delivered industry skills training

An exclusive subscription to MBV Communications, including magazines, newsletters, industry updates and more

Special offers and discounts on MBV online shop products, such as branded clothing, PPE, publications, etc

Exclusive discounts on tickets to attend MBV events

MBV Student Membership regular price = $100 (excl. GST) per year (a small investment to make to support your career)

To take up this offer or for more information, contact our team on 03 9411 4555 or e-mail MBassist@mbav.com.au

Apprenticeship trends not all doom and gloom

The release of new data often sparks a wave of discussion within the built environment sector, especially when it’s data on something crucial like apprenticeships.

It comes as no surprise that the NCVER latest report for the March quarter has been a topic of discussion.

Apprentice training rates and the need for additional support was a concern among the built environment stakeholders BuildSkills Australia spoke with during our consultation and development of the 2024 Workforce Plan.

Whilst there is some concern that the apprenticeship model is failing to deliver enough skilled workers to meet the future needs of the sector, the data suggests this perception is far from universally valid. For example, over the five years prior to the pandemic, construction apprentice commencements were high by historical standards and on a rising trend.

It’s true, the latest data shows a 27 percent decrease in construction apprenticeship commencements compared to the recent peak in 2022, however that peak was artificially inflated due to wage subsidies introduced during the pandemic. These subsidies led to a 50 percent increase in apprenticeships compared to normal levels, and now that the subsidies have been removed, we’re seeing a reversion to the trend.

The latest data shows that the flow of new construction apprentices is very much in line with long-term historical trends — at around 22,000 on an annualised basis.

BuildSkills will soon be releasing the first ever national workforce plan for the construction, property and water industries.

The primary aim of the plan is to identify and outline the most important strategic challenges facing the construction, property and water industries, and provide a framework for tackling these challenges in collaboration with the industry and government.

The plan looks at several ‘megatrends’ which are influencing the demand side, including the Net Zero transition and national housing shortages. The plan provides analysis on what is required on the supply side and outlines a series of coordinated actions that BuildSkills will undertake with the industry and government.

The plan will be accompanied by a new interactive data dashboard that will be published with national and state-based data sets around workforce balance, labour flows and workforce supply gap projections for the next ten years.

COPY

NEW COPY

Looking after yourself this holiday season

The holiday season can be an opportunity to spend time with family, friends and recharge after working hard all year.

It can also bring end-of-year deadlines, financial pressures or a time you need to navigate tricky relationships or social situations.

Incolink has put together some practical steps to help you stay balanced as you close out the year.

Spot the signs of stress

Up to 45 percent of construction workers report experiencing high levels of stress, which can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including excessive

gambling or drinking.

Pay attention to how you're feeling — are you more anxious, irritable, or withdrawn than usual? Recognising these signs is the first step towards celebrating safely.

Set realistic expectations

With the holiday season comes the pressure to spend money on presents. It’s okay to set limits.

Chat with your family about setting a budget or doing a secret santa draw instead of buying a present for everyone. This can reduce some pressure and allow you to enjoy the holidays without the stress of overspending.

Take some time for yourself

As work ramps up before the holidays, it can be tempting to skip activities in favour of extra hours on the job.

Carving out time for rest, hobbies, sports, or just relaxing with mates or family can help reduce stress.

They might sound small, but they can have a big impact on your mental health, making it easier to manage the challenges that come your way.

Building a bright future for secondary students

Building careers, Geelong

Building Careers Geelong (BCG) is a building and construction initiative developed to showcase residential and commercial construction sites to secondary students and is designed to meet the needs of local students and the local industry.

The enduring nature of this industry collaboration is defined by the commitment of its partners, including: local MBV members, the Geelong Region Local Learning and Employment Network (GRLLEN) and the Gordon TAFE, to connect with students in a meaningful way that creates a positive impact to not only our industry’s future workforce but also means students are more informed

when they are making decisions about their careers.

The program has evolved over the ten years it has been in operation to offer a more interactive and hands-on experience for students, however the core purpose has remained unchanged; to raise student’s aspirations through exposure to live construction sites, real occupation stories and to share beneficial information to then consider the building and construction industry as a viable VET, apprenticeship and careers pathway.

Lyons Construction Executive Chairman and founding member of the BCG initiative, Norm Lyons, believes “it’s up

to those who have travelled this road to not only tell students and school leavers about their employment options but to encourage them towards a vocational trade, if they are so inclined, in order to nurture the next generation of builders.”

As a ‘school to work’ provider, the GRLLEN engages with schools and industries to build connections that increase work-based learning opportunities. 140 students attended the 2024 site tour immersion days which included a Gordon TAFE session exploring training and vocational options. The initiative takes a proactive approach to encourage and improve accessibility for female students and has seen a

Norm Lyons during a Q&A with student Jeremy who attended a BCG site tour and continued on to a school-based apprenticeship trade

steady increase in female participation rates, which this year represented 30 percent of registered students.

Caruso Bricklaying Owner, Ben Caruso, is passionate about his responsibility to foster and encourage the next generation to consider these pathways. He experiences positive apprenticeship outcomes by supporting students through work experience and schoolbased apprenticeships; employing three students who attended the immersion into school-based apprenticeship trades. Hamlan Homes General Manager, Josh Liston, shared that “with the building and construction industry continuing to grow and skills shortages continuing to impact the industry, employers are realising there is a need to engage with schools to bridge the skills gap and create a

pipeline of apprentices in the region” while Geelong Built and Care Built Managing Director and BCG initiative Chairman, Andrew Carroll, explained that “the collaboration between our industry and schools is more important than ever and we took the opportunity to think differently about how we inspire and inform young people about our industry.”

MBV has been an early champion of the BCG initiative by appreciating the value to both our industry and schools and we have shown continued support and involvement

by attending the site tours and providing students with building and construction career pathways and information and support around apprenticeships.

With the Building Careers Geelong initiative now rebranded and proud of its recent MBV Alliance Partnership, the future looks bright for secondary students wanting to explore an industry full of employment opportunities and choices for success in work and life.

For more information on the Building Careers Geelong 2025 program, please visit www.grllen.com.au

Careers Geelong 2025 program

2024 students on-site with Ireland Brown Constructions

Caruso Bricklaying School-based apprentices Will and Ryan, who attended a previous site tour showing current students how to lay bricks

BuildPass lands $7.5M in seed capital

Construction technology startup company and MBV sponsor, BuildPass, has closed a $7.5M seed capital raise that will see it doubledown on artificial intelligence (AI) product development, widen its support for Australian construction businesses and enter the US market.

BuildPass designs, develops and provides easy-to-use construction software that digitises traditionally paper-based tasks, enhancing productivity, safety and quality assurance across building projects.

A mix of local and international investors including tech titans, Aconex Founder, Leigh Jasper and GitHub Founder, Tom Preston-Werner, tipped in for the

raise — underscoring the confidence global tech has in Melbourne’s emerging construction software start-ups.

Part of the funding will be used to create intuitive new AI features optimised for mobile and desktop interfaces that improve efficiencies for busy construction professionals, but do not need extensive training to master.

BuildPass Co-founder and CEO, Matt Perrott, believes the funding comes at a critical time for the sector, as it takes significant actions in digital transformation to help maintain profitability.

“We are so proud of how the business has grown in just a few short years,

and this latest financial milestone underscores the confidence investors have in the market. Much of the innovation we are seeing across construction AI locally is being driven by start-ups and smaller tech firms. This funding will help us further establish the AI-native construction technology class, which is bringing together key aspects of the fragmented construction software space into a more efficient, cost-effective and sustainable platform for organisations of all sizes” Matt said.

“It is a difficult time for construction businesses in Australia, so we are focussed on supporting companies by providing customisable digital tools that

BuildPass Founders Matt Perrott (left) and Aaron Vanston (right)

improve productivity and ultimately help to lift a builder’s bottom line” Matt shared.

This year BuildPass has released five AI-driven modules leveraging artificial intelligence systems from OpenAI and Anthropic to enable features such as computer vision, voice-to-text data entry and automated defect recognition.

Commenting on the recent releases and the company’s future plans for AI product development, BuildPass Cofounder and Chief Technology Officer, Aaron Vanston, stated “construction globally is grappling with a productivity crisis, however all-in-one software that harnesses the power of AI is certainly playing a role in remedying the situation. One of the biggest productivity problems we are hoping to solve through intuitive design and AI is addressing digital literacy gaps among construction workers.”

“We are placing great emphasis on empowering current and future workers to have confidence in digital innovations like ours, which can be rolled-out quickly across a workforce without the need for extensive training” said Aaron.

With these funds, BuildPass aims to grow its footprint in Australia’s small- to medium-sized business and mid-market

construction verticals, which constitutes roughly 98 percent of the sector.

Alongside many small and medium-sized businesses, leading national builders such as Vaughan Constructions and Westbourne Constructions also utilise the BuildPass platform.

BuildPass is used by over 400 companies and has facilitated over 415,000 Safe Work Method Statements signings and

over 185,000 worker inductions.

As a member of MBV for several years, BuildPass has participated in key initiatives like the 2024 MBV May Industry Breakfast, the 2024 MBV Excellence in Construction Awards, the 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards, the 2024 MBV Regional Building Awards and MBV local networking events throughout 2024.

A GUIDE FOR RESIDENTIAL BUILDERS

How to position yourself as homeowners’ preferred and trusted choice

Written by Katie Rees - Home Build Mentor

Members can view by scanning the QR code

EXCLUSIVE AND FREE TO MBV MEMBERS

The Victorian Building Authority is cracking down on rogue practitioners

Ramping up enforcement activities, issuing penalties and removing rogue practitioners from the building system to improve consumer outcomes

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) takes a risk-based approach to compliance and enforcement, directing resources to the areas that pose the greatest potential harm to consumers. This approach holds practitioners to account, keeps Victorians safe and protects consumers.

The VBA’s approach was evident in their enforcement action against a construction company and their nominee Director who were penalised a total of $250,000 and were immediately suspended in April 2024 for carrying out domestic building work without the required insurance across multiple building sites.

Another recent case involved the immediate suspension of another Director of a construction company after a VBA investigation uncovered more than 100 alleged breaches of building laws. This Director is facing a three-year disqualification from the industry, with fines totalling more than $200,000.

In the 2023-24 financial year, the VBA issued 221 cautions for matters escalated for disciplinary actions, and 35 practitioners had their registration either suspended or cancelled. For the same period, the VBA issued more than $900,000 in penalties. A total of 14 prosecutions were completed, resulting in $65,100 in fines, five convictions and three diversions.

This work is complemented by the release of the Compliance and Enforcement Framework, which can be found on the VBA website. It outlines what practitioners and consumers can expect from the VBA as a regulator, including how it uses its regulatory powers and functions.

VBA CEO and Commissioner, Anna Cronin, said the regulator is determined to hold practitioners to account — “the

VBA will use its full suite of disciplinary powers and tools to hold rogue practitioners who harm consumers to account. The VBA is undergoing a major reform program, prioritising consumer protections, improving regulatory effectiveness and educating for higher standards in the building industry” Anna stated.

The VBA recognises the important role industry associations like Master Builders

Compliance and Enforcement Framework

Victoria play in providing members with up-to-date information, including changes to legislation, standards and the National Construction Code.

If you are looking for more information about the VBA’s compliance and enforcement activities, you can follow the VBA social media channels, visit the VBA’s news page at vba.vic.gov.au/news or head to the VBA website and search ‘Prosecution and Disciplinary Register’.

VBA news page

Building better homes for the future

Solar Victoria provided a grant for our MBV Team to deliver two webinars and 18 face-to-face ‘Building Better Homes for the Future’ workshops across the state in relation to energy efficiency. These two webinars are available on our MBV YouTube channel.

Solar Victoria host free online, self-paced training about Net Zero Homes which can be found on their website. See the QR code below.

Our Building Better Homes for the Future workshops supported members of the building and construction industry to:

• Comply with new regulations, such as all-electric connections for new homes (effective from January 2024), and the National Construction Code 2022, especially 7-star and whole-ofhome requirements (effective from May 2024)

• Increase the skills and knowledge of the building and construction industry to transition to the design and construction of increasingly energy efficient homes

• Raise industry awareness of design

and construction environmental sustainability trends; including the transition towards net zero homes, home electrification and on-site energy generation

The training material was developed by our MBV Team to specifically meet industry needs, answer commonly asked questions and address the barriers to delivering better outcomes for their clients. These are homes that are more comfortable to live in, healthier and are more energy efficient.

The two Building Better Homes for the Future webinars that can be viewed on our MBV YouTube channel cover topics such as:

• Changes to energy efficiency and condensation requirements of the NCC 2022: this included the move from 6 to 7 Stars, the move to more permeable building wraps and the increased ventilation requirements

• Energy efficient and sustainable design tips: the information focused on maximising the Star rating by using passive solar design principles

• The importance of high performing

windows and their properties: not just double glazing, but also the importance of the window frame properties

• NatHERS (Star) ratings and Whole of Home: describing the elements of the house and its location that are used to generate the Star rating. We also speak to the need meet requirements of the Whole of Home rating by balancing the energy use of a number of the fixed appliances and any included solar panels

• Managing condensation: the need to improve client understanding of the role they play in moisture production in buildings and how this is balanced with an understanding of airtightness and ventilation, thermal bridging, membrane (building wrap) properties and construction systems

• All electric homes: the increase in the move to all electric homes requires an understanding of the various appliance options for heating, cooling, cooking and hot water

• Future trends in residential housing: an introduction to Passive House, the importance of measuring air tightness and getting ventilation right

• Rebates: the numerous rebates available for various appliances that improve the affordability for homeowners. We also spoke to the rebates for solar panel systems for new and existing homes This initiative is funded by Solar Victoria

as part of the Training and Workforce Development program.

If MBV members have any queries about anything mentioned in this article, please e-mail our MBV Collaboration and Innovation Team at CollaborationInnovation@mbav.com.au

Philip Alviano MBV Senior Technical Advisor, Sustainable and Future Built Environments

Implementing the Construction Trucks and Community Safety Project

Keeping the community safe during construction periods

Given the increasing number of building and construction projects across Victoria, there is a strong need to improve community safety near construction sites with a high frequency of truck movements in the area. Truck movements are particularly high where considerable amounts of earth movement are involved, such as excavating underground levels. With high

truck movements come an increased imperative to ensure the surrounding community is kept safe.

Vulnerable road users comprise of bicycle riders, motorcyclists and pedestrians and this cohort is commonly overrepresented in road deaths and serious injury statistics in Victoria. In 2023, vulnerable road users accounted for 35 percent of total road deaths and serious injuries with motorcyclists (18 percent), pedestrians (10 percent) and bicycle riders (7 percent).

Safety Essentials: Accommodating Pedestrians and Bicycle Riders at Temporary Road Works

Best Practice Guidance

December 2023

With so many construction projects taking place; often in areas with high active transport use, or in regional locations where there are high levels of recreational cycling, it’s becoming even more important to actively consider and accommodate vulnerable road users who may be using the road network near a work site.

The Construction Trucks and Community Safety Project is a multi-stakeholder

Victorian initiative, led by Road Safety Victoria, that aims to improve the safety of bicycle riders, pedestrians and motorcyclists around construction trucks. A number of model contract clauses have been developed along with a range of tools and ways of working that improve community safety.

Embedding community safety in construction projects

The project encourages the take up of best practice construction and building logistics using the lever of contract clauses to require a change in practice within the industry.

Model contract clauses were developed to accommodate the safe movement of bicycle riders, pedestrians and motorcyclists near construction sites. These clauses are applicable to a range of construction-related contracts and include:

• Ensuring temporary traffic management supports the safe travel of pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorcyclists

• Ensuring the best routes are chosen to avoid conflict with vulnerable road users

• Key truck safety requirements that can be retrofitted

• Truck driver training

Once embedded in construction contracts, these model clauses uplift various elements of the work that needs to take place during construction periods, to better protect vulnerable road users.

Many of Victoria’s big build projects have adopted the model clauses in their contracts, and now other construction projects are following suit.

The following key requirements are the focus of the model clauses:

Truck requirements

To help improve safety, a range of construction truck safety features are recommended, they are as follows:

• Trucks should have side under-run protection

• The truck’s front, rear and side blind-spots should be eliminated or minimised through the use of visual aids, sensors and audible or visual alerts

• Trucks should be fitted with audible indicators to alert other road users when they’re turning left

• Trucks should display prominent signage warning people of the dangers of travelling too close to trucks

• Increase conspicuity with the use of fluorescent and retro-reflective tape outlining the body of the truck and trailer, and increasing the visibility of the drawbar

• Trucks should protect the air quality of vulnerable road users by achieving a minimum of Euro 4, but preferably Euro 5 or above

These features can play a critical role in protecting bicycle riders, motorcyclists and walkers from deaths and serious injuries if they are involved in a collision with a truck.

Truck driver training: Toolbox talks

In conjunction with the National Road Safety Partnership Project, a suite of Toolbox Talks has been developed for truck drivers with a particular focus on pedestrian safety, bicycle rider safety and blind spot awareness. These packs are now available on the Transport Victoria and the National Road Safety Partnership Program websites. Other topics include fatigue, distraction and load management.

These toolbox talks are designed to give team leaders, managers and facilitators the resources needed to give toolbox safety talks to truck drivers, increasing their awareness about on-road hazards and how to drive safely near vulnerable road users.

Each package contains a facilitator’s guide, including background information, a fact sheet, a discussion guide, a PowerPoint presentation and a video.

Route selection: online Human Impact Route Assessment (HIRA) Tool

A route selection tool: The Human Impact Route Assessment (‘HIRA’) tool has been developed to help construction companies consider which route will provide the safest outcomes for vulnerable road users.

The HIRA tool can be used by building companies undertaking projects involving significant heavy vehicle movements to ensure that they have considered vulnerable road user safety when selecting their haulage routes. This can be achieved by either limiting interactions with pedestrians, bicycle riders and motorcyclists, or introducing suitable countermeasures to make particular locations safer.

The tool supports collaborative decision making between the building or construction company, haulage subcontractor and other key stakeholders. Through discussing and rating the various routes being considered, these representatives are actively thinking through the impacts of routes on vulnerable road user safety.

The HIRA tool is helping construction companies to proactively consider the safety of vulnerable road users during their route selection process. An instructional video and facilitators overview is also provided.

Temporary traffic management

The project has developed a suite of resources to assist traffic management companies to develop temporary traffic management plans that accommodate vulnerable road users safely, particularly pedestrians and bicycle riders.

A key resource is the ‘Safety Essentials: Accommodating

Pedestrians and Bicycle Riders at Temporary Road Works Best Practice Guide’.

This resource is designed to be used as a reference tool by companies that are in the process of developing and implementing Traffic Management Plans in Victoria.

The document summarises elements of temporary traffic management industry standards and guidelines that focus on the safety of pedestrians and cyclists, including those contained within the Austroads Guide to Temporary Traffic Management.

It was specifically designed to ensure that temporary traffic management planning adequately accommodates pedestrians and bicycle riders.

Project resources available online

The Construction Trucks and Community Safety webpage on the Transport Victoria website contains links to all the project resources, including the online Human Impact Route Assessment (HIRA) tool, model contract clauses, and a range of relevant tiles and animations highlighting key safety messages for road users when

• Building Law

• Mediation

• Building Law

• Mediation

• Appearances at VCAT and other Court venues

• 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

Level 4, 530 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

• Asset Protection

Also at Mitcham by appointment only.

Email: wre@wrelawyers.com.au

Telephone: (03) 9009 5800

Web: www.wrelawyers.com.au

Facsimile: (03) 9009 5899

Level 4, 530 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Also at Mitcham by appointment only.

travelling around trucks.

The webpage is designed to equip state and local government, developers and utilities with the resources needed to better manage their construction projects and improve delivery and safety during construction periods.

For further information, e-mail roadsafetyvictoria@transport.vic.gov.au

This project is a partnership between Road Safety Victoria, Municipal Association Victoria, Bicycle Network, Transurban and Traffic Accident Commission. It is supported and funded by Road Safety Victoria, within the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning.

The National Construction Logistics and Community Safety – Australia (CLOCS-A) scheme

At a national level, CLOCS-A is a good practice approach for managing the risks and impacts associated with a construction project’s on-road transport and logistics activities to improve community road safety. It was developed to provide a consistent framework for industry to achieve better safety outcomes. It demonstrates how the introduction of a non-regulatory common standard for heavy vehicle

safety features can significantly reduce deaths and serious injuries.

The Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria supports a national approach to improving the adoption of heavy vehicle safety features beyond what is required under Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and National Heavy Vehicle Law (NHVL), and Victoria has provided its initial support to become one of the CLOCS-A founding members.

The CLOCS-A Program introduces three levels of safety standards that heavy vehicles must adhere to. These levels include the retrofit of many safety features to improve safety for vulnerable road users by improving visibility, providing audible warnings, reducing blind spots and the provision of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This can lift the standards of heavy vehicles without necessarily requiring all new vehicles as many features may be retrofitted.

(NEXT PAGE)

TOP RIGHT: The Toolbox Talks poster on ‘Blind Spots’ is a great resource for truck drivers — from the Construction Trucks and Community Safety webpage.

BELOW RIGHT: Sharing the road with bicycle riders — Toolbox Talk poster from the Construction Trucks and Community Safety webpage.

To get involved in CLOCS-A and for more information on the standards and accreditation process, see the CLOCS-A website. Scan here to read more about the Construction Logistics and Community Safety – Australia (CLOCS-A) scheme

SCREWPILES&BOREDPIERS

• Concrete House Slab Specialists • Multi Unit Site Development

• Factory Floors and Carparks

• Bored Pier Holes and Screw Piles

• Bondek and Suspended Slabs

Phone: (03) 9770 8224

Mobile: 0418 138 820

Fax: (03) 9770 8225

Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au

Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au

Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au

Construction Trucks Toolbox Talk Blind spots

There

Slow

Trucks overtaking bicycle riders generate pressure and suction forces on bike riders that can cause them to lose balance and increasing the risk of a severe incident.

Even in low-speed crashes with trucks, there is a high risk of bike riders losing balance and falling under the vehicle.

PODCAST

Our podcast has been developed to provide listeners with easy-to-access information and updates on key issues impacting Victoria’s Building and Construction Industry.

The podcast series is also available on Spotify – and we invite you to subscribe

2024 MBV Green Living Conference

Building for the future

We proudly hosted our 18th MBV Green Living Conference on 5th September 2024 at Hyatt Place, Essendon Fields. Eighteen years ago, we led the industry by hosting this conference and showcasing the excellence of member projects using methods and materials that are now commonplace. This year, we focused on building for the future. Together, we raised awareness about the development of quality construction trends and the importance of working with quality builders and designers. The conference focus has always been on linking the information provided to good quality, practical advice and solutions. We find that this sort of information sharing leads to industry collaboration, higher quality construction, healthier living and better outcomes for our members’ clients.

Our speakers this year covered a diverse range of topics and also highlighted excellent examples of current projects showcasing exceptional energy efficiency and sustainable design. Providing excellent examples of what is possible showed a glimpse into the future and also some traps to look out for. Attendees also heard from our innovative sponsors who shared the latest products and materials available and spoke to the benefits and experiences of familiar products which are tried and true.

We extend our thanks to our incredible 2024 MBV Green Living Conference speakers:

• Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission, Lily D’Ambrosio MP, who spoke about the work the Victorian Government is doing in transitioning to a renewable energy system

• Maxa Design, Director, Sven Maxa, explored the material considerations for high-performance homes in various climates; focusing on passive solar and Passivhaus design principles. This included materials

NEW COPY

with high thermal mass and the importance of high performing windows. Sven discussed a number of real-world case studies that demonstrated how these material choices enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability in different climates and provided a comprehensive guide for constructing resilient and environmentally responsible homes

• Grenville Architectural, Director, Tom Petty, provided an insight into the importance of embodied carbon in buildings. Tom also discussed the relevance of measuring carbon at a project-level. How it can be done, where to start and why bother? He demonstrated ways which project reductions can be realised, quantified and how this has relevance in a landscape which is changing under our feet

• Foundation Technologies, Chief Engineer, Travis Yap, delivered

a presentation that followed on perfectly from Tom’s, covering an alternative to concrete slabs and steel screw piles. He discussed the benefits and how this fit into the circular economy in green construction by reducing embodied carbon and reducing waste

• Senior Lecturer and Building Researcher, Dr Mark Dewsbury, has been studying the risks of condensation in the home for a number of years and he provided an update on the continuing investigation into condensation; including construction methods to avoid and tips for good practice

• Stiebel Eltron, Regional Manager for VIC/TAS, Paul Vines, also delivered a presentation that followed on from Dr Mark Dewsbury as he discussed the importance of ventilation in homes and the various options available

• Australian Glass Group, National

MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou with Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission, Lily D’Ambrosio MP

Marketing & Business Development Manager, Michael Ward, discussed 7 Star glazing solutions in relation to the energy efficiency requirements of the NCC 2022. He presented a range of insights on the NCC’s demands on glazing and how glass alone can help, as well as the partnership in different frame types, to achieve 7 Star minimum without affecting the other fabric or design of the home using a number of case studies

• SUHO, Business Principal, Jim Woolcock, demonstrated how to improve a building’s design for enhanced energy efficiency, comfort, and health using a number of examples. He also compared the savings benefits against cost estimates

• Six Star Plus, Senior Sales Manager, Dale Cocking, discussed the integration of solar energy systems, hot water and home energy efficiency. These systems are now able to communicate with each other to provide the maximum benefit for the homeowner

• Rylock Windows, Consultant, Paul Lohan, showed us that there is more to the performance of a window than double glazing and thermally broken frames. He discussed how leaky windows and doors negatively impact on a home’s energy efficiency and the importance of window seals and locking mechanisms

• ProClima, Technical Sales Manager, Ryan Worthington, presented on the increasing importance of airtightness and weathertightness within the context of an evolving NCC by providing a number of examples of best practice building methods and materials

Thank you to all the speakers who gave their time and expertise to join us and our event MC, MBV Senior Technical Advisor, Sustainable and Future Built Environments, Philip Alviano, in our continuous mission to improve the quality of the building and construction industry.

Thank you to our sponsors for providing valuable advice and helping make this event possible.

MBV Senior Technical Advisor, Sustainable and Future Built Environments

Philip Alviano

MBV CEO, Michaela Lihou addressing attendees at the 2024 MBV Green Living Conference

MBV Senior Technical Advisor, Sustainable and Future Built Environments, Philip Alviano with 2024 MBV Green Living Conference panelists SUHO, Business Principal, Jim Woolcock, Australian Glass Group, National Marketing & Business Development Manager, Michael Ward, Senior Lecturer and Building Researcher, Dr Mark Dewsbury and Grenville Architectural, Director, Tom Petty

NEW COPY

Above: Supplier demonstrations at 2024 MBV Green Living Conference

Right: Stiebel Eltron, Regional Manager for VIC/TAS, Paul Vines presenting at the 2024 MBV Green Living Conference

2024 MBV International Womens Day Breakfast

2024 MBV Excellence in Construction Awards

A year of collaboration and celebration

The special moments at MBV events

As 2024 draws to a close, MBV has much to celebrate — this year has been filled with circa 70 events that reflect our commitment to building excellence across the building and construction industry. From educational workshops to advocacy efforts, we’ve focused on empowering our members and addressing the evolving challenges of our field throughout the events that the team ran throughout the year.

Throughout the year, our association organised a variety of events designed to foster professional development and networking. This included webinars discussing the latest legal, OHS and EIR updates and workshops discussing new building technologies and sustainable practices drew enthusiastic participation, equipping builders with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing environment. We also held our annual MBV Green Living Conference for its 18th consecutive year, which brought together industry leaders and builders from across the region. These engaging events and webinars provided great networking opportunities and allowed attendees to share insights, discuss pressing issues, and collaborate on solutions that benefit the entire industry.

In addition to professional development, we have made significant strides in bringing together members in regional areas. Engaging with a diverse range of

members has been a priority, as we strive to ensure that the voices of builders are heard in discussions affecting our industry. These initiatives are vital for creating a supportive environment where builders can thrive, feel supported and be connected to other industry professionals. The team ran eight Local Networking Events, five Regional Apprentice Awards Nights and three Regional Building Awards Events — each of which saw a record number of attendees and entries submitted.

Our variety of events extended to our 2024 MBV International Women’s Day breakfast, legal contracts workshops, industry breakfasts, the MBV Building Product Assurance Summit, MBV Member Milestone event, golf days and tradie breakfasts.

Two of our largest celebrations this year were undoubtedly our 2024 MBV Excellence in Construction Awards and our 2024 MBV Excellence in Housing Awards. These awards nights showcased the incredible talent and dedication within our industry, highlighting projects that exemplify excellence in craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. The awards brought together builders, suppliers, clients, sponsors, and other industry stakeholders, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared passion for our work.

The winning projects stood out not just for their aesthetics but for their impact on the communities they serve. From 7-star sustainability to out of the box designs, these projects demonstrated how thoughtful construction can enhance quality of life. The recognition of such outstanding works serves as an inspiration for all builders, encouraging us to push the boundaries of conventional practices and adopt innovative solutions.

As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the momentum from this year will carry us forward by continuing to invest in our professional growth and advocating for our industry. 2024 has been a year of collaboration, achievement, learning, and community-building for our members through their membership at MBV — thank you to all our members for your dedication and hard work, we look forward to carrying the spirit of collaboration and excellence into the new year, ensuring that builders continue to shape resilient, vibrant communities.

Meg Frazer MBV Events Team Leader

MBV Building Product Assurance Summit

2024 MBV Green Living Conference

MBV Local Networking Event — Mornington Peninsula