Master Builders Victoria members magazine October-December 2021

MASTER

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10 Back on the tools

MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2021 VOLUME 76 ISSUE 04

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12 Celebrating regional excellence

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Why you should join a Sector Committee

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MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA Master Builder is the official journal of Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is one of the state’s oldest employer organisations. The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement.

The keynote is service, and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them.

Membership of Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience.

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT:

Mark Little (President) Geoff Purcell (Deputy President) Richard Hansen (Immediate Past President) Paul McMahon, Michael Clemenger, Ashley Tonkin-Hill, Stuart Allen, Mark Phillips

COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT:

Mark Little (President) Geoff Purcell (Deputy President) Richard Hansen (Immediate Past President) Michael Clemenger, Ashley Tonkin-Hill, Stuart Allen, Mark Phillips, Pasquale Garofalo, Dale Kennedy, Greg Cole, Graham Cressey, David Rowe

CONTACT:

332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au Web: www.mbav.com.au

Contents FOREWORDS 07 FROM THE CEO AND PRESIDENT REGULAR 64 WHAT’S NEW 65 DIRECTORY FEATURES 10 TIME TO GET BACK ON THE TOOLS

FOUR MEMBERS SHARE THEIR INSIGHTS 12 2021 MASTER BUILDERS REGIONAL BUILDING AWARDS CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AND CONSTRUCTION 20 NEWS NATIONAL SNAPSHOTS — VICTORIA AT A GLANCE 22 NEWS MBV IN THE NEWS — PUTTING MEMBERS FIRST

DEPARTMENTS 25 DIVERSITY & INCLUSION 28 30 34 35

Produced by Newscorp for Master Builders Victoria EDITOR: Andrew Jefferson EDITORIAL CO-ORDINATOR: Alyssa Welke DESIGNER: Alyssa Welke

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ON THE COVER: South West Regional Residential Builder of the Year JM Homes Surf Coast project Portarlington.

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DIVERSITY, EQUALITY AND INCLUSION AT MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA POLICY HOUSING AFFORDABILITY CONTINUES TO IMPACT CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY COMMITTEE ROUND-UP GET TO KNOW THE MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA SECTOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS TECHNICAL LIVABLE HOUSING INCLUSIONS TO THE 2022 NCC CAREERS BUILDER’S REGISTRATIONS — HOW READY ARE YOU? INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CASUAL EMPLOYMENT — ARE YOU ACROSS THE LEGISLATIVE CHANGES?

38 LEGAL

PRIME COST ITEM AND PROVISIONAL SUMS

39 TRAINING

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRAINING PROVIDER 46 FINANCE YOUR SUPER, YOUR SUPER LEGISLATION — WHAT IT MEANS FOR EMPLOYERS 47 POLICY GETTING FAMILIAR WITH CHANGES AFFECTING BUILDERS IN 2022 48 GREEN LIVING BUILDING 4.0 COOPERATIVE RESEARCH CENTRE (CRC) PREPARES FOR THE FUTURE 50 GREEN LIVING PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE NCC 2022 ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONDENSATION TECHNICAL PROVISIONS 54 OH&S SAFETY TRAINING ESSENTIAL TO INDUSTRY 55 PEOPLE & CULTURE BUILDING ENGAGED RELATIONSHIPS 56 POLICY COVID-19 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY RESOURCE SUMMIT

ADVERTISING FEATURES 27 FIRE CRUNCH 33 ACRS 40 INCOLINK 43 LYSAGHT 45 RESPONSIBLE WOOD 53 INTRIM MOULDING BUILD SOURCE 58 HARBOUR CONCRETE SERVICES 59 WEATHERTEX 60 DAHLSENS

Volume 76 Issue 04

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FOREWORD

FROM THE CEO AND PRESIDENT

W

elcome to the OctoberDecember issue of Master Builder Victoria – the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria.

This edition is packed full of articles that we hope you will find of interest and value to you and your organisation as we mark the end of another challenging year. But as always, we look ahead with hope as we prepare to enter 2022.

Another challenging year for building and construction We are sure that it will surprise no one to hear us say that the past year has not been easy for builders in Victoria.

Sometimes, it felt like 2021 was 2020 all over again!

Since the pandemic’s start, MBV has worked tirelessly with other industry associations and unions to keep our sector COVIDSafe and, for the most part, open.

It’s been a torrid ride and very confronting at times, working with some organisations we haven’t traditionally seen eye to eye.

However, if this pandemic has taught us one thing, we must adapt and collaborate to compete.

We are proud to say that the collaborative approach taken here in Victoria aimed to set the scene nationally between industry associations and unions.

While our industry has thankfully been allowed to remain largely open through most lockdowns, supply chain issues have again been a massive challenge for builders in Victoria and across our nation.

Many builders and their clients can still expect to wait longer and pay more due to serious shortages hitting the residential construction industry, particularly building or renovating.

Lengthy delays and significant cost blowouts are becoming the norm as the cost of essential supplies surges.

For all the essential ingredients to build a home, we continue to see big delays out there.

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MBV has continued to be courageously vocal about supply chain shortages, both in the media and government.

And we have continued to be actively involved in finding supply shortage solutions to ensure sustained growth for the building and construction industry.

MBV advocated strongly to the Victorian Government to investigate the supply chain issue, prompting Treasurer Tim Pallas to appoint Red Tape Commissioner and Commissioner for Better Regulation Anna Cronin to undertake a review.

As we go to print, the report on our sector’s supply chain challenges is expected to be released soon.

We look forward to hearing Commissioner Cronin’s recommendations.

Like you, MBV welcomes the reopening of the Victorian building and construction industry.

Our industry comprises more than 320,000 dedicated professionals who take the responsibility of building, constructing, and developing Victoria very seriously.

They know that our industry provides 46 per cent of Victoria’s tax revenue, and when our sector is shut down, $64 million a day is lost in wages.

These are the same committed professionals who have been doing the right thing and getting vaccinated.

They have got vaccinated to return to work, but they also did it to protect their families, friends, and fellow Victorians.

Nevertheless, our renovation members have suffered greatly over the past 20 months, as they have not been permitted to work inside occupied premises for much of that time.

However, with the recent news that renovations can re-start, many Victorians will now have kitchens and bathrooms finished by Christmas and will be able to celebrate the New Year in comfort.

Just like 2020, 2021 has seen MBV busy advocating for our members’ interests, fighting to keep our industry open for business as

much as possible, and always being proactive to ensure our members and our sector benefit from any easing of restrictions.

Sometimes out of adversity and tough times, opportunities arise.

Through the pandemic,MBV has emerged as a stronger, more wellconnected organisation respected

by Government, business leaders and our community.

Thank you for your continued support, especially as we are only as strong as our membership base.

Looking ahead to 2022 We both firmly believe that building and construction in Victoria has a prosperous outlook as we head towards 2022 without the shackles of lockdowns.

With the onset of the Christmas rush, don’t forget to check in on colleagues, look out for each other, and take advantage of the services provided

by MBV to help you and your business.

Our team will also continue to put our members first, every time, all the time.

So, if you need advice, please make sure you call our team on (03) 9411 4555.

With 2022 fast approaching, please be aware that MBV’s end of year office closure period will be from Monday 20 December 2021 until Friday 7 January 2022.

On behalf of MBV’s Board, Council of Management and team, we thank you for supporting your Association.

Mark Little, President, Master Builders Victoria Rebecca Casson, CEO, Master Builders Victoria

Master Builders Victoria |

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Master Builders key contacts and office locations For all general enquiries, phone Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555. Or you can contact our key services using the details on this page.

Sydney

Adelaide

Albury-Wodonga

Ballarat Geelong

KEY CONTACTS Master Builders Victoria CEO Rebecca Casson Phone: (03) 9411 4501

Master Builders Victoria Executive Team Executive Director Growth & Relationships Melissa Greenall Phone: (03) 9411 4598 Executive Director Strategy, People & Influence Michaela Lihou Phone: (03) 9411 4555 Executive Director Commerical & Corporate Saeed Mirbagher Phone: (03) 9411 4556 Chief Legal Counsel/Company Secretary Tristan Moseley Phone: (03) 9411 4555

Master Builders Victoria Directors Director Marketing, Media & Communications Gavriel Berkowitz Phone: (03) 9411 4551 Director Business Development & Sales Nat Molinaro Phone: (03) 9411 4597 Director Policy Megan Peacock Phone: (03) 9411 4555 Director Advisory & People & Culture Giovanni Aberlardo Phone: (03) 9411 4540 Director Master Builders Training Institute Corrie Williams Phone: (03) 9411 4555

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Melbourne

Director IT Phillip Harris Phone: (03) 8412 9427

Board of Management President: Mark Little Deputy President: Geoff Purcell Treasurer: Sam Cimino Immediate Past President: Richard Hansen Housing Sector Chairperson: Paul McMahon General Contracting Chairperson: Michael Clemenger Specialist Contractor Chairperson: Ashley Tonkin-Hill Country Sector Chairperson: Stuart Allen Materials, Manufacturers and Suppliers Sector Chairperson: Mark Phillips

OFFICE LOCATIONS Melbourne 332 Albert Street East Melbourne Victoria 3002 GPO Box 544 Melbourne Victoria 3001 Phone: (03) 9411 4555 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au

Albury-Wodonga 35 Hovell Street Wodonga Victoria 3690 PO Box 700 Wodonga Victoria 3690 Phone: (03) 9411 8070 Email: membershipadmin@mbav.com. au

Ballarat 14 Albert Street Sebastopol Victoria 3690 Phone: (03) 5320 9999 Email: ballaratbs@mbav.com.au

Geelong 3 Melbourne Road Drumcondra Victoria 3215 Phone: (03) 5278 4255 Email: geelongbs@mbav.com.au

Council of Management President: Mark Little Deputy President: Geoff Purcell Treasurer: Sam Cimino Immediate Past President: Richard Hansen Housing Sector Chairperson: Paul McMahon Housing Sector: Pasquale Garofalo General Contracting Sector Chairperson: Michael Clemenger General Contracting Sector: Dale Kennedy Specialist Contractor Sector Chairperson: Ashley Tonkin-Hill Specialist Contractor Sector: Graham Cressey Specialist Contractor Sector: Gregory Cole Country Sector Chairperson: Stuart Allen Country Sector: David Rowe Materials, Manufacturers and Suppliers Sector Chairperson: Mark Phillips

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FEATURE

Time to get back on the tools With Victoria’s building and construction industry now back in full swing after a frustrating two years of lockdowns and shutdowns, Master Builder magazine editor Andrew Jefferson caught up with four members to quiz them on returning to work and how it feels to be back on site.

NAME: Gerald Zammit AGE: 46 RESIDES: Fraser Rise JOB TITLE: Hoist driver/labourer TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR ROLE WITH MULTIPLEX? “My role on site is a hoist driver. I very much enjoy this role as I am a people person. Primarily, I am there to get everyone up and down at the start and end of the day. For smoko and lunch, I’m there moving all the tools and equipment and deliveries from level to level, but first and foremost, I’m there in case of an emergency and First Aid. I start half an hour before my first run begins to ensure the hoist is running correctly, and all First Aid equipment is in working order. And I always have a few handy dad jokes up my sleeve to make everyone laugh. My aim is never to miss anyone’s call as I understand how frustrating it is when the hoist goes past you, and you have to wait for it to come back and pick you up.”

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK AT WORK WITH YOUR MATES? “I was looking forward to coming back to work as I enjoy what I do, and I enjoy spending time with the people on-site and hearing about their interests whilst in lockdown.”

HOW ARE YOU FINDING ALL THE COVIDSAFE MEASURES? “I’m finding all the COVIDSafe measures put in place fantastic as they not only keep myself and my peers safe, but they also keep us employed and working.”

WHAT DID YOU MISS MOST DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? “I think I miss physically being on-site in the hoist having banter with the guys and girls and the high pressure of ensuring I pick up everyone on time to

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keep the job running smoothly. I missed catching up with family and friends and being able to live a somewhat normal life.”

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING MOST IN 2022?

“I’m looking forward to getting back to normality, catching up with family and friends, going out for breakfast and booking a track day at Phillip Island and taking my beautiful wife out on a date.”

NAME ONE POSITIVE THING YOU HAVE LEARNT FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? “Not to take life for granted and appreciate the small things.”

NAME: Dani Bartolini AGE: I couldn’t possibly say!

RESIDES: Dromana, Mornington Peninsula JOB TITLE: Business Development Manager HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK AT WORK WITH YOUR MATES? I’m so happy to be back!

HOW ARE YOU FINDING ALL THE COVID SAFE MEASURES? I think of them as just another addition to OHS that has to be ticked off.

Safety always has to come first. I’m happy to comply with anything that helps us all stay safe and keeps us open and working.

WHAT DID YOU MISS MOST DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? I missed being able to meet new contacts in person or catch up with existing clients on-site.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING MOST IN 2022?

I’m really excited about interstate

Gerald Zammit.

Dani Bartolini travel. We have some exciting relationships to explore both around Australia and in New Zealand so looking forward to getting on a plane.

NAME ONE POSITIVE THING YOU HAVE LEARNT FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? There are always opportunities for growth even if it’s not in the area you expected or had planned.

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FEATURE

Alana Cini NAME: Alana Cini AGE: 20 RESIDES: Taylors Lakes JOB TITLE: Carpentry apprentice

Phil Johnson NAME: Phil Johnson AGE: 31 RESIDES: Drouin JOB TITLE: Site supervisor, Hermitage/ Kingsbridge Homes HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK AT WORK WITH YOUR MATES? It feels great, the two weeks off had a slight lack of routine, as well as not being able to see all the guys on-site and having the interaction you get with your co-workers.

HOW ARE YOU FINDING ALL THE COVIDSAFE MEASURES? It can be challenging at times to enforce all the new COVIDSafe measures on all of our trades and suppliers. They do know we are looking out for their best interests though. We all know this is to get us out of this pandemic sooner and help

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us stay open.

WHAT DID YOU MISS MOST DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? Seeing all my friends and family; as well as the feeling of not having any form of an outlet from work, no matter how big or small. I missed going down to the go-kart track!

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING MOST IN 2022?

Getting married in February to my beautiful fiancé after having to postpone it due to COVID will be a nice way to see the back of this pandemic, as well as life getting back to normal. It will be nice to enjoy a beer at the MCG again.

NAME ONE POSITIVE THING YOU HAVE LEARNT FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? Make the most of everything life throws at you.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK AT WORK WITH YOUR MATES? It feels so good to be back and out of the house working with Dad and Lucas — it’s always fun, but also challenging.

HOW ARE YOU FINDING ALL THE COVIDSAFE MEASURES? It can be annoying sometimes with masks, but other than that we don’t have any issues.

WHAT DID YOU MISS MOST DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? Working outside!

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING MOST IN 2022?

Having an opportunity to learn more in the industry.

NAME ONE POSITIVE THING YOU HAVE LEARNT FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Less traffic on the road, so I get to work quicker!

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FEATURE

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2021 Master Builders Victoria

egional members have been acknowledged for their commitment to building excellence through the annual Master Builders Victoria Regional Building Awards.

The awards were presented differently this year, with one in-person event held in the South East region before the impacts of COVID-19.

The awards then pivoted to online presentations for the three remaining regions – the North East, South West, and North West.

The awards series honours and celebrates our members who show exceptional commitment to building excellence and upholding our industry’s highest professional standards.

It provides an opportunity to showcase their work in both residential and commercial sectors.

We congratulate all winners and entrants and thank you all for your continued support of our award programs.

Master Builders Victoria (MBV) thanks our panel of judges.

Judging such fine work for excellence is a time consuming and challenging task.

The quality of construction, client relationships, design, execution of design, value for money, sustainability, innovation, project management, and site management of these cutting-edge projects are all considered in selecting our winners.

In addition, MBV would like to express its appreciation to our sponsors for their valued contribution.

Without their continued support and commitment to the industry, programs such as this would not be possible.

North East Regional Residential Builder of the Year Scott James Builder project East Albury.

Master Builders Victoria is excited to announce the 2021 Master Builders Victoria Regional Residential and Commercial Builder of the Year award winners and showcase the excellent achievements of our residential Regional Master Builders Members.

The regional winners will now compete for the State title of 2021 Regional Builder of the Year at either the 2021

Regional Residential Builder of the Year North East: Scott James Builder Project: East Albury South West: JM Homes Surf Coast Project: Portarlington North West: Col Gowers Homes Project: Mildura South East: SCA Homes Project: Lake Tyers

Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards or the 2021 Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Housing Awards.

Regional Commercial Builder of the Year North East: Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd t/a Joss Construction Project: Department of Defence, Joint Health Command Garrison Facilities Upgrade Albury Wodonga Health Centre Gaza Ridge Barracks, Albury South West: Rendine Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Marcus Oldham College Learning Centre, Waurn Ponds North West: Bourke Builders Project: Colbinabbin Country Hotel South East: TS Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Bass Coast Regional Health Chemo Building, Wonthaggi

Thanks to this year’s sponsors:

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Volume 76 Issue 04

FEATURE

Regional Building Awards

North East Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd t/a Joss Construction for Department of Defence, Joint Health Command Garrison Facilities Upgrade Albury Wodonga Health Centre Gaza Ridge Barracks, Albury

North West Regional Residential Builder of the Year Col Gowers Homes’ project Mildura.

South West Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Rendine Constructions Pty Ltd for Marcus Oldham College Learning Centre, Waurn Ponds

South West Regional Residential Builder of the Year JM Homes Surf Coast project Portarlington.

South East Regional Residential Builder of the Year SCA Homes’ project Lake Tyers.

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North West Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Bourke Builders for Colbinabbin Country Hotel

South East Regional Commercial Builder of the Year TS Constructions Pty Ltd for Bass Coast Regional Health Chemo Building, Wonthaggi

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FEATURE 2021 Master Builders Victoria Regional Building Awards – South West Winners Regional Residential Builder of the Year JM Homes Surf Coast Project: Portarlington Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Rendine Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Marcus Oldham College Learning Centre, Waurn Ponds Best Renovation/Addition $300,000$500,000 Doherty Building Group Project: Geelong Best Renovation/Addition over $500,000 Bespoke Homes and Renovations Project: Kyneton Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon Project: Amira 25S, Armstrong Creek Best Volume Builder Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Simonds Homes Project: Parlour 28 - Lucas, Lucas Best Volume Builder Display Home over $500,000 Metricon Project: Glendale 39, Armstrong Creek Best Custom Home $300,000$400,000 Malishev Constructions Project: Charlemont Best Custom Home $400,000$500,000 Wojcicki Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Tylden Best Custom Home $500,000$600,000 DC BUILT Project: Brown Hill Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 Doherty Building Group Project: Connewarre

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Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M JM Homes Surf Coast Project: Anglesea Best Custom Home $1M-$2M JM Homes Surf Coast Project: Portarlington Best Custom Home $1M-$2M Special Commendation Homes with Integrity Project: Eastern View Best Multi-Unit Development up to 3 units Larkin & Drought Builders Project: Ocean Grove Best Multi-Unit Development 4 to 12 units Hamlan Homes Project: Newtown Best Sustainable Home Bolden Constructions Project: Warrnambool Best Sustainable Project Nicholson Construction Project: Gunditj Mirring Keeping Place, Heywood Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $1M-$3M Nicholson Construction Project: Gunditj Mirring Keeping Place, Heywood Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $3M-$6M Bowden Corporation Pty Ltd Project: Cotton on Beckley, North Geelong Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $6M-$10.5M Rendine Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Marcus Oldham College Learning Centre, Waurn Ponds Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings over $10.5M Lyons Construction Project: The Court Precinct at Sacred Heart College, Retreat Road, Newtown

2021 Master Builders Victoria Regional Building Awards – North East Winners Regional Residential Builder of the Year Scott James Builder Project: East Albury Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd t/a Joss Construction Project: Department of Defence, Joint Health Command Garrison Facilities Upgrade Project Albury Wodonga Health Centre, Gaza Ridge Barracks, Albury Best Renovation/Addition under $300,000 Vanderwey Building Group Pty Ltd Project: Kialla Best Renovation/Addition $300,000-$500,000 Glenn Dempsey Builders Pty Ltd Project: Shepparton Best Display Home $250,000$350,000 21st Century Homes Pty Ltd Project: Preston 277, Wodonga Best Display Home $350,000$500,000 Gilchrist Homes Project: Elwood, Baranduda Best Display Home over $500,000 Southern Vale Homes Project: The Edge, Baranduda Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon Project: Langdon 26, Yarrawonga Best Volume Builder Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Metricon Project: Sentinel 29, Kialla Best Volume Builder Display Home over $500,000 Metricon Project: Fortitude 37, Kialla Best Custom Home under $300,000 DKM Builders Pty Ltd

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FEATURE Project: Swanpool Best Custom Home $300,000$400,000 Glenn Dempsey Builders Pty Ltd Project: Violet Town Best Custom Home $400,000$500,000 Sam Wortmann Custom Builder Project: Wodonga Best Custom Home $500,000$600,000 Jason Smith Constructions P/L Project: Beechworth Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 B&H Homes Project: Emerson, Holbrook Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M Ground Up Earth Builders Project: Mt Hotham Best Custom Home $1M-$2M Scott James Builder Project: East Albury Best Multi-Unit Development - up to 3 units Superior Living Homes Project: William Street Townhouse Development, Wodonga Best Multi-Unit Development - over 12 units Lang Construction Project: Kooroora Hotel, Mt Buller Best Sustainable Home Ovens & King Builders Project: Nam Shing Passive House, Beechworth Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $1M-$3M Premier Building & Construction Pty Ltd Project: The HUB, Walla Walla Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings over $6M Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd t/a Joss Construction Project: Department of Defence, Joint Health Command Garrison Facilities Upgrade Project Albury Wodonga Health Centre, Gaza Ridge Barracks, Albury

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2021 Master Builders Victoria Regional Building Awards – North West Winners Regional Residential Builder of the Year Col Gowers Homes Project: Mildura Regional Commercial Builder of the Year Bourke Builders Project: Colbinabbin Country Hotel Best Renovation/Addition under $300,000 Adrian Bassett Homes Project: Quarry Hill Best Renovation/Addition $300,000$500,000 Edifice Construction Project: Castlemaine Best Renovation/Addition over $500,000 Wayne McDonnell Homes Pty Ltd Project: Irymple Best Display Home $350,000$500,000 Murray Wearne Builders Project: Pippin Grove, Maiden Gully Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon Project: Langdon 32, Moama Best Volume Builder Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Metricon Project: Delta 29MR, Strathfieldsaye Best Custom Home under $300,000 Murray Wearne Builders Project: Bridgewater on Loddon Best Custom Home $300,000$400,000 Todd Newman Builders Project: White Hills Best Custom Home $400,000$500,000 Hugh Foott Concepts & Construction Pty Ltd Project: Swan Hill

Best Custom Home $500,000$600,000 Murray Wearne Builders Project: Strathfieldsaye Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 Todd Newman Builders Project: Maiden Gully Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M (Special Commendation) Todd Newman Builders Project: Neereman Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M Col Gowers Homes Project: Mildura Best Custom Home $1M-$2M (Special Commendation) Bespoke Homes and Renovations Project: Mt Macedon Best Custom Home $1M-$2M Jason Wescott Builder Pty Ltd Project: Boort Best Multi-Unit Development - up to 3 units VR Builders Project: Maldon Best Sustainable Home Eco Sustainable Homes Pty Ltd Project: Chewton Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings under $1M Bourke Builders Project: Colbinabbin Country Hotel, Colbinabbin

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FEATURE 2021 Master Builders Victoria Regional Building Awards – South East Winners South East Regional Residential Builder of the Year SCA Homes Project: Lake Tyers South East Regional Commercial Builder of the Year TS Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Bass Coast Regional Health Chemo Building, Wonthaggi Best Renovation/Addition under $300,000 JSL Builders Project: Traralgon Best Display Home over $500,000 Virtue Homes Project: Virtue Homes Warragul Display Home Best Display Home $350,000$500,000 Roseleigh Homes Project: The Harper, Warragul Best Volume Builder Display Home under $250,000 ABC Homes Project: Lloyd 25, Drouin Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon Project: Lawson 22Mk2, Drouin Best Volume Builder Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Simonds Homes Project: Lauriston 32, Traralgon Best Volume Builder Display Home over $500,000 Metricon Project: Alto 30MK2, Grantville Best Custom Home under $300,000 Virtue Homes Project: Traralgon Best Custom Home $300,000$400,000 Latrobe Valley Building Services Project: Traralgon

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Best Custom Home $400,000$500,000 SCA Homes Project: Lake Tyers Best Custom Home $500,000$600,000 Harris Build Project: Coronet Bay Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 Blay Builders Project: Longford Best Custom Home $600,000$800,000 (Special Commendation) Roseleigh Homes Project: Allambee Reserve Best Custom Home $800,000-$1M CT Build Pty Ltd Project: Inverloch Best Custom Home $800,000-$1M (Special Commendation) Roseleigh Homes Project: Warragul Best Custom Home $1M-$2M Allchin Builders Project: Buln Best Multi-Unit Development – 4 to 12 units Virtue Homes Project: Traralgon Best Sustainable Home TS Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Cape Paterson Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings under $1M LANGDEN Constructions Pty Ltd Project: KFC Traralgon East Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $1M-$3M TS Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Bass Coast Regional Health Chemo Building, Wonthaggi Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $3M-$6M TS Constructions Pty Ltd Project: Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club

North East Best Custom Home under $300,000 DKM Builders Pty Ltd for Swanpool

North East Best Volume Builder Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Metricon for Fortitude 37, Kialla

North West Best Renovation/Addition over $500,000 Wayne McDonnell Homes Pty Ltd for Irymple

North West Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon for Langdon 32, Moama.

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FEATURE

North West Best Custom Home $600,000-$800,000 Todd Newman Builders for Maiden Gully

North East Best Sustainable Home Ovens & King Builders for Nam Shing Passive House, Beechworth

North East Best Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Gilchrist Homes for Elwood, Baranduda.

North East Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings over $6M Colin Joss & Co Pty Ltd t/a Joss Construction for Department of Defence, Joint Health Command Garrison Facilities Upgrade Albury Wodonga Health Centre Gaza Ridge Barracks, Albury

North West Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings under $1M Bourke Builders for Colbinabbin Country Hotel, Colbinabbin.

North West Best Sustainable Home Eco Sustainable Homes Pty Ltd for Chewton.

North East Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $1M-$3M Premier Building & Construction Pty Ltd for The HUB, Walla Walla.

North East Best Renovation/ Addition under $300,000 Vanderwey Building Group Pty Ltd for Kialla.

North East Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M Ground Up Earth Builders for Mt Hotham.

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FEATURE

South East Best Display Home $350,000-$500,000 Roseleigh Homes for The Harper, Drouin.

South East Best Sustainable Home TS Constructions Pty Ltd for Cape Paterson.

South West Best Custom Home $300,000-$400,000 Malishev Constructions for Charlemont.

South West Best Renovation/ Addition $300,000-$500,000 Doherty Building Group for Geelong.

South East Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings Under $1M LANGDEN Constructions Pty Ltd for KFC Traralgon East, Traralgon East.

South West Best Volume Builder Display Home $250,000-$350,000 Metricon for Amira 25S, Armstrong Creek.

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South West Best Multi Unit Development up to 3 units Larkin & Drought Builders for Ocean Grove.

Volume 76 Issue 04

FEATURE

South West Best Sustainable Home Bolden Constructions for Warrnambool.

South West Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $3M-$6M Bowden Corporation Pty Ltd for Cotton On Beckley, North Geelong

South West Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $1M-$3M Nicholson Construction for Gunditj Mirring Keeping Place, Heywood

South West Best Custom Home $600,000-$800,000 Doherty Building Group for Connewarre.

South West Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M JM Homes Surf Coast for Anglesea.

South East Best Custom Homes $800,000-$1M CT Build Pty Ltd for Inverloch.

Volume 76 Issue 04

South East Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $3M-$6M TS Constructions Pty Ltd for Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club, CATE PATERSON

Master Builders Victoria |

19

NEWS

National snapshots — Victoria at a glance

T

he following series of snapshots surrounding building and construction in Victoria have been provided exclusively to MBV Members by MBA Chief Economist Shane Garrett. We trust they are of interestSEPTEMBER to our Members. 2021

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION VICTORIA

Residential building work during March 2021 quarter COMPLETED NEW HOMES

COMMENCED NEW HOMES

13,901

NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDING 913 non-residential building jobs valued at $1,124.6 million were approved in VIC in July 2021.

Public sector share of non-residential building jobs approved in July 2021: 39.4%

13,418

All dwellings

All dwellings

9,824

6,968

Detached houses

Non-residential building jobs approved, July 2021 (number of jobs)

Detached houses

4,077

6,450

Apartments/units

Apartments/units

New homes still under construction on 31 March 2021

New homes approved but not yet commenced as at 31 March 2021 CIVIL CONSTRUCTION Civil construction work, March 2021 quarter

64,032

5,415

All dwellings

23,126

1,916

Detached houses

Detached houses

40,906

3,499

Apartments/units

Apartments/units

Lending indicators: July 2021

1,835 547 1,111 416

$4,079.3m Works started

All dwellings

Loans to owner occupiers for construction of new home +21.5% change on July 2020 Loans to investors for construction of new home +27.5% change on July 2020

$4,209.7m Works done

$14,103.7m Works yet to be done

Civil works by activity, March 2021 quarter ($m) Started

Done

To be done

Other transport

$1,717.2

$1,016.6

$7,045.3

Roads

$923.1

$1,230.8

$4,491.6

Water & sewerage

$231.6

$285.8

$397.1

Electricity

$324.0

$780.2

$1,770.3

Telecommunications

$383.9

$402.2

$44.5

Heavy industry

$135.2

$148.8

$126.7

Recreation & other

$364.4

$345.4

$228.3

TOTAL

$4,079.3

$4,209.7

$14,103.7

Master Builders Australia | Building & Construction VIC | September 2021

LABOUR MARKET, August 2021 quarter

Loans to owner occupiers for residential land purchase -24.1% change on July 2020 Loans to investors for residential land purchase +16.9% change on July 2020

323,791 People employed in construction in VIC

3.5 million

employed people in VIC

4.1%

Unemployment rate

32.6%

First Home Buyers share of loans

87,392

Resi/commercial builders

31,734

Civil construction builders

204,664

Resi/commercial subcontractors

9.3%

Of VIC jobs are in construction

12.0%

Account for women working in VIC construction

uilding & Construction VIC | September 2021

20 | Master Builders Victoria

111,111 Construction Businesses

Volume 30,755 76 Issue 04 Construction apprentices in-training (end of Dec 2020)

Rental price changes in Melbourne -0.5% During June 2021 quarter

64,032

$

23,126

40,906

Regional VIC

Unit prices: year to August 2021

+22.3%

Melbourne

6,054

COMMENCED NEW HOMES

COMPLETED NEW HOMES

13,901

13,418

All dwellings

All dwellings

9,824

6,968

4,039

New homes still under construction on 31 March 2021

$

-0.8% Over year to June 2021 quarter

Construction Businesses

+21.5% change on July 2020

Loans to investors for construc SIZE (# WORKERS) 547 of new home 0 1-19 20-199 +200

1,111

70,395 change on July 2020 +27.5% 39,372

1,302 to owner occupiers for Loans 42 residential land purchase -24.1% change on July 2020

416

turnover less than $50,000

$357.9 million

Units/apartments Home renovations +11.6% +46.9% 64,032 change on All dwellings change on July 2020 July 2020

23,126

Detached houses

5,415

1.4% 32.6%

All dwellings

1,916

First Home Buye share of loans

turnover greater than $10m

Detached houses

40,906

3,499

Apartments/units Master Builders Australia | Building & Construc

Apartments/units Building approvals: July 2021

to owner occupiers for 1,835111,111Loans construction of new home

New homes approved but not yet commenced as at 31 March 2021 SIZE (TURNOVER) Loans to investors for resident land purchase 20.5% +16.9% change on July 2020

Regional VIC

Rental price changes in Melbourne

Lending indicators: July 2021

Detached houses Detached houses Total new home Detached houses building approvals4,077 6,450 +20.5% +17.6%Apartments/units change on Apartments/units change on July 2020 July 2020

1,999

-0.5% During June 2021 quarter

3,49

Apartmen

Building approvals: July 2021 Residential building work during March 2021 quarter

+20.0%

+7.3%

1,91

NEWSDetached

Apartments/units

House prices: year to August 2021

Melbourne

All dwe

Detached houses

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

+15.6%

5,4

All dwellings

-0.8% Over year to June 2021 quarter

Master Builders Australia | Building & Construction VIC | September 2021

Lending indicators: July 2021

1,835 6,054

4,039

Total new home building approvals +17.6% change on July 2020

Detached houses +20.5% change on July 2020

547

Loans to investors for construction of new home +27.5% change on July 2020

1,111

Loans to owner occupiers for residential land purchase -24.1% change on July 2020

416 1,999

$357.9 million

Units/apartments +11.6% change on July 2020

Home renovations +46.9% change on July 2020

Loans to owner occupiers for construction of new home +21.5% change on July 2020

Loans to investors for residential land purchase +16.9% change on July 2020

32.6%

First Home Buyers share of loans

Master Builders Australia | Building & Construction VIC | September 2021

Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

21

NEWS

MBV in the news — Putting members first

Andrew Jefferson Editor

S

eptember, October, and November were certainly another rollercoaster few months of media activity at Master Builders Victoria!

Lockdowns, shutdowns, smoko ban protests, riots, and mandatory vaccinations – there was never a dull moment for the media team, CEO Rebecca Casson, and Executive Director Relationships and Growth Mell Greenall.

The month started with builders rushing to contain growing COVID infections on-site, generating media for MBV in the trusty AFR. The Herald Sun was keen to chat to us upon our announcement that 30,000 COVID jabs would be delivered into the arms of construction workers.

MBV’s highly visible Get the Jab Done billboard campaign also featured strongly in regional media.

Tom Burton from the AFR then quoted MBV with a report that construction was set to be shut down should the COVID spread continue.

In further worrying news for our industry, the Herald Sun reported that a builder compliance blitz was on the cards.

That was hot on the heels of another story that claimed building and construction workers were responsible for one-in-three COVID cases.

MBV then featured in The Age as the state eyed mandatory vaccinations for building workers.

The Ballarat Courier also wanted to chat to us after a building and construction case emerged in the gold rush city.

The Geelong Advertiser followed that up with a story on no jab, no building work and a second yarn the next day as it was

22 | Master Builders Victoria

tools down.

On a positive note, CEO Rebecca Casson wrote an op-ed in the Saturday Herald

Sun saying that the industry was building momentum for vaccination.

Roll on 2022!

Volume 76 Issue 04

NEWS

Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

23

Create raised floors on balconies, podiums and green roof tops Designed for creating raised floors in external applications, such as balconies, terraces and green roofs, Buzon’s Award Winning Pedestal system can be used with any type of concrete or stone paver, timber decking of all types and metal or fibreglass grid systems.

A key benefit of this innovation is the patented slope correction device.

Using the Buzon Pedestal replaces the use of sand and cement when

This gives up to five percent fall compensation achieving a perfectly level

laying pavers, therefore eliminating efflorescence and algae and reducing

floor finish, simultaneously allowing for positive water runoff at structural

weight-bearing loads on the building structure. In addition the pedestal

slab level.

also improves thermal insulation and reduces sounds transmission.

For even more design flexibility, the system offers height adjustment

In commercial urban environments where space is at an ever-higher

from 17mm to 1070mm, millimetre by millimetre if required. This allows

premium, a building’s roof level is potentially a rich source of usable

for unsightly services to be concealed under the floor while still offering

space. Buzon say their Pedestal System

access for maintenance of the waterproofing membrane and drainage

can be used to maximise a roof’s potential,

systems.

both hiding all manner of services and

The pedestals are extremely strong as they are precision-engineered

protecting roof substrates from the

from high strength, UV resistant, recycled polypropylene and capable

elements, maximising integrity and longevity.

of supporting loads of more than 1000kg each. At roof level, this load is

The Buzon Pedestal System is available throughout

evenly spread by the wide base area of each unit, making them ideal for

Australia.

installation on any waterproofing membrane without causing damage, they can even be used directly over insulation material.

The Buzon Pedestal System is also simple to install. Desired height is achieved by thread adjustment, which is lockable when reached and a range of interchangeable spacer tabs of 2mm, 3mm, 4.5mm, 6mm, 8mm

For more information contact: Pasco Construction Solutions Phone: 03 9429 9111

and 10mm, allow for precise gaps between pavers and provide positive

Email: buzon@pasco.net.au

drainage without any concern of ponding or flooding.

www.pasco.net.au

BENEFITS • • • • •

Use with stone, concrete, timber, composite decking Use over existing concrete, brick or paved areas Allows for drainage and ventilation Reduces noise and increases insulation Can achieve a perfectly level deck on an uneven surface

• Adjustable heights supporting up to 1000kg

• Quick and easy installation • Provides a sustainable solution • Easy access to waterproofing membrane for maintenance

SINCE 1987

Exclusive stockist of Buzon products in Australia contact:

www.buzon.com.au

PASCO (VIC) 13-15 Brighton Street Richmond VIC 3121 Tel : (03) 9429 9111

QLD Distributor Adheseal - Brisbane 26 Wolverhampton Street Stafford QLD 4053 Tel: (07) 3356 0000

SA Distributor Tower 29 5 Gemmell Street Brighton SA 5048 Tel: 0466 016 706

PASCO (NSW) 4/14 Tennyson Road Gladesville NSW 2111 Tel : (02) 9817 4441

QLD Distributor Adheseal - Sunshine Coast 2/18 Kessling Avenue Kunda Park QLD 4456 Tel: (07) 5477 0022

WA Distributor Civil & General Distributors 27 Oxleigh Drive Malaga WA 6090 Tel: (08) 9249 4733

www.pasco.net.au

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Diversity, equity, and inclusion at MBV

M

aster Builders Victoria (MBV) continues to progress our diversity, equity, and inclusion journey in several ways.

understand the benefits and issues.

This includes training team members in Aboriginal cultural awareness and Acknowledgement of Country via external provider Wan-Yaari.

As we evolve and continue our journey to ensure we are an inclusive, diverse, and equitable organisation, two critical aspects must be addressed and be at the forefront of any change - authenticity and purposeful actions.

Authentic, genuine action drives an organisation’s heart and soul, influencing greater organisational cultural change.

We are also starting our organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) with Meg Mundell from Hatch Productions and Adam Magennis from Kaptify.

Another goal for MBV team members is to train foundational awareness — diversity, equity, and inclusion.

As time progresses, we see more evidence that diversity in a work environment improves performance; diversity also provides a broader understanding of issues impacting other people.

As the leading voice of Victoria’s building and construction industry, we must

It challenges us to ensure we are accountable as an industry leader and remain a strong voice for our sector.

As a member-based organisation that leads Victoria’s building and construction industry, we can lead by example and assist other organisations that support and prioritise inclusion.

As we pivot into a new normal as we exit lockdown in Victoria and we begin to welcome you, our members, back to our offices, you will start to see some visible changes.

Heritage-listed Residential Building Raised, Re-aligned and Re-supported with Teretek® The owner of a 3-storey, split-level block of units contacted Mainmark after detecting large cracks in the building’s internal and external walls. The cracks were visible in most walls and the floors were becoming noticeably uneven.

The situation had deteriorated over several months with significant cracking and unlevel floors indicating major structural issues due to severe differential settlement.

A significant degree of building lift was required to raise the structure back to within 5mm of its original level. As the building was on the State Heritage Register for Residential Flat Buildings, Mainmark also needed to ensure that the building’s structural aesthetics were not significantly altered.

Mainmark’s Teretek resin was injected into the soil beneath the building’s foundations in a process like keyhole surgery, with the solution strategically targeting the weakest points, allowing Mainmark to achieve its objective of raising the

Volume 76 Issue 04

There will be prominent artwork by Mutti Mutti, Tatti Tatti, Waddi Waddi and Noongar artist Jade Kennedy.

The artwork is a detailed map of Victoria displaying the Aboriginal tribes in the state, which represents our members, team, and organisation.

We are also developing our Acknowledgment of Country video which showcases some beautiful parts of Victoria.

Our RAP will change our policies and processes acknowledging best practices inclusively and equitably.

By playing a leading role in projects within the industry, in conjunction with the Victorian Government and other key stakeholders, we will support apprentices, regional workers and help close the gender gap in the building and construction industry.

We are aware that this is a journey, not an endpoint.

building back to level. The successful lifting and re-levelling process also helped to reduce the large cracks in the walls, with many cracks narrowing to within a few millimetres. Interior repairs were then undertaken to restore the building’s former heritage aesthetic which included structural stitching, rendering, and painting.

Despite the project complexities, Mainmark successfully completed the project in three days. Both the property’s owner, and the forensic engineer, Daniel Lee from Fairdinkum Technical Services, were really impressed with Mainmark’s approach to the challenging project.

For an obligation free, expert opinion contact us

1800 623 312 www.mainmark.com Mainmark Ground Engineering Pty Ltd VIC Building Licence No. CCB-L 57503 & CDB-L 49144

Scan to see how Teretek works

Master Builders Victoria |

25

Fire

C rU n C h

Australian Certified Building Solutions

FIRE TESTED BY CSIRO/NATA FireCrunch FCAproducts

tested

by

CSIRO

CALL TODAY1300 933102

BUILDERS BUY DIRECT from : sales@firecrunch.com.au

79mm & 76mmTongue & Groove l.7Sg/cm3 Structural Flooring & Decking Board

K-DECK Groove Board Decking 25% savings $55.00/m2

K-WALL Groove Board Cladding 30% savings $33.00/m2

K-CLAD Interior/ Exterior Cladding

- Size: 10mm 1200mm x 2400mm, 2700mm & 3000mm Available in square and recessed edge (plaster set joints)

- Size: 76mm 2700mm x 600mm - Non-combustible NATA LABS fire tested - BCA BAL (FZ) Flame Zone bush fire compliant

- Size: 72mm 7000mm x 2700mm - External & internal - groove board - Ship lap edge

• Eliminates multiple layers of fire-rated plasterboard -1 x 10mm board meets FRL 90/90/90 - $23.00/m2 -Cuts costs of materials & labour up to 70% -Acoustic Rw 62, NATA/CSIRO test fireproof FRL 90/90/90 -

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3 Structural Flooring & Decking Board

K-FLOOR Internal/ External Flooring 30% savings $55.00/m2

- Size: 79mm 600mm x 2700mm tongue and groove sheeting - Takes floor span loads over 600mm up to 5.3 kN and 6.7 kN - High density building board, structural l.l5g/cm3 density

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Save time and money with advanced cladding technology The new generation of Magnesium Oxide cladding is set to save on material and labor costs while offering peace of mind to property owners

F

or many trades in the building and construction industry, the change from plasterboard and CFC cannot come quickly enough. Citing deficiencies in exterior weather to the multiple layers required for some fire walls, costs can additionally blow-out, with many of these materials requiring expensive and specialised tools for application and installation.

The new generation of Magnesium Oxide cladding (MgSO4) and sheeting

by FireCrunch is the answer to most forms of internal and external cladding.

It is lightweight, can be used on a variety of surfaces, is installed easily requiring less labour and can be used as a fire wall offering a total fire block.

While the earlier types of MgSO4 board were effective protection from fire, they had a poor surface finish and a tendency to absorb moisture if not properly sealed.

Through new technology, FireCrunch has achieved high loadbearing (55kN) CSIRO-tested and compliant, verified fire-proof building products, while offering high-quality, double-slurry surfaces and giving a first-class finish.

It can be used as underlay flooring, tile backers, shower bases and once, primersealed, can be painted with normal water-based paints, texture paints or renders.

With costs as low as $18 per sqm, MgSO4 offers top fire rating from NATA, CSIRO and Resolute Labs. MgSO4 cladding will handle up to FRL 90/90/90 (NATA Labs tested) with a single sheet

Volume 76 Issue 04

each side of a 90mm cavity frame.

It has endured real-time bushfire simulation tests and full-scale furnace tests at 1000.

MgSO4 is regularly recommended by architects, specifiers and QS/surveyors, and fire engineers and certifiers.

The board contributes 95% less C02 than plasterboard.

The material is suitable for fire separation walls in high-rise residential and commercial construction and for bushfire BAL FZ and flood-prone areas and available to clients Australiawide.

Master Builders Victoria |

27

POLICY

Housing affordability impacts industry

Diana Dajcman, Policy Advisor

M

aster Builders Victoria (MBV) has continued to see housing affordability as a long-standing issue that deeply affects our industry.

Amongst the chaos of COVID-19 and lockdowns, the topic of housing affordability has seen some renewed attention, as house prices continued to climb by 15.6 per cent in Melbourne and 20 per cent in Geelong in the year to August 2021.

Upward trends on prices pressed the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Tax and Revenue to conduct an inquiry on Housing Affordability and Supply. Master Builders Australia provided one of the 147 submissions.

Property prices were expected to decrease as international and state borders closed due to the spread of COVID-19. Alongside this, for the first time in 28 years, Victoria experienced a population decrease of nearly 43,000 people over the year to March 2021.

As well as a population decrease, there has been a shift in preferences towards larger living spaces and neighbourhoods out of cities as people started spending more time at home.

Increases in house prices are a consequence of having inadequate housing supply for years.

Growing populations, employment, and incomes create greater demand for housing.

In addition to this, Government incentives and low mortgage interest rates play a role in further saturating the market as more Victorians purchase their own home.

28 | Master Builders Victoria

While demand for housing can increase significantly over short periods, new housing supply usually responds to these changes very slowly.

Victoria has been unable to match supply with growing demands for housing for a variety of reasons.

New home building is incredibly costly, so developers and builders are unlikely to proceed if conditions seem too risky.

Government regulations on costs and availability of land, zoning and planning arrangements make producing new homes difficult.

As a result, only a fifth of total housing supply has been built in the last 10 years, and nearly two-thirds of total homes in Victoria were built over 20 years ago.

The mismatch between supply and demand relates to various factors such as the number of dwellings, the types of dwellings, amenity, and location.

This highlights that our current restraints in the supply of new homes are placing a massive burden on the price of housing.

According to the Grattan Institute, homeownership rates among 25 to 34-year-olds fell from more than 60 per cent to 45 per cent between 1981 and 2016 in Australia.

For 35 to 44-year-olds, ownership fell from 74 per cent to 62 per cent in the same period.

This suggests that falls in homeownership reflect higher dwelling prices than changes in preferences in younger age groups.

Impact of regulation and taxes on housing affordability Master Builders Australia submitted a paper to the Housing Affordability and Supply Inquiry conducted by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Tax and Revenue.

Their submission investigated the role that regulation and tax play in housing supply and affordability.

Regulations such as limitations on land and restrictive planning laws are the major causes of shortages in land and the supply of homes.

These regulatory processes should be

navigated to bring new housing into the market.

Fees and charges throughout this process add to the cost of supplying new homes.

Currently, the ongoing changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) and regulations for outcomes such as accessible housing and energy efficiency are adding to the cost of housing.

Most businesses in our industry are small, with 69 per cent operating as sole traders and 30 per cent hiring less than 20 employees in Victoria.

This means that most businesses will not have the resources to adequately deal with a raft of regulatory changes unless the pace of change is slowed down.

MBV has been continuing to advocate for greater transition periods for changes within the 2022 NCC. Higher costs in building homes will negatively affect the building and construction industry as fewer people will afford to build new homes.

Housing is an easy target for government taxation revenue due to the immobile nature of land and dwellings.

These taxes can end up inflating the cost of creating new homes.

Taxes on incomes and industries also places upward pressures on building material costs, prices, and the supply of homes.

In the case of the residential building industry, some of the most significant taxes include the Goods and Services Tax (GST), stamp duties, land taxes paid by developers and builders, local government rates, payroll tax, levies applied during the development and building process and developer contributions.

When it comes to housing, invisible taxes which are not directly paid by building and development also influence the costs of building new homes, such as taxes levied on the cement industry.

Master Builders Australia recommended in their submission that the set of taxes imposed on housing throughout the

Volume 76 Issue 04

POLICY build needs to be investigated.

Stamp duty tax is an example of government taxation that puts additional financial burdens on the housing market.

When households are faced with a stamp duty tax, they cannot freely down or upsize their homes or move to another location for school or work.

This places additional pressure on our industry as existing homes are not being allocated efficiently to our population’s needs.

MBV argues that taxes with the most detrimental impacts on housing affordability should be immediately frozen to reduce their long-term burden substantially.

The economic benefits of housing affordability go beyond the obvious benefits to those renting or intending to purchase a home for the first time.

Fewer costs in moving homes will create greater mobility for labour markets to fulfil job vacancies, reducing the risk of trade shortages.

If housing costs were significantly

Master Builders Analysis of ABS building activity and Residential Property Price Indexes reduced, wage demands would soothe, which would provide Australia with the opportunity to be economically competitive internationally.

This would mean more international investment and greater international demand for our goods and services.

The issue of housing affordability is

complex, with considerable variation across geographic markets, time and circumstances facing individuals, families, and households.

MBV believes that the best affordability outcomes result when new housing supply can be delivered as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

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against termites

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It is quickly and easily installed in all building applications by the Bayer Accredited Kordon Network and is certified by the Australian Building Code.

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Volume 76 Issue 04

© 2020

Master Builders Victoria |

29

COMMITTEE ROUND-UP

Get to know the Master Builders The building and construction industry is one of the most important sectors of the Victorian economy.

It is the largest full-time employer in the state and enables the government to deliver important crucial infrastructure.

Master Builders Victoria represents approximately 6500 members from across the building and construction industry.

These include large and small builders, tradespeople across the domestic and commercial sector, apprentices, suppliers, and manufacturers.

Our election process, run through the Australian Electoral Commission, helps ensure legitimate representation across the diverse sectors of our industry.

Our five committees cover the key areas of Housing; Materials, Manufacturing and Supply; Specialist Contractor, General Contractor; and Country for our many regional members.

The committee’s role in consulting and advising helps inform our board in its decision-making to deliver meaningful industry representation through effective engagement and feedback.

Joining our sector committees are the first steps to joining our Board and Council of Management, where you can have more powers to manage affairs and decide policies. ​ Our committees’ contribution to each meeting shapes how we work here at Master Builders Victoria, so please share your experiences and knowledge of working in our industry.

Master Builder magazine contributor Leigh McClusky spoke to five of our current committee members to quiz them about their roles and what they enjoy about the position.

30 | Master Builders Victoria

Country Sector Group – Stuart Allen

General Contracting Sector Group - Michael Clemenger

While builders in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria share many similarities, there are specific challenges for MBV’s members operating outside of Greater Melbourne.

According to Chairperson Stuart Allen, one of the biggest challenges for MBV’s regional community is the ongoing issue of a shortage of trades and labour.

“It’s always been a bit of an issue with tradespeople being attracted to Melbourne because of the higher wages down there, and that’s one of the things that we find difficult to compete with,” he said.

“That drain on the regional trade pool is hard enough at the best of times, but listening to our members, they’re telling us it’s become even harder during the pandemic and with the explosion of work that’s been around lately.”

Mr Allen said the Country Sector Group is the first port of call for many regional members.

“We get so many emails and messages when they have a query about everything from looking for information about building surveyors, warranty insurance, regulations, you name it, it’s the whole gamut that members come looking for help with,” he said.

While COVID-19 has had many downsides, Mr Allen said the unexpected upside for his sector group had been the increased use of online communications.

“Given we’re spread all over Victoria, getting together has sometimes been a challenge in the past,” he said.

“But with everyone now able to jump into an online meeting, that has been one of the very few benefits of this pandemic.”

According to Mr Allen, regional members value that while they might be largely out of sight, they appreciate knowing they have a regional voice, and their concerns are listened to.

“We’re lucky in the regions that we get together and have events like golf days and trade days, and they’re important opportunities for us all to connect.”

Chairperson Michael Clemenger has been a member of the General Contracting Sector Group for more than a decade and says it plays an important role in representing commercial contractors’ views, ranging from small operators to large national commercial builders.

“Master Builders as an association is only as good as the voices and input they’re getting from their members, so the various sector committees are a really important link between members and the organisation’s management and Board,” he said.

“For all of us, the pandemic has been a major issue for the past 18 months or so.

“The committee has played an important role in being able to provide real-time feedback about members’ concerns and queries in terms of what’s happening in the industry.”

Mr Clemenger said safety notifications and updates from the regulator are an important part of the committee’s regular conversations.

“We’re always looking at new issues that are coming up. Crystalline silica is a big issue for our members and us and an issue we’re keeping a close eye on now,” he said.

According to Mr Clemenger, while managing COVID-19 has been a major challenge for the sector, managing the way back to normal will also be challenging.

“We’re going to need to keep getting that feedback between members and MBV management about what are the new pinch points for us? What are the things that are bothering us, and what sort of support do we need?” he said.

While being a member of a sector committee is a voluntary commitment, Mr Clemenger said he’s found it particularly fulfilling.

“I’ve always taken the view that if you don’t do it, who will?” he said.

“I see my involvement in the committee as me giving back to the industry that’s served me very well over several years.”

Volume 76 Issue 04

COMMITTEE ROUND-UP

Victoria sector committee members Housing Sector Group – Paul McMahon With a large proportion of MBV’s members focussed on domestic construction, the Housing Sector Group plays an important role in ensuring those voices are heard, particularly during the sector’s most challenging recent times.

Committee Chairperson Paul McMahon said supply chain shortages and mental health had been two key areas where Victoria’s residential building sector members have been looking for support.

“Not surprisingly, the past 18 months have been dominated by the stop and start nature of lockdowns and circuit breaker lockdowns, and how we’ve had to navigate our way through that, along with the impact of those trades and material shortages,” he said.

“And while a lot of the COVID-related industry decisions are based on health decisions, it seems to me that sometimes mental health is pushed to the side as a secondary discussion.

“We’ve seen the impacts in our business, and for a lot of business owners out there, they need to be able to discuss things like the mental health of their teams. They need to get things off their chest, see how other business owners deal with them and share those lessons.

“This is where our committees and the MBV team shine when we can come together as a community and support each other.”

Mr McMahon said it was the opportunity to be part of the discussion and support decision making around important policies affecting the industry that attracted him to join the committee three years ago.

“It’s been fulfilling. It’s been great to be able to have an opinion on the industry, on what works and what doesn’t work,” he said.

“And I think for me it was important to step up and be part of a team where I could share those opinions and get good outcomes.”

While wrangling the impacts of COVID-19 has been an unwelcome focus for the industry, Mr McMahon says it has brought out the best of MBV.

Volume 76 Issue 04

Materials, Manufacturing and Supply Sector Group – Mark Phillips

Specialist Contractors Sector Group – Ashley Tonkin-Hill

While the Materials, Manufacturing and Supply Sector Group may only represent less than 3 per cent of the MBV membership, their combined turnover and the size of their manufacturing and reselling operations means these businesses represent some of the biggest in the country.

In his other role, Committee Chairperson Mark Phillips is the Commercial/Builders State Sales Manager for Bunnings; all the committee members are also part of the Victorian building sector’s supply chain.

“I joined the committee to be involved more closely with our industry and our customers, who are builders. Being on the committee gives us the chance to have that seat at the table and to be part of shaping policy that benefits the industry from a supply point of view,” he said.

“And it also gives us a great chance to work with the other committees in joint meetings where we work with the builders and get to understand what their challenges are and what issues they’re facing so that perhaps we can work with them to help find a solution.”

Mr Phillips said the most recent obvious issue for his committee had been the crippling material shortages.

“What our committee has been able to do is to be an agile source of information back to the members about what we’re seeing in terms of looking forward, based on our supply industry insights,” he said. “We’ve played an active part in that, and it means we can also get to see firsthand the impacts on members and builders and understand where their touchpoints are, which particular categories are causing them issues, and we’ve been able to use those insights in our strategic planning for our business as well.”

And speaking of material shortages, there’s no good news on the short-term horizon.

“There’s timber, and then there’s everything else. And in terms of timber, we think it’s not going to get any worse, but it’s also not going to be resolved quickly.”

For Ashley Tonkin-Hill, a 20-year association with the Specialist Contractors Sector Group has given him valuable and ongoing insights into the latest industry information.

The current chairperson of the group, Mr Tonkin-Hill, said it covers a broad range of sub-contractors who each have their different needs and challenges.

“We’re representing anyone really who is a subcontractor to the builders and civil contractors in town. Anyone from earth workers, pilers, steel fixers, steel fabricators, concreters, brickies through to carpenters and a broad range of everyone in between,” he said.

“This sector group has a specific role to play because the specialist subcontractors often have battles to fight on their own, especially related to their different works.”

So, what’s keeping MBV’s subcontractor members awake at night?

“COVID has been an obvious challenge over the past couple of years,” said Mr Tonkin-Hill.

“But there are always questions and people looking for advice around issues like payment terms, industrial relations issues, EBAs and those sorts of things.”

According to Mr Tonkin-Hill, the specialist contractors share the industry’s concerns about supply chain shortages and the future post-COVID. “People shortages and material shortages and training - they’re going to be the biggest challenges moving forward and not necessarily challenges that can, or will, be fixed quickly,” he said.

“I’m sure many sub-contractors are wondering how the next few months and beyond will play out.”

After his two decades of involvement with the committee, Mr Tonkin-Hill would like to see more MBV members contemplate getting involved.

“When I look at what I get out of my involvement, it’s the up-to-date information and insights that help me run my business, and that’s invaluable,” he said.

Master Builders Victoria |

31

THE ACRS DIFFERENCE

üIndependent

ACRS is a steel certification scheme for steel users, and independent of product suppliers. So you know ACRS is working for you;

üExpert

All ACRS auditors and technical staff are qualified and experienced in the manufacture of the materials ACRS certifies. So with ACRS you know certified materials have been audited and approved by people who understand them;

üComprehensive

ACRS certifies all steel products, from all manufacturing locations to all scheme standards. So with ACRS you know all listed products are covered, not just some;

üRigorous

ACRS audits every major site at least once every year. So with ACRS you know certificates are up to date;

üVerified

During every audit, ACRS takes samples at random from standard production and checks production data every three-months. So with ACRS you know supplied materials are assessed regularly;

üContinuous

ACRS uses only selected laboratories to ensure accurate results independent of the supplier, and matches these with the supplier’s production data to monitor the supplier’s consistency.

www.steelcertification.com

Ph: (02) 9965 7216 | E: info@steelcertification.com ABN: 40 096 692 545 ACRS - Independent, Expert Third Party Certification & Verification of Reinforcing, Prestressing and Structural Steels for Compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards

ADVERTISING FEATURE

So, you think you are getting the steel you specify? (…and how you can be sure you do)

A

ustralia used to be an easy place to buy steels to build with. Standards were enforced by engineers, local councils, and government departments, and domestic Australian or New Zealand steel producers manufactured worldclass product that supplied virtually the entire market. All any specifier had to do was state in their documentation “to Australian Standards” and all any builder had to ask his suppliers was “how much?” Site engineers and checking authorities did the rest. It was really that simple and by and large, it worked – but no longer.

A Global Market Today, Australia is part of a highly competitive world market for steel.

Materials can and do come from a variety of sources around the globe: Asia, Africa, Europe, dictated by price and availability. This flexibility gives consumers the best price for their products, but it can trip up the unwary when it comes to getting the right “quality”. If we define “quality” as “performance characteristics” (surely our governing concern), then “quality” varies wildly between markets. So, just how does anyone know what they are getting when they place their order?

With material coming from diverse sources and manufactured to many different specifications, specifying “to AS/NZS Standards” does not guarantee that what is supplied will perform as intended by the design, unless certain checks are made. Regular site checking of materials is very much a thing of the past. Reliance is almost exclusively on the documentation that arrives with the material supplied.

What is “Adequate Documentation”?

Documentation is therefore of critical concern. What, in fact, constitutes “adequate documentation”? While this differs by Standard, there are basically four different means of satisfying this aspect (and one, or more, may be required): 1. Suppliers’ Quality Management

Volume 76 Issue 04

System (e.g. ISO 9001 certification); 2. Statistical sampling (e.g. long-term quality testing results) 3. Product Certification (e.g. independent 3rd-party audit by an accredited certification body competent in the products assessed) and; 4. “Other such means proposed by the manufacturer or supplier and acceptable to the customer” The intent is the consistent delivery of specified materials demonstrably conforming to the Standard, fit for the intended purpose and adequality managing contract risk.

So, how does a designer, specifier, or builder know that all the steel delivered to their project meets the minimum requirements? Unfortunately, the simple answer is that it is not easy and all branches of the construction industry have greater responsibilities in this regard than in “the good old days”.

Apples and Oranges A quick look at the list above shows that the four options do not provide equal confidence or outcomes: • A supplier’s Quality Management system, such as ISO 9001 is a quality system that helps ensure consistent processes and methods are followed by the company. It does not, in and of itself, guarantee that any materials will be manufactured or supplied to the requirements of any particular Standard. Further documentation and checks are necessary, even if there are “Factory Production Control” (FPC) audits as well; • Long-term quality testing of each product provides a much greater level of certainty of quality, presuming that it is maintained consistently and completely.

However, the supplier’s own declaration is not sufficient. Samples should be drawn randomly, at a particular quality and timing from a source of “known history”. But, who checks this? And how can it be verified?

Test Certificates Test certificates alone are not suitable as proof of conformity without substantial additional review and verification by a suitably qualified and experienced auditor.

This is because test certificates are produced for a particular batch of finished material. They are only a “snapshot” of that individual product at that particular time. So, you cannot rely on that certificate for a different batch of the same product, let alone for a different product altogether.

Furthermore, one certificate does not demonstrate statistical compliance with Code requirements. Test certificates alone are not therefore adequate to demonstrate Code compliance.

• “Other means” puts the entire onus

on the customer to determine compliance from the results of testing coupled with the manufacturer’s guarantee of product conformance. Does the customer, or approval body (engineer or building surveyor) really wish to take full responsibility for determining that the supplier has met all the requirements of the Standard?

• Lastly, we have independent, expert, 3rd-party product certification bodies that examine all of the above criteria. Being independent of the steel suppliers, they are able to provide comprehensive and effective auditing and certification of performance of certified products.

Clearly, independent, expert, 3rdparty product certification is not only the most rigorous system, being independent, means that it also provides the highest level of confidence in the outcome for all parties.

For further information, please contact ACRS on 02 9965 2216 or visit: www. steelcertification.com

Master Builders Victoria |

33

TECHNICAL

Livable housing inclusions to the 2022 NCC Tony Bugeja Senior Advisor – Technical

I

t is human nature to have different views and opinions on life and our surroundings. It is what makes each of us unique.

It is no different when we look at the design of our homes. The difference often comes down to what we can afford. Liveability is primarily based on our wants and needs.

Some people want modern luxury features such as larger living areas for their family, split level, or elevated designs to accommodate the site conditions. For others, a house needs to be designed to fit our needs as we age; for some, a roof over our heads or a place we can call home.

Over the past 18 months, it has been a key driver to the recovery of the Victorian economy from the impacts of COVID-19.

This is one of the primary reasons why Master Builders Victoria (MBV) continues to advocate that housing affordability needs to be one of the government’s key priorities.

As the primary industry representative for building and construction, we recognise that our industry is evolving and must continue to ensure the built environment supports the needs of Victorians.

MBV has, and will continue to play, a pivotal role in its collaboration with the government to ensure its policies benefit our industry and the community.

The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) has recently drafted some significant changes to the National Construction Code (NCC), including mandated livable housing design standards.

The ABCB suggest these new requirements set minimum accessibility standards with features that will better enable the homes used by people with a disability or transitioning through life.

While these changes were drafted as a directive of the building ministers, not all State Governments opt for these changes to be included in their

34 | Master Builders Victoria

jurisdiction; the Victorian Government has been clear that they support these new standards.

MBV is seeking further engagement to ensure the changes are appropriately transitioned.

The industry also needs to design, develop, and roll out appropriate training so builders and trades can best deliver the required outcomes.

MBV has supported Livable Housing Australia by developing the Livable Housing Design Guidelines (2017) through our national office.

We have supported its introduction into the NCC as a non-mandatory reference document. It allows the requirements to be tested in the market and supports consumers and industry to implement these features. Unfortunately, contrary to our support, the suggestions we have advocated for have not been implemented.

MBV supports the proposed changes based on A voluntary basis as we value the benefits these provisions provide.

The following list highlights the immediate changes that will be included in the NCC through the Livable Housing Design Standards: • Step-free access from the street

or the driveway, or the garage with compliant gradients.

• A parking space is incorporated into

the step-free access path.

• Step-free dwelling entrance has a

clear opening width of 820mm when the door is in the open position that incorporates a level door threshold or has a lip less than 5mm. This arrangement may incorporate a threshold ramp of no more than 56mm. The area at the entrance door may incorporate a landing area, but the entrance door must have a clear, unobstructed space of 1200mm x 1200mm on the arrival side of the door that is level and does not exceed 1:40.

• Internal doors on the entrance floor

must have a clear opening width of 820mm when the door is in the open position.

• Thresholds of an internal door must

be level or have a lip not exceeding 5mm.

• Corridor widths must have a clear width of 1000mm.

• There must be a toilet on the entrance floor. The toilet must have a minimum width of 900mm and must have a clear space of 1200mm from the pan if the door opens outwards or 1200mm clear from the door swing if the door opens inwards.

• A shower must be located on the entrance floor and step-free with a lip less than 5mm.

• The shower screen door must be capable of being removed without causing damage to adjoining parts of the shower enclosure.

• The bathroom floor must be compliant with AS3740 as if the shower was designed as an unenclosed shower.

• Certain zones of the walls of both the shower and toilet must be reinforced by fitting noggins or ply so they can be readily fitted with handrails in the future (as needed by the occupants of the home).

MBV has engaged with the government and made it clear we understand the value and intent of these requirements, we have concerns about the potential impacts of them. Our concerns include: • The Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) indicated the changes added complexity and did not generate a net benefit for the whole community.

• The costs impact housing affordability.

• Some changes can readily compromise compliance with other provisions of the NCC. • The current market is volatile from the impacts of COVID-19, including inflated material and labour costs.

• The risk of creating inferior building quality.

• More clarity in the drafting where exemptions are needed.

MBV has suggested uptake may be better complemented with incentivised financial support.

Volume 76 Issue 04

CAREERS

Builder’s Registration – How ready are you?

Tim Clark, Technical and Engagement Officer

M

any of our members have looked into the benefits of obtaining Practitioner Registration with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) and wondered if it was something they could do on their own or whether they might need some extra support.

Regularly, we hear our members stating that they have received conflicting and confusing stories about the registration and assessment process, leading them to simply put the prospect of obtaining registration in the too hard basket.

Obtaining a Builder’s Registration with the VBA can open so many opportunities for new projects.

Being registered helps you adhere to the strict legislative requirements of the Building Act 1993.

That is why the process of obtaining registration is something Master Builders Victoria highly recommends for our members.

To assist you in your registration journey, our Careers and Registration team has launched a new online Builder Registration Awareness Module, now available at no cost for existing MBV members.

This industry-unique program will outline in detail the registration process with the VBA, including: • Domestic and Commercial registration categories, • How to complete the application forms and technical referee reports, • How to select your portfolio projects and compile supporting documentation, • An overview of the VBA multiplechoice questions and plan reading

Volume 76 Issue 04

assessments, • How to prepare for the VBA interview along with good interview techniques, • How to obtain a letter of eligibility for Domestic Building Insurance (Domestic only).

Also included within the Builder Registration Awareness Module is a series of questions aimed to assess your readiness to undertake the registration process with the VBA and help you decide whether the support offered by our comprehensive Builder Registration Program is for you.

Questions include: • Have you completed any formal training (i.e. Certificate IV or Diploma)?

• How many projects have you completed in the last three years?

• What is your primary role on site (i.e. tradesperson, supervisor or manager)?

• Do the following tasks make you feel concerned or anxious? » Collating all the information required to support your application. » Sitting a legislative and compliance-based exam on a computer.

» Attending a three-hour face-to-

face interview with a VBA assessor.

• How do you think you would go with

the following tasks? » Calculate and annotate timber

frame bracing units from AS 1684.4. » Calculate and annotate raft slab

components from AS 2870. » Determine whether a project

requires a building permit under the Building Act 1993.

• How well do you know your

legislation, compliance codes and standards? » What is the minimum height of a

swimming pool fence? » What is an SWMS, and when do you

need one? » What deposit can you claim for a

project valued over $20,000? » What is a Class 10c building?

Suppose you find any of the above questions or tasks a little difficult.

In that case, we encourage you to contact our Careers and Registration team, who will outline ways that MBV can assist you on your path to achieving a builder’s registration.

Contact our team via (03) 9411 4555 or registration@mbav.com.au

Master Builders Victoria |

35

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

Casual employment – are you to offer casuals permanent employment where certain preconditions are met.

Adrian Ziccone, Employment and Industrial Relations Manager

E

arlier in 2021, significant changes were made to the Fair Work Act about casual employment.

Importantly, small business employers are exempt from the requirements to offer casual conversion.

A small business employer is an employer with less than 15 employees.

While small businesses do not have to offer casual conversion, casual employees may still make written requests to convert to permanent employment.

Casual conversion

One of these changes included the insertion of a new casual conversion framework in the National Employment Standards (NES).

An employer (other than a small business employer) must offer a casual employee conversion to permanent employment if:

Casual conversion concerns how casual employees are offered or may request permanent (full-time or part-time) employment.

1. The casual employee has been with the employer for 12 months; and

Many employers now have obligations

2. During the last six months, the employee has worked a regular pattern of hours on an ongoing

basis, on which the employee could continue working permanently without significant adjustment.

Both requirements must be met for the employee to be eligible for casual conversion.

If the employee is eligible, the employer must make the offer of casual conversion in writing.

The written offer must be made within 21 days of the casual employee reaching 12 months of employment.

Even if the employee is not eligible for conversion, the employer must notify the employee in writing that the employee was not eligible for casual conversion and the reasons for not making the offer.

Can an employer refuse conversion?

If an employee is eligible for casual conversion, the employer may refuse to

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POVIC Box3197 686 Patterson Lakes Patterson Lakes VIC 3197

36 | Master Builders Victoria

Phone: (03) 9770 8224 Phone: (03) 9770 Mobile: 0418 1388224 820 Mobile: 820 Fax: (03)0418 9770138 8225 Fax: (03) 9770 8225 Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au

CR129713AA CR129713AA

SC SCREW RE P W ILE PIL S ES & B & BOR ORED ED PIE PIERS RS

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Volume 76 Issue 04

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

across the legislative changes? convert to permanent employment if there are reasonable business grounds.

Reasonable business grounds include that the: • The position won’t exist in 12 months.

• Employee’s hours will significantly reduce in the next 12 months; or • Employee’s days or times will significantly change, which cannot be accommodated within the employer’s business.

If the employer refuses casual conversion on reasonable business grounds, the employer must provide the employee with notice in writing about the refusal.

The notice must specify the reasonable business grounds for why the employee is not being converted.

Casual Employment Information Statement

In addition to the insertion of the casual conversion framework, there is now a requirement for all employers to provide new casual employees with a Casual Employment Information Statement (CEIS).

The Statement must be provided to all casual employees before, or as soon as possible after, starting the job.

The CEIS includes information about who is a casual employee, the right to become a permanent employee (casual conversion), exemptions from the

requirements of casual conversion, and where parties can go for help.

The CEIS can be downloaded from the Fair Work Ombudsman website.

Further information?

WYONG

SMITHFIELD

MILDURA

TUGGERAH

GOSFORD

RIVERSTONE

SMEATON GRANGE

There is guidance now available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website about casual conversion and the CEIS. If members would like to discuss their specific circumstances, they can contact the MBV EIR team on (03) 9411 4555.

RYDALMERE

ALEXANDRIA KIRRAWEE

WOLLONGONG

GRIFFITH

SWAN HILL

WAGGA WAGGA

DENILIQUIN

BUILDING MATERIALS & TRUSS AND FRAME MANUFACTURING SHEPPARTON

MYRTLEFORD

THOMASTOWN

LAVERTON

BAIRNSDALE

RIVERSTONE

Steel Roofing Centres

SALE

TRARALGON

ALEXANDRIA SMEATON GRANGE

MILDURA

KIRRAWEE

Truss & Frame Sales Office WOLLONGONG

LAKES ENTRANCE

GRIFFITH

SWAN HILL

WONTHAGGI

Volume 76 Issue 04

RYDALMERE

SMITHFIELD

Distribution Centres

BAYSWATER WARRAGUL

CRANBOURNE PAKENHAM

TUGGERAH

GOSFORD

Trade Stores

BALLARAT

CRAIGIEBURN

WYONG

Truss & Frame Manufacturing Plants

ULLADULLA ALBURY WODONGA

ECHUCA

WAGGA WAGGA

DENILIQUIN

ULLADULLA ALBURY WODONGA

ECHUCA

SHEPPARTON

Truss & Frame Manufacturing Plants Trade Stores

MYRTLEFORD

Steel Roofing Centres BALLARAT

Distribution Centres THOMASTOWN

CRAIGIEBURN LAVERTON

BAIRNSDALE

Truss & Frame Sales Offi

BAYSWATER WARRAGUL

CRANBOURNE PAKENHAM

WONTHAGGI

SALE TRARALGON

LAKES ENTRANCE

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1877

Master Builders Victoria |

37

LEGAL

Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sums What are they and how to use them in your contracts

Amrita Maharaj Legal Counsel

A

builder can negotiate with a building owner to use Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum allowance in domestic contracts for items and works that may be selected after the contract is signed or for which the price is unascertainable at the time of signing the contract.

What is a Prime Cost Item?

Prime Cost Item is an item that either the owner or the builder has not selected or whose price is unknown when signing the contract.

It is confined to the cost of the item and delivery only as the cost of the installation, fixing, supervision, overhead, and profit must be included in the overall contract price.

Common examples are kitchen appliances such as cooktops, ovens, taps, basins, sinks or troughs and tiles.

What is a Provisional Sum? Provisional Sum is a monetary allowance for the cost of carrying out a particular work that cannot be priced at the time of the signing of the contract.

The builder can provide a reasonable estimate of the cost of carrying out the works at the time of signing the contract.

Provisional Sums can include all materials, sub-contractor charges, delivery to the site and installation.

Some examples are site works, landscaping, or tiling.

38 | Master Builders Victoria

Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum allowance to be reasonable Section 21 (3) of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (Vic) (“Act”) states that the builder must ensure that the allowances provided for the item or work listed in the schedule for Prime Cost and Provisional Sum are reasonable.

When determining what is reasonable, regard must be had to the information that the builder had, or reasonably should have had, at the time contract was entered into and the nature and location of the building.

Therefore, the builder must calculate each item or work included in the respective schedule with reasonable skill and care after considering all information reasonably available at the date of signing of the contract.

Details of Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum must be set out in writing Section 22 of the Act provides that for a domestic building contract, the schedule for each Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum should contain a detailed description of the item or the work to which the allowance relates and a breakdown of the cost estimate for each item or work.

Therefore, Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum should be carefully calculated. The schedule should list out the breakdown of the cost estimate for each item or work (for instance, the schedule should include each item/work description, the quantity required, the unit item/work cost and any additional builder’s margin claimable on the excess above the allowance (if applicable)).

What happens if a Prime Cost Item is unavailable?

The Master Builders Victoria (“MBV”) Domestic Contracts states that if a Prime Cost Item selected by the owner is unavailable, then the owner will specify in writing to the Builder an alternative item to be supplied within seven (7) days of the builder’s request to do so.

The MBV Domestic Contracts also states that if the Owner fails to specify to the builder in writing an alternative item to be supplied as requested by the builder, the builder will be entitled to select and supply an alternative Prime Cost Item, which will be as near as reasonably possible in quality to the original Prime Cost Item.

Can a variation be raised for a Prime Cost Item or Provisional Sum? Generally, the variation provisions of a contract are not applicable to any Prime Cost Item or Provisional Sums as is seen in the MBV Domestic Contracts.

Should the price of the Prime Cost Item or Provisional Sum increase at the time of construction, the builder can pass the cost to the owner.

If the price of the Prime Cost Item or Provisional Sum increases at the time of construction than what was originally allocated, the builder is permitted to charge the owner accordingly. Similarly, should the prices fall below the original allowance, the builder must ensure that those savings are passed on to the owner.

The builder must provide evidence of the cost of Prime Cost Item and Provisional Sum such as invoices and must do so as soon as practicable after receiving the receipt or invoice.

The inclusion of Prime Cost Items and Provisional Sums within your contracts can be a useful tool for both the builders and the owners. We recommend that you seek legal advice before using them in your upcoming contracts.

For further information, please feel free to contact Master Builders Victoria Legal on (03) 9411 4555 or email us at legalenquiries@mbav.com.au

Volume 76 Issue 04

TRAINING

Choosing the right training provider Jason Plevras, Programs Manager Tyson Imms, Instructional Designer Master Builders Training Institute MBTI

M

ore than 130 training providers offer the new CPC40120 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) in Australia, including the award-winning Master Builders Training Institute.

So, how do you choose the right training provider for ‘your’ needs?

There are the usual criteria: • Cost – how much will it cost me to

study for this course, and does it look like value for money?

• Duration – how long will it take me to

complete the course?

• Location – is the course close by and

easy to access?

• Delivery mode – will it be online,

face-to-face, or blended? Full-time or part-time? After hours?

• Funding – can I potentially access

government-subsidised support through this training organisation?

But … did you know not all training providers deliver the same Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)?

What’s in a qualification?

All courses have a range of topics that must be covered in training.

In the Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building), every training provider must cover: • Legal obligations • Reading and drawing plans • Using the NCC • Structural principles • Site management

Volume 76 Issue 04

• Quality management

impacting cash flow and other projects.

• Selecting materials

» Our new Dispute Resolution

• Planning projects

• Sustainability

While every training provider must deliver these topics, the quality of training materials and trainers can vary widely, which is another significant factor to add to your decision-making list.

Each training provider must also choose a certain number of topics from a list of ‘electives’ to supplement their students’ learning.

This means you will be introduced to different skills depending on with whom you choose to study.

Here at Master Builders Training Institute, we’ve spent the past six months investigating what we should be offering, consulting widely with industry regulators, past students, construction professionals and employers across the industry to help us design what we believe is the best model of the new qualification.

For our electives, the feedback we received from that industry consultation was clear: 1. There is a significant gap in the industry in terms of applying for and complying with building permits – our Building Permit Applications cluster is specifically designed to meet this challenge.

2. Managing potential conflicts between a client and builder can be tricky, and a failure here can result in timeconsuming conciliation processes,

cluster teaches you strategies to resolve potential disputes early and efficiently before they become a major problem. » The cluster also incorporates a

day at our award-winning and state-of-the-art simulation centre to supercharge your ‘real world’ learning of this critical business skill.

Choose a course to suit your needs It is critically important that the course you choose suits your specific needs.

This is not just about the cost and the time required to complete a course, but more importantly, what you take away from it.

What skills will provide the pathway to the job you want, not just the job you would settle for?

So, when you’re looking at your training options, add a couple more questions to your list: • How will the elective options serve

my specific needs once I’ve finished?

• Does a quality training provider

provide the course with specialist trainers for each subject area?

Check out our course at www. mbavtraining.com.au If you think it’s the right course for you, contact us at (03) 9411 4555 or training@mbav.com.au We look forward to hearing from you.

Master Builders Victoria |

39

Incolink Assist Your bespoke Employee Assistance Program.

Built by Incolink, experts in well being.

Incolink Assist is the employee assistance program designed and built for Australia’s construction and manufacturing industry. Our Employee Assistance program helps you help your staff.

How does Incolink Assist work?

Incolink will create a personalised corporate landing page, with your branding, for staff to access information about the service. You’ll also be provided with your company’s own 1300 number to allow workers to access phone or skype counselling service.

It can form a key part of your work to promote a mentally healthy workplace so that people can realise their potential while coping with the ordinary challenges of life.

You can choose how many sessions your staff will be eligible to access under this service.

Why engage an Employee Assistance Service?

Mental health conditions cost Australian workplaces $10.9 billion each year – more than any physical injury.

One in five Australians will experience a poor mental health episode in any one year.

The stress can be sudden, or build over time, and impact the employee’s wellbeing and performance.

The construction and manufacturing industry is a highpressure environment and providing access to an Employee Assistance Program that understands the industry, whilst offering a wide range of specialist counselling services can contribute to them being an employer of choice. This in turn increases employee satisfaction and retention.

Early intervention and easy access to treatment can reduce the duration of a mental health episode and enable an employee to participate more fully in the workplace.

There are three offerings. You can choose one, two or all three.

Phone / Skype Counselling Counselling sessions with a trained counsellor.

Face to face sessions are available at Incolink’s Carlton (Victoria) office. Visits to your office can be arranged at fee for service.

Critical Incident Support A trained counsellor to visit your office immediately after a critical incident to speak with staff and allow them to debrief

Psych-Ed Training Sessions Mental health awareness sessions designed to increase your people’s ability to recognise risks to their mental health. They can cover a range of topics from anxiety to stress to addiction. These are conducted on your premises.

Give your employees access to a proven service designed for them and for your business.

40 | Master Builders Victoria

Volume 76 Issue 04

What reporting do you receive?

What does it cost?

Phone/Skype Counselling Support Face to face at Incolink Office (extra charges apply for counselling on employer premises)

$150 per session

Critical Incident Support

$450 per hour (1 counsellor) at Employer offices

Psych Ed – Training Sessions

$3,000 full day training at Employer Office

Incolink respects the confidentiality of its service but realises employers require meaningful reporting to track their spend and the value their employees are receiving.

Having your own landing page and 1300 number means we can track calls and site visits and we will report against these. Your invoice also indicates how many sessions have been used by your staff.

A quarterly newsletter will be provided that provides meaningful reporting indicating the trends we’re seeing across the service, demographic date, types of issues - be they workplace, personal relationship issues, financial.

Is there a minimum spend?

One of the advantages of Incolink Assist is that you pay for the services you use. There’s no minimum spends per month.

How are you billed?

Each month you’ll receive an invoice for the previous month’s number of sessions.

Contact us www.incolink.org.au/IncolinkAssist

Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

41

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR YOUR ROOF SPACE VENT-A-ROOF® is a unique passive ridge ventilation system that promotes the circulation of fresh air through roof spaces.

•

Improves roof ventilation with continuous airflow, reducing AC energy consumption

•

Mitigates condensation, humidity, and unhealthy mould and mildew

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Keeps spaces cooler in summer and manages condensation in winter

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Provides an NCC compliant roof ventilation system

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Passive system with no moving parts to wear out or maintain

•

BAL compliant roof ventilation solution

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Suitable for CUSTOM ORB®, TRIMDEK® and KLIP-LOK® roofing

AVAILABLE NOW FROM LYSAGHT. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT LYSAGHT.COM VENT-A-ROOF® and the Vent-A-Roof brand mark are registered trademarks of Vent-A-Roof Pty Ltd ABN 97 622 174 145.

BlueScope, the BlueScope brand mark, ® product and product brand names are registered trademarks and ™ product and product brand names are trademarks of BlueScope Steel Limited. © BlueScope Steel Limited November 2021 ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

LYSAGHT. THE PROFESSIONALS’ CHOICE.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lysaght breaks the mould with condensation management solutions

C

ondensation build-up in roof and wall cavities can cause long term aesthetic, health and structural problems in buildings if not managed properly.

This problem is caused by changes in temperatures – when the surface temperature falls below the dew point of the surrounding air, condensation in the form of water vapour will take place on the colder surface.

Generally, small quantities of condensation can be tolerated so long as it is given the opportunity to dry out. If the environment remains wet for longer periods though, issues may arise. If not kept in check, condensation causes mould build-up on surfaces and in HVAC systems, can result in plaster deformities, and in severe cases, can cause damage to framing in the form of warping and rotting.

New provisions under the National Construction Code (NCC) 2019, have removed ambiguity and have outlined minimal requirements for residential buildings covering how much ventilation is needed and where it should be placed (Clause F6.4 NCC 2019 Volume One and 3.8.7.4 of NCC 2019 Volume Two).

A key ingredient in minimising condensation is to provide adequate ventilation to help extract moisture, or allow it to escape naturally.

Volume 76 Issue 04

In areas like kitchens, laundries and bathrooms where water, steam and cold hard surfaces most often meet, extraction systems are important, particularly those that duct the moist air outside rather than into the roof.

While ducted extraction systems do a great job in removing steam from wet areas, installing roof cavity ventilation will further reduce condensation, providing additional peace of mind.

As a leading producer of steel building products, Lysaght offer several roof ventilation solutions, ranging from traditional turbine ventilators, through to the VENT-A-ROOF® system. VENT-AROOF® is a concealed roof ventilation system that uses the power of natural airflow. It’s installed under traditional ridges, hips and barges, making it extremely versatile and inconspicuous.

The use of insulation and how it’s installed can also assist to minimise condensation. In the roof space, insulation and membrane should be fitted so that it doesn’t block ventilation paths. Roof level insulation such as blanket and foil is also useful, particularly in cooler climates.

For architects, engineers and builders, Lysaght can assist in developing effective moisture management solutions for buildings that will be clad with LYSAGHT® products.

Lysaght has produced a comprehensive Technical Guide and supporting Product Application Bulletins as useful design and construction references for building industry professionals.

The detailed recommendations contained therein take into account the building location’s climate zone, as well as the type of cladding used – this covers supported or unsupported cladding (i.e. does the cladding need continuous support such as plywood or can it free span between batten or purlin supports?) and whether it’s open or closed profile. ‘Open’ profile claddings are those that allow airflow; ‘closed’ profiles typically have closed ribs that won’t allow easy airflow.

Style of roof construction is also addressed: trussed and skillion roofs with self-supporting metal claddings or trussed and skillion roofs with supported metal claddings. NCC 2019 condensation requirements are also applicable to walling cavities as well, with similar principles applying which are also covered in Lysaght’s reference materials.

To download “Condensation Control in Australian buildings constructed with LYSAGHT® claddings” visit https:// professionals.lysaght.com/resources/ manuals

Master Builders Victoria |

43

Beautiful. Natural.

Sustainable. Australian.

You can be assured that wood carrying the Responsible Wood mark has come from certified Australian forests that are sustainably managed to the highest global standards.

responsiblewood.org.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Mass timber solution, MASSLAM, unveiled in UTAS $52m campus showcase at Burnie Certified products sourced from sustainable forests

T

imber manufacturer Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH) utilised its very own sustainable mass-timber solution, MASSLAM, in the construction of the University of Tasmania’s new $52 million campus located in Burnie.

John Wardle Architects and Devonportbased builder Fairbrother selected ASH’s MASSLAM45 – a glue-laminated system manufactured for large commercial and domestic structures – for the project, as part of the UTAS Northern Transformation Program.

The development has been funded through contributions from the federal and state governments, Burnie City Council and the university.

Made using ASH’s regrowth Victorian ash timber, MASSLAM45 is certified

by Responsible Wood, the national governing body for PEFC and included ‘seen structural’ 450 x 450 columns and an array of mullions, helping to transform the campus into a world-class

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learning centre.

ASH’s MASSLAM is one of six on-site value-added manufacturing lines, that produces a range of mass timber solutions, including columns, beams, floor and roof systems for the Australian market. The product allows longer spans, higher ceilings, increased floor space, lesser beam depth and lower associated installation costs.

“Better still, MASSLAM is cheaper to construct than concrete and steel, looks better, is safe, sustainable and efficient,” ASH marketing manager Megan Para said.

“ASH’s Responsible Wood certification helps specifiers make a conscious decision when selecting timber products that require third-party auditing,” Ms Para said.

“Sitting between the forests (supply) and the consumer (end user) we hold an important position where we can select suppliers that meet the same principles as our consumers.

“Timber is one of the few building materials with the ability to have a closed loop, circular economy; it uses significantly lower embodied energy to produce a solution and sequesters carbon.”

Ms Para said UTAS Burnie perfectly showcased the use of innovative timber products, championing Australian grown and owned solutions such as MASSLAM. “Also, as a country, we never take more than we can grow and continue to invest in protecting the forest estate,” she said.

Australian Sustainable Hardwoods is a privately-owned Australian timber mill and advanced manufacturer located in Heyfield, Vic. Established more than 30 years ago, ASH utilises automation, innovation and economy of scale to add value to its timber – from log to finished product.

UTAS Northern Transformation Program project aims to bring new ways of learning and teaching to the city and region, focused around contributing to the community and its future.

The new building design for the Burnie campus a central courtyard; contemporary facilities; and environmentally-sustainable green roof; a bike storage facility which includes charging stations for e-bikes, a bike repair station and water refill station; café and library; spaces for public activities – and use of sustainable Tasmanian and mainland timbers.

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Your Future, Your Super legislation – what it means for employers

F

rom 1 November 2021, the Your Future Your Super (YFYS) legislation will see individuals ‘stapled’ to the first super fund they join. They will be linked to this super fund and it will follow them throughout their working life - unless they choose a different fund.

While there are several reforms including a YourSuper online comparison tool and an annual performance test, stapling will have the biggest impact for employers and those changing jobs.

What you need to do • You must provide a new employee

•

•

•

•

•

with a Choice of Fund form (like the Cbus choice of super fund form found on the Cbus website or the ATO Standard Choice Form) within 28 days of them starting.

New employees can choose to join your default super fund or nominate their preferred super fund by completing a Choice of Fund form.

If a new employee doesn’t make an active choice of fund, you’ll need to use ATO Online Services to determine their stapled super fund.

You must use ATO Online Services to determine a new employee’s stapled fund.

If a new employee has more than one super fund, the ATO will determine the employee’s stapled fund based on a set of rules (the rules act as a tiebreaker). These may include factors such as when the account was created, how recently contributions were made and the account balance.

If a new employee doesn’t have a stapled fund and doesn’t make an active choice of fund, you must pay their super into your default super fund.

When you can request stapled fund information

46 | Master Builders Victoria

• You can’t use ATO Online Services

to look for your new employee’s stapled fund if they haven’t started work. They must be employed by you when you request the stapled fund information (you can only make the request from the first day they are on your site and on payroll). To make a request, you must have lodged either a Single Touch Payroll event or a TFN declaration.

• You will need to request the stapled fund information for a new employee if they haven’t provided you with a Choice of Fund form. When you request a new employee’s stapled fund information from the ATO, your new employee will receive notification of your request.

How does this impact workers in building and construction?

In the building and construction industry, stapling could have serious implications for employees’ insurance on work sites.

Young and low balance members new to the industry could be ‘stapled’ to a fund that does not offer default insurance appropriate for the hazardous nature of their work and therefore are at risk of being uninsured in the workplace.

The claim time is not the right time for your employee to discover they don’t have that cover.

Employers still need a default

fund If Cbus is your default fund, you can: • let new employees know that Cbus is

your default fund, and • provide them with a Cbus Product

Disclosure Statement and a Choice of Fund form (like our Cbus Choice of fund form).

You can’t: • recommend or encourage new

employees join Cbus.

Cbus is here to help Cbus is committed to help you stay on top of these changes to ensure you meet your super obligations. For the most up-to-date information, visit cbussuper.com.au/stapling Cbus’ Trustee is United Super Pty Ltd. ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262 This information is about Cbus. It doesn’t take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right for you.

Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper. com.au for a copy. Also read the Target Market Determination at cbussuper. com.au/tmd

Volume 76 Issue 04

POLICY

Getting familiar with changes affecting builders in 2022

T

here are going to be some major changes introduced that will affect registered building practitioners in 2022.

The changes are Automatic Mutual Recognition, Mandatory Trades Registration, Licencing, and compulsory Continuing Professional Development.

Below is a summary of the changes that are coming in 2022.

Automatic Mutual Recognition Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) will enable registered practitioners to operate across states and territories without paying for and waiting for an additional registration to perform the same work in another State.

When will it be introduced?

AMR is likely to begin in January 2022; however, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) may seek a further six-month extension to ensure the scheme is introduced clearly and appropriately.

What is the purpose of AMR? AMR will make it easier for practitioners to work in other states without the additional paperwork or fees. This makes it easier for practitioners to respond to emergencies such as the recent bushfire rebuild.

AMR may also allow MBV members who work across borders (such as Albury/ Wodonga etc.) greater flexibility and reduce registration fees for members working in more than one State.

How will AMR benefit my business?

AMR of occupational registrations is expected to make it easier and faster for skilled workers to work across borders, assist with natural disasters, and enable businesses to provide services more seamlessly across borders.

What can builders do to prepare?

If a builder wants to work in another state, we recommend following the mutual recognition process currently in place. Once AMR comes in, we will update members.

What is MBV doing?

MBV is currently developing a self-paced training course to assist interstate builders seeking to work in Victoria using AMR. MBV wants to make sure all practitioners working in Victoria understand and work to the best

Volume 76 Issue 04

Victorian practices.

MBV is working closely with DELWP and VBA to assist in the implementation of AMR. Victoria has one of the highest registration requirements, and we don’t want to see registration shopping that may result in poor and defective work. MBV has have concerns about monitoring work being completed and how company registration will be affected (or managed).

Further resources: https://www.dtf.vic. gov.au/funds-programs-and-policies/ automatic-mutual-recognitionoccupational-licensing

Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing scheme will mean anyone who is subcontracting for a registered builder or working directly for a consumer will now need to hold a registration.

Employees will need to be licensed.

When will it be introduced?

The Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing scheme are expected to start in July 2022. Carpentry trades will be the first to transition, and they will have five years to transition to the new scheme.

What is the purpose of Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing?

The amendments to the Building Act 1993, which legislate the new registration and licensing scheme, are being introduced to increase construction work quality and consumer confidence. The scheme will provide accountability for work produced by trades.

Trade registration and licencing will raise qualified trades’ profiles and bring the building industry in line with electricians and plumbers.

What can trades do to prepare?

Tradespersons can get ahead of the process by gaining a Domestic Builder Limited to Carpentry registration. This registration will allow individuals to work directly for a consumer or a head contractor. Master Builders offers pathways to assist trades and builders in gaining their registration.

What is MBV doing?

MBV is working closely with DELWP and the VBA to assist in implementing Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing.

Mandatory Trades Registration and Licencing could be a very positive move for the industry. It is important that what is introduced is effective, straightforward, and enables people to keep working.

MBV is advocating that the new scheme provides a pathway for highly skilled tradespersons who have been in the industry for some time but may not have formal qualifications.

Further resources: https://engage. vic.gov.au/registration-and-licensingbuilding-trades

Compulsory Continuing Professional Development The introduction of mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) will contribute to the quality of construction work and upskill practitioners on changes in NCC and regulations.

When will it be introduced?

We have seen a delay in developing the CPD framework because of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. MBV expect to see compulsory CPD introduced at the start of 2022, and a transition period will apply.

What is the purpose of a CPD framework?

The CPD framework is currently being reviewed. The framework will require registered building practitioners and registered and licensed plumbers to undertake CPD. How will CPD benefit my business?

CPD helps ensure that practitioners maintain and develop their competence and learn new technology and techniques.

What can builders do to prepare?

If you are attending any workshops, webinars, or training courses, we recommend you keep proof of completion. MBV will let practitioners know when CPD becomes mandatory.

What is MBV doing?

MBV Careers team is putting together a flexible CPD program that will enable builders to upskill easily and comfortably know they meet the legislative requirements.

Further resources: https://engage. vic.gov.au/continuing-professionaldevelopment-builders-and-plumbers

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GREEN LIVING

Building 4.0 Cooperative Research Dr Phillip Alviano Sustainability Advisor

T

he CRC 4.0 aims to help the building and construction sector become more efficient by conducting industry-driven research into new technologies and techniques.

It focuses on digitally enabled solutions and new manufacturing products to develop an internationally competitive, dynamic and thriving Australian advanced manufacturing sector, delivering better buildings at lower cost and the human capacity to lead the future industry.

The building and construction industry is an enormous contributor to the economy, employing around 1.4 million Australians and representing around 13 per cent of GDP. Australia’s existing high-cost, low-tech building sector is an ideal target for the disruption that most experts agree is heading towards the sector.

Building 4.0 CRC will help prepare the industry and place Australia among world leaders in the field.

For decades, the building and construction industry has been plagued by rising costs, stagnant productivity, high waste and low margins.

These problems are compounded by the record demand for buildings of increasing complexity and higher performance standards, with increased customer expectations and sustainability requirements.

The industry needs to meet these demands while finding new efficiencies to lower costs; Building 4.0 CRC has been established to help deliver these needs.

As a key industry partner of the Building 4.0 Cooperative Research Centre, Master

48 | Master Builders Victoria

Builders Victoria sits alongside other project partners, including Lendlease, Monash University, the University of Melbourne, BlueScope, CSR, Schiavello, Master Builders Victoria and others.

Master Builders Victoria is invested in the future of the building and construction industry, and the work with the Building 4.0 is part of making this future a reality.

MBV is currently involved in the following projects.

ePlanning and eApprovals – Scoping Study (Commenced March 2021).

MBV understands that planning can be a pain point for many builders, and we know that planning and building approval processes are still largely paper (PDF) based.

This makes the process inefficient and time-consuming, imposing high costs on both industry and government.

This scoping study, as part of the longerterm objective of the CRC’s work in this area, is to embrace the opportunities that digital workflow and digital twin technology provide to design, develop and deliver an innovative digital platform to facilitate effective, efficient and timely planning, building permits, approvals, ongoing compliance with planning controls, building regulations and other regulatory requirements.

The scoping study is about to be concluded with a strategic and roadmap report.

This report will detail the project’s findings and provide a framework for the required future work to deliver an online planning and approvals network.

Virtual reality/augmented reality technologies in vocational education and training (scoping study) (Commenced April 2021) Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a major part of Australia’s education system.

It is crucial to train practitioners with innovative technologies to gain

fundamental critical and creative thinking skills, information and communication technology capability, and intercultural understanding to meet Australia’s future workforce.

This project aims to explore the integrated utilisation of VR/AR technologies in the VET system.

Innovative vocational education based on VR/AR can provide initial skilling and help workers retrain as jobs and industries evolve.

The scoping study will be used to define desirable extended reality technologies for the design and development/ evaluation of appropriate skill training platforms in building construction.

Automated tracking of construction materials for improved supply chain logistics and provenance – phase 1 scoping study Improved understanding of supply chain

Volume 76 Issue 04

GREEN LIVING

Centre (CRC) prepares for future

logistics and product providence is of high importance for our industry.

This project investigates the building supply chain and assesses tracking technologies to determine those most suitable for the construction sector.

Recent highly publicised building failures, such as cladding, have been compounded by an inability to trace non-conforming materials.

New contracts include requirements for materials to be compliant with several environmental initiatives and antislavery legislation.

New modes of data capture allow us to register compliance, track materials to the site, track construction progress, and provide ongoing traceability.

The efficiency of the construction process also benefits from being able to

track building materials along the supply chain.

The location of the materials can be monitored in real-time, highlighting any delivery delays and allowing preparation for on-site arrival.

If you would like more information or contribute, please contact Philip Alviano via email at palviano@mbav.com.au or phone 9411 4577.

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Building and Construction Lawyers

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Volume 76 Issue 04

Level 12/533 Little Lonsdale St Melbourne

Andrew Whitelaw hitelaw - Director awhitelaw@wflawyers.com.au

(03) 9090 6700

Master Builders Victoria |

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GREEN LIVING

Proposed amendments to the NCC 2022 energy efficiency provisions Dr Phillip Alviano Sustainability Advisor

O

n 1 February 2019, energy ministers agreed to the Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings, a national plan for Australia to set a trajectory towards zero energy (and carbon) ready buildings.

This report focussed on improving new buildings. NCC 2022 is part of this body of work.

After a major stringency increase for commercial buildings in NCC 2019, building ministers directed the ABCB to develop enhanced residential energy efficiency provisions informed by the former COAG Energy Council’s Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings policy.

This work supports the Australian Government’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the National Energy Productivity Plan.

These policies all focus on the role that buildings play in reducing emissions, improving energy productivity, reducing household energy bills, and helping to transition to the greater use of renewable energy and zero-emission vehicles.

Below is an overview of the major changes that will be implemented in the NCC 2022.

Summary of major changes Stringency increase the Star Rating Measure Increase thermal performance from the current level, equivalent to 6 Star NatHERS, to the equivalent of 7 Stars.

50 | Master Builders Victoria

What’s likely to be involved?

Higher window and glazing performance.

Increases in ceiling and wall insulation R-values.

Restrictions on wall and roof colours.

Changes to structural floor systems (insulated slabs or sub-floor insulation.

Whole of home energy use requirements added As well as meeting the 7-Star requirement, new houses and single occupancy units (SOU) will need to meet a collective energy use budget for heating and cooling systems, hot water, lighting and swimming pool and spa pumps (where fitted).

Measure Whole of home annual energy use requirements. Differences between Class 1 and Class 2 buildings.

What’s likely to be involved?

Introduction of a collective energy use budget for; • Air conditioning and heating systems.

• Hot water systems.

• Lighting.

• Swimming pool and spa pumps.

Ability to trade between the efficiency of systems for annual energy use budget.

Onsite renewables may be installed to offset the energy consumption of the equipment but not the building fabric.

The ABCB will provide a simple whole-of-home calculator to assist in quickly determining the requirements.

The NatHERS Administrator is also expanding NatHERS beyond thermal comfort to incorporate whole-of-home requirements to align with the proposed NCC 2022 provisions. This will allow the whole-home assessment to be completed as part of the energy rating.

New deemed to satisfy elemental provisions (Class 2) Measure New set of measures deemed to satisfy introductory provisions for Class 2

buildings.

What’s likely to be involved?

• The whole of the apartment building will need to achieve an average 7-Stars with no apartment permitted to be less than 6-Stars (under NCC 2019 6-Star average and no apartment less than 5-Stars.

• Developing new elemental DTS provisions for Class 2 buildings set at 7-Star equivalence (this will provide a second pathway for apartments to verify compliance after this option was removed in NCC 2010).

• Developing a new verification using the reference building method for Class 2 buildings.

• Introducing new requirements for thermal bridging and steel framing.

Note, the thermal bridging mitigation measures proposed for NCC 2022 do not seek to eliminate thermal bridging by all framing. Instead, it proposes to reduce the thermal bridging of steel frames, so the total R-Value of an element with steel framing is: • • No less than 95 per cent of that for a timber-framed element for insulation R-Values of R3.0 or less.

• • No less than 90 per cent of that for a timber-framed element for insulation R-Values above R3.0.

This differential approach reflects the diminishing returns of insulation at higher R-Values.

Retrofit onsite renewables & vehicle charging Measure New provisions designed to allow easy retrofit of onsite renewable and electric vehicle charging equipment for Class 2 to 9 Buildings.

What’s likely to be involved?

New provisions are designed for ‘solar ready’ zones for potential future electric vehicle charging equipment installation for Class 2 to 9 buildings.

New provisions are being proposed to

Volume 76 Issue 04

GREEN LIVING enable Class 2 and 5 to 9 buildings to be easily retrofitted with DER. DER include photovoltaic (PV) panels, battery storage systems, and electric vehicles (EV).

The changes are intended to “future proof” buildings for retrofitting onsite renewables, which in many instances are likely to become business-as-usual equipment for commercial buildings in future. The provisions do not require EV charging equipment but are designed to make it much easier to install such equipment as EVs become more common over coming decades.

• Condensation management measures Enhanced condensation management provisions.

NCC 2019 introduced specific condensation management. For NCC 2019, more substantive measures are being proposed.

What’s likely to be involved?

Changes to wall sarking requirements to more vapour permeable types equivalent to Class 3 or 4 membranes (depending on the climate zones).

Ventilating roof spaces that include; • Providing air spaces for roofs.

• Changes to roof sarking installation and roof sarking vapour permeability requirements.

• Additional roof space ventilation via the installation of whirlybirds, ridge or eave vents or similar.

Notes: • Changes to sarking requirements for Climate zone 4 to 8.

Plus: Measure Enhanced condensation management provisions.

What’s likely to be involved?

Exhaust system changes include; Minimum flow rates for exhaust fans.

Mandatory exhaust and ducting to the outside for exhaust fans and range hoods.

Banning recirculating range hoods.

Bathrooms not naturally ventilated must have exhaust fans with a 10-minute runoff timer and, Additional provision for ventilation to laundries/bathrooms containing a dryer.

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Conclusion What will this mean in practice?

Master Builders Victoria is currently organising NatHERS modelling for some housing designs to provide further information and evidence for members on the changes. From previous discussions with builders and energy raters, MBV believes the following is likely.

• Aspect is vital: • Get the passive solar design correct from the beginning.

• Look for living areas and windows on the north side of the house. Reduce window sizes elsewhere.

• For further information on Passive Solar Design principles, visit Master Builders Victoria’s YouTube page. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=YylmeMilok8 • It will be easier to achieve 7-Star in single-storey houses rather than double storey.

• Overshadowing by neighbours can reduce the star rating by 0.5.

• Maximum insulation (R6 ceiling. 2.5 walls).

• Most likely, all windows and doors in conditioned areas will need to be double glazed and thermally broken.

• Plus, low-e glass for double storey.

MBV understands the benefits of moving to 7-Star; however, we are concerned that wider implications have not been fully considered, and we continue to work with the government on these issues. They include.

• An increased risk of condensation and mould.

• A rigid assessment pathway.

• Planning and lot layout requirements are not yet part of planning schemes.

• A rushed and late consultation process and • industry upheaval, and supply chain shortages.

As well as supply shortages, the industry has currently been hit by a tsunami of changes that are severely impacting construction: • New accessible housing requirements will add to high costs.

• Supply shortages are increasing

the costs of products with price increases of 30-50 per cent.

• Changes to trade registration requirements and, • The impact of COVID-19 on the industry, especially the renovation industry in Victoria and the risk of increased insolvencies in early 2022.

MBV believes a significant transition period of a minimum of 2-3 years is required before new regulations take effect. This will provide time for; 1. The development of training and education for industry and consumers. For example; • The development of and support the industry’s training around condensation management issues and correct building techniques.

• The development of housing displays showcasing 7 Star houses.

• Allowing materials suppliers time to source and develop the window market, building membranes and product specifications and guidance.

2. Regulatory change to occur at an appropriate pace. For example; • Time for proper assessment of the changes and feedback through the RIS process.

• Inclusion of condensation management upgrades to the NCC. • Planning changes for new developments require improved lot layout for solar access and reduced overshadowing.

Master Builders Victoria |

51

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Creating your point of difference with timber mouldings

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kirting boards and architraves have long been an afterthought for many builders, with a quick trip to the hardware store to pick up an off the shelf small profile in a basic design for the fix out carpenters to install.

With customers demanding designer choices in new home builds and renovations, along with wall panelling features this approach just doesn’t cut it.

There has never been a more important time to ensure you are offering the upgrade options of designer larger skirting, architraves, and wall panelling solutions.

The ‘wow factor’ achieved with timber mouldings in undeniable, enhancing the style of the home, and providing a substantial impact on the finished room.

Lana, Erin and Bonnie from Three Birds Renovations recently referred to using Intrim skirting as “adding heels to a dress to create immediate impact, style and glamour”.

The cost of upgrading designs is not as much as you would think and is a great upgrade profit opportunity for home builders looking to provide a point of difference from their competitors.

Time on-site during the fix out is always a consideration when a change is being considered for upgrades, and this is where Fast Trim comes in.

Many decorative mouldings require hand scribing the profile to provide a neat finish in corners which can add significant time to the labour required for installation.

This specialist carpentry skill is not required for commodity mouldings, which is one reason why Intrim Essentials profiles such as DAR, Half Splay, Bull Nose, Pencil Round and Bevel are so popular.

Volume 76 Issue 04

However, with Fast Trim, decorative mouldings are prescribed on precision machines providing a superior quality finish.

Intrim even offer a FREE take-off service to confirm the materials requirements and cutting lists to supply cut to length.

This means all the hard work is done for you providing even more time saving.

Fast Trim pre-mitred architraves can save you up to 55 per cent of your labour time and save up to 45 per cent on prescribed skirtings.

The concept of Fast Trim came from Intrim’s founder Fred Quinsey.

Fred, a former chippy, understands the challenges faced by builders in Australia and has designed the system to meet those needs.

If you haven’t explored Fast Trim talk to the Intrim team for your next project.

Wall panelling solutions are very on trend, providing another upgrade option for home builders.

Instead of plain plaster walls, the new Intrim Cavetto Wall provides a stunning fluted concave shaped profile that can be painted any colour for a modern to coastal look.

Intrim’s VJ Board Pro has proven so popular for Hamptons, Cottage, and Coastal styles Australians just can’t get enough of this look.

Another big trend is Wainscoting in both traditional styles for Hamptons and French Provincial styles, in addition to Shaker and board and batten Wainscoting.

Intrim are the experts in all types of wall panelling designs and should be your first stop for these products from the vast range of options.

There has never been a better time to explore the opportunities that Intrim timber mouldings provide from the Essentials Collection to the Intrim Upgrade options using Fast Trim for skirting, architraves or wall panelling, VJ and timber mouldings.

To learn more visit intrimmouldings. com.au or call 1800 622 081.

Master Builders Victoria |

53

OH&S

Safety training essential to industry Chris Kulesza BLSC Manager

M

y Safety Essentials, a comprehensive, interactive educational resource developed in conjunction with WorkSafe Victoria continues to go from strength to strength at Master Builders Victoria.

Funded by WorkSafe Victoria, My Safety Essentials provides a complete learning resource to support builders, employers, and building trades within the residential construction sector.

This comprehensive online resource helps domestic builders understand their key legal OHS obligations through all the critical construction phases.

The resource provides an educative experience for builders to identify and manage the critical risks presented throughout a domestic building project.

The resource will enhance existing programs such as the Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) and the suite of registration courses offered

by MBV. The online learning experience is enhanced through a diverse range of mediums, including videos, virtual reality applications, case studies, quizzes, and photography.

My Safety Essentials is hosted on a webpage within the MBV website at www.mbav.com.au and is available free of charge to all builders within the residential construction sector.

MBV OHS manager Sam Smith said making this resource available free of charge to all TAFEs and private training providers will help drive the importance

54 | Master Builders Victoria

My Safety Essentials, a comprehensive, interactive educational resource.

Photo: Mollie Brandjes that safety plays for all new entrants starting their careers in the construction industry.

“We want those entering the construction industry learning the correct habits,” he said.

“This resource will help everyone understand the role they play when it comes to safety in construction.”

Mr Smith said the project was important because the construction industry was a high-risk industry.

“Our industry is regulated, however, the construction industry records a high number of fatalities and serious incidents each year,” Mr Smith said.

Mr Smith said small business was the backbone of the Australian economy and the building and construction industry.

Statistics highlight that the domestic sector records many serious incidents and fatalities compared to the commercial construction industry.

“Small businesses often don’t have the time or resources to understand the whole OHS landscape in which they operate,” he said.

“Consequently, they need access to practical, easily accessible, and understood solutions to ensure they always create and maintain a safe working environment for themselves and all those around them.

“The safety of workers in our industry and our industry’s reputation regarding its steadfast commitment to the health and safety of all workers, subcontractors, and the community is a top priority for Master Builders Victoria.

“Everyone fittingly owes a duty under the OHS legislation.

“My Safety Essentials ensures everyone in the domestic construction industry can now be fully informed and equipped to meet their OHS obligations.”

For more information, phone Sam Smith on 9411 4555.

Volume 76 Issue 04

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Building engaged relationships Vicki Molvalis, People & Culture Coordinator

T

he coronavirus pandemic has significantly changed the way we work.

What we thought was something we could look back on quickly became a part of 2021 as much as the previous year, and in some cases worse.

Master Builders Victoria (MBV) has been an environment where change has been required, welcomed, and adapted to by the association and team members alike.

Since March 2020, we have had to reinvent the way we work to adhere to public health orders while ensuring we maintain our efforts for our members, which has been challenging; a feeling most would be able to relate to, but a challenge we have accepted as we are aware of the impact our advocacy can have within the building and construction industry.

What is the new normal?

How do I stop burnout?

What does team member engagement look like from home?

These questions have been ever-present in the minds of Human Resources (HR) professionals along with business owners since mid-last year.

For the office workers, the Dolly Parton 9-5 working day is a thing of the past, previously a taboo subject not offered to the masses and a consideration largely for ‘innovative’ organisations, flexible working arrangements have now become the norm as we work around our lives in lockdown with children possibly at our feet, finding the right space to work in without being a nuisance to our partners or kitchen dinner plans, the list of adjustments goes on.

Volume 76 Issue 04

The adoption of a hybrid work model has certainly seen the boundaries of work and life blurred.

We have a connectedness to our work that far outweighs our connection to it in the past.

• Taking the laptop home is the standard.

• Our phones now make us aware of any change within our working world, be it via a text, Teams message, outlook notification, WhatsApp and of course, the tried-and-true phone call.

• With no commute to the office, we can find ourselves working extra hours, which would have been our commute time in the past.

HR professionals must continue to remain ahead of the curve and, in this case, the pandemic.

Employee engagement stretches beyond competitive salaries and bonus schemes; to retain, motivate and engage team members during what has been branded as the “the most locked-down city in the world”, many studies and surveys have shown that employees want flexibility, commitment to health and wellbeing and purpose.

Employee engagement, at its simplest definition, is the relationship that exists between employees and the organisation.

Even with working flexibly and affording this to our team members now and moving forward, there has been an increase in burnout across the board as lockdown restrictions have taken away liberties that would provide a release from our work life.

With lockdowns and restrictions easing, we are still faced with what has become a habit.

Although challenging in lockdown, hybrid models must continue as they have a greater attractiveness in a post ‘freedom Friday’, 22 October 2021, Victorian world.

Further, exploring the four-day working week via compressed hours should be advocated within organisations as the hours and days one work differ from one to another. By acknowledging and

working with an individual’s schedule, productivity and quality should follow.

As noted, HR teams during this time have had to adapt to address and avoid burnout along with the fear of the possible Great Resignation plaguing America.

Within MBV, some initiatives we have promoted to assist this are interactive fun, and meaningful health and wellbeing events such as yoga sessions, step challenges promoting mental and physical health, mail-outs with positive messaging, or themed events around the Olympics and AFL Grand Final.

Conducting these initiatives or events via different mediums is important as it provides a wide net approach where most will experience in a manner that they enjoy being engaged and feel connected.

In addition, we also identified a focus on our team members for items that would improve their wallets, coordinating with business partners to provide financial advice in various forms.

Organisations that are abreast of societal importance and realise its reason for importance by committing to it internally will be leaders amongst employers.

At MBV, this can be demonstrated via our commitment to our Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) strategy.

We understand that there isn’t a one size fits all approach, and every organisation is different, particularly when made up of employees who are onsite and in office, however as a member service and as a People and Culture team, we are available to discuss thoughts around initiatives or discuss what is successful.

An engaged employee who enjoys their experience at work improves employee retention, attraction, productivity, and a team of purposeful employees leads to a successful business, internally and externally.

Master Builders Victoria |

55

POLICY

COVID-19 Building and Construction Industry Resource Summit Megan Peacock Director Policy

O

ver the past six months, Master Builders Victoria (MBV) has been working tirelessly on issues facing our industry, including supply chain shortages.

At the request of MBV, the Victorian Government has asked Commissioner for Better Regulation and Red Tape Commissioner, Anna Cronin, to investigate the issue of building and construction material shortages.

The Commissioner will deliver a report on the state of supply shortages in Victoria to the government

by November 2021.

As well as this, MBV has hosted working groups, talked to ministers and shadow ministers, and our counterparts in other states about supply shortages.

Just recently, MBV hosted the Victorian Treasurer, Tim Pallas, in a special members summit to update the industry on the current situation of key supply shortages impacting the building and construction sector.

The Treasurer was joined in the online discussion by Ms Cronin, along with industry representatives, including builders, retailers, and suppliers.

MBV CEO Rebecca Casson told the audience that our industry had worked tirelessly to remain COVIDSafe and open for many months when many other sectors had closed.

MBV understands the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on our members, and we know many are small business owners struggling to survive the crippling financial impacts of not being allowed to work.

Of concern across the building and construction industry is the risk of increased insolvencies due to supply shortages.

56 | Master Builders Victoria

MBV is seeing builders whose businesses are stalling, waiting on supplies, and progress payments unable to be paid.

However, builders need to order supplies because of the long wait times, which leads to an increase in liabilities and a greater risk of insolvency.

MBV is concerned that building and construction insolvencies could continue to rise as Victoria accounted for nearly 40 per cent of all building and construction insolvencies across Australia this year.

In the first four months of 2021, there were 145 building and construction insolvencies in Victoria – up 34.3 per cent on the same time last year.

This was the highest January to April total since 2014.

The building and construction industry’s share of all Victorian insolvencies was also at a record high (26.3 per cent over the 12 months to April 2021).

Before 2019, the volume of building and construction insolvencies in Victoria had been trending downward.

MBV members are reporting the following: • Material shortages – for example: » Wait times for mesh and pods

have gone from two weeks to four weeks and now to six weeks. » Wait times for frame and trusses

have gone from four weeks to eight weeks, and now 14 – 16 weeks (about 3-4 months). » Windows are out to eight weeks

when we would normally have them in four weeks. » Bricks are starting to take up to

four weeks longer than normal.

• Timber suppliers across Victoria

responding to requests are unsure when in-demand products will become available.

• The shortage of timber is already

significantly impacting businesses

and project delivery.

• There are trade shortages due to

availability.

• There is a shortage of structural steel.

• There is a shortage of Colorbond roof

sheeting.

• Unable to move from timber to

steel frames as plans need to be reengineered, and carpenters often don’t have tools or skills to work with steel.

These coupled with massive price increases have combined to deliver major project time and budget blowouts.

During her presentation to members, Ms Cronin welcomed the session as she finalised her recommendations.

Better Regulation work has had a particular focus on timber shortages as this is of most concern at this time, including plantations, freight and import issues.

Ms Cronin is also looking at the builderconsumer relationships in terms of the contractual arrangements under the Domestic Building Contracts Act. She said the latest figures showed the number of building permits issued in Victoria increased by 11 per cent to June 2021 – an additional 12,000 building permits.

This increase in building may ease with the opening of borders but is predicted to continue to impact the supply chain well into 2022.

Her report will focus on short-, mediumand long-term solutions to the supply shortages issue.

Other speakers included Duncan Bryce, Head of Builders Solutions, Bunnings Trade; Rhett Simonds, CEO of Simonds Consolidated; and Mark Little, President, Master Builders Victoria, and owner of Little Constructions based in Geelong.

Once Ms Cronin’s report is released, we will share its findings, and MBV will continue to advocate on the supply shortages issues for our members.

Volume 76 Issue 04

2021 EDITION

BUILD SOURCE

PRODUCT INNOVATION GUIDE

An unfaltering approach H aving been in operation for more than 16 years, the team at Harbour Concreting Services have spent years perfecting their craft of specialised house slab construction and multi-unit site development.

Thanks to an unfaltering approach to business based around a “measure twice, cut once” philosophy, owner Frank Weber and his team constantly strive to raise the bar in their everyday operations.

A registered builder and concreter, Frank offers his clients an unmatched advantage thanks to his knowledge and hands-on experience.

“I can offer clients not only an understanding of the concreting component of a build, but also the challenges the other trades may encounter on a job site” Frank said.

“Additionally, as a member of MBA we

are able to stay on top of changes and requirements within the industry which really sets us apart.

“We have a strong desire to see trades people viewed as ‘building professionals’ within the industry and hence, we operate accordingly.”

Boasting an experienced team of concreters and a full fleet of equipment, including trucks and excavators, Harbour Concreting Services are capable of undertaking all manner of concrete

works in a professional and timely manner.

Thanks to a keen desire to remain at the forefront of a changing construction industry, Frank and his team look to the future with optimism and excitement.

“Our plans for the future are focused on staying on top of changes and innovations within the construction sector and working hard to grow the business, whilst continuing to maintain a high standard of work,” Frank said.

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58 | Master Builders Victoria

Phone: (03) 9770 8224 Phone: (03) 9770 Mobile: 0418 1388224 820 Mobile: 820 Fax: (03)0418 9770138 8225 Fax: (03) 9770 8225 Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au Email: admin@harbourconcrete.com.au Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au Website: www.harbourconcrete.com.au

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Volume 76 Issue 04

Be unique, be a trendsetter with Weathergrooove Fusion Weathergroove Fusion is a new, exclusively designed architectural panel available NOW in Natural and Smooth textures. This profile combines the grooves from Weathertex’s popular profiles to create a unique style, while retaining every measure of durability and safety.

Weathergroove Fusion is perfect for external and internal applications.

Create trendy internal designs with this uniquely designed architectural panel.

Our Fusion product is available in both Smooth and Natural textures, with a panel size of 3660 mm × 1196 mm.

Weathergroove is the largest panel product available on the Australian market. This vertically grooved cladding is ideal for covering large areas in a short time. It is environmentally friendly, versatile and possibilities are

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Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

59

Experienced team and whole-of-house building supply.

Dahlsens. For the Builder. Since 1877

D

ahlsens is one of Australia’s largest, trade-focused independent suppliers to builders of building materials and truss and frame.

Founded by the Dahlsens family five generations ago in 1877, the business remains family owned, an impressive 144 years later, a rarity in Australian and even international business.

CEO Geoff Dahlsen stands firm in what it was that drives the business.

“We invest in and work with our 1300+ team members, partners and communities to make a positive and sustainable contribution to the Australian building industry. We strive for a culture that operates both ethically and with integrity.”

Dahlsens operates via an extensive network of more than 60 trade stores,

60 | Master Builders Victoria

truss and frame, roofing and other manufacturing sites across far-reaching regional and metropolitan regions of Australia; it trades as Dahlsens in Victoria and New South Wales, Cairns Hardware in Far North Queensland and Nortruss in WA and the Northern Territory.

Dahlsens prides itself on its local, professional team of experts who support builders with expert advice and supplies for their projects, whether that is a home renovation, a new build, a multi-unit development, a nursing home or a large community estate.

It selects and works closely with its key supply partners, sourcing from local manufacturers wherever possible.

“Loyalties earned over decades of partnerships with a tight group of suppliers have ensured ongoing priority supply in these recent supply-demand

Proudly owned and operated (from left) Jamie Dahlsen GM Innovation & Technology, Owner John Dahlsen, CEO Geoff Dahlsen. imbalances,” Mr Dahlsen said.

With a strong focus on communication, Dahlsens keeps its customers informed with up-to-date building news, product innovation, design trends and service offers.

They strive to support builders to keep

Volume 76 Issue 04

their projects on track, with reliable supply of materials, delivered in full and on time.

The size, scale and subsequent buying power of Dahlsens enable them to support Australian builders with a full whole-of-house supply offer of products and solutions.

This foundation to fit-out range includes timber, LVL, cladding, doors, insulation, decking, mesh, plaster, hardware, windows, door furniture, plumbing and kitchen supply and install and more.

Innovations like Speedtruss and the Fastfix Internal Wall Screw by Pryda are game-changing products for the Dahlsens truss and frame teams.

“These products deliver a new approach to roof truss design and installation with the pre-fab Speedtruss functioning like an assembly kit with pre-installed screws,” Mr Dahlsen said.

“The need for temporary and additional fixings such as triple grips is removed and our customers are loving the way it speeds up the job. We look forward to

Volume 76 Issue 04

sharing with more customers in the new year.”

With reliable supply and expertise from Dahlsens, the end result is a successful, on-time project, a delighted home owner and a builder who knows where to look for the answers in their next project.

To enquire about an account with Dahlsens, please visit dahlsens.com.au or call 1300 DAHLSENS.

Master Builders Victoria |

61

Get your MBV 2022 diary

W

ith the new year fast approaching the 2022 Master Builders Association of Victoria members diary is the perfect essential management tool for your business.

Diary includes: • Wiro bound • Day-to-page format • Monthly tabbed • Sturdy PU cover • Calendar page 2022/2023 • Public holidays 2022 (national and by individual states and territories) • School terms 2022 • IDD codes • Metric conversion table • World time chart • Included double page ribbon • 2022 planner • Size –270mm height x 230mm wide

Member rate of $30 INC GST plus postage or pick up.

If you would prefer to collect diaries from our East Melbourne or our Wodonga office, please contact our Assist team on (03) 9411 4555 to purchase over the phone for pick up. * All Master Builders Victoria diary purchases will be posted to members during the first week of December 2021.

The MBV team will be in contact if there are any delays in distribution.

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62 | Master Builders Victoria

Volume 76 Issue 04

NEED ADVICE

FOR YOUR BUSINESS? Master Builder Victoria Member Advisory Services can help!

MBV supports our members through the exclusive added value of specialist advisory services. Our team of experts is available to assist members on a range of technical areas, including; COVID-19 regulations Legal OHS (Occupational Health & Safety) Employment & Industrial Relations Insurance Environmental Building permits Business Registration On-site OHS audits Sustainable Building We provide our members with specialist, tailored workplace information to help you build a compliant, strong and future ready business.

Need advice for your business?

Call our team on (03) 9411 4555.

Not a member yet?

Stop missing out – talk to us about signing up as a member today!

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Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

63

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64 | Master Builders Victoria

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Volume 76 Issue 04

• Building Law • Mediation • Building Law • Appearances at and other Court venues • VCAT Mediation • Legal Advice for Builders

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Email: wre@wrelawyers.com.au Web: www.wrelawyers.com.au

Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

65

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Volume 76 Issue 04

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Volume 76 Issue 04

Master Builders Victoria |

67

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