2014 Master Builders New South Wales Magazine Jun-Jul by arkmedia4217

Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Three | Jun - Jul 2014

Federal Government Releases New Building Code 2014 Home Building Amendment Bill 2014 2014-15 NSW Budget – Construction Outlook

■■ FIVE QUESTIONS EVERY BUILDER SHOULD ASK THEIR ACCOUNTANT ■■ $200 MILLION PROJECT FIRST TO FEATURE SAFER STEEL FORMWORK ■■ New Privacy Laws

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contents

In this issue: Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Three | Jun - July 2014

Federal Government releases new BuildinG Code 2014 Home BuildinG amendment Bill 2014 2014-15 nsw BudGet – ConstruCtion outlook

Regulars

Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Three | Jun - Jul 2014

Contact list President’s Viewpoint Executive Director’s Viewpoint Newsbrief Dates for your diary Regional Roundup The Way We Were

4 6 7 8 14 16 72

Features

■ FIVE QUESTIONS EVERY BUILDER SHOULD ASK THEIR ACCOUNTANT ■ $200 MILLION PROJECT FIRST TO FEATURE SAFER STEEL FORMWORK ■ NEW PRIVACY LAWS

23/05/2014 10:36 am

Editor: Kirra Smith Layout: Carol Taylor Graphic Design Team: Byron Bailey, Amanda Bennett, Carol Taylor NATIONAL SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER: Trish Riley SALES MANAGER: Peter Shepherd Email: peter.shepherd@crowtherblayne.com.au advertising sales: Brett Barfoot Production: Brooke Travers Print: Newstyle Distribution: Newstyle Contact details PO Box 824 Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au Web: www.crowtherblayne.com.au

Housing Home Building Amendment Bill 2014

Industrial Relations Federal Government Releases New Building Code 2014

Forecasts Economic Outlook for the NSW Building Industry in 2014

Government Budget 2014-15 NSW Budget — Construction Outlook

Legal New Privacy Laws

Finance Five Questions Every Builder Should Ask Their Accountant

National MBA News

Communications All Systems Go: Avoid Dodgy Devices

Community

Training Time is a Precious Commodity

Aboriginal Participation Industry Based Agreement for Aboriginal Employment and Enterprise Development in the Construction Sector

Special Feature $200 Million Project First to Feature Safer Steel Formwork

Foundations Newsletter NSW Fair Trading Industry Snapshot

Membership Member Profile Doug Bennetts

New Members

General Features Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of NSW, their employees and agents take no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the Publishers nor of the Association. No warranty is given and no liability is accepted. Products and Services appearing in Master Builder are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher or the Association. While every care has been taken during production, the publisher(s) do not accept any liability for errors or omissions that may have occurred.

Waterproofing — Common Causes of Failure 50 Fundamentals of Permeable Paving 58 Choosing a Splashback for Your Home 62 The Sustainability Horizon 66 Directory/What’s New

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contact list master builder magazine Master Builders Association of New South Wales 52 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge NSW 2037 / Private Bag 9, Broadway NSW 2007 Tel: 02 8586 3555 | Fax: 02 9660 3700 Email: enquiries@mbansw.asn.au Website: www.mbansw.asn.au | ABN 96 550 042 906

HEAD OFFICE Executive board Paul Maginnity Ross Mitchell Gordon Leggett Scott Nash Martin Patience Simon Pilcher Chris Calderbank Park

EVENTS & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT President Deputy President Immediate Past President Vice President Vice President Vice President Vice President

Awards Coordinator Assistant Awards Coordinators Special Projects Officer

Director, Operations

Brian Seidler Amanda de Vries

8586 3503 8586 3507

Leeanne Farmer Edwina Lyall Malcolm Foung Adam Myers Erroll Wong Daniel Vine Jayne Pan Bill Korakis Julie Hilder

8586 3519 0412 806 700 8586 3556 8586 3501 8586 3568 8586 3566 8586 3528 8586 3541 8586 3565

Ogarit Kelley

0414 919 194 1300 760 366

MASTER BUILDERS FINANCIAL SERVICES Broker

Graham McGuiggan Paul Love Mark Shearwood Joan Ah-Hen Brooke Williams Samantha Bell

8586 3554 8586 3540 0413 306 556 8586 3520 8586 3515 8586 3581 8586 3572

Michelle Bass Dean Edser Simone Craswell Nicole Webster Carson Gao Stanley Wu Andrew Turner Marie Huntley Jade Lane Sharon Eakin William Louie Nicole Daws Timithy Rolls

8586 3579 8586 3548 8586 3852 8586 3521 8586 3559 8586 3544 8586 3578 8586 3534

Karen Kellock Maria-Luisa Branezac Paulo Atienza Adam Tapai Frank Luppino Leonie Lowder Philippa Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke Donna Seidler Perry Wynn

8586 3538 8586 3536 8586 3550 8586 3551 8586 3505 8586 6542 8586 3558 0413 316 407 8586 3533

8586 3553 8586 3563 8586 3560 1300 884 315 8586 3553

Apprenticeship SERVICES Apprenticeship Services Manager Apprenticeship Payroll Supervisor Apprenticeship Recruitment Officer Apprenticeship Recruitment Officer Apprenticeship Safety Officer Apprenticeship Payroll Officer Apprenticeship Safety Officer Apprenticeship Mentor Apprenticeship Services Coordinator

CONSTRUCTION APPRENTICESHIP MENTORING PROGRAM - (CAMS) Government Projects & Programs Manager Apprenticeship Mentoring Officer

Omesh Jethwani Jack Long

8586 3539 8586 3524

Peter Meredith Kraig Butler

8586 3513 8586 3549

Robert Collings Hannah Shephard Renee McKeown

8586 3517 8586 3517 8586 3517

HOUSING Director - Housing Government & Media Advisor

LEGAL Head Solicitor Solicitor Legal Assistant

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AND SAFETY Director Construction Senior Safety Officer Industrial Relations Officers Safety Officer IR Administration Officer Secretary

8586 3537

Steven Swan

8586 3562

Arthur Johnson Strebre Delovski Leon Kopcikas Frank Chevell Rheannon Vea Vea Bridget Delmore

8586 3508 8586 3511 8586 3509 8586 3567 8586 3527 8586 3510 8586 3526 8586 3530 8586 3546

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Director Finance & Administration Accounts Supervisor Credit Control Manager Credit Officer Inventory & Property Administration Officer Accounts Payable Officer Reception #2 Fishbowl #2 Charles Martin Room

IT SUPPORT

Peter Glover David Solomon Rod Grace Nicholas Arends Chris Schultz Judy Macgregor Beverly Glover

8586 3535 8586 3552 8586 3574 8586 3573 8586 3522 8586 3531 8586 3523

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

Alexander Ashley-Carrington 8586 3525

RECEPTION Receptionist

TRAINING Skills Development Manager Qualifications Coordinator Qualifications Administrator Qualifications Administrator Cert III Coordinator Cert III Administrator Cert III Head Trainer Short Course & Development Coordinator Short Course Administrator Training Accounts /Administration Coordinator Administration Assistant Administration Trainee Compliance and Quality Officer MBA Skill Recognition Centre NWDF

Marketing and Communications Manager

IT Support/Webmaster

MEMBER SERVICES Manager Member Services Membership Services Coordinator Membership Representative Member Services - Administration Member Services - Administration Member Services - Administration

Craig Donovan

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

MBA INSURANCE SERVICES Acting Manager NSW Senior Account Manager Account Executive - General Account Executive - Home Warranty Development Manager - Specialist Products Development Manager - Corporate

8586 3506 8586 3564 0421 050 395 8586 3504

OPERATIONS

EXECUTIVE Executive Director Executive Assistant

Susan Manning Helen Harris Juliet Pratley Amanda Kelly

Joanne Papageorge Daniela Fraumeni

8586 3555 8586 3555

Regional Offices NEWCASTLE OFFICE Level 1, 165 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292 Tel: NSW Regional Manager Len Blakeney Office Administrator Sarah Croft Receptionist Amy Porter Industrial Relations Officer Ben Ziolkowski Safety Officer John McGhee Trade Events & Divisional Coordinator Haley Tibbetts Membership Officer Luke Reeves Events and Training Coordinator Kerri Richards

(02) 4953 9400 4979 0101 4979 0103 4953 9400 4979 0107 4979 0112 4979 0106 4979 0109 4979 0105

NORTHERN Regions Shop 1, 97 Tamar Street, Ballina NSW 2478 Tel: Northern Regions Manager Administration Officer Membership Officer

Juliet Pratley Susie Bell Graham Marchant

(02) 6681 4266 0421 050 395

Peter Meredith Helen Tinson Lesley Potter

(02) 4323 4588 0412 694 001 4323 4588 4323 4588

0428 412 784

GOSFORD Unit 7/4 Stockyard Place, West Gosford NSW 2250 Tel: Director - Housing Office Manager (Mon/Wed) Office Manager (Tues/Thurs)

Southern Regions Unit 1, 171 Princes Highway, Ulladulla NSW 2539 Tel: Manager - Southern Regions Lynn Smith Administration Assistant Debbie McDonald

(02) 4454 1955 0418 633 297 4454 1955

Albury/Wodonga 35 Hovell Street, Wodonga VIC 3690 Tel: Regional Manager Office Manager Administration Assistant

Steve Donaghey Lesley Donaghey Pauline Meade

(02) 6058 2000 0402 044 075 6058 2000 6058 2000

PORT MACQUARIE Unit 3, 12 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Tel: Administration Officer Kerrie Clark

(02) 6581 4033 6581 4033

wollongong Unit 3, 29-35 Princes Highway, Unanderra NSW 2526 Tel: Illawarra Manager Michael Hart Administration Assistant Ruth Billington

(02) 4272 9409 0419 140 126 4272 9409

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president’s viewpoint

PRESIDENT’S VIEWPOINT I don’t think I can recall a time when there was so much going on in both the residential and commercial sectors of our industry. Changes to the Home Building Act recently passed through the NSW Parliament which, while a long time coming, are most welcomed and address a number of issues positively for those constructing homes. You will find a detailed analysis of what these changes mean for us in this edition of Master Builder.

President Paul Maginnity

Strata law changes, about which the MBA has had serious concerns, have not proceeded at this time with Government allowing more consultation with industry stakeholders. At the time of writing this column, the State Government has announced an inquiry in the operation of Home Warranty Insurance in NSW – a welcome opportunity to address a very serious issue which is impacting not only on the ability of builders to grow their businesses but is seriously restricting the entry of young builders into the industry at a time when residential construction is on the increase. In the commercial sector the building unions have issued their latest pattern enterprise bargain agreement, which has recently

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

been found to be non Federal Government code compliant. This means that any contractor signing a union pattern enterprise agreement will be non-code compliant and therefore ineligible to tender Federal and/or Government projects. In addition, we have been advised by the Australian Taxation Office that it will be specifically targeting the building and construction industry in a new Tax Compliance Campaign commencing 1 July 2014. We understand that the ATO will focus on builders’ services which are provided to householders – an area which is currently not covered by the taxable payment reporting system. The ATO’s campaign will start in the Newcastle/Lake Macquarie area before it is rolled out across the country. With the latest State Government budget focused on funding the construction and infrastructure industry, economic forecasters are suggesting that NSW will become the powerhouse of the Australian economy.

executive director’s viewpoint 7

EXECuTIVE DIRECTOR’S VIEWPOINT For those members involved in the commercial sector of our industry, the upcoming two to three months will prove most interesting. Many contractors who have negotiated enterprise bargaining agreements with the building unions will find that their agreements expired at the end of June 2014. Historically negotiations for a replacement agreement usually commence months before. In NSW this has not happened, so why has this situation occurred.

Executive Director Brian Seidler

In April this year the Federal Government released a new National Code of Practice for the building and construction industry. This code requires that enterprise agreements made after 24 April 2014, must comply with the replacements of the code. A contractor who wishes to tender for Commonwealth funded work must have an enterprise agreement which is code compliant. The Department of Employment have conducted an assessment of the new CFMEU Collective Agreement 2014 – 2017 against the requirements of the Code. In assessing the CFMEU Agreement, the

Department of Employment have identified clauses which are inconsistent with the Code and other clauses which depending on their practical application on site, are also inconsistent with the Code. The Department of Employment advises that while it is important that Agreements comply with the Code, it is equally important that the practical application of the Agreement also complies. In this context, when the Code commences, the reestablished Australian Building and Construction Commission will undertake compliance audits to ensure that clauses in Agreements are not implemented in such a way that results in those clauses being inconsistent with the Code. Members are reminded that the scheme to be created by the Code will be ‘opt-in’ in nature and an employer’s compliance with the requirements contained in the Code will be voluntary. In accordance with the ‘opt-in’ nature of the scheme, the only consequence of non-compliance with the Code will be that an employer will not be eligible to tender for or be awarded Government funded building work.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

newsbrief

Workplace Relations

Fair Work Commission Minimum Wage Increase

Secondary Boycott Law Reform Master Builders has called for more robust measures to tackle secondary boycotts in the building and construction industry in the first of three submissions to the Government’s Competition Policy Review. In a submission lodged on 2 June 2014 Master Builders traced the history of secondary boycott provisions and noted that the ACCC has not been proactive in pursuing secondary boycotts directed at building and construction industry participants.

Newsbrief

Master Builders called for the Australian Building and Construction Commission once re-established to be vested with jurisdiction to prosecute secondary boycott conduct. Master Builders issued a media release dated 2 June 2014 which outlined the arguments proposed in the submission: see “Builders Call For A Crackdown On Secondary Boycotts”.

Fair Work Amendment Bill 2014 The Senate Standing Committee on Education and Employment handed down its report on the Fair Work Amendment Bill 2014 on 5 June 2014. The Coalition majority supported the Bill being passed without amendment. The ALP and the Greens provided dissenting reports. The fate of the Bill will therefore await the change in the balance of power in the Senate post 1 July 2014. Master Builders supported the provisions of the Bill except that we sought amendment to the greenfields clauses so that the Fair Work Commission was not provided with a discretion to ensure that these agreements contain terms which reflect “prevailing industry conditions.” We will continue to have discussions with the Government on this issue.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

The Fair Work Commission Minimum Wage Panel on 4 June 2014 decided to lift the national minimum wage to $640.90 per week an increase of wage $18.70 per week from the prior minimum wage and introduce a 3% increase to all Modern Award wages. The Fair Work Commission acknowledged the 3% increase would be on top of superannuation increases to 9.5% from 1 July 2014; however many small businesses will most likely be forced to reduce headcount or weekly hours in order to pay these ongoing labour cost increases. Master Builders had supported the ACCI call for a maximum increase in the minimum wage of $8.50 per week.

Workplace Gender Equality Reporting The Australian Government has recently commenced consultations to identify opportunities to streamline gender reporting requirements and to ensure they achieve the dual aim of being simple to administer for employers, while improving gender equality in Australian workplaces. Master Builders has been consulted. However, the Government is particularly interested in receiving feedback from reporting organisations that have recently completed their first online report. If a member is in that position, it would be useful for Government to get their direct feedback. Public submissions are open until 31 July 2014. For more information and to make a submission or provide feedback, see www. employment.gov.au/genderreporting. If a member would like to contribute feedback, there is an option to respond to a short survey on the website or feedback can be sent directly to genderreportingfeedback@employment. gov.au.

newsbrief 9

legal and contracts

Taxable Payments Annual Report is Due Soon A business that is in the building and construction industry and which pays contractors for building and construction services needs to report these payments to the ATO each year on a taxable payments annual report. The next annual report is due 21 July 2014. The report should contain the contractor’s ABN, name and address, the total amount paid for the year and the total GST included in that amount. This information will generally be contained in the invoices received from contractors. If you filled out a paper report last year, the process can be made quicker and easier this year by lodging online. What is needed is software that can generate the annual report and an AUSkey. To watch a short video that shows how to lodge online visit ato.gov.au/tpr. Go to ato.gov.au/taxablepaymentsreporting for more information about: • What needs to be reported, • When the report is due, • How to register for an AUSkey, • How to lodge the annual report; and • How to register for a free webinar.

Personal Property Securities Act – Review On 6 June 2014 Master Builders lodged a submission with the Attorney General’s Department on the independent review of the Personal Property Securities Act (PPSA). The submission is preliminary to the lodgement of the main submission by 25 July 2014. In the initial submission we set out a number of the difficulties that small business faces with the PPSA, inclusive of its adverse effect on borrowing costs. The National Contracts Advisory Committee will workshop the second stage submission at its forthcoming meeting on 2 July 2014.

Master Builders Calls For Better Integration of the ACL and Domestic Building Contract Law On 10 June 2014 Master Builders lodged its third submission with the Competition Policy Review. That submission sets out the need for the Australian Consumer Law (which forms part of the Competition and Consumer Act (CCA)) to be better integrated with the many protections afforded to consumers by the various State and Territory domestic building contract laws. The submission also urges the Review to recommend that domestic building contracts be excluded from the unfair contract terms law. Master Builders also argues that the Review should consider applying a consistent definition of ‘consumer’ to the ACL and to the other provisions of the CCA, one that does not randomly and inappropriately capture a large number of business transactions.

work health and safety

Anti-Bullying Laws – Developments The Fair Work Commission recently handed down the first decision that analyses the meaning of a number of the important terms in the anti-bullying provisions in the Fair Work Act - Ms SB [2014] FWC 2104. Importantly the case establishes the meaning of ‘reasonable management action carried out in a reasonable manner’. Reasonable management action is an exception in the

definition of bullying under the Act. The decision emphasises the importance of clearly defined and consistently applied management processes. The test is likely to translate to the following practical issues: • Management actions do not need to be perfect or ideal; • A course of action may be reasonable, even if particular steps are not; • The action must be lawful and not irrational, absurd or ridiculous; • Unreasonableness must arise from the actual management action, and not the employee’s perception of it; and • Consideration may be given to whether the management action involved a departure from established policies and procedures and if so, whether the departure was reasonable in the circumstances.

ECONOMICS AND TAXATION

Growth in House Finance Eases but Residential Recovery on Track Based on the latest housing finance data, the recovery in residential building is set to continue but at a more sustainable rate. Despite the flat headline figure for the number of owner occupied housing finance commitments in April, builders will be encouraged to see that overall, finance commitments underpinning the upturn in residential building activity are holding up. While the number of commitments for construction or purchase of new dwellings fell in April, there has been solid growth over the year. Commitments for construction of dwellings fell in April, but are up 15 per cent over the year. Investors remain a key driver of the upturn in residential building activity, with the value of commitments for investment housing continuing to power ahead, up by 2.3 per cent in April to be 30 per cent higher than a year ago. However, first home-buyers only represented 12.3 per cent of all dwelling financed in April, down two percentage points on the 14.3 per cent in April last year. Looking ahead, builders will be looking to the Government to rollout the detail of its national economic growth strategy foreshadowed in the Budget to boost homebuyer and investor confidence.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

newsbrief

ECONOMICS AND TAXATION

Lift in Economic Growth Unlikely to be Sustained

Post Budget Confidence Boost Needed

Reserve Bank Survey on the Cost of Retail Payment Methods The Reserve Bank wants to better understand the costs borne by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in accepting different forms of payment from customers. The Bank is seeking assistance from SMEs who take payments directly from the public, to fill out an online survey about the costs of accepting these payments. These costs may include the time devoted to taking cash receipts to a bank and the merchant service fees paid on card transactions. The confidential survey has been developed with feedback from a number of small business associations. To participate go to the Bank’s website before 11 July (at http://www.rba.gov.au/payments-system/ resources/surveys/2014-cost-retailpayment-methods.html) This survey will improve the Bank’s knowledge of how payment costs borne by SMEs differ from costs borne by larger businesses. It will directly assist the Bank’s work in promoting efficiency and competition within the payments system. Since the Bank was granted powers in this area it has facilitated a number of developments that have given merchants more control over what payment methods they accept and helped to lower the overall merchant service fees on card transactions. The Bank’s submission to the Financial System Inquiry estimates these savings to be around $11 billion relative to the amount merchants would have paid over the past decade if merchant service fees had remained at the rates existing prior to the Bank’s reforms.

The latest building approvals highlight the need for the Government to continue setting out its post budget growth strategy to boost homebuyer and investor confidence. The 5.6 per cent drop in total dwellings approved, seasonally adjusted in April, is largely due to a 14 per cent decline in approvals for other dwellings (including apartments), which followed previous strong growth in units and apartments over the past 12 months. The multi-unit sector has enjoyed a stellar run in recent months and therefore this fall back is not entirely unexpected. It is in contrast to the small drop in approvals for detached houses of 0.3 per cent in April to a level still 16.5 per cent above its position at the same time last year. Builders are confident the slight cooling in the rapid rise in approvals in recent months sets the scene for a more sustainable upswing without risking input cost inflation. Whilst the latest building approvals data does not foreshadow the end of the upturn in residential building, confidence is crucial and Master Builders calls on the Government to continue implementation of measures to grow the economy to ensure that the Budget’s structural repair initiatives do not unduly dampen sentiment.

RBA on Hold The RBA Board minutes reveal that the Bank believes the current expansionary stance of monetary policy is having the expected effects on economic activity. They say there are reasons to be optimistic about dwelling investment and household consumption and that economic activity should pick up gradually. The labour market still has significant spare capacity which will only wane slowly. With inflation under control the bank considers that the current accommodative monetary policy stance will likely remain “appropriate for some time yet”.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

GDP grew 1.1 per cent in the March quarter, with through the year annual growth of 3.5 per cent. The lift in GDP is a good result given the headwinds the economy is currently facing, however it overstates the underlying strength in the economy with latest data suggesting growth will fall back again. Moderate economic growth, at best, looks likely over the next year or so as mining investment led growth gives way to non-mining, with a slow gradual turn in the economy likely to generate little significant improvement in the unemployment rate this year. Private dwelling investment increased by 4.7 per cent, seasonally adjusted, providing further evidence of a resurgence in residential building. Private non-dwelling investment rose by 2.1 per cent. Building and construction gross value added increased by 3 per cent in the March quarter to be up by 7.5 per cent on the corresponding quarter a year ago, although in year on year terms, growth was more muted at 2 per cent.

Business Confidence Holds but Consumer Sentiment Below Par The NAB survey measure of business confidence was unchanged in May and firms reported only a slight decline in actual business conditions. This was a positive outcome given the sharp falls in consumer confidence amid adverse news and uncertainty surrounding the Commonwealth Budget. Firms also reported unchanged spare capacity in their businesses and the survey continues to suggest a moderate near-term outlook for wages growth and prices inflation. The broad range of activity indicators suggests that the economy has lost a little momentum in recent months. Both the Roy Morgan and Westpac-Melbourne Institute surveys show no real improvement in consumer sentiment during early June and remain well below neutral levels with attitudes to family finances compared to a year ago deteriorating again. It may be some months before sentiment improves as concerns over the Budget gradually wane. However, job security will continue to affect sentiment. The longer consumer sentiment stays weak and actually translates into subdued spending, the more likely business confidence will be affected.

newsbrief 11

ECONOMICS AND TAXATION

Entrepreneurs’ Infrastructure Programme

Small Business Trading Conditions Poor

In the 2014-15 Budget, the Government announced its intention to establish the Entrepreneurs’ Infrastructure Programme. The programme is part of a new approach to industry policy, focusing on commercialisation of good ideas, job creation, lifting the capability of small business, the provision of market and industry information and the facilitation of access to business management advice and skills from experienced private sector providers and researchers. The new programme will be delivered through a single agency model administered by the Department of industry. To fund the new programme, the Government is ceasing the following programmes from 1 July 2015: • Australian Industry Participation; • Commercialisation Australia; • Enterprise Solutions; • Innovation Investment Fund; • Industry Innovation Councils; • Enterprise Connect; • Industry Innovation Councils; and • Textile, Clothing and Footwear Small Business and Building Innovative Capability.

The March quarter results of the ACCI Small Business Survey indicate that difficult trading conditions continued through the quarter. Sales, profits, employment and investment were all in contractionary territory. Elevated wages growth and surging non-wage labour costs are squeezing profits and the small business sector is clearly struggling as a result. Nevertheless, many of the indicators for expectations over the coming quarter show that small business expects some bottoming-out or modest improvement. It remains to be seen whether the tentative signs of optimism translate into significant improvements in actual conditions in the near future.

The Government is also reducing funding for the Clean Technology (Investment and Innovation) programmes and Cooperative Research Centres.

Residential Building Lifts Construction Work Done Construction work done increased by 0.3 per cent in the March quarter. Despite a fall in engineering work (down 1.6 per cent), work on buildings (up 3.3 per cent) enabled the headline result of a small gain. The fall in engineering was due to moderation in mining investment, something that has been expected by policy makers including the RBA for some time. The gain in building work done was completely due to private sector activity. There was very strong lift in new residential activity (up 7.8 per cent), the largest gain in almost three years. There was also a solid gain in alteration and additions (up 1.9 per cent). The rises are likely to indicate that the long awaited dwelling investment upturn is here. Master Builders Australia forecasts residential investment to increase by 15 per cent in 2014-15. Another positive in the March quarter results was the 3.7 per cent increase in non-residential building work done.

Rebalancing the Economy Non-mining firms’ investment intentions for 2014-15 have been upgraded modestly, providing further evidence that a gradual rebalancing towards non-mining sectors is occurring. Mining investment is still expected to moderate, but at a slightly reduced pace from what was previously expected. However, expectations in the services sector have increased. This is a positive sign that growth drivers are turning positive for more domestic sources at a time when government budget policy is likely to detract from economic growth.

Wage Price Index Continues to Moderate The Wage Price Index (WPI) rose by 0.7 per cent in the March quarter 2014 to be up by 2.6 per cent over the year to the March quarter. The annual growth rate is the slowest reading since the WPI commenced in the September quarter 1997. In annual terms, South Australia recorded the fastest growth rate of 3.2 per cent, while Tasmania and the ACT both recorded the slowest rate of 2.3 per cent. The Construction WPI increased by 0.8 per cent in the quarter to be up by 3.2 per cent through the year.

Taxes/Government Charges Constrain Small Business The ACCI Small Business Survey found business taxes/government charges was the number one constraint on small business investment and has been for over three years. This demonstrates that tax reform should be a key government priority to boost investment and associated productivity growth. Other survey findings were that small business is concerned with issues related to cash flow and that investment and employment is unlikely therefore to improve in the near future.

ATO Help for Small Business The ATO has tools and products that may assist small business: • ATO app: small businesses can use the ATO app to access even more tax and superannuation tools and calculators from a mobile device. The latest update to the ATO app is available to download. Businesses can now use the app to: work out if their employee is eligible for super guarantee (SG) and calculate SG contributions; calculate fuel tax credit entitlements they can claim on their business activity statements. Find out more - ATO app • Videos: The ATO has a series of 25 short videos to help small businesses understand their tax and super obligations. The videos cover topics such as: running a home-based business; claiming business deductions; information for contractors and consultants, and more. Tax basics for small business videos • Webinars: The ATO provides free webinars on a variety of topics for those just starting or thinking about starting a new business or wanting to update their knowledge. Review the topics and book sessions at introductory sessions for small business

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

newsbrief

training

Focus on Coming Bricklayer Shortage

Minister to Announce VET reform agenda Minister for Industry Ian Macfarlane will be giving a major speech to the ACCI Skills Summit on 25 June in Canberra, where he will set out the Government’s approach to reform of the VET sector. A review has been underway since November 2013, which has included a national consultation roadshow attended by many MBAs. As a ‘down payment’ on the reform process, Minister Macfarlane has announced that, from July 1, when a training package qualification is changed, but the vocational outcome remains the same, training providers will no longer need to apply to their regulator or pay a fee to update their registration. “This is a common sense approach developed as a direct result of listening to industry and training providers and their ideas for reform,” the Minister said.

NSW to Link Apprenticeships to Infrastructure Bids Government tendered construction projects in NSW will be required to employ a minimum number of apprentices as part of a new bidding program that the Baird government says will create at least 1,000 apprenticeships. The initiative was announced by the Premier as part of a plan to deliver the state’s $60 billion infrastructure program. “Bidders will be assessed on a range of criteria, including the number of apprenticeships they are prepared to create during construction and through the partnerships they forge with local TAFE and other tertiary institutions,” the Premier said.

With the recovery in residential homebuilding gathering pace in most states, public attention has turned to a likely shortage of key construction trades such as bricklayers, with widespread coverage of this issue in the media recently. On 7 June 2014, Master Builders welcomed the decision by the Government to increase the building trades eligible for independent skilled migration to Australia. The decision means the industry can better respond to increased future demand for skilled bricklayers and tilers, which were removed from the immigration ‘Skilled Occupation List’ by the previous government. Master Builders also welcomed the ACCC’s draft determination to authorise the Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation to raise a levy for a further 10 years. The authorisation is necessary to allow the ABBTF to be funded through a levy on brick sales. A large proportion of this levy is returned to employers in the form of a $3000 incentive to take on and retain apprentices. The ABBTF also undertakes a range of career outreach activities, which in 2012-13 included 134 career events, 1700 students doing the ‘Step Out’ taster program and further development of the ‘Become a Bricklayer’ website, which receives 7000 monthly visits.

Trade Start Loans Begin 1 July From next month, construction apprentices will no longer receive the $5400 ‘Tools for your Trade’ payment, but will be eligible for new Trade Start Loans of up to $20,000. The loans will be paid as a monthly income supplement for a minimum six month period. Taking out the loans is voluntary, they are CPI adjusted and only have to be repaid once the recipient reaches a threshold income, which is currently $53,000.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

newsbrief 13

housing

Harper Review of Competition Policy Master Builders has provided the Harper Review into competition law and policy with a submission examining the anticompetitive effects of business regulation. The submission argued, amongst other things, poorly designed regulations raise barriers to entry to markets by potential competitors, limit consumer choices, and impede research and development of new, competing products and services. This submission complements other communications which have addressed, inter alia, the interface between competition and secondary boycotts in an industrial relations context: see first item in this CEO Update

Foreign Investment in Australian Real Estate Master Builders’ appeared before the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics for its inquiry into foreign direct investment in Australian real estate. In our remarks, National Office advocated no changes to the current rules governing foreign investment in Australian real estate, and emphasised the importance of removing impediments to the supply responsiveness of the housing market. These priorities include rationalising infrastructure charging and stamp duties, more efficient land release and planning systems, and minimising variations to the National Construction Code.

National Construction Code The Building Ministers Forum, a FederalState forum of Ministers responsible for building and construction issues, has agreed-in-principle to make the 2015 National Construction Code free-on-line. They have also agreed to move from a one year to a three year amendment cycle for the NCC, which will provide greater certainty for users of the Code. Master Builders’ supported these initiatives when they were discussed at the Building Codes Committee meeting in Adelaide earlier this year.

events

Taxation of Housing State and Local Governments obtained almost one-half (46.4 per cent) – or some $35.9 billion - of their total revenue from property related taxes in 2012/12. Such taxes include stamp duties, land taxes, and municipal rates. This amount is well ahead of the $20.7 billion they collected in taxes on employers (e.g. payroll taxes). Looked at another way, property related taxes rose by 7.2 per cent in 2012/13, well ahead of the 5.1 per cent increase in employer taxes.

Ageing Baby Boomer Home Buyers Ageing baby boomer homebuyers – those aged between 55 and 64 years – appear increasingly likely to carry home loan debts in their retirement. Back in 2002 this (preretirement) age cohort had an average housing debt of $24,000 (in 2013 dollar terms); by 2010, this figure had surged to more than $107,000 (a nearly 350 per cent jump). Looked at another way, if indebted baby boomers used their superannuation payouts to settle their housing debt, on average, they would have nothing left to fund their retirement.

Home Mortgages by Local Government Area The Serpentine-Jarrahdale local government area of Western Australia has the highest incidence of housing mortgages (55.3 per cent) in the nation, well ahead of the 38 per cent average for WA and 35 per cent for the nation as a whole. Other higher incidence local government areas include Melton (Vic; 55 per cent), Mallala (SA; 54.4 per cent), Wanneroo (WA; 53.6 per cent), and Casey (Vic; 53.1 per cent).

Property Listings New property listings for dwelling sales have risen strongly over the past twelve months. The largest increases were in Sydney (up 38 per cent), Melbourne (up 16 per cent) and Perth (up more than 12 per cent). By contrast, new listings rose by a more modest 4 per cent in Hobart. The eight-capital-city average was 17.5 per cent. The total number of listings (new and existing) declined by 4 per cent over the past year suggesting properties are selling fairly quickly.

Builders to be Awarded for Creating Age-Friendly Housing Master Builders and the Department of Social Services are calling for entries in the 2014 National Lifestyle Housing for Seniors Award which recognises excellence in building and the industry’s role in developing innovative housing options for older Australians. Wilhelm Harnisch CEO of Master Builders Australia said “As our population ages, we need to build housing that suits the changing needs of ageing residents. The National Lifestyle Housing Award acknowledges best practice in design and construction, and aims to foster a greater awareness of healthy ageing with the benefits of innovative and adaptable housing.” “The Department of Social Services’ continuing support for the Award highlights the importance of creating agefriendly environments that maintain and, indeed, improve the health and wellbeing of Australians of all ages” he said. The Award is divided into two categories: owner-occupied purpose built detached dwellings and multi-unit developments. The Awards are limited to Class 1 and 2 buildings yet may include dwellings that are set within a complex that provides complementary facilities to support the lifestyle of the residents. The 2014 Department of Social Services National Lifestyle Housing for Seniors Award will be presented at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards Dinner to be held at Parliament House in Canberra in November. Master Builders invites builders to nominate their project for the 2014 National Lifestyle Housing for Seniors Award. Submissions close 22 August 2014. Nomination forms can be downloaded from Master Builders Australia’s website.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

diary

12 POINT CPD SEMINAR LIVERPOOL COFFS HARBOUR

24 July 21 August

TRADE SHOWS CENTRAL COAST WOLLONGONG EXPO ROSEVILLE PENRITH LIVERPOOL

2 July 30 July 6 August 13 August 28 August

DIVISION INFORMATION NIGHTS CENTRAL COAST CENTRAL WEST CRONULLA EASTERN SUBURBS HUME HUNTER ILLAWARRA INNER WEST MANLY WARRINGAH MIA MID NORTH COAST NORTH COAST NORTH WEST NORTHERN SUBURBS ORANA OXLEY PARRAMATTA CUMBERLAND RIVERINA SNOWY MOUNTAINS SOUTH COAST/SHOAL SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS ST GEORGE TWEED

For all events visit our website www.mbansw.asn.au

dates for your diary

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2 July, 6 August 20 August 11 August 22 July, 26 August 6 August 27 August 3 July, 7 August 15 July 10 July, 14 August 9 July 13 August 12 August 12 August 17 July, 21 August 21 August 23 July 16 July, 20 August 10 July 27 August 16 July, 28 August 8 July, 12 August 19 August 11 August

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Best use of Timber 2013

regional roundup

HuNTER REGION uPCOMING EVENTS newcastle Master Builders excellence in BuildinG awards

newcastle BuildinG industrY insiGhts lunch

The 20th Anniversary of the Newcastle Master Builders Excellence in Building Awards are to be held on 12 September at Wests Leagues Club with a Rio theme night, three course meal, drinks, entertainment and tickets available for $140 per person.

Guest speakers include: tim owen, am mp member for newcastle Tim will give an update on the CBD redevelopment and issues which are important for the Newcastle/Hunter areas. peter chrystal, director of planning Peter will speak about Newcastle City Council’s current situation, changes that have occurred and where Council is heading. peter meredith, director of housing Peter will give an overview on the issues affecting builders in the Hunter Region.

Last years’ best use of timber Winner D & R Enterprises Pty Ltd 385 Palmers Lane, POKOLBIN This boutique owner-operated tourist accommodation project comprises a steel framed structure with timber cladding, flooring, decking, joinery and shelving in a large format rural scale aligned with it’s locale. Timber ply formwork was also used to provide the off-form finish to the concrete benchtop and sink in the kitchen. The timber decking and external cladding will age to blend the structure into the landscape and provides a good example of how simple architectural lines and details can showcase a sustainable material such as timber.

WorkCover Safety Breakfast in May with over 70 members in attendance at the MBA building. Current safety issues discussed with three local WorkCover Inspectors were safe work method statements, working at heights and audiometric testing.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

Venue: Noah’s on the Beach Corner Shortland Esplanade & Zaara Street, Newcastle Date: Friday 25 July 2014 Time: 11.15am for an 11:30am start to 2:30pm Cost: $99.00 per person including GST RSVP: Friday 21 July 2014

We celebrated with 40 MBA members our Fourth Year of the State of Origin Social Night with some photos attached of the Members Room in the MBA Building. Drinks, food, pass the ball comp with prizes and a lucky door prize of a Paul Harragon signed NSW Jersey and the first time NSW have won a game at any of the social nights.

regional roundup 17

northern regions Trade Shows

CPD Seminar

The first Northern Region trade show for 2014 was held on May 29th at the South Tweed Heads Sports Club and was a resounding success, with nearly 30 suppliers setting up stands and over 100 builders and tradespeople attending. Members commented on the excellent mix of products and services for the industry with innovative products being demonstrated by our sponsors. The MBA would like to thank its Tweed Heads Trade Show sponsors for their support of the Association and their lucky door prizes!

A CPD seminar was held at Ballina on 7th May 2014 with an excellent range of presentations for attendees. These included Leanne Farmer who is the NSW Business Development Manager for MBA Insurance Services and has been in the insurance industry for over 25 years. Leanne discussed important information concerning contract works and liability, home warranty and professional indemnity and provided attendees with the opportunity to better understand their required insurances.

The next Northern Region trade show will be held on October 22nd at the Ballina Jockey Club, with half of the stands already sold to suppliers. The last trade show for the year will be held on November 19th at Coffs Harbour.

Northern Region Building Excellence Awards

Mark Zangari, Specification Manager for Ardex Australia also was a presenter. Mark has years’ worth of experience in fibre cement substrates and waterproofing requirements on building projects. His presentation included waterproofing membranes, standards and regulations, surface preparation and priming as well as liquid applied membranes versus sheet membranes for both internal and external areas.

Laura de Lacy, known as the ‘Tradie Marketing Lady’ is the CEO and founder of Cyberstart Tradie, a website and marketing service exclusively for trade service clients. The presentation demystified modern marketing and provided a step-by-step approach to creating a web presence that works and is beneficial for every size of trade business. The final presenter was Glenn Cairncross, Business Development Manager NSW for Weathertex who has worked in the building industry for over 35 years. Glenn’s presentation gave participants an understanding of factors contributing to increased condensation, the risks and possible damage from mould. The science behind condensation and vapour and clarification of R Values was also discussed. A most informative CPD seminar for Northern Region members.

Excitement is building about the 2014 Northern Region’s Building Excellence Awards with a record number of projects entered this year. The gala dinner will be held on July 19th at the Ballina RSL Club. NBN newsreader Natasha Beyersdorf will be hosting the evening, comedian Nick Penn is providing intermission entertainment and the Rokatok band are lined up for the end of evening dancing! Many thanks to our tireless judges Ron Bracken and Ian Anderson who travelled thousands of kilometres inspecting a variety of projects including contract and exhibition homes, renovations and additions, swimming pools, educational buildings, public and leisure buildings, health buildings and interior fit-outs, to name but a few. Judging was complicated by the excellent standard of workmanship demonstrated yet again in 2014, with the judges faced with difficult judging choices.

Apprentice Carpenter of the Year Award Winner, Justin Woolford with Paul Johnson and Susie Bell.

Wollongbar TAFE Campus Awards of Excellence May 2014 Each year the Northern Regions Master Builders Association of NSW supports and presents the Wollongbar TAFE Apprentice Carpenter of the Year Award. This year the accolade was awarded to Justin Woolford, pictured with TAFE Head

Construction teacher Paul Johnson and Susie Bell from the Northern Regions MBA office. The event attracted a crowd of over 500 family, friends and industry representatives recognising student success for the 2013 academic year.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

regional roundup

MID NORTH COAST DIVISION

Paul Love and Graham Marchant from the MBA with the Winner’s Sash of the MBA Mid North Coast Division race.

MBa race daY ‘A runaway success’ was the response of Northern Region Membership Officer Graham Marchant, when he was asked about the inaugural MBA Race Day held recently in Coffs Harbour. The Mid North Coast Division of the MBA took on the naming rights to the race day held at the picturesque Coffs Harbour Race Club on Friday 11 April. It was an 8 race program and all of the race naming rights were taken up by a group of enthusiastic race sponsors. A majority of local companies and a couple of national brand names took up the opportunity to be involved in this fun day. The race sponsors were Baileys Mitre 10, FM Glenn Constructions, Foley Contractors, Kennard Hire, Kingspan Insulation, Coffs City Cranes, Coffs Harbour Landscape Supplies and the MBA Mid North Division.

Winners parade ring

All of the race sponsors and their invited guests enjoyed the hospitality of the Coffs City Race Club in the Corporate Room, which is located adjacent to the winners post and the pre-race parade ring. Graham said he is not sure if any small fortunes were picked up but the lovely TAB lady was kept busy and everyone had a great day and all went home with their shirts on their backs. Everyone is looking forward to next year’s MBA race day.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

master builders

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MASTER BUILDERS

Financial Services

housing

HOME BuILDING AMENDMENT BILL 2014 On the 28th May 2014, the Home Building Amendment Bill 2014 was passed by the NSW Parliament and will commence on a day yet to be proclaimed. The passing of the Bill introduces over fifty changes to the Home Building Act 1989 and supporting Regulation and is the most substantial change in over ten years. Many of the changes are the culmination of ongoing lobbying efforts over many years by Master Builders NSW including such changes as: • Providing reasonable access for the contractor to attend the site to undertake rectification of defects. • Obligating consumers to mitigate loss resulting from defects. • Obligating consumers to advise a builder of a defect within a reasonable time of first becoming aware of the defect. • Additional constraints on owner – builders. Those who seek to work without a licence; or without insurance; or falsifying insurance certificates will face increased penalties including the potential for custodial sentences. The following table provides a summary of changes relating to: • Contracts • Statutory Warranties • Dispute Resolution • Owner Builders • Insurance • Licensing.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

hoMe BuildinG contracts Increase the cap on deposits for work over $20,000 from 5%-10%. Consequently this results in a flat deposit rate of 10%. Regulating progress payments in contracts, by establishing authorised progress payments. It will apply to residential contracts exceeding $20,000 and where the contract price is not known and where the reasonable market cost of labour and materials exceeds $20,000. A progress payment is an authorised progress payment if: a. It is of a specified amount or specified percentage of the contract price that is payable following completion of the specified stage of the work. Such stages of work will need to be described in clear and plain language. b. It is a progress payment for labour and materials in respect of work already performed or costs already incurred, including builders margin. Such a claim will need to be supported by evidence such as receipts, invoices or other documents which can support the claim and with payment intervals fixed by the contract or on an “as invoiced” basis. The provision does not apply to subcontracting arrangements. Require contracts to include a termination clause – only for contracts exceeding $20,000. A number of exemptions will apply to contract requirements relating to subcontractor agreements and work on a builders own premises. These exemptions will include such things as the form of contracts, deposits, new progress payment requirements, cooling-off period and consumer information etc. The exemption of the cooling–off period also applies to contracts between a licensee and a developer. An exemption will also apply where the owner provides the contract and where the contract has been fully prepared on behalf of the owner.

housing 21

Statutory Warranties Replacing the term “structural defect” as defined by the Regulations with the new term “major defect” in a “major element” of a building. A “major defect” means: a. A defect in a major element of a building that is attributable to defective design, defective or faulty workmanship, defective materials, or a failure to comply with the structural performance requirements of the National Construction Code, and in-turn causes: (i) The inability to inhabit or use the building (or part of the building) for its intended purpose, or (ii) The destruction of the building or any part of the building, or (iii) A threat of collapse of the building or any part of the building, or b. A defect of a kind that is prescribed by the regulations as a “major defect”. Major element of a building means: a. An internal element or external load-bearing component of a building that is essential to the stability of the building, or any part of it (including but not limited to foundations and footings, floors, walls, roofs, columns and beams), or b. A fire safety system, or c. Waterproofing, or d. Any other element that is prescribed by the regulations as a major element of a building. A Major Defect will have a statutory warranty period of 6 years. Clarifying that subcontractors are also responsible for statutory warranties, including work as a subcontractor to a principal contractor. Changing the terminology of a warranty implied into every contract that the work will be “performed in a proper and workmanlike manner” as currently prescribed, to that the work will be “done with due care and skill”. This is to modernise the terminology and align with National Consumer Law. Clarifying that consumers have the following obligations in having the benefit of a statutory warranty: a. To mitigate their loss. The onus will be on the contractor to establish that the consumer failed to mitigate their loss e.g. failed to undertake prescribed maintenance. b. Introducing a defect notification period requiring the consumer to notify the licensee of a defect in residential building work within 6 months of when the consumer became aware or ought to reasonably become aware of the defect. c. Requiring consumers to allow reasonable access to the site, so that the Licensee can rectify the work. These obligations flow on to subsequent owners for the term of the statutory warranty period. In regard to a failure to mitigate the loss or duly notify the contractor of a defect in a reasonable time, this may be taken into account if the matter proceeds to the tribunal or court.

Section 18F of the current Act provides a defence for a contractor in proceedings for a breach of a statutory warranty whereby the breach occurred due to instructions given by the client contrary to written advice of the contractor. This section has been extended: a. By requiring that the advice provided by the contractor was provided in writing before the work was done. b. It is a reasonable defence whereby a licensed builder has relied upon instructions provided by a professional acting for the person the work was contracted and that the professional person is independent of the builder. Such instruction by the professional is to be in writing and provided before the work was done. A relevant professional is a person who: a. Is an architect, engineer of surveyor not associated or close associate with the builder within the previous 3 years; b. Represents himself/herself to have expert or professional qualifications or knowledge in respect of residential work; c. Hold qualifications or a profession recognised by the Regulations.

Dispute Resolution Variation of the powers of inspectors to make rectification orders by: a. Making it clear that a condition of a rectification order requiring the payment of money by the complainant under a building claim only relates to money payable under a contract. b. Allowing for staged rectification orders, so that a rectification order may set out stages for compliance with the requirements of the order. c. By providing that a rectification order can be amended by a further order. d. Making it a condition of every contractor licence that the contractor must comply with the rectification order (which will make a builder’s non-compliance with a rectification order grounds for the taking of disciplinary action). e. Requiring a court or tribunal, to have regard to the principle that rectification of the defective work is the preferred option; when determining a building claim involving an allegation of defective residential work or specialist work, f. Providing that the Tribunal can make an order to resolve a building dispute even if it’s not the order the applicant asked for.

Owner Builders The definition of owner-builder work is expanded to include a secondary dwelling. Prohibit owner-builder work on dual occupancies where the land is capable of being subdivided and sold, except under exceptional circumstances. Requiring all applicants for an owner-builder permit to undertake education or training, or hold qualifications required by the regulations or the Chief Executive which are intended to include the requirement to obtain a health & safety induction card.

However, a tribunal or court must take account of any failure to provide reasonable access in connection with rectifying defective work.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

housing

Extending the current 5-year limitation period in obtaining an ownerbuilder permit to work on other properties, so that limitations apply to all persons with a registered interest in land upon which the ownerbuilder work is to be undertaken, rather than just the person to whom the owner-builder was issued.

Licensing

Remove the current requirement for an owner builder to take out home warranty insurance (Home Building Compensation Fund) and preventing an owner–builder from taking out home warranty insurance. This does not remove the obligation for contractors to provide home warranty insurance when contracting with an owner builder pursuant to S.92. and the work exceeds $20,000.

Moving from the Regulations into the Act, grounds for which a person may be disqualified from holding or applying for a licence and amending these provisions by: i. Extending the provision to disqualify a person from holding or applying for a licence when as a director or person involved in the management of a corporation under external administration, to extending the disqualification to those involved in corporations already wound up. ii. By amending the exemptions from grounds on which a licence or certificate can be refused relating to an applicant who is or was a director concerned or involved in the management of an externally-administered body corporate, to provide for a members’ voluntary winding (such as by creditors) to be grounds to refuse a licence or certificate. iii. By preventing the issue of a licence to a person involved in a home building entity that has been the subject of an unreasonably number of complaints, cautions, penalty notices or insurance claims. iv. By making the fit and proper person test mandatory, so that an application must be refused if it is considered that the applicant, or a close associate of the applicant who exercises a significant influence over the applicant or the operation and management of the applicant’s business, would not be a fit and proper person to hold an authority (whereas this is currently merely an optional consideration).

A contract for sale of land where work has be undertaken under an owner-builder permit must include a conspicuous consumer warning that work is not required to be insured. This requirement will extend to successors in tile for the period of 7 years and 6 months after the owner-permit was issued. If this disclosure is not made the contract of sale may be voidable at the option of the purchaser.

Insurance Renaming home warranty insurance to ‘insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund’. Establish a public register of insurance certificates and claims made under the insurance scheme Clarifying that reference to the disappearance of a contractor, supplier or owner-builder is reference to disappearance from Australia. Requiring that residential building work done under a contract must be insured in the name under which the person contracted to do the work, (rather than the person who contracted the work). Increasing the penalty for a second and supplementary offence by an individual of uninsured contracting. A fine of up to $110,000 or 12 months imprisonment or both. Clarify that rectification work done under an original contract by the original builder does not require a separate insurance policy. Clarifying that insurance is required for a contract between an ownerbuilder and a contractor performing the work. As previously mentioned, establishing that an owner-builder cannot take out home warranty insurance and a conspicuous statement to that effect on the contract of sale. Establish disclosure requirements where buildings that are exempt from protections under the Act and sold for residential use. Permit an insurance claim to be made if a partnership licence has been cancelled because of bankruptcy. The insolvency of any of the partners constitutes the insolvency of the contractor for insurance purposes. Clarifying that an unsatisfied order of the Tribunal and the subsequent suspension of a contractor licence will constitute the insolvency of the contractor and an insurance claim will cover the loss the subject of the building claim. Allow non-completion claims to be made as delayed claim.

M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F N S W J U N E / J U LY 2 0 1 4

Increasing the maximum penalty and including an option for imprisonment for second and subsequent offences of contracting without a licence or seeking work for an unlicensed person.

The holder of a contractor licence must notify the Chief Executive in writing of becoming bankrupt, applying for relief from bankruptcy or the subject of a winding up order. Where a licence has been suspended, the licence has to be lodged ith the Chief Executive within 7 days. A person will be disqualified from holding an authority if the person: i. Has been convicted of an offence for dishonesty within the last 10 years in NSW or elsewhere. ii. Has been convicted in the last 5 years of lending the licence. iii. Has been disqualified from holding a licence or having a licence suspended in another jurisdiction. iv. Has failed to pay a monetary penalty as a consequence of disciplinary proceedings.

Scope of the Act Exclude concrete tennis courts, ornamental ponds, water features and other structural ornamentation, internal painting from the requirements of the Act if undertaken as a stand-alone project. The changes to the Act are seen as balanced. The requirement relating to progress payments and deposits will require some minor changes to our standard form residential contracts. It will now become more important than ever to ensure that where your progress payments are linked to construction milestones, that a full description is provided in order to capture the scope of the milestone (e.g. if “lock-up” includes the garage door, then that should be stated in the description of the construction milestone).

industrial relations 23

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELEASES NEW BuILDING CODE 2014 master builders director construction peter Glover reports on the Federal Government’s new Fair and Lawful building code 2014.

Members are advised that on 17 April 2014, the Federal Government published an advance release of the Building and Construction Industry (Fair and Lawful Building Sites) Code 2014. The new Code will come into effect when the Building and Construction Industry (Improving Productivity) Bill 2014 commences as an Act. Master Builders has been advised that the Federal Government anticipates that the Bill will pass the Senate in July this year. The new Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code sets out the standard of workplace relations conduct expected from contractors that want to perform work funded by the Commonwealth Government. Contractors will need to meet the requirements of the Code, to be eligible to work on Commonwealth funded projects. Contractors will be covered by the Code, prospectively, from the first time they tender for Commonwealth funded projects. Once a contractor is covered by the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code, it will be required to act consistently with it, including on future privately funded work. Under the new Code, enterprise agreements and other ‘procedures’ will not be able to contain restrictive work practices or discriminating provisions. For example, clauses and practices that will not be permitted by the new Code include: • Requiring contractors to employ a nonworking shop steward or job delegate, • ‘One-in, all-in’ clauses where, if one person is offered overtime, all the other workers must be offered overtime whether or not there is enough work, • ‘Jump-up’ provisions that prevent engaging subcontractors unless they provide their existing lawful industrial arrangements.

Requiring contractors to obtain the approval of a building association or representative of a building association, over the number and types of employees that a contractor may engage on a project. The new Code will also require strict compliance with right of entry laws by all industry participants. In other words, it will no longer be acceptable to simply invite union officials onto site without them providing the required advance notice and requesting them to produce a valid Right of Entry Permit. When it commences, the provisions of the Code will apply in respect of enterprise agreements made on or after 24 April 2014. This means that from the commencement of the Code, contractors covered by enterprise agreements that were made on or after 24 April 2014 that do not meet the Codes’ content requirements for enterprise agreements will not be eligible to tender for or be awarded Commonwealth funded building work. The Department of Employment have conducted an assessment of the new CFMEU Collective Agreement 2014 – 2017 against

the requirements of the Code. In assessing the CFMEU Agreement, the Department of Employment have identified clauses which are inconsistent with the Code and other clauses which depending on their practical application on site, are also inconsistent with the Code. The Department of Employment advises that while it is important that Agreements comply with the Code, it is equally important that the practical application of the Agreement also complies. In this context, when the Code commences, the re-established Australian Building and Construction Commission will undertake compliance audits to ensure that clauses in Agreements are not implemented in such a way that results in those clauses being inconsistent with the Code. A copy of the Department of Employment’s Code assessment of the 2014 – 2017 CFMEU Agreement follows. Should members have any further enquiries regarding the new Code, please contact the Association’s Industrial Relations Department, Sydney Office 02 8586 3555 or Newcastle Office 02 4953 9400.

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industrial relations

NSW CFMEU Pattern Agreement Assessment – “Company Name” and CFMEU Collective Agreement 2014-2017 Clause No

Clause Title

Clause Wording

Code Reference

comment

Incorporation of Award Provisions

The terms and conditions of the Building and Construction 11(1)(a) General On-Site Award 2010, except clause 13 of the BCGOA, 11(3)(b) are hereby expressly incorporated as terms of this Agreement as if the same were set out in full herein and shall be binding upon the parties during the currency of the Agreement, by operation of this Agreement.

Clause 13 of the Award relates to part-time employment. The agreement doesn’t expressly provide for part-time employment. The limit on the ability to engage part-time employees restricts the engagement of persons by reference to the type of contractual arrangement.

No Extra Claims

This agreement is exhaustive of all terms and conditions of the 11(1)(a) employment relationship except site specific conditions such as site allowances. However the parties acknowledge that some projects may have site specific agreements which prescribe special conditions. Where such agreements are contractually applicable and/or formally approved by the relevant industrial tribunal and/or otherwise agreed and the agreement provides for an additional project specific productivity/milestone payment(s) and/or other benefits, the Company shall comply subject to maintaining compliance with industry Codes of Practice and Guidelines.

To the extent that this clause purports to hold that the agreement deals comprehensively with all incidents of the employment relationship, even those not contemplated by the Agreement, this clause limits the ability of an employer to manage its business or to improve productivity. In respect of specific site agreements, whilst this clause could be implemented in ways that do not result in conduct in contravention of the Code (that is, where the relevant agreement is registered and applies to the code covered entity), if the site specific special conditions are contained in an unregistered agreement, the implementation of this clause would result in a code covered entity contravening section 10. Compliance audits may be undertaken in respect of the implementation of this clause.

Company Consultative Committee

Where a Company Consultative Committee is not established consultation will take place direct with the workforce, Company Union delegate and signatory union.

11(3)(d) 11(3)(e)

Where a Company Consultative Committee is not established, this provision is inconsistent with section 11(d) and (e) to the extent that the issue in question is the number or source of employees or subcontractors.

Inclement weather

Employees shall accept transfer to an area or site not affected 11(1)(a) by inclement weather if, useful work is available in that area or site and that work is within the scope of the Employees skill, competence and training consistent with the classification structure and the company provides, where necessary, transport or payment of an allowance for use of an Employees vehicle, at the rates provided in the BCGOA.

This clause imposes a limit on a code covered entity’s ability to manage its business by precluding an employer transferring employees to do available safe work they are capable of performing that is not in the employee’s classification.

Redundancy

Termination of employment shall be decided on, but not limited to, issues such as ….length of service with the Company. The Company should wherever possible seek voluntary redundancies. Where the need for redundancies is disputed the company will meet with the Union…to provide verification.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(d) 11(3)(h) 11(3)(k)

Whilst those aspects of this clause that deals with selection criteria are not, on its face, inconsistent with Section 11, the implementation of this clause may be. If this clause requires the company to consult with the union over the number of employees, or results in the imposition of a limit on the right of an employer to make decisions about redundancy, demobilisation or redeployment of employees based on operational requirements, it would be inconsistent with section 11. Compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that this clause is not implemented in such a way that results in an employee being mwade redundant on length of service alone, and to ensure that the company is not required to consult the union over the number of employees it engages. Further, this clause provides for the monitoring of the agreement in respect of providing verification of the need for redundancies.

Casual Labour

Provided that an Employee engaged by the Company pursuant to this clause, on a regular or systematic basis for a sequence of periods of employment for more than six weeks shall not be a casual employee and shall be entitled to all the conditions of a permanent employee.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(b)

Imposing a limit on the period a casual employee can be employed (6 weeks) limits the right of the employer to manage its business or improve productivity and is a restriction on the ability to engage employees by type of engagement (casual).

11.3(a)

13.2

24.1

Use of Contractors If the Company wishes to sub-let a contract or part of a 11(1)(a) contract to a bona fide contractor to perform work that might be 11(3)(e) performed by current or future Employees under this Agreement, the Company must first consult in good faith with the potentially affected Employees and the Union.

24.1

Use of Contractors

If, after consultation, the Company decides to engage bona fide contractor(s), the employees of these contractors must be afforded the same terms and conditions of engagement (or terms no less favourable) as they would receive if they were engaged as Employees under this Agreement performing the same work.

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11(1)(a) 11(3)(f)

This clause requires the company to consult with a building association in relation to the engagement of sub-contractors.

This clause prescribes the terms and conditions on which subcontractors are engaged (including the terms and conditions of employees of a subcontractor).

industrial relations 25

Clause No

Clause Title

Code Reference

Clause Wording

comment

24.2

Supplementary Labour Hire

Where there is a need for supplementary labour to meet temporary/ peak work requirements, such labour will be accessed from the bona fide labour hire companies following consultation with the Company Consultative Committee and/ or workplace delegate.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(e)

This clause requires consultation with a representative of a building association in relation to the engagement of subcontractors. Further, in respect of circumstances where a Company Consultative Committee is not established, see comments in respect of clause 9.

24.2

Supplementary Labour Hire

If labour hire is to be used, the Company shall ensure that any workers engaged through a supplementary labour hire arrangement and who are under the direction and control of the Company performing work that, had it been done by direct Employees of the Company would have been covered by this Agreement, shall receive wages, allowances and conditions not less than those contained in this Agreement.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(f)

This clause prescribes the terms and conditions on which supplementary labour hire can engage.

25 – Para 1 & Para 3

Compliance

The Union may arrange an audit by an external assessor of relevant Company records to ensure compliance with this Agreement.

11(3)(k) 13(2)(a)

This clause provides for the monitoring of agreements by persons other than the employer and employees to whom the agreement applies. This clause would allow for the disclosure of personal information to third parties.

25 – Para 2

Compliance

If the Company is identified as paying an ‘all-in’ rate it will pay the ‘all-in’ rate being paid to all Employees on that site plus all conditions of this Agreement for job duration. An “all-in” rate means a payment in lieu of one or more entitlements of this Agreement.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(i)

This clause prohibits the payment of loaded rates of pay to only selected employees.

26 (f)

Dispute Resolution

Parties to a dispute may appoint a person or organisation of their choosing to represent them in the dispute settlement process. In the absence of any express appointment to the contrary, Union members shall be represented by their Union at all stages of the dispute settlement process.

11(1)(c) 13(2)(o)

This clause mandates that where an employee does not make an express election, they will be represented in the dispute process. This is inconsistent with providing employees with the ability to choose to be represented and if they so decide, by whom.

26(f)

Dispute Resolution

The Company agrees to engage in good faith for the purposes of dispute resolution by allowing the relevant Union Official to enter the workplace to assist with representing Employees to deal with a dispute under the terms of this dispute resolution procedure provide however this clause shall not be construed as providing any rights which are inconsistent with s194(f) or (g) of the Fair Work Act.

11(3)(p)

This clause provides for the rights of an official to enter premises other than in strict compliance with Part 3-4 of the FW Act.

26 (h)

Dispute Resolution Procedure

FWC may deal with the dispute using all the procedures available to it under the Act and may attempt to settle the dispute by conciliation or mediation, or where the parties agree, a recommendation or expression of opinion by FWC. If the dispute remains unresolved, FWC may settle the dispute by arbitration.

15(1)(b)

To the extent that this clause provides for resolution of disputes by way of binding outcome (independent of appeal or review rights), the clause must provide that any outcome must be consistent with the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code 2014.

27.2

Rostered Days Off

It is recognised that there is merit in programming no work on the RDO’s adjacent to public holiday weekends during the working year. This will allow the management and Employees of the Company to have quality paid leisure time. Work is prohibited on the following public holidays, weekends and agreed RDO’s adjacent to Australia Day, Easter Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day, Queens Birthday, Labour Day and Industry Picnic Day.

11(3)(o)

The prohibition on work on certain days and the limited provisions for emergency work or special client needs limits the ability of the employer to determine with its employees when work may be carried out to meet operational requirements.

27.2(vi)

Rostered Days Off

Where there is an agreed emergency or a special client need and subject to the agreement of all the parties to this Agreement and the Union, limited work may be undertaken on the No Work weekends and adjacent fixed RDO’s. Unless impracticable the Company will give the other parties 7 days notice of any such need for work so as to ensure appropriate consultation.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(o)

Requiring agreement of the Union in addition to the employees to work on certain days imposes a limit on the ability of the employer to determine with its employees when and where work can be performed to meet operational requirements.

27.3(b)

Overtime

The Company may require an Employee to work reasonable overtime. However, reasonable overtime shall not include a requirement on the part of Employees to work 8 hours overtime each Saturday and it shall not for any purpose, be regarded as a restriction/limitation for Employees not to so work.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(o)

The blanket rejection of the requirement to perform 8 hours of overtime work on Saturdays, irrespective of circumstances, imposes a limit on the ability of the employer to determine with its employees when work is performed to meet operational requirements.

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industrial relations

Clause No

Clause Title

Clause Wording

Code Reference

comment

27.5(b)

Picnic Day

In addition, the first Monday in December of each year shall be the picnic day which for the purposes of this agreement will be a public holiday. All Employees shall be given and shall take picnic day without deduction of pay.

11(3)(o)

The prohibition on work on “Picnic day” limits the ability of an employer to determine with its employees when work is performed to meet operational requirements.

29.1(b)

Delegates and Their Rights

The delegate shall have the right to approach, or be approached by any Employee of the Company to discuss industrial matters during normal working hours.

11(1)(c) 11(4)

Whilst this clause, on its face, is not inconsistent with the requirements of section 11 and section 13, the implementation of the clause may result in conduct that is inconsistent with sections 11 and 13. Compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that this clause Is not implemented in such a way that results in the employment of a non-working shop steward and that freedom of association is strictly observed.

29.1 (c)

Trade Union Rights and Representation – Delegates and their rights.

The delegate shall have the right to address new Employees about the benefits of union membership at the time that they enter employment.

11(1)(c) 11(3)(m) 11(3)(n) 13)(3)(p)

The provisions of this clause are inconsistent with the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code because they provide for the direct or indirect encouragement and support for a person to become a member of a building association. Its implementation suggests that membership of a building association is other than a matter for individual choice. Any conduct or practice that implies that employment is conditional upon membership (or non-membership) of a building association is inconsistent with the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code.

29.1(d)

Delegates and Their rights

The delegate shall have the right to communicate with members or potential members of the Union in relation to industrial matters without impediment from the Company. Without limiting the usual meaning of the expression “impediment”, this provision applies to the following conduct by the Company: • Moving a delegate to a workplace or work situation which prevents or significantly impedes communication with members. • Changing a delegates shifts, rosters or site so that communication with workers is prevented or significantly impeded. • Disrupting duly organised meetings.

11(1)(a) 11(3)(o) 11(3)(m)

The expression “without impediment” is not qualified and accordingly, limits or purports to limit the right of a code covered entity to manage its business. Further, compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that this clause is not implemented in such a way that results in conduct inconsistent with freedom of association.

29.1(e) dot point 8

Delegates and Their rights

The Delegate shall be entitled to represent members or potential members in relation to industrial matters at the workplace, and without limiting the generality of that entitlement is entitled to be involved in representing members or potential members: • Be notified of the commencement of new employees

11(3)(m) 13(1)(a)

The notification of the commencement of new employees suggests that employment may be conditional upon membership of a building association and is therefore inconsistent with the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code.

29.1(e)

Delegate and Their rights

The delegate shall be entitled to represent members or potential members in relation to industrial matters at the workplace, and without limiting the generality of that entitlement to be involved in representing members or potential members:

11(1)(c) 13(2)(o)

To the extent this provision provides for representation by the delegate independent of an election by the employee, the clause is inconsistent with providing employees with the ability to choose to be represented and if they so decide, by whom.

29.1(f)

Delegate and Their rights

In order to assist the delegate to effectively discharge his/her duties and responsibilities, the delegate shall be afforded the following rights: • Reasonable communication with union and other delegates • 10 days paid time to attend union training courses • Paid time to attend union meetings • Time to check workcover/OHS requirements

11(1)(c) 13(2)(o) 11(4)

Whilst the clause, on its face, is not inconsistent with the requirements of section 11 and section 13, the implementation of the clause may result in conduct that is inconsistent with section 11 and 13. Compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that this clause is not implemented in such a way that results in the employment of a non-working shop steward.

29.1(g)

Delegate and Their rights

The Company shall reasonably provide, if not already available, the following to a delegate on a large construction site… • Where practical on large sites, access to union office.

11(3)(q)

This clause provides for the establishment or maintenance of an area to be used by members, officers, or delegates of a building association in that capacity.

29.1(j)

Delegate and Their rights

Nothing in this clause disqualifies a delegate from conducting site safety inductions.

11(1) (c) and 13(2)(p)

Induction processes must be undertaken by the person that has management of the site. This is not a delegable duty. Whilst this clause does not require a delegate to perform inductions or provide a position ability to do so, compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that induction processes are undertaken by site management.

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industrial relations 27

Clause No 29.2

Clause Title

Code Reference

Clause Wording

comment

Union membership

The union shall have the right to promote the benefits of union membership. To assist in the process the Company shall: a. Make available to Employees information, documentation and applications including that of the Union covered by this Agreement, at the same time Employees are provided their taxation declaration form. b. Invite the Union to meet new Employees.

11(1)(c) 11(3)(m) 13(2)(g)

Consultation for purposes of s.205 of the Fair Work Act 2009

The Company must recognise the Union (or other representative appointed by an Employee) and consult in good faith in relation to such proposed changes, including by allowing entry to Company premises to assist with representing Employees in the consultations relating to the proposed workplace changes. Provided however, this clause shall not be construed as providing any rights which are inconsistent with s194(f) or (g) of the FW Act.

11(3)(p)

This clause provides for entry to premises other than in strict compliance with Part 3-4 of the FW Act.

Immigration Compliance

Copies of this authority will be available on request to the Secretary of the Union or nominee.

11(1)(c) 11(3)(k) 13(1)(a)

This clause provides for the monitoring of the agreement by persons other than the employer and employee to whom the agreement applies. The form requires employees to consent to the release of information to the “authorised trade union officer”. This suggests that employment may be conditional upon membership of a building association and is therefore inconsistent with the Fair and Lawful Building Sites Code.

Appendix D

Additional Apprentice Provisions – Ratios

The Company agrees to maintain an appropriate ratio of apprentices to tradespeople. This ratio will not be less than 1 apprentice for each 5 tradespersons where practicable

11(3)(a)

This clause mandates ratios of apprentices to tradespersons.

Appendix E

Leisure Days and Public Holidays Calendars

Expression “No Work…” It is noted by the parties that the Leisure Days and Public Holiday Closure may be subject to change. In such circumstances the industry parties e.g. CFMEU, MBA will meet to determine any variation

11(1)(a) 11(3)(o)

Provision of an RDO calendar in which it is expressed that “No Work” can be carried out on certain days imposes a limit on the ability of an employer to determine with its employees when and where work can be performed to meet operational requirements. Note also the comments in relation to clause 27.

Appendix F

Performance/ General Misconduct Serious and Wilful Misconduct

An Employee may elect at any step to have a Union Delegate/ representative or Union Organiser present. The Employee shall be entitled to have a Union delegate/ representative or Union Organiser in attendance.

11(1)(c) 11(3)(p) 13(1)(a)(ii) 13(2)(o)

To the extent that these clauses imply that an employee’s entitlement to choose representation is limited to the Union Delegates/representative or Union Organiser, this clause is inconsistent with section 13(2)(o). In relation to the attendance of the “Union Organiser”, whilst the provision, on its face, does not mandate conduct inconsistent with the requirements of section 14, the implementation of the clause may result in conduct that is inconsistent with section 14. Compliance audits may be undertaken to ensure that this clause is not implemented in such a way that results in entry other than in strict compliance with Part 3-4,

Appendix G

Employee Representative(s) and Their Rights

Prior to dismissal or transfer two days’ notice shall be given to an Employee representative. Payment in lieu of notice shall not be given.

11(1)(a)

This clause imposes a limit on the right of the code covered entity to manage its business.

Appendix G

Employee Representative(s) and Their Rights

FWC shall have the powers set out in Clause 26, Dispute Resolution Procedure, of this Agreement including the power to order reinstatement of the Employee Representative.

15(1)(b)

31.1(a)(i)

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forecasts

ECONOMIC OuTLOOK FOR THE NSW BuILDING INDuSTRy IN 2014 austraLian outLooK We tend to overlook the fact that we have one of the strongest economies in the world. Growth in GDP per annum is estimated at 2% to 3% for the 2014 year and follows an incredible 22 consecutive years of economic growth (average of 3.4% yearly since 1990). In fact we have been world leaders in dodging 3 major recessions during that time (Asian crisis, dotcom bubble, GFC). The percentage yearly change in Australian GDP from 2002 is shown in the attached chart.

Australian GDP Percentage Change (a) 4.5 4 3.5

Unemployment is likely to rise to 6% by the end of 2014 and inflation is expected to increase to an annual rate of 3%. However business conditions look promising with the RBA cash rate at 2.5% and an expectation that interest rates will only rise by a ¼ % before the end of the year. Low interest rates, relatively low unemployment, manageable inflation and a declining dollar all point to improving economic and business conditions. A reasonable level of inflation is even expected in an expanding economy. The change in NSW Unemployment numbers can be seen in the attached chart.

3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0

2002-‐03

2003-‐04

2004-‐05

2005-‐06

2006-‐07

2007-‐08

2008-‐09

2009-‐10

2010-‐11

2011-‐12

2012-‐13

nsW buiLdinG industry outLooK Gross State Product is forecast to increase by 2.75% in 2014. A major contributor is the housing industry with a 25% increase in dwelling approvals in 2013 compared to 2012. Dwelling starts in 2014 should increase to a predicted 44,000. One of the key drivers behind this predicted increase has been a continued under building of housing with an estimated 110,000 dwellings required in NSW to meet current population demands. The accompanying chart shows NSW Dwelling Approvals by type from 2004 to 2013. Non-Residential building is expected to show a slow but steady improvement, particularly in the retail, health and office sectors. Approvals for non residential building have improved each year over the past 3 years with values increasing from $ 7.2 billion in 2011 to $11.1 billion in 2013 with a much smaller increase expected to continue in 2014.

Acknowledgements – Figures obtained from The Australian Bureau of Statistics and Master Builders Australia.

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! ! !

NSW Unemployment total ('000) 800 700 600 500 400 300 200

Jul-‐12

Nov-‐12

Mar-‐13

Jul-‐11

Nov-‐11

Mar-‐12

Jul-‐10

Nov-‐10

Mar-‐11

Jul-‐09

Nov-‐09

Mar-‐10

Jul-‐08

Nov-‐08

Mar-‐09

Jul-‐07

Nov-‐07

Mar-‐08

Jul-‐06

Nov-‐06

Mar-‐07

Jul-‐05

Nov-‐05

Mar-‐06

Jul-‐04

Nov-‐04

Mar-‐05

Jul-‐03

Nov-‐03

Mar-‐04

Jul-‐02

Nov-‐02

Mar-‐03

Jul-‐01

Nov-‐01

100

Mar-‐02

sydnEy mEtropoLitan outLooK The Sydney Metro Region experienced a bumper 2013 for house price increases with 15% median growth compared to 2012. Values were up $100,000 in the year to $763,000 and were accompanied by a median price increase in apartments of 11% to $542,000. The prediction for 2014 by a number of expert property analysts ranges from 5% to 10% price growth on the back of all time low interest rates and under-building of some 90,000 dwellings in the region. With government incentives of up to $35,000 available for new dwellings with a maximum price of $600,000, the outlook for new housing has never been better provided interest rates and unemployment remain relatively stable. Last year the State Government planned for the supply of 170,000 new dwellings over a number of years within the Sydney region through rezoning, increased land supply and the planned North West Rail Link. By the year ended March 2013 over 37,000 new dwellings had been approved, the largest number in over 8 years. It is interesting to note that 58% were multi unit dwellings and 42% were detached housing (providing greater business and job opportunities).

Mar-‐01

government budget 29

2014-15 NSW BuDGET – CONSTRuCTION OuTLOOK the first baird/constance budget as premier and treasurer is in summary, a commitment for major construction works across nsW. the focus of the budget speech is the challenge to rebuild nsW over the next ten years. The Treasurer announced that: We are a Government that builds. We’re not building for election purposes; we’re building for our future, for our children’s future. However the government has also maintained its commitment to ensure it maintains its triple-A credit rating. The funding option to rebuild NSW is to recycle capital from existing infrastructure. The budget surplus for 2013-14 will reach almost $1 billion, however falling back to a deficit in 2014-15 of $283 million due to the re-profiling of Commonwealth funding for the Pacific Highway upgrade. The budget delivers for significant construction work across infrastructure, health and education, while housing construction will maintain the current level of grants with some additional tinkering and assistance to ensure the delivery of infrastructure to new land release areas. infrastructure projects Infrastructure spend over the next four years has been identified at $61.5 billion. Importantly, projects identified in this budget spend are as follows: (Sydney) • $863 million for the North West Rail Link (2014-15); • $103 million for the South West Rail Link (2014-15); • $265 million for the CBD South East Light Rail; • $398 for the 33 kilometre WestConnex motorway; • $709 million for rail infrastructure upgrade in the Lidcombe to Granville corridor; • Continued works on the M5 West widening at an estimated cost of $400 million; • $30 million to start the upgrade of Richmond Road between Townson Road and north of Garfield Road (2014-15); • $8.7 million for the North Kellyville Wastewater Project; • $4.7 million for First Ponds Creek Wastewater Project; • $3.8 million for the Prospect Reservoir Upgrade. (Regional) • $395 million contribution to continue the upgrade of the Pacific Highway (2014-15); • $177 million to commence construction of the second crossing over the Clarence at Grafton; • $43 million for Hunter Roads; • $70 million for upgrades to Central Coast roads including the Manns Road/Brisbane Water Drive intersection (commenced), and

the intersection upgrades along Wyong Road and Terrigal Drive (2014-15); • $179 million for the Princess Highway upgrade (2014-15); • $50 million for bridge replacement. health projects • Lismore Base Hospital - $24.7 million spend in 2014-15 as part of the ongoing $80 million redevelopment; • $77 million to continue the Wagga Wagga Base Hospital redevelopment; • $72 million to continue the new South East Regional Hospital at Bega; • $44.6 million to continue the redevelopment of Dubbo Base Hospital; • $35.1 million to continue the Kempsey District Hospital; • $85 million to continue stage 2 redevelopment of Tamworth Base Hospital; • $43.7 million to progress works at Parks and Forbes Hospital; • $47.2 million to continue the development of the Wollongong Hospital Elective Surgery Unit; • $81.1 million to continue works on Blacktown and Mt Druitt Hospitals; • $3 million to continue Blacktown Hospital car park extension; • $31.7 million to continue works on the redevelopment of Campbell town Hospital; • $9 million for the Campbelltown Hospital Clinical School; • $1.6 Eurobodalla Renal Dialysis and Oncology Clinics Relocation. Education projects • New primary school at Spring Farm, The Ponds; • New school for students with disabilities at Glenmore Park; • New classrooms for Wilton Public School; • $12 million for a new high school at The Ponds; • $12 million upgrade to Nepean College Kingsford TAFE; • Upgrade to Parramatta High School; • $1.4 million upgrade Granville TAFE; • New classrooms for Point Clare School; • Funding for upgrades to: • Moree East Public School • Hunter Sports High School • Brewarrina Central School • Narrabri Public School • Walgett Community College • $2.4 million for the Carpentry and Joinery Workshop, and a Student Support Facility at Cooma TAFE.

other Works • $10.6 million to refurbish the Wollongong Courthouse; • $23.9 million to complete the court complex at the Coffs Harbour precinct; • $3.4 million for new fire station at Port Macquarie; • $49 million to complete construction of the Newcastle Justice Precinct (2014-15); • $1.4 million for the Rutherford Fire Station. housing From 1 July the threshold for the First Home Owners Grant for new homes will be increased by $100,000, allowing entry level buyers to spend up to $750,000 on a home and still be eligible for the grant. From July 1, the New Home Grant will only be available to Australian citizens and permanent residents. The grant will be restricted to one grant per person per year. $60 million dollars will go to local government to fill the gap between developer contributions and the actual cost of the delivery of infrastructure. Increasing the establishment of Urban Activation Precincts from three to six. other measures • WorkCover premium reduction of 5% on top of the 12.5% premium reduction last year; • The abolition of stamp duty on business mortgages; • Bidders on government infrastructure projects will need to meet minimum requirements for the engagement of apprentices; • Project Delivery – the establishment of the Infrastructure Financing Unit to engage and work with private sector as potential services and finance partners to develop and implement innovative and finance and delivery arrangements.

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legal

The Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 and Privacy Regulation 2013 both commenced on 12 March 2014. They represent the most significant changes in the legislation since it was first introduced in 1988. They introduce new requirements, for both privacy policies and associated procedures. These requirements apply to Australian businesses having a turnover over $3m, as well as government agencies, health services providers and entities trading in personal information. Different requirements apply to: • Personal Information – Information/opinions about an identified or reasonably identifiable individual, e.g. name, signature, address, telephone number, date of birth, medical records, bank account details, employment details and references or other commentary. • Sensitive Information – Health, genetic or biometric information about an individual or information/opinions about or implying an individual’s racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, membership of a political association, religious beliefs or affiliations, philosophical beliefs, membership of a professional or trade association, membership of a trade union, sexual preferences or practices or criminal record. The main changes are as follows: • OAIC powers – The powers of the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (“OAIC") have been greatly expanded, with power to investigate privacy law breaches (following a complaint or on its own initiative), obtain enforceable undertakings and/or apply to the court for a civil penalty of up to $340,000 in the case of an individual or up to $1.7 million in the case of a company. A misconception seems to be arising, to the effect that substantial penalties will be common. Although the potential for substantial penalties should be taken seriously, the guidelines issued by the OAIC indicate that the OAIC will generally try to resolve privacy disputes by conciliation. • Credit reporting – a number of new restrictions and requirements have been imposed. • Privacy principles – The previous National Privacy Principles (“NPP”) have been renamed the Australian Privacy Principles (“APP”) and there are 13 new principles. The main requirements of the new principles are as follows: 1. Privacy policy – An organisation must now have a written privacy policy. It must be readily available free of charge. It must contain a considerable amount of information which would not normally

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have been included in the past, e.g. the kinds of information collected, how it is collected, held, used or disclosed, the purpose for which it is collected, held, used or disclosed, how an individual may access it and seek correction, how an individual may complain and how the complaint will be dealt with and whether it is likely to be disclosed to overseas recipients and if so, which countries are involved. Compliance program – An organisation must now have a compliance program. Most of the principles are framed so as to require a proactive approach. An organisation's privacy policy and associated procedures must be reviewed from time to time. The OAIC guidelines suggest that there should be at least annually. Anonymity/Pseudonymity – An organisation must allow an individual to deal with the organisation anonymously or using a pseudonym, unless identification is required by law or it is impractical for the organisation to deal with persons who have not identified themselves. Collection and use of solicited personal information – The requirements are slightly more restrictive, e.g. collection of sensitive information requires the consent of the relevant individual and collection of other personal information requires lawful and fair means and collection only from the relevant individual, where practical. However, some exemption categories have been introduced, including “Permitted General Situations”, which include some action taken regarding safety, law enforcement or military activity or legal proceedings/dispute resolution. Collection and use of unsolicited personal information – There is now provision for an organisation to action and possibly

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destroy or de-identify unsolicited personal information. The OAIC guidelines suggest that information provided in excess of what was requested should be treated as unsolicited. 6. Collection notices – An organisation must, at the time of collecting personal information, if practical and otherwise as soon as practical after collecting the information, take reasonable steps to notify the individual of specified matters or otherwise ensure that the relevant individual is aware of those matters. A misconception seems to be arising, to the effect that an organisation must issue a collection notice to an individual, after collecting personal information about the individual However, the OAIC’s guidelines suggest that it will often be possible to satisfy this requirement by a statement at the point of collection and that there will be situations in which no action is required, e.g. where information is collected on an on-going basis in relation to the same matter. 7. Direct marketing – An organisation must not use or disclose personal information about an individual for direct marketing, unless the organisation has the individual’s consent (in the case of sensitive information) or the individual would reasonably expect the organisation to use the information for that purpose (in the case of other personal information), the organisation provides a simple means by which the individual may opt out of further marketing material and the marketing material includes a

Elastic mortar for sealing joints subject to movement. In concrete, prefabricated and ceramic elements.

statement drawing individual’s attention to that option. 8. Maintenance, access and correction – Expanded obligations now apply regarding maintenance of accuracy of information, ensuring security of information, provision of access to information, correction of information and destruction/deidentification of information when it is no longer required. These are framed so as to require organisations to act proactively, necessitating establishment of procedures to deal with these issues and a compliance program. 9. Trans border data flows – Increased restrictions and obligations have been imposed regarding disclosure of personal information to overseas recipients. A misconception seems to be arising, to the effect that use of emerging technologies, such as cloud computing resources, will be prohibited or restricted. That is not the case, where there is no disclosure of personal information to overseas recipient. Most organisations probably do not comply with the new requirements. This should be addressed, by conducting a privacy audit, with a view to developing a privacy policy compliant with the new legislation, as well as establishing associated procedures and a compliance program. Prepared by David Bannerman and Mark Pollinger Bannermans Lawyers

Flexible waterproof coating against positive and negative pressure for concrete and masonry.

Scientific Waterproofing Products Supplies the most comprehensive range of cement based waterproofing coatings and repair products

Quick-setting hydraulic mortar for stopping leaks under pressure.

COMPANY PROFILE

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Scientific Waterproofing Products Pty Ltd was incorporated in 1993 as a product distribution company to establish markets in the ASEAN region for Drizoro Products. Our long-standing association with suppliers and users means Scientific Waterproofing Products Pty Ltd has unrestricted access to technical knowledge. It is our mission to provide product and technical solutions to problems encountered in the protection of masonry and masonry repair, utilizing the Drizoro Products Repair and Coating Systems.

Drizoro cement-based waterproofing products are non-toxic, and are suitable for all concrete surfaces, bricks, blocks, AAC panels and blocks. These products are ideal for repairing and sealing cementitous surfaces against water penetration and as a protective coating for all concrete and mortar based construction surfaces.

RECENT PROJECTS NSW Underwater escape trainer HMAS Albatross Nowra NSW Regents Place swimming facility Sydney NSW Used by: John Holland; Leightons Contractors; Hornibrook; Baulderstone Pty Ltd

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finance

FIVE QuESTIONS EVERy BuILDER SHOuLD ASK THEIR ACCOuNTANT by pierre Wakim, partner of leading Western sydney accountancy and business advisory practice, ycG.

have i outgrown my traditional accounting software? At the outset, most small businesses purchase simple accounting software packages, as these tend to be the most cost-effective options. As the business grows, traditional software becomes increasingly inefficient, often resulting in data being entered into multiple systems and an overreliance on spreadsheets, ultimately resulting in great difficulty to retrieve timely job data and accurately gauge the businesses’ financial health.

Due to the varied nature of the industry’s business activities, Australian builders have a unique set of accounting and business advisory needs. These needs don’t only apply to the manner in which you handle your cash flow, they also extend to the way you structure your company and how you account for sub-contractors pay and superannuation. However, with the hustle and bustle of a busy working week, it’s very easy to lose track of these important considerations while focusing on the necessities of running a busy construction operation. This is why it’s important to expand your understanding of accounting systems and utilise the advice of professionals with a sound understanding of this sector to assist with creating and operating your business. By taking the time now to establish this circle of construction-centric legal, financial and business advisors it’s likely that in the future you’ll have more time to focus on what you do best – running the day-to-day activities of your business. For builders looking to improve their accounting systems, or locate the first of their construction-centric advisors, here are a few important questions to bring up next time you consult an accountant.

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The need to upgrade and replace this software to match the businesses expanded needs is often overlooked by an increasingly busy management team focused on the dayto-day management of a busy operation. In situations like this, we often find customised reports are being created outside the accounting software for job costing, workin-progress or labour production analysis. Separate programs are often used for these programs and as a result, a second set of books are created, a set of books which requires continual maintenance in accordance with new transactions, equipment usage and job charging. This results in increased errors, which can be very costly for builders, especially when working on fixed-price quotes as well as in possible damage to the businesses’ reputation in the instance of repeated cost over-runs. For these reasons, I strongly recommend that builders regularly review the adequacy of their existing accounting software and potentially look to acquire and make use of the specialised accounting, job costing and management software that is readily available to the construction industry. These types of software are an important part of ensuring that you’re able to quickly and accurately price projects and manage your cash flow in a manner that ensures your business maintains its profitability.

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employer. A very common mistake made in this area concerns employer’s superannuation guarantee liabilities. Most employers believe that the distinction between employees and contractors under income tax legislation is the same as under superannuation legislation, however, this is not the case. In many instances, employers will be liable for a contractor’s superannuation guarantee payments – even if they’re not liable to withhold PAYG tax from the contractor’s invoices.

Do I have the right corporate structure to deal with the inherent risks in the construction industry? Just as the construction industry faces a range of unique accounting challenges, operators in this industry face a varied set of inherent risks, some of which could seriously impair the firm’s ability to conduct business or result in the closure of operations. For example, the home warranty insurance scheme is a consumer protection regime for homeowners undertaking building projects in NSW with a value exceeding $20,000. This was put in place as part of the Home Building Act 1989 and provides protection for homeowners against defective and incomplete work in certain situations. When a builder is unable to honour their commitments under a contract due to insolvency, death or disappearance, home warranty insurance provides a safety net for homeowners including subsequent purchasers. Similarly, where a builder is unwilling to honour such commitments and their licence is suspended for failing to comply with a money (compensation) order in favour of the homeowner made by a Court or the NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal, home warranty insurance provides protection to the homeowner. Builders should consider the commitments and obligations under this scheme and ensure that they are properly structured to manage any potential inability to comply with these commitments and obligations. Segregating building contracts that require home warranty insurance from those that don’t require home warranty insurance should be considered. It is vital for builders to always be looking towards their corporate structure due to the high risk nature of the industry and susceptibility to litigation and disputes. Taking a flexible approach to your businesses structure can help ensure you are well positioned to deal with any issues as they arise.

Are there any legislative changes that I should be aware of? The Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 regulates payment practices in the industry. This legislative instrument provides a statutory right under a construction contract to receive payments for the supply of work and related goods and services and is one example of an important legislative change that your accountant or business advisors are hopefully keeping you abreast of. Amendments were made to the Act in 2013, some of which are particularly pertinent to builders. The changes removed section 13(2) (c) which required contractors state that a payment claim was being made under the Act, the purpose of which was to remind a respondent to a payment claim of their obligations under the Act.

Is my assessable income going to be calculated on an accruals basis or a contract account basis? Most builders are aware of the difference between accrual accounting and contract accounting, as well as how this can significantly affect your businesses cash flow and future liabilities. However, many builders may not be aware that it’s possible to report your financial performance using one method and report your assessable income using a different method. Builders should have their accountants assist them in calculating their accounting profits and tax profits so they can work out which method is the most appropriate method for reporting and cash flow purposes. Pierre Wakim has over ten years’ experience working with building and construction clients owners and their growing enterprises on ways to effectively manage growth, cash flow, tax, protect business and personal assets, and plan for succession.

By removing the requirement the Government envisaged that there would be greater use of the Act, especially among subcontractors who were typically hesitant about including the provisions, fearing that it may jeopardise their ability to secure future work. Ultimately, these changes mean that if you are being billed by sub-contractors, it is important to ensure that you clearly understand your obligations pursuant to the Act. As a respondent you must give the claimant a payment schedule within 10 business days of receiving the claim and failure to do so will result in liability for the total amount claimed. If you do not intend to pay the full amount of a payment under the Act, you should issue a payment schedule to the claimant or dispute the matter within the specified 10 business days. What is my superannuation exposure? It can sometimes be difficult to discern the difference between an employee and a subcontractor; however, this distinction makes a significant to your obligations as an

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national mba news

BuILDERS TO BE AWARDED FOR CREATING AGE-FRIENDLy HOuSING master builders and the department of social services are calling for entries in the 2014 national Lifestyle housing for seniors award which recognises excellence in building and the industry’s role in developing innovative housing options for older australians.

Wilhelm Harnisch CEO of Master Builders Australia said “As our population ages, we need to build housing that suits the changing needs of ageing residents. The National Lifestyle Housing Award acknowledges best practice in design and construction, and aims to foster a greater awareness of healthy ageing with the benefits of innovative and adaptable housing.” The Department of Social Services continuing support for the Award highlights the importance of creating age-friendly environments that maintain and, indeed, improve the health and wellbeing of Australians of all ages” he said. The Award is divided into two categories: owner-occupied purpose built detached dwellings and multi-unit developments. The Awards are limited to Class 1 and 2 buildings yet may include dwellings that are set within a complex that provides complementary facilities to support the lifestyle of the residents.

BOOTS HEELS

Master Builders Apprenticeship Service now offering

Business Administration Trainees

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The 2014 Department of Social Services National Lifestyle Housing for Seniors Award will be presented at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards Dinner to be held at Parliament House in Canberra in November. Master Builders invites builders to nominate their project for the 2014 National Lifestyle Housing for Seniors Award. Submissions close 22 August 2014. Nomination forms can be downloaded from www.masterbuilders.com.au For further information contact Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer, 0402 039 039 or Ben Carter, Manager – Media and Communications, 0447 775 507

Call us to discuss your business needs. 02 8586 3533 or visit www.mbansw.asn.au

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ALL SySTEMS GO: AVOID DODGy DEVICES are you responsible for buying and managing wireless communications systems in your workplace? do you shop online or while overseas? is your communications set-up relatively simple in design with a few handheld two-way radios in operation or more complex with multiple systems and devices working together?

Either way, it’s likely that your wireless communications systems are subject to the requirements of the Radiocommunications Act 1992. The consequences for operating a radiocommunications device that doesn’t comply with Australian law can be serious and may risk your business’s reputation. Taking some simple steps before buying your next product will help to ensure it operates on the correct frequencies and doesn’t cause interference. So make sure you remember to stop, research and question. stop! research the product first. can it be legally used in australia? Seeking other information to that provided by the seller may alert you to potential issues with the product. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (the ACMA)—www.acma.gov.au—has detailed information on many devices, including high-risk items like mobile phone and GPS jammers, illegal mobile phone repeaters and mobile phone boosters. is the deal too good to be true? Is the price far cheaper than known reputable brands? This may be a sign that the product hasn’t undergone the required testing to ensure it complies with Australian technical standards. Sellers (or their suppliers) must meet a range of technical and compliance requirements before selling a radiocommunications device in Australia—but not all sellers comply. Where is the seller located? Devices made for overseas markets may use the incorrect frequency in Australia and interfere with important services. does the seller look reputable? Only buy from websites that you know and trust. Check recommendations and feedback from other customers. are you confident about the information you’ve been given? If you’re unsure, ask the seller if it meets Australian requirements and if it can be legally used in Australia. Be wary if the seller does not adequately address your questions or concerns. Know the consequences you could block or disrupt important communications systems. If the device operates on the same frequencies as those used for emergency services, there is a risk it could substantially disrupt or block these vital communications systems. you could receive an unwelcome visit. ACMA inspectors investigate and locate the source of interference to licensed radiocommunications services. Their enquiries may lead to your doorstep.

your business could be prosecuted. There are various offences under the Act that could apply to the unlawful operation or possession of a radiocommunications device. The consequences can include a courtimposed penalty of up to $255,000 for a business making a radio emission from a non-standard transmitter. The same penalty may apply to a business found guilty by a court of operating a radiocommunications device without an appropriate licence (sections 46 and 157). Your business’s reputation could also suffer a serious blow if it receives a court-imposed penalty. your hip pocket could be lighter. A device that doesn’t meet Australian technical requirements may not work here or you may be instructed by an ACMA inspector to stop using it. If you buy a dodgy device from overseas, it’s possible that you won’t get your money back. Don’t forget to stop, research and question before buying your next radiocommunications product. The laws administered by the ACMA seek to ensure that radiocommunications products supplied in Australia operate on the correct frequencies, meet safe electromagnetic energy (EME) emission limits set by ARPANSA and meet the electromagnetic capability (EMC) requirements so that other devices are not unintentionally interfered with. The ACMA does not regulate product safety (injury, illness and death caused by unsafe goods). Information on electrical safety matters is available from state and territory energy regulators. More advice on product safety is available from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Product Safety website.

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memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s profile

born in 1921 to parents Elizabeth and Frank, doug bennetts celebrated his 93rd birthday in march of this year and far from slowing down, doug continues to be actively involved in master builders nsW charity work and several activities in the alan Walker retirement village where he resides.

After commencing the fourth year of high school at East Sydney Technical High School in Darlinghurst, Doug left in February 1937 to commence his Trainee Apprenticeship with Stuart Bros Builders on March 1st, 1937. He still remembers his first day of work very clearly. Living in Epping at the time, Doug travelled by train to Newtown and then walked to Lucas Street in Camperdown where Stuart Bros Joinery was located. He was allocated a bench on the first floor and began work with Harry Holledge, a Master Joiner who taught him the rudiments of carpentry and joinery, skills that he appreciates being taught to this day. His role consisted of making the joinery for city buildings such as Manly Town Hall, Chatsworth and Harwood House (CSR buildings). The company also made thousands of unit partitions (sections of half glass panels) joined together to make partitions for offices. The partitions were made from Queensland Maple and finished with French polishing, a design that has been reproduced many times since those early days. While undertaking his apprenticeship Doug attended Sydney Tech in Ultimo where he completed a Carpentry and Joinery course with an A grade pass. At the time though, the Second World War had begun and no awards were presented. In 1941, Doug reported to Ryde and filled in a Mobilisation Attestation Form. He enlisted that year but was granted a deferment to complete his technical course until November, when he

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member’s profile 37

joined the Sydney University Infantry Regiment. From there Doug enlisted in the Australian Infantry Forces and was detailed to an Ordinance Unit as a Carpenter. For this role, he received five shillings a day. In 1942 he was detailed to the second Australian Army Troops Company Royal Engineers (a construction unit) and saw active service in Alice Springs, Darwin and New Guinea. After being discharged in 1945 Doug returned to Stuart Bros to complete his apprenticeship, which he did in February 1946. He started work at the Chullora Electrical Car Workshops and following that for Max Factor in Palmer Street Wolloomooloo where he was made leading hand. At the age of 25 he was transferred to Head Office as a Supervisor (Project Manager in today’s terms), the youngest to be appointed in the life of the company. This was a great honour for him as his Grandfather Hugh McMaster was the first Foreman in 1886. Doug’s uncle was a Manager of the company in Brisbane and his aunt Edith McMaster, the Secretary in Head Office. In total, members of the McMasters family worked for Stuart Bros for 279 years and contributed significantly to the company being recognised as one of the most highly respected building contractors in Australia. Doug’s grandson Ben Harvey Walker (the fifth generation of the McMaster family) has seen fit to follow in Doug’s footseps as a builder and a member of the MBA of NSW.

Sydney Division in 1971, was elected to the Committee of Management in 1973 and then became the President from 1973 until 1976. He joined the Master Builders and Exchange Bowls Club in 1970 where he became the President in 1976, a Life Member in 1980 and the Secretary/ Treasurer in 1979, a role that he holds to this day. He is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Builders and was also a judge in the MBA Excellence in Housing Awards for ten years. Doug stayed with Stuart Bros until 1977 and says, “My appointment as Director in 1964 was a highlight in my building career”. After leaving Stuart Bros in 1977 Doug commenced work with the NSW Builders Licensing Board as a building inspector, a job he left in 1980 to commence his retirement. That didn’t last long though. In 1981 Doug took a job erecting and dismantling auction and for sale signs where he stayed for a further 16 years until 1997. Doug has volunteered a significant amount of his time, while involved with the Master Builders Association, to charity work as the Fundraising Coordinator for the NSW Master Builder Bowls

Club over the past 39 years, the Smith Family for 25 years and the last 14 years for the Westmead Children’s Hospital Oncology Department, and is the oldest fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital. The Smith Family for 25 years raising in excess of 62,000 pounds and the last 14 years for the Westmead Children’s Hospital Oncology Department where he is the oldest fundraiser. Over the past 14 years a charity bowls afternoon has been held for the Children’s Hospitals Oncology Department. It was located at West Epping for 12 years and Denistone Sports for the last two years. This year, an amount of $3,600 was raised bringing the total for 14 years to $65,300,000. Doug was awarded the Order of Australia Medal OAM in January of 1980 for his dedication to community service. A family man, Doug was married to his wife of 64 years Nola in 1947; she passed away in September of 2011 at 87 years of age. Doug has two daughters, five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. His has been a life rich in experience and joy and he looks forward to more in the years to come.

Early in 1970 Stuart Bros rejoined the Master Builders Association of NSW. Mr William Stuart, who had been a member in the late 1800’s and President in 1894, resigned in 1921 over an argument about daily pay rates. Mr Stuart, at the time Chairman of the Sub Committee, was running late he had to travel by horse and sulky from Darling Point to the meeting which was held in the Builders Exchange building, Castlereagh Street, Sydney. Prior to leaving home, he rang and apologised however by the time he arrived the Committee had decided to give the tradesmen a half penny rise. As a true Scotsman he was so annoyed that he resigned from the MBA on the spot. He returned to Head Office in Camperdown and very uncharacteristically gave his staff a one penny rise instead. He was not known for his generosity. Consequently he told his son William James Stuart, who then told his son William Charles, never to have anything to do with the MBA again. However in 1970 William Charles approached Doug asking him if he would be interested in representing Stuart Bros in the NSW MBA. Throughout his career Doug has had extensive involvement with the Master Builders Association of NSW. He became the Vice President of the

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membership

New Members 3D Services NSW Pty Ltd KENTHURST

CL & GS Bylund PORT MACQUARIE

J Forbes Pty Ltd WARABROOK

A & N Waterproofing Services MARRICKVILLE

Coast Built Constructions Pty Ltd AVALON

J G King Homes Pty Ltd WENDOREE

A W Minter & J A Minter ALSTONVILLE

Compliance Council ALEXANDRIA

J K M Building Construction Pty Ltd SOUTH PENRITH

AClass 04 UNANDERRA

Corporate Interior Projects Pty Ltd PYRMONT

Jack Dickens MARRICKVILLE

Adam Packer RUTHERGLEN

Craig Barnes DEE WHY

Jack Pocklington NEWPORT

Advance Commercial Ceilings (NSW) Pty Ltd WEST GOSFORD

D J Platt & O Platt ALBURY

James Hannah FOREST LODGE

David Lindsay SYDNEY

Jarrod Bollen MANLY

David McLeod WARRIEWOOD

Jarrod Woodger FENNELL BAY

Davis Sanders Homes Pty Ltd ALBURY EAST

Jason Dumaresq BIRCHGROVE

Dax Dixon ALEXANDRIA

Jesse McCallion CLOVELLY

Del Casa Homes (Lismore) GOONELLABAH

Joel Connell BEROWRA HEIGHTS

Developcraft Pty Ltd THORNLEIGH

Jonathon Bell MENAI

Doug Murray MCLEANS RIDGES

Joshua Steinhauer CHERRYBROOK

DVB Projects Pty Ltd BATEAU BAY

Juddstar Tiling Pty Ltd CORLETTE

East Point Projects Pty Ltd SOUTH HURSTVILLE

K Kowaltschny & J.F Ramanous HARRIS PARK

Eminence Builders TERRIGAL

Kanstantsin Dzmitranok AMBARVALE

Energy Ratings Australia Pty Ltd BAULKHAM HILLS BC

Kapitol Pty Ltd OATLANDS

Gary Temessl CABARITA

Kestrel Building Pty Ltd NEWTOWN

Golden Miles Development Pty Ltd STRATHFIELD

Kevin Li ALLAWAH

Hemisphere Interiors KYLE BAY

King Murray TORONTO

House Logic Solutions PARRAMATTA

Kris Papadatos LITTLE BAY

ICMG Living Pty Ltd REDFERN

Kurmond Homes Pty Limited SOUTH WINDSOR

Irenov8 Pty Ltd PADDINGTON

L A Miller Pty Ltd MONA VALE

Akota Construction WEST GOSFORD All in the Making Pty Ltd JANNALI Andrew Stenos KILLARA Australian Security Protection CAMPBELLTOWN B G Ingram Pty Ltd WAGGA WAGGA Ballyhooly Civil Pty Ltd SILVERDALE Bloombuilds Pty Ltd OLD TOONGABBIE Blue Tongue Group Pty Ltd KENTHURST Blueprint Building Pty Ltd TUGGERAH Build Smartz Pty Ltd FIVE DOCK Building King Pty Ltd CARLINGFORD Cadence Property Developments Pty Ltd PUTNEY Camporeal Holdings Pty Ltd BANGOR Carl Hamilton RANDWICK Carol Baghdad NORTH BONDI Christopher Tapia BRIGHTON-LE-SANDS City Tiling CROYDON PARK

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membership 39

New Members L M G Building Pty Ltd SILVERWATER

P A Ball & A Byers THORNLEIGH

T R Business Solutions LEICHHARDT

Lachlan Shire Council CONDOBOLIN

Pampost Pty Ltd MERRYLANDS

T.H. Building & Construction KOORINGAL

Lloyds Building and Development Pty Ltd CROYDON PARK

Paragon Construction (NSW) BOWRAL

Telese Construction Co YAGOONA

M & M Herbert Constructions Pty Ltd WARNERS BAY

PKF Lawler NEWCASTLE WEST

M C S Scaffolding Pty Ltd TAREN POINT

Quinces’s Quality Building Services Pty Ltd SUTHERLAND

The Trustee for Design & Build Recruitment Trust SYDNEY

Mendri Pty Ltd PADDINGTON

Reveal Building and Maintenance YARRAWARRAH

Michael Jordan MULLUMBIMBY

Robert Hart NORTH RYDE

Michael Wooldridge BLACKHEATH

Ryan Carr BRONTE

Mirage Constructions Pty Ltd ROCKDALE

Sam Kajtezovic ROSELANDS

MJS Concrete Pty Ltd BELMONT

Shaun Medvedovsky WATERLOO

Moree Aluminium & Glass MOREE

Shoalhaven New Image Kitchens Pty Ltd SOUTH NOWRA

Morphos Group Pty Ltd CROWS NEST

Simon Betsarkis STRATHFIELD SOUTH

Ms Fix Pty Ltd BROWNLOW HILL

Slave Gjakovski WEST RYDE

Murphy Contracting Services Pty Ltd GYMEA

Soleace Waterproofing Pty Ltd KIRRAWEE

Neil Harvey NEW LAMBTON HEIGHTS

South Coast Earthworks Pty Ltd HUSKISSON

Network Construction Rigging Pty Ltd BERKELEY VALE

South East Constructions Pty Ltd BONDI JUNCTION

Noah Building Services Pty Ltd CORRIMAL

Structural Technologies Pty Ltd NORTH PARRAMATTA

Noel Bolger LILYFIELD

Superior Constructions Australia Pty Ltd HOXTON PARK

North Coast Drilling and Wicks BANGALOW

Superior Maintenance and Construction MEDOWIE

O’Brien & Staines Building Pty Ltd GOULBURN

Sydney Bathrooms BUDGEWOI

Oleg Trofimov ENGADINE

Synergie Projects Pty Ltd BALMAIN

Outside Signatures Pty Ltd DENISTONE

T C Build Pty Ltd FRESHWATER

Ozone Air Conditioning Pty Ltd DOUBLE BAY

T M G Building & Construction Pty Ltd BOTANY

The Trustee for E M Family Trust KELLYVILLE Troy Brack LANE COVE True Bricklaying Australia Pty Ltd BALGOWLAH Unifit Group Pty Ltd BONNYRIGG United Trade Links Pty Ltd LANSVALE Vuepoint Pty Ltd DOUBLE BAY Walters Fencing DURI We Build Australia PARRAMATTA Webdekka Pty Ltd DOVER HEIGHTS Will Build It Carpentry & Maintenance Pty Ltd WARNERS BAY X-Clusive Group Australia Pty Ltd WETHERILL PARK Z Pasko & Z Paskone Gemesi ALBURY Zaganite Coating Services Pty Ltd GLENORCHY Zindo Constructions FAIRFIELD HEIGHTS

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community

MuRRAy DIVISION COMMuNITy ASSISTANCE PROJECT

Extension to State Emergency Service (SES) Building, Wodonga. project details: Construct an 11 by 11 metre extension to the existing SES Building at Victory Cross Parade, Wodonga Victoria. reason required: The extended building will allow for the safe storage of vehicles and rescue equipment used by SES.

SES volunteers are supported by approximately 200 full-time staff based in the organisation’s regional headquarters and offices around Victoria, and at Victorian Headquarters in Sturt Street, Southbank. The roles and responsibilities of SES staff members are backed up by a wealth of knowledge and experience in emergency management, education and response.

What is the sEs: Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) consists of dedicated volunteers from all ages and backgrounds supported by a small team of professional staff. Their common link is a desire to work as part of a team that gives back to the community they live in.

The Wodonga Unit is an active contributor to the safety of the community and have shared their skills wherever requested including throughout Victoria and into NSW.

More than 5,000 volunteers from all ages, professions and backgrounds serve in both operational and administrative roles across the state. Every volunteer receives comprehensive training to enable them to respond to emergencies.

Why the murray division agreed to assist In 2013 Mr David Huxtable, the Wodonga unit controller for the SES approached the Murray Division committee seeking assistance in constructing an extension to their existing building. This matter was considered at a committee meeting and the Division committee was unanimous in supporting this project.

From road rescue and flood response to community events and logistics, volunteers continually develop and update their skills through the various courses and training programs provided by SES.

Information provided by www.ses.vic.gov.au/ about/who-we-are.

The Murray Division views the SES as a vital part of the local community who provide an outstanding service in assisting victims of

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accidents or natural disasters. Often these local volunteers are not recognised for their contribution to the community and the Murray Division believes they are most worthy of our support. murray division’s role in the project The Murray Division committee will project manage the site and use their industry contacts to obtain the best possible prices for the supply of the materials, labour, and plant & equipment necessary to complete this project. Where possible the Murray Division will be calling for donations of the above to keep the total project cost down as much as possible. By reducing or eliminating costs, the SES will be to use their available funds in other areas such as replacing or upgrading equipment. project Funding The City of Wodonga has kindly agreed to fund this project to the value of $80,000. project contacts: murray division: Mr Dale Paddle, President – 0418 939 594 sEs: Mr. David Huxtable, Controller – Wodonga Unit – 0402 461 286 city of Wodonga: Mr Jim Maher, Asset Management – 0428 529 510

community 41

Master Builders Can Too Can Too and Cure Cancer Australia Foundation are thrilled to welcome Master Builders Association onboard as a Centurion following a generous $10,000 donation. Can Too is a not-for-profit program that matches fitness incentives with a good cause. They provide professional coaching as part of a team for people of all experience levels to run, swim, or cycle in endurance events including half marathon (21km), marathon (42km) and 10km runs, as well as ocean swims and triathlon events. The money raised by Can Too training programs goes to Cure Cancer Australia Foundation, providing vital seed funding for early career cancer researchers. The $10,000 Centurion donation covers the costs of a training pod, allowing Master Builders Association to facilitate fundraising of up to $90,000. Participants (or ‘Can Tooers’, as they are affectionately known) set personal health and fitness goals, training for 10 to 24 weeks at locations across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. During this time, they commit to a personal fundraising pledge that becomes a powerful incentive for them to achieve something they never thought possible. Can Too gives them to the tools to get there in a fun, supportive environment. Having lost her own father to bowel cancer when he was just 51, Can Too Founder and Director Annie Crawford knows first-hand the devastating impact that cancer can have on an individual and their family.

“I hoped that the idea of matching fitness incentives with a good cause would resonate with Australians, but never in my wildest dreams did I think we would raise over $13.3 million and train over 9,500 people. “For many of our participants, completing a Can Too training program is totally life changing. It’s not just about the physical challenge. The transformation that occurs from making the impossible achievable, from putting yourself out there, taking risks, setting goals and doing something for others – is profound.” she said. 49 year old Marion Burrows’ reason to train with Can Too was clear: “on my mother’s side, all her siblings had either a blood or other type of cancer and on my father’s side, my grandfather had leukaemia.

This year Can Too will train their 10,000th person. If you want to make a direct impact on cancer research in Australia and improve your health and wellbeing, get involved!

Fundraising through six half marathon and two full marathon training programs has allowed Marion to raise thousands of dollars. “When you think about all the people who are in hospital and can’t run, who really want that opportunity and you have been given that chance, so what if you have blisters and sore muscles and you feel tired? It’s nothing compared with what people who can’t run go through. I run for that reason”.

In addition to their Principal Supporter The Macquarie Group Foundation, Can Too is supported by various organisations like Master Builders Association who donate funds, time, products, services and energy to the cause. If you know of a business who would like to get involved or encourage their employees to get active and achieve something they never thought possible, head to www.cantoo.org.au or contact info@cantoo.org.au

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training

TIME IS A PRECIOuS COMMODITy Learn how to do more with less. As you know, time is a very precious commodity in the building and construction industry as everyone is always working to a schedule to get projects complete. So MBA have made a big commitment to bring you the latest in leadership, management, time management, negotiation and dispute resolution all in a one day express format for busy Foreman and Supervisors that need to save time and money. This program has been piloted and recommended by our members. So it is with great delight we officially launch the Leadership Management Masterclass for Foreman and Supervisors one day workshop in July. Here is what supervisors have said about the one day experience: • A great overview • Good information • Old dogs can learn new skills • Considerable value • Extensive value • Informative and challenging • I have a new commitment to new ideas • I will approach clients and contractors with a different attitude • New learning and understanding of skills and communication strategies • Excellent, extensive value and I enjoyed the course • Fast, fun and entertaining • It felt like the day travelled quicker than it did • The content was very specific to what I believe will help our team • I think the program was designed specifically for our industry and Katrena adapted fantastically to our personalities. I took many tools and I will use them to manage the tradies.

The day is practical and highly interactive, no BS, straight to the point. Only what you need, none of the boring theory stuff. No homework. Just learn, enjoy and apply immediately the next day at work. Leadership management masterclass for the building industry available exclusively by the master builders association unique Features • Success metrics for excellence • Practical and pragmatic insights for excellence • Real-life application • Easy-to-use tips and tools • Hands-on application • Highly engaging and fully interactive benefits of attending • Discover how to resolve disputes easily and effortlessly • Understand how to negotiate like a pro and get the best deals and outcome • Find out the five essential characteristics for success • Identify how to give and receive feedback to improve performance • The Art of delegation • Pinpoint your seven sources of authority • Evaluate what influences yours and others behaviour • Understand how to exercise influence up, down and sideways • Be aware of your style and the impact it has on morale • Develop and expand your breadth of behaviour to get results • Master the four languages of communication excellence • Learn time management tips to help you get things done

don’t miss out – pLacEs FiLLinG QuicKLy! To register your expression of interest for this one day seminar, please call or email the training department on 02 8586 3555 or training@mbansw.asn.au

Who should attend • High performing, self managing leaders and supervisors • Senior staff that are interested in taking their development to the next level • Aspiring managers and team leaders who want to be more successful in their current role • Foreman who are finding their role stressful and need new skills to help them gets things done • Supervisors who find themselves in a role with no formal management training and expected to manage others effectively

traininG courses 02/07/2014 09/07/2014 10/07/2014 10/07/2014 11/07/2014 17/07/2014 21/07/2014 22/07/2014 23/07/2014 24/07/2014 31/07/2014 07/08/2014

supervise asbestos removal day 2 induction White card building consultants day 1 hsr day 1 building consultants day 2 hsr day 2 test & tag business Workshop induction White card hsr day 3 hsr day 4 hsr day 5

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Member Price : $385.00 / Non Member price: $425.00 Member Price : $145.00 / Non Member price: $160.00 Member Price : $750.00 / Non Member price: $850.00 Member Price : $ 800.00 / Non Member price: $880.00

Member Price : $ 310.00 / Non Member price: $380.00 Member Price : $ 275.00 / Non Member price: $ 385.00 Member Price : $ 145.00 / Non Member price: $160.00

Aboriginal participation 43

Industry Based Agreement For Aboriginal Employment and Enterprise Development in the Construction Sector In April this year the Master Builders and the NSW Government signed an Industry Based Agreement to work together to create sustainable economic development and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people in the building and construction industry. An Action Plan that will make the goals of the Agreement a reality has now been endorsed by a steering committee established by the Agreement. Under the Action Plan, over the next year the Master Builders, the NSW Government and construction companies will work together to create real opportunities for Aboriginal people and businesses. One of the first actions will be developing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leg-Up To Employment Kitâ&#x20AC;?. The Kit will assist Aboriginal people who want to work

in construction by providing information on national employment standards, work conditions, work experience and staying in employment. Master Builders will be working with Aboriginal job seekers to make sure that the Kit gives them the information they require about getting and keeping employment in the industry. In order to understand the experience of construction companies, the Master Builders will be conducting a survey of contractors that identifies barriers to Aboriginal employment and use of Aboriginal enterprises. The results

of the survey will be used to create strategies to better promote Aboriginal opportunities on Government funded projects and private sector developments. These actions are just the start of the work under the Action Plan and represent the commitment of the Master Builders, the NSW Government and the construction sector to supporting Aboriginal employment and enterprise development. Master Builders will keep members updated on the important initiative.

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Wollongong Central Construction

$200 MILLION PROJECT FIRST TO FEATuRE SAFER STEEL FORMWORK as the illawarra’s largest and most expansive industry, the making of steel for use in commercial and residential building has helped to sustain the city since 1925. in that year bluescope (formerly bhp) acquired the port Kembla steelworks having already been in the business for over 30 years.

In the beginning the company formed to mine silver, lead and zinc and began steelmaking in Newcastle in 1915. Since then, BlueScope has expanded exponentially both nationally and internationally and today, looks to the future by selling Australian innovation, technology and expertise to the booming Asian and global growth markets. In 2010, a contractor approached BlueScope about a serious issue builders’ and subcontractors were having laying structural steel decking. Constructions workers were noticing the glare from the sun on the steel they were using was making it near impossible to accurately see what they were doing as well as causing long term physical health problems. BlueScope took it upon itself to solve the problem and its commitment to providing innovative new building products resulted in the introduction of a proprietary resin coating that reduces the reflected glare of its DECKFORM® steel used in structural steel decking. Internal testing conducted by BlueScope indicates that this revolutionary product, LGC DECKFORM® steel, can reduce the amount of reflected UV light to less than 15 per cent of ambient levels, which is comparable to the six per cent achieved by plywood formwork. Product Development Portfolio Leader – Commercial and Industrial, Andrew Collins, said the substantial reduction in reflected glare had a multitude of benefits. “Foremost, it’s a safer and healthier material to work with compared to standard galvanised steel decking. Glare is a safety risk for formworkers because of its potential to impair vision and disorient. “By reducing the amount of reflected glare you reduce the comparable amount of heat and UV radiation. Another tangible safety benefit for formworkers is that the resin coating reduces the potential for slip when walking on-site.” BlueScope invested more than three years and $300,000 to ensure that Low-Glare Coated (LGC) DECKFORM® steel would meet or exceed the in-situ performance of galvanised DECKFORM® steel.

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Wollongong Central

“We embarked on extensive internal and independent testing that verified the product’s performance in a number of key categories covering glare reflectance, surface friction, chemical bonding with concrete, shear stud welding, coating preservation and fire retardation.

LGC DECKFORM® steel into steel beams. We partnered with one of Australia’s biggest stud-welding companies to confirm that the low-glare resin can be readily welded and that a uniform weld flash can be achieved around the base of a steel stud.”

“Obviously, the primary focus was assessing glare reflectance. There is no accepted measure of glare nor standards that define acceptable working limits. We discovered a relationship between specular gloss and realworld conditions. Gloss was then used as our standard measure for reflected glare, which was as important for assessing product quality on the production line as for on-site applications.”

Interestingly, The GPT Group’s expansion of the Wollongong Central shopping complex is the first project in the country to utilise the new structural steel decking product, a momentous and proud moment for both Bluescope and the people of Wollongong.

BlueScope engaged independent testing for two critical performance areas expected of all permanent formwork: concrete bonding and shear stud welding. “A strong chemical bond with concrete is essential for structural slabs so we were pleased that the independent testing performed by NATA-accredited body Melbourne Testing Services confirmed that the low-glare coating does not compromise structural integrity,” Mr Collins said. “It was also crucial to ensure that shear studs could be adequately welded through

GPT Group Wollongong Central Development Manager Steven Turner said GPT’s decision to use the product is part of a partnership strategy designed to foster a long-term relationship and maximise economic and social outcomes for the local region. “Often a developer/suppler relationship is merely transactional, but in the case of this project we sought to cultivate a close partnership with BlueScope with the aim of ongoing outcomes for the Illawarra. Wherever possible, we have used products made locally by BlueScope.” BlueScope has also supplied structural steel for the project’s $200 million expansion, which will create 19,000 square metres of retail

space. Steel members for the roofing and wall structures – and also additional floor structure – are used throughout. Over 1500 lineal metres of Z&C purlins and girts made from GALVASPAN® steel help form the project’s skeleton. BlueScope products also adorn Wollongong Central’s exterior. Over 2000 metres of HA250 XLERPLATE LITE® steel has been cut to form 750 decorative blades for the project’s southern facade. These are finished in iron oxide-style paint. A further 900 square metres of the same BlueScope plate product is used to form external skirting and sills, and window frames. BlueScope Senior Technical Advisor – Sustainability, Nicole Sullivan, said the exterior steel cladding has the added advantage of being slated for future re-use. “With BlueScope recycling around half a million tonnes of steel per annum, the end-of-life fate of the steel is clearly an important consideration for us,” said Ms Sullivan. “All steel is 100 per cent recyclable, but because this product was selected with Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) in mind and as part of current Green Star requirements, each individual sheet is coded to ensure the steel can be easily assessed for future re-use.”

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The coding also allows for easy blade replacement in the future, should it be required. LGC DECKFORM® steel remains the project’s ‘hero’ steel product. Certainly, the formworkers who used it day-in and day-out during the project’s construction appreciated its unique advantages. BKH Group Contractors Supervisor, Joe Pavlovic said Fielders Kingflor® steel formwork was specified for the job and that his crew preferred working with the low-glare product. “The guys prefer it because it’s much easier on the eyes and it’s more comfortable to work on – especially on hot days. Also, they’re not working on a leading edge when they tie the steel – like when using ply – so it’s safer.” Mr Pavlovic said Kingflor® steel formwork was simply craned onto site in bundles as required. “We tell them what we want and it arrives on site within 48 hours, cut exactly to spec’ so there’s less wastage on site.” Hansen Yuncken Project Manager Sturt Hodgson agreed that the project formworkers preferred the low-glare product. “They let us know if a product is unsuitable,” Mr Hodgson said. “Their feedback has been good. They’re impressed with how light it is to handle, how quickly it goes down and by the lack of defects on the slab’s underside compared with plywood – which can allow concrete leaks at the joins.”

Deckform steel coil

Mr Hodgson said speed-of-construction was another key consideration in specifying the Kingflor® steel formwork. “You save a lot of time because you don’t have to strip steel decking once the concrete is formed. Also, it’s quicker to lay because you can run longer spans than with plywood, which tops out at 2.4 metres by 1.2 metres. “The Kingflor® KF57 composite steel formwork we specified for the job is three metres wide. The span lengths depend on variables such as base metal thickness and depth-of-slab but you can usually run spans of four-to-five metres unpropped. Across this job, we had beam centres at 8.7-metre intervals and the spans running from beam edge to beam edge, so the average span length was about eight metres.” Mr Hodgson said compliance is always a consideration for project managers. “You have to be sure that the building products you specify meet requirements. The quality of the DECKFORM® steel product doesn’t

vary and it doesn’t degrade. Working with BlueScope products removes any doubt about compliance issues because you know it’s already certified to meet Australian Standards, which gives us peace-of-mind.”

“After many years of work on the Wollongong Central project with GPT, BlueScope is happy to reach a milestone for this iconic building, which will serve as a vibrant retail hub for the community.

BlueScope Manager – Coatings and Product Technology, Sean Wong, said the partnership with GPT has proven enormously successful.

“We hope to see GPT’s commendable approach to engaging local Australian manufacturers repeated in other projects,” Mr Wong said.

“BlueScope is proud to have partnered with GPT on this local project. It’s rare for many of our people who work at the Port Kembla Steelworks to see the application of the steel they make in a building so close to home,” said Mr Wong.

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To find out more about BlueScope and their innovative new products visit www.bluescopesteel.com.au.

advertorial 47

IBS and Certi Shine, An Unbeatable Team Discover the beauty, durability and versatility of the world’s premier polished concrete system.

Certi Shine, America’s premier concrete floor polishing, densifying and stain protection system, coupled with its Australian partner IBS, invite you to apply to attend their next course in September 2014. The course is designed for professionals who have experience, but would also like to have a quality, exclusive system in their region. Contractors with an eye for detail, personal integrity who carry out consistently quality work should look at furthering their experience with Certi Shine. The Certi Shine chemicals are only sold to certified contractors, and local technicians are supported by IBS who have over 35 years experience in concrete and concrete-stone polishing.

What makes Certi Shine different? • Certi Shine products produce eco-friendly “green” floors • Certi Shine chemicals work every time, are easy and quick to apply • Suitable for internal and external surfaces in commercial and residential applications. • Big job or small, Certi Shine products can do it all. • Choose between three levels of gloss: Silver, Gold and Platinum • Produce stain-proof floors plus unique colour densificaiton • An astonishing 20-year warrantee for clear densification and 10 years for colour—backed by Vexcon the leader in concrete technology.

Certi Shine is the first choice for architects, as they know they will get a quality product performed by an experienced quality contractor plus technical assistance nationally from IBS. Limited spaces are available for the September course so apply now. The course will be run over four days with theory and practical applications covered. Applications available from IBS. For more informations contact: Ph: 02 8338 0000 Mob: 0403 046 038 (Ivan) Email: sales@ibssales.com.au

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Become a member of an exclusive Polished Concrete System LEARN HOW TO POLISH CONCRETE USING THE USA CERTI-SHINE SYSTEM, AND OFFER YOUR CLIENTS THE BEST ‘GREEN’ DENSIFICATION SYSTEM • We limit the users of Certi-Shine by region. • Only certified contractors can purchase Certi-Shine products. • Join a network of qualified specialists. • Professional advice is offered to all Certi-Shine contractors. • Learn personally from Darryl of Vexcon USA and Ivan of IBS who each have 40 years plus experience in concrete & polishing. • The course is run over 4 days every 3 years.

WHEN: Sept 15th-18th, for 4 days WHERE: IBS, Mascot NSW Closing date for applications: 26 August 2014 Application forms are available by Email sales@ibssales.com.au or Phone: 02 8338 0000 & 0403 046 038

WHO NEED APPLY: Applicants must have 3 to 4 years experience in the polished concrete industry, have an eye for detail, and be part of a company with integrity & reliability. WHO IS YOUR MARKET: Big or small it suits all. APPLY TODAY TO BECOME PART OF AN EXCLUSIVE GROUP OF PROFESSIONALS USING THE WORLD’S BEST SYSTEM

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The Women of Tynan Motors Working in a typically male environment can certainly bring about unique challenges but at Tynan Motors Madeline Tynan and Gabi Pettinari are turning that stereotype on its head. Madeline Tynan is Marketing Director of Tynan Motors Group, one of Australia’s Top 100 Private Family Corporations with an annual turnover of $ 500 Million, operating 14 franchises marketing 15 global automotive brands in Southern Sydney and the Illawarra Region. She holds the position of Dealer Principal of Tynan Motors Fiat Alfa Chrysler Jeep Dodge. In both roles, she is responsible for implementing marketing and communication strategies to achieve the corporate objectives of the Group including increasing revenue, expanding market share, continuing growth, maintaining competitive advantage, and sustaining leadership in the automotive industry within the region. Madeline Tynan is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is completing the Company Directors Course in May 2014. She has completed the Family Business Directors Course from Bond University and the Dealer Principal Course conducted by Deloitte Australia.

No compromises.

The Mercedes-Benz Vito, Sprinter and Valente have lifted van standards to another level. You shouldn’t have to compromise just because you drive a van. Born to run, our extensive range of class leading vans have something for everyone, whether you’re a tradesperson, courier or simply looking for a recreational vehicle.

Exclusive offer for Master Builders NSW Members Star Fleet Pricing* plus a $300 Bunnings Hardware card with every Mercedes-Benz Van purchased and delivered before July 31 2014.

We can come to your home or office for trade-in valuation. For further details contact Gabi Pettinari (02) 8545 8302 or email gabriellep@tynan.com.au *Proof of membership required for Star Fleet Pricing

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She is strongly committed to contributing back to the community. This is demonstrated by her active membership and involvement in the Boards of several local, state and national organisations including Women on Boards, Women in Business, NSW Family Business Association, Automotive Skills Australia and the Chrysler Jeep Dodge Dealer Council for Australia. She was the recipient of the Cook Community Award in 2013, the Female MTA Businessperson of the Year 2002 and was a part of the TV Documentary of Trek4Trauma 2013. What was the initial factor that led you to pursue a career within such a typically male-dominated industry? Growing up in a family business and being a part of that environment, but I never considered it as a career as it was more male dominated. I started as part-time and it grew from there and got into my blood. Have you encountered any significant negativity within the industry or have your male counterparts been supportive? Yes, it has been difficult, but coming into the industry my eyes were wide open and my love for the industry has kept me here for 30 years. What is the most rewarding part of your role with Tynan? Watching young people developing from trainee ship into management roles and giving back to the community that has supported us. Why is women being represented in what are supposedly male dominated industries important to you personally? Because it gives a different perspective and both men and women bring

different aspects to the business and bring conducive business practices to the company. We need both men and women as each brings different skill sets to a business which enhances and develops a company. Mercedes-Benz Vans Sales Manager Gabi Pettinari recently joined the team at Tynan Motors. Was working within the industry a decision you consciously made or did it happen by chance? It was a conscious decision to work in the industry; however, the commercial field was by chance. Also, my first vehicle was a van, so it must have been destiny along with my interest for them. How do you find working within a typically male dominated role? It has never concerned me, as I have always been involved in a male dominated field as I grew up with in my parents’ family owned and run bicycle stores, which is a very male dominated arena. Why do you think it’s important that women are involved in industries that are generally male dominated? Women can offer several levels of thinking to solutions or problems and this is particularly relevant when dealing with customers and their needs. Visit Tynan Motors to speak to either Madeline or Gabi about your new vehicle purchase. Tynan Motors is located at 1 Kiora Rd, Miranda NSW or phone 02 8545 8888.

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WATERPROOFING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; COMMON CAuSES OF FAILuRE by robert mcdonald, building consultant and representative of the australian institute of Waterproofing.

historical Waterproofing has been a part of human habitation construction for more than 13,000 years. Some would view waterproofing as the third oldest trade after carpentry and masonry. Weatherproofing and waterproofing of shelters was based on protection from the elements and the most destructive of uncontrolled elements is water in all states - solid, liquid and vapour. By 13,000 BCE the agrarian revolution had brought primitive hunter gatherer societies together into larger social units resulting in permanent settlement and construction. Surpluses of harvests, particularly grain, required storage and protection from moisture. The first grain storage silos were constructed half in the ground and half out. This required a waterproofing solution to stop moisture from ruining the produce. By 10,000 BCE water transportation for fishing, exploration and trade required primitive boats to be waterproofed. Bitumen emulsion, found on the surface of peat bogs provided a means of sealing and waterproofing these vessels. By 3,600 BCE the first civilization to produce enormous monolithic architecture was the ancient Egyptians. The Great Pyramid of Giza is still the largest man made masonry building on the planet and remained the tallest structure for 3,800 years. The Pyramid was constructed over a twenty year period and finished about 2,560 BCE. In 1971 archeologists excavating the limestone foundation blocks exposed the original waterproofing and dated to 4,450 years old. The waterproofing was a bitumen emulsion from the Nile delta peat bogs applied to the blocks in coats with dry reed fibre alternatively applied in cross layers to a thickness of 6-8 mm. Every year the monsoon season in Ethiopia would cause flooding over the banks of the Nile and around the pyramid. When the pyramid was opened in the 19th century the tombs were perfectly dry. The Egyptian builders got it right. Fast forward to the 21st century and waterproofing failures in domestic buildings is now the single largest problem affecting the construction industry costing hundreds of millions of dollars each year to rectify. Water being a destructive element exacts a high cost for failure. The level of complaint against Builders, averaged Australia wide, is almost 80% of all complaints caused by water penetrations and damage to structures and finishes. Failure of waterproofing is the largest component of these complaints.

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Waterproofing makes up between 1.0% and 2.0% of the total cost of construction of a building but accounts for up to 80% of the complaints and huge costs in rectification. Why is waterproofing a persistent and repetitive problem to the building industry? In the last thirty years there have been substantial changes in the design of domestic buildings, materials used and methodologies for construction. With these changes Builders have failed to understand the complexity of waterproofing with both knowledge and skills in waterproofing failing to keep pace with changes. There is an over riding belief that waterproofing is a simple process of applying some product on a surface and it is waterproofed. causEs oF FaiLurE in WatErprooFinG prEparation 1. The single biggest cause of waterproofing failures is workmanship. Poor workmanship would account for 90% of all failures in waterproofing. The waterproofing membrane is only as good as the surface to which it is applied or installed. Builders have a large responsibility here. Has the surface been constructed with falls for drainage? Is the surface smooth and clean? Is the surface free of formwork distortions, voids or protrusions? Is the surface spoiled by previous trades debris and residues? Has the surface been scrapped and vacuumed? Every manufacturer specifies the surface conditions and preparation required for the application of their respective waterproofing membranes but Builders consistently fail to provide the optimum conditions for the performance of the waterproofing products. 2. Consistently there is insufficient time allowed in the conduct of waterproofing for the correct preparation before the application of the waterproofing membrane. Builders and Waterproofing Contractors are both at fault here. This is critical for the installation of the various ancillary and critical parts of the waterproofing. This may include the correct installation of waterstop angles, perimeter flashings, vertical flashing angles, pressure strip flashings, chased drop flashings, fillets and bond breakers at coves, control joints, drainage flanges, cavity flashing down turns, topping screeds for falls for drainage, reinforcing at junctions, overflow devices, gutters, linear strip drains and slip joints over suspended sheet flooring systems. 3. The detailing, preparation and installation of these critical parts of the waterproofing is invariably left to the last minute before the

Hear what our customers are saying about Waterstop Streamline I am happy to give my recomm endation to use Waters top Streamline. It is the only modern looking product that I have se en that positi vely connects the shower screen to the waterproofing in a completely leak free way. .. Mr Albert Aebe rhard Builder, Hotondo Homes Group AC

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waterproofing is applied. Manufacturers specify a bond breaker or sealant fillet at the junction of vertical and horizontal surfaces and these are generally also specified to be installed and/or cured before the installation of the waterproofing membrane. The critical junction of the vertical and horizontal surfaces, where differential movement is most likely to occur, is a major cause of failures where poor detailing and inadequate cure of the bond breaker before membrane application adversely affects the membrane performance. There appears to be a consistent failure by both Builders and Waterproofing Contractors in allowing sufficient time for preparation and installation of critical ancillary parts to the waterproofing. priminG 1. The second most common recurring problem, after poor surface preparation, is the failure to prime the respective parts and surfaces before the application of the waterproofing membrane. Failure of the waterproofing membrane bond to substrates is a recurring and consistent problem often associated with poor subsurface drainage and saturation of tiling or topping screeds. Every manufacturer of a sealant or a waterproofing membrane specifies priming of surfaces. There are primers available for a large range of materials to enhance adhesive bond strength of both sealants and membranes. Most membranes currently on the market will not form a chemical waterproof bond to Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) products. In the case of flashing angles and waterstop angles, PVC should not be used and aluminium angles used wherever possible. Where PVC is located at drainage wastes and drainage flanges the PVC must be primed to adhere the sealant or waterproofing membrane. 2. Surface priming for CFC, concrete, mortar screeds and plywood substrates should always be carried out with the manufacturers specified primers. Surface priming will reduce porosity, dusting, air entrapment (pin holing) and high residual moisture in the substrate which will cause blistering of the membrane after curing. Not all primers are the same. Some primers, single part solvent or water based, are used primarily to seal the surface and improve adhesion of the membrane. Two part water based epoxies work in the same manner but can also seal off high residual moisture in the substrate. Membrane application must be completed within a limited time frame before the epoxy is cured beyond 24 hours. Epoxy primers for residual moisture are described as Moisture Suppressant Coatings (MSC) and the product must have a certified test result according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E96 Standard test methods for Water Vapour Transmission of Materials. substratE moisturE 1. The third major cause of waterproofing failures is residual moisture in the substrate causing adhesive failure or de-bonding of the membrane. Australian Standards for textile floor coverings (AS/NZS 2455.1), vinyl flooring (AS 1884), tiling (AS 3958.1), painting (AS 2311), plywood (AS/NZS 2269) and timber (AS/NZS 1080.1, AS 2796.2) all specify the substrate dryness or material moisture content for the installation

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of various floor covering materials over concrete and mortar screeds. Why Australian Standards for waterproofing (AS 3740 / AS 4654.1) has failed to define and specify methods for determining the substrate dryness or moisture content has remained a perplexing issue. 2. There is no area of construction more critical to understanding the moisture content of a substrate than in waterproofing. It is critical for the Builder and the Waterproofing Contractor to test the concrete or mortar screed substrate before the application of the waterproofing. There is no single Australian Standard specifically detailing moisture content testing in various substrates and materials. However the most recent revision of AS 1884 - 2012 Floor Coverings - Resilient sheet and Tiles - Installation Practices, Appendix A - Testing for Moisture Content in Subfloors is the most up to-date reference. This revised Standard now references the globally recognized, accurate and best practice for assessment of the moisture content of concrete floors and mortar screeds. The relevant Standards for this testing are all ASTM Standards and include ASTM F2659 (2010) Standard Guide for Preliminary Evaluation of Comparative Condition of Concrete, Gypsum Cement, and Other Floor Slabs and Screeds Using a Non-Destructive Electronic Moisture Meter; ASTM F2420 (2011) Standard Test Method for Determining Relative Humidity on the Surface of Concrete Floor Slabs Using Relative Humidity Probe measurement and Insulated Hood; ASTM F2170 (2011) Standard Test method for Determining Relative Humidity in Concrete Floor Slabs Using in situ Probes. Every concrete slab and mortar screed should be accurately assessed for the moisture content before the application of waterproofing products. Wherever possible this moisture testing should be thoroughly documented and form part of the statement of the Certificate of Compliance inspEction and tEstinG oF WatErprooFinG 1. Most waterproofing installations are covered or otherwise put out of sight by coverings such as tiles, gardens, rooftop coverings or back filling to below grade retaining walls. There is a culture within the industry that precludes consistent and thorough inspection and assessment of the installation and workmanship of the waterproofing. Often when the membrane is inspected the person conducting the inspection may have a limited grasp of the technical requirements, the current Australian Standard, the manufacturers specifications or an inability to determine the correct film thickness of the cured waterproofing in the case of liquid applied membranes. A common problem is the waterproofing has not been applied in the specified number of coats to the specified minimum dry film thickness for liquid applied membranes. 2. Often the Builder relies upon the Waterproofing Contractor / Tiler to issue a Certificate of Compliance or in most cases a Guarantee or Warranty for the work, which are not Certificates of Compliance. Waterproofing requires post installation inspection and wherever possible testing under ponded water conditions for a minimum 24 hour period. Historically such testing used to be the norm in the 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and early 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for certifying the completeness and watertightness of the waterproofing membrane but has been largely discontinued due to the constraints of unrealistic construction deadlines.

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WATERPROOFING STANDARDS 1. Incomplete knowledge of and use of the current Australian Standards accounts for defects and non-compliant waterproofing both internally and externally, resulting in failures. Currently there are three Australian Standards for waterproofing. Australian Standard AS/NZS 4858 - 2004 Wet Area membranes sets out the performance and general test requirements used in the Australian Standards AS 3740 and AS 4654 for waterproofing membranes. It is vitally important that the Builder and waterproofing contractor have a copy of the latest Standard and can refer to the Standard in the conduct of the works. 2. Australian Standard AS 3740 Waterproofing of domestic wet areas is now in the fifth edition 2010 Amendment 1 (2012). There are invariably changes to the Standard from each edition which attempts to address

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DRAINAGE AND WATERPROOFING 1. Common failures are caused by poor drainage of surface and subsurface moisture adversely affecting the waterproofing. A Builder would not install a metal or tiled roof without the minimum specified gradient for surface drainage. This however is not the case with waterproofing. It is still a common occurrence that waterproofing membranes are installed on horizontal surfaces without falls for subsurface drainage. Some waterproofing membranes perform poorly under permanently saturated conditions. Single component acrylic membranes were renowned for re-emulsification under saturated conditions in the 1980’s and 1990’s. While products have changed the construction methods have not. Nearly every part of a building exposed to surface water or conveying water has specified gradients including stormwater pipes, eave gutters, box gutters, sanitary pipes, culvert drains and kerbs. A major problem of saturated mortar screeds built up for surface drainage over waterproofing membranes is salt calcification or efflorescence to tile surfaces.

Waterproofing ideally should be installed to a gradient for fall for drainage. 2. There is a misconception with the building industry that a PVC drainage pipe embedded in or passing through a concrete floor slab is a rain water outlet (RWO). The drainage pipe is not the outlet and providing a waterproof seal and connection to a PVC pipe often results in failure. All drainage outlets should be an RWO cast into the concrete slab and connected to the drainage pipe. The RWO will provide the required flange for connecting the waterproofing membrane at the drainage point. This is suitable for liquid applied membranes and where a sheet membrane is used the RWO can be fitted with a clamping ring to mechanically retain the membrane in the RWO. A major problem in subsurface drainage is sleeved PVC floor grate housings which are pushed into drainage pipes damaging the membrane junction and blocking subsurface drainage. 3. Whilst waterproofing is designed to protect the structure and prevent water ingress into the building there is often little consideration to the drainage to ensure the waterproofing membrane performance. The failure of waterproofing is often associated with poor or nonexistent drainage particularly at the subsurface level.

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PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE 1. A common failure in waterproofing is a lack of knowledge of the products limitations and correct usage. There is no “one can solution” for waterproofing, the product that works well in one situation may fail completely in a different usage. There are limited manufacturers of waterproofing membranes in Australia and the majority of the products available in the marketplace are imported. Some manufacturers do not have a complimentary range of proprietary products used in waterproofing and this can include, primers, polymer additives for mortar screeds, Moisture Suppressant Coatings and tile adhesives compatible with the waterproofing membrane for “direct stick” method of fixing tiles. Incompatibility of materials is a widespread problem within the industry which can and does cause failure of the waterproofing. Multiple products from different manufacturers are not recommended due to the issue of incompatibility. 2. Knowledge of the waterproofing products performance characteristics is a critical part of the serviceability of the waterproofing membrane. The waterproofing must perform under various conditions which may include permanent saturation, wetting and drying cycles, UV exposure, weathering, foot and vehicle traffic, thermal gain and tiling trades working over the membrane. Where other trades are required to work over a waterproofing membrane temporary protection should always be installed. In the case of tilers installing tiles by “direct stick” working on the membrane is inevitable, however the membrane characteristics for Shore Hardness should be considered to prevent damage. A solvent based liquid applied moisture curing polyurethane has a Shore Hardness of about 70-80 while some water based liquid applied acrylic / polyurethanes have a Shore Hardness of only 25-30. Could damage to the membrane be likely from the tiling installation? Where product knowledge is limited or incomplete consult with the manufacturers Technical representatives to understand the characteristics of the product and the requirements for long term performance under different conditions. 3. An often ignored problem is the required time for effective curing of liquid applied waterproofing products. In many instances the waterproofing is installed one day and the next day screeds and tiles are installed over partially cured membranes. Drying and cure times for liquid applied waterproofing membranes are dependent on ambient relative humidity, ambient temperature, porosity of substrates, air flow and substrate temperature. Most membrane manufacturers specify minimum cure times and these average from 24 hours to 72 hours generally. With solvent based and water based liquid applied membranes incomplete curing will adversely affect the polymeric properties of the material causing premature failure. Good building practices require due process and appropriate times for drying and curing of waterproofing, the same as any other material. A builder would not have the painter paint wet plaster why install tiles on uncured waterproofing membranes.

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changes in wet area design, wet area construction, installation techniques and deficiencies or omission from the previous edition. Recent changes included revision of treatment for showers over baths, and revision of design layout and detailing drawings. 3. Australian Standard AS 4654 Parts 1 and 2 - Waterproofing membranes for external aboveground use was first published in 2009 and was revised in 2012. The Standard was adopted and referenced in the BCA on 1 May 2013. The Standard referenced the previous Standard CA 55 - 1970 - Design and Installation of bituminous fabric roofing. The new Standard for above ground waterproofing is not perfect and over time will require revision but it is at least a starting point to defining external waterproofing practices which until this Standard was developed were poorly understood by many in the industry. addrEssinG thE probLEm 1. Without doubt the most important area to address the high rate of failures is through education and training. The TAFE system offers a Certificate III in construction waterproofing but there are far too few colleges offering the full course. The Certificate III course also includes below grade waterproofing and remedial waterproofing which is not covered in short courses. Representatives in the waterproofing industry need to actively lobby governments to ensure adequate training courses and training facilities are maintained and increased. 2. Australian Standards must also be developed in the critical areas of below grade waterproofing and remedial waterproofing. 3. Recently short courses, mostly in internal wet area waterproofing, and Skills Express recognition has been seen by many as a way to address the shortage in supply of Licensed and competent Waterproofing trades people. These courses and the recognition of skills is compounding the lack of adequate training, industry knowledge and workmanship skills and not addressing the workmanship problems.

Short courses may not be the solution to the high level of failure but part of the problem particularly if government regulatory bodies are licensing these participants with incomplete trade and product knowledge and limited experience. 4. Attitudes to the time and cost of waterproofing within domestic residences have to be greatly appraised. This is an area of construction that should not be market driven to the lowest price per square metre but be demanding of quality workmanship with quality products and completed within a reasonable allowance of time. 5. Instituting a mandatory inspection and testing regime of the waterproofing in domestic buildings before covering is permitted should be considered by the industry and government bodies regulating the certification approval process. Robert McDonald has been a Building Consultant in Waterproofing for the last 15 years and has 30 years experience in the waterproofing industry since commencing as a Contractor in 1985. He has been the Australian Institute Of Waterproofing (AIW) representative to Standards Australia committees for the development and revision of waterproofing Standards AS 3740 and AS 4654 since 2010 and is currently the NSW representative to the National Executive of the AIW. Robert is also a member of ASTM committees on waterproofing and roofing for revision and development of ASTM Standards.

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ACRS certification from the mill to the end supplier gives you the simple tool to manage this risk - the supplier’s ACRS certificates. Steel reinforcement, prestressing steel and structural steel are integral parts of any building or structure. While to the casual observer, all steel may look to be created equal, in reality this is far from the case. Whether as a result of inferior raw materials, contamination during manufacturing, incorrect or inappropriate manufacturing processes, or manufacturing to alternative Standards, there are steel reinforcing, prestressing and structural steel products which quite simply do not meet the requirements of the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards. Notwithstanding the potential safety issues that can result from using sub-standard construction materials, in these days of widespread litigation and strict ‘chain of responsibility’ legislation, the use of noncompliant steels can spell disaster for engineers, certifiers, specifiers, suppliers and builders in more ways than one. ACRS – expert third party steel assessment With these issues and risks in mind, the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS) provides fully independent, non-biased, expert third party assessment and verification of steel construction materials supplied to the construction industry, to ensure that they meet Australian and New Zealand Standards. Quite simply, ACRS certification reduces the risk of buying and using steel which does not meet minimum requirements, and enables feedback and corrective action in case problems arise.

Independent of any commercial interests, ACRS assessors, auditors and management are all experienced engineers, certifiers or metallurgists with extensive experience in steel manufacture, supply, design and construction. ACRS provides a centralised, streamlined certification process for: • Reinforcing bar, wire and mesh • Prestressing bar, wire and strand • Cold-formed steel hollow sections • Hot-rolled steel plates, bars and sections • ACRS currently certifies over 150 manufacturing locations, in 15 countries around the world, and has undertaken more than 700 technical conformity assessments to AS/NZS steel Standards. These include: • AS/NZS 4671 – Steel reinforcing materials (Manufacturing and processing of materials) • AS/NZS 4672 – Steel prestressing materials • AS/NZS 1163 – Cold formed steel hollow sections • AS/NZS 1594 – Hot-rolled steel flat products • AS/NZS 3678 – Hot-rolled plates, floorplates and slabs • AS/NZS 3679.1 – Hot-rolled bars and sections • AS/NZS 3679.2 – Welded I sections WARNING Just because the steel originally came from an ACRS certified mill, does not mean the end product is “ACRS certified.” When it comes to ACRS certification, there are only ever two options, either:

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The supplier is ACRS certified and all of its materials are declared, assessed and verified to AS/NZS standards; OR The supplier is not ACRS certified (and therefore the onus is on the customer to verify the supplier’s claims of conformity). It is fraudulent for a supplier to claim that a product is “ACRS certified” simply because the end product used materials from an ACRS certified mill. The full ‘chain’ must be ACRS certified. Failure to verify that the products are from an ACRS certified supplier may result in you using non-compliant materials for which you may be held liable. ACRS certificates – quick and easy web-based verification ACRS also gives you real choice. ACRS certifies not just domestic suppliers, but also world-class overseas manufacturers, giving Australian and international customers the widest choice of products complying with Australian & New Zealand Standards. With ACRS it’s easy for your suppliers, easy for your customers and easy for you! For further information about the validity of supplier certification for any materials being supplied into your project contact ACRS. Be safe – be sure – only use ACRS certified products. For more information contact: Phone 02 9965 7216 Website www.steelcertification.com Email info@steelcertification.com

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a summary of permeable interlocking concrete pavements, its benefits and where and where not to use them.

In urban catchments, road surfaces can account for up to 20-25% of impermeable surfaces for example roads are a major generator of runoff. In Australia, the control of this runoff is the prime objective in Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). One way to achieve this is to use Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements (PICP). PICP was first developed in Europe more than two decades ago and has been used in Australia since 1997. Because water infiltration is actively encouraged, a wide range of environmental and cost benefits can be achieved. concepts of permeable paving Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements (PICP) cover a wide range of applications ranging through landscaping, domestic paving and driveways, public spaces, residential roads and streets and heavy duty industrial pavements including container areas. They both carry traffic and act as a drainage facility which can reduce or eliminate runoff, trap pollutants and harvest water for future reuse. They combine these multiple roles with a reduction in overall project cost by eliminating much of the drainage infrastructure, such as gulleys, sub-surface drains and sumps, that is needed in conventional pavements.

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Permeable pavements reduce runoff by infiltrating rainfall. Provided infiltration is fast enough that runoff can be minimised or eliminated. To keep infiltration high, the entire system must be designed to have high permeability. This is of particular importance in Australia where rainfall is often more intense than in those countries where permeable paving was originally pioneered. Early research in Australia therefore examined whether PICP could adequately accept heavy Australia rainfall. This work has shown that rainfall intensities up to about 200 mm/hr can be accepted even after the pavements have been in service for many years. Once water has entered the pavement sub-structure it can be drained to the subgrade. Where this is a highly permeable granular material such as gravelly soil, the rainfall from a typical storm can be directed to the water table. Where the subgrade is a relatively impermeable soil such as clay, this is not possible. The function of the pavement is then, temporarily to store ie detain the water and to allow it to flow to the storm water sewers at a rate that will not overload them. Here the only sub-surface drainage infrastructure required is an outlet connecting to the storm sewer. In this case the pavement also acts as a retention basin.

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permeable paving components The essential components of a permeable pavement are shown in Figure 1. The elements of the pavement, which are described in detail in subsequent sections of this manual, comprise: 1. A surfacing of permeable pavers design to permit the rapid infiltration of rainfall. Typically, the pavers will range in thickness between 60 and 80 mm. 2. The joints between the pavers must not be left empty but should be completely filled with a uniform aggregate. Sand must not be used instead of aggregate as it slows water ingress. 3. Depending on the degree of infiltration that can be achieved for a particular design storm, it may be necessary to provide drainage at the perimeter of the paving to manage overflows. This can be achieved by using conventional gulley inlets to existing storm sewers or by constructing swales or bioretention areas adjacent to the pavement. 4. The permeable pavers are laid on a 20-40 mm bedding course of uniform aggregate typically 2-5 mm in size. Sand is not suitable as a bedding course and should not be used in permeable pavements because it does not allow water to infiltrate rapidly enough to cope with Australian rainfall. 5. Beneath the bedding layer a permeable geotextile may be installed. This is optional and is only used when it is desired to mobilise biological controls of hydrocarbons etc. 6. A permeable basecourse normally consisting of compacted unbound granular materials provides the main load-bearing layer. The thickness of this layer must be sufficient both to resist traffic loads and to provide adequate water storage. 7. On cohesive subgrades, a filter fabric must be provided under the basecourse to prevent clay migrating into the pavement. This is not needed where the subgrade is granular ie a sandy or gravelly material. 8. Where the subgrade is contaminated, saline or expansive, an impermeable membrane must be provided under the basecourse to prevent water entering or leaving the pavement. This membrane will normally be run up the sides of the pavements as shown in Figure 1. 9. For some pavements, a drainage pipe is installed to remove water from the pavement. 10.The in-situ soil at the pavement site is known as the subgrade. The type of subgrade determines what type of permeable pavement cross-section is

feasible and how thick the pavement will need to be to resist traffic and to control stormwater. The subgrade must always be compacted to a depth of at least 100 mm. benefits of permeable paving The benefits of permeable paving include: 1. Reducing the amount of rainfall runoff from pavement surfaces and, thereby, eliminating or minimising the extent of the stormwater drainage system needed. This can lead to substantial savings in the overall project costs. 2. Reducing the size or need for rainwater retention facilities in roadworks by using the pavement itself for retention. This improves land use. 3. Reducing or avoiding downstream flooding. 4. Recharging and maintaining aquifers and the natural groundwater. 5. Trapping and treating pollutants that would otherwise contaminate groundwater or drainage systems. 6. Assisting in the biological decomposition of hydrocarbon contaminants. By infiltrating water, permeable pavements reduce or avoid surface runoff and standing water and puddles on the surface are virtually eliminated. Importantly, PICPs reduce the peak flows directed to storm sewers. This means that new developments, for example, due to urban consolidation, rather than requiring new and expensive storm drainage to be installed, can usually utilise the existing drainage infrastructure without overloading it. A further benefit of infiltrating water is that surface gradients can often be minimised or eliminated ie pavements can be laid level where this improves the amenity of the surface such as in car parks or for container stacking in port areas.

Permeable pavements also provide interception storage whereby water is absorbed into the pavement and thereafter evaporates only once the rain has stopped. The consequence of this is that, under Australian conditions, runoff during a storm does not occur until after the first 5 mm of rainfall. An important function of permeable pavements is that they improve water quality by removing and treating the pollutants that are commonly found on road surfaces or which get washed on to roads from the roofs of adjoining properties. These pollutants are either trapped by the pavement, acting as a filter or by sedimentation within the pavement. Pollutants are also broken down by biological and chemical action. This means that PICP treat pollution â&#x20AC;&#x153;at sourceâ&#x20AC;?, an important concept in water sensitive urban design. By contrast, conventional pavements rapidly direct polluted rainfall into watercourses where it is difficult and expensive to remediate. Permeable pavements can harvest water for later re-use; an important function in the Australian context where water is often scarce and expensive. The harvested water is filtered largely free of debris and sediments and can be used for watering parks and gardens and similar non-potable purposes. Because permeable pavements combine the functions of managing runoff, water quality and water harvesting within a single construction unit, they make very efficient use of land because they do not require additional land to be dedicated for detention or retention ponds or for water treatment. This means that land take for new developments can be minimised.

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circumstances for choosing or rejecting picp Permeable paving is of particular benefit when: 1. There is a need to maintain existing or green site runoff conditions when developing a site. In many cases runoff can be totally eliminated using PICP but, where this is not possible, it is usually feasible to control the volume of runoff to be similar to that flowing from a greenfield (unimproved) site. 2. The stormwater sewer system is at or near capacity. This situation will often be the case in older well-established urban areas. Urban consolidation generally increases the extent of impermeable areas and runoff will increase. This will then overload the existing storm sewers. PICP provides a cost effective means to circumvent this problem. 3. There are limitations on the extent of Impermeable Cover that councils will allow for new developments. Based on the maximum capacity of local storm drainage and to avoid flooding, councils may regulate runoff by restricting the amount of impervious cover. 4. There is insufficient land for both pavements and detention ponds. The use of PICP minimises the extent of land needed for pavements and drainage works.

5. Where municipalities wish to control the pollution of local streams, wetlands and water supplies. The amount of impervious cover influences the amount of pollutants washed off a site. PICPs both reduce the impervious cover and also remove or remediate pollutants. 6. Where there is a need to conserve and reuse water. Permeable pavements provide a cost and space efficient way to harvest and store filtered water for later non-potable reuse. 7. There is a need or requirement to recharge local aquifers. Depletion of aquifers is a widespread problem that needs to be addressed. picp should not be used when: 1. The site or paving requires slopes steeper than about 5%. 2. The Water Table is closer to the surface than about 0.5 m. 3. The stormwater sewer is less than about 1 m below the surface. 4. There is shallow bedrock. 5. There is a risk of spillage of fuel, oil, detergents, pesticides or other hazardous liquids. 6. There is the likelihood of a high sediment input (eg silt) being washed onto the paving and, thereby, causing clogging. 7. The pavement is subject to tidal Influence.

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For more information please refer to CMAA Technical Manual PE01 Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements - Design and Construction Guide visit www.cmaa.com.au.

Join the Master Builders and Exchange Golf Club

Enjoy a day off with your industry professionals Formed by the Master Builders Association in 1932, the social golf club was developed for those affiliated with the building industry and/or those identified as offering supply or service to the industry. At any organized golf day, the MB&E Golf Club has around 60 to 80 members, guests and sponsors attend its games. We offer you an open invitation to play golf and bring your guests along. Join us on any game day of your choice for a round of golf and refreshments.

Join the Golf Club today!

Some of the quality courses we play on in the Sydney Metro area. Ryde-Parramatta Golf Club Macquarie Links Golf Club St Michaels Golf Club Terrey Hills Golf Club Concord Golf Club New South Wales Golf Club Pymble Golf Club Liverpool Golf Club Cromer Golf Club

For further information please contact: Reynold Sciuriaga 0412 265 938 reynold24@optusnet.com.au or Graeme Degnan (02) 9584 0277 graeme@degnan.com.au or go to http://mbansw.asn.au/About/Social-Clubs

Apprenticeships Traineeships SBATs The Framework of Our Future. 02 8586 3533 www.mbansw.asn.au

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CHOOSING A SPLASHBACK FOR yOuR HOME splashbacks are surfaces in kitchen and bathroom areas that can be the perfect opportunity to add some colour and texture to the home.

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A splashback is a protective surface on a kitchen or bathroom wall, designed to protect it from moisture and cooking debris. Splashbacks perform a fairly basic task, but can make a big difference to the look of your kitchen or bathroom. Identifying the right splashback involves thought about budget, and the style of the area you are creating. Once you’ve worked out your budget, it’s time to decide on what works best aesthetically. Timber, glass and stainless steel will work with any benchtop. Stone or synthetic benchtops in particular look best with similar splashback materials. Colour has been a major part of kitchen design for many years now. Taking this further, it’s often suggested by retail experts that many homeowners are even buying appliances based on the colour or look of the splashback. You may believe this is taking things too far, particularly if you are on a budget; however colour may just be your thing. Each splashback has different maintenance requirements; that being said, most can be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove streaks, oil and general mess. Some surfaces may require proper cleaning agents or care. Timber in particular requires special attention to ensure that it remains properly sealed against moisture. Some surfaces, like glass and stainless steel, will ‘attract’ fingerprints and smudges more easily than others. By the same token, however, grouting for tiles needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent mould and mildew. types of splashback prEssEd aLuminium spLashbacKs Pressed aluminium panels make a great alternative for the splashback area. Once powder coated they are attractive, durable, long lasting and easily cleaned which makes life in the kitchen so much easier. The panels can be installed in a manner that achieves any width and height so a feature wall, bench front, and splashback area are easily achieved. how are they made? Panels are pressed from aluminium, galvanised steel or copper, the most popular being aluminium as it’s very affordable and lightweight. Packs of sheet are bought in and the patterns are pressed into each sheet individually. Meticulous pressing is essential so pattern matching occurs. colours and styles Panels are available in a myriad of patterns and styles, both modern and traditional with the option of custom die making available. Panels can be painted however powder coating is recommended for the splashback area as this seals the panel, therefore they are impervious to any oils that inevitably occurs in a kitchen situation. The colour range for powder coating is quite extensive so most tastes and requirements can be met. installation considerations Always consider where joints are placed, this can make or break the entire finished project. Avoiding having a joint behind the cook top area is a must, consider overlapping the panels away from the eye along the wall and always have folds in the corner area, this makes cleaning easier and improves the overall appearance. GLass spLashbacKs Many contemporary kitchens feature glass splashbacks as they offer a great deal of flexibility in terms of the patterns and colours they allow. Glass splashbacks are functional, and in the certain styles of kitchen can create a very attractive look. With few or no joins, single-surface splashbacks like glass have fewer points at which mould can grow although if they’re not sealed properly around the edges, this can still be a problem.

how are they made? Glass splashbacks are usually made from float glass (or low-iron glass, if a clearer, less greenish glass is what’s needed). Splashback glass needs to be toughened to meet the requirements of Australian Standard AS2208 - safety glazing materials for use in buildings where cutouts and notches are called for - or if the splashback is going to be installed behind a heat source like a cooktop. Toughened glass should carry an AS2208 label, and glass splashbacks need to be a minimum of 6mm toughened glass. Splashbacks for hot water or appliance areas need to be accompanied by a letter from an architect, designer, glass supplier or glass manufacturer that states that the splashback is fit for the purpose for which it’s been designed - and the surface of the wall needs to be heat proofed in accordance with the relevant building code requirements. colours and styles Glass splashbacks are available in a variety of different colours and styles. The two main forms of colouring the glass are: • Ceramic frit, in which ceramic paint is screen-painted onto the glass and then baked on during the toughening process. • Applied two pack urethane, which is usually spray-painted onto pretoughened glass and then either air-dried or baked on. Because toughened glass can’t be drilled or cut after it’s been toughened (although laminated safety glass can be), initial measurements need to be accurate and no changes can be made. Glass splashbacks can be mounted into most kitchen surfaces, but toughened glass in particular will require extra care. If you’re interested in a coloured glass splashback, make sure you look for warranties against fading, delamination and similar degradation of the colour coating. It’s also a good idea to stick to recognised colour palettes. Another option beyond basic colouring is to have digital images or patterns printed on. installation considerations Some suppliers will insist on using their own installers to keep the warranty intact; however in most cases a glazier or builder will be able to fit the splashback. With toughened glass being unalterable, the biggest issue is correct measurement. This should be done close to installation – allow for at least two weeks from the order date for the splashback to be prepared. If the measurements aren’t precise, your splashback won’t be usable. Expensive replacements are all too common! Splashbacks can be placed onto studs, tiles, plaster or anything else that will hold it, although the material it’s mounted on will be visible unless the glass is completely opaque. Clear silicon should be used around the border of glass splashbacks wherever glass meets another surface, such as a cabinet or bench. Glass splashbacks are subject to various different stringent standards, so there are all kinds of small limitations that apply to how it’s cut and shaped. A reputable supplier should be able to advise on what’s best for your kitchen. tiLE spLashbacKs Tile splashbacks are very popular, and can be made to suit any budget and any tastes.Ceramic tile splashbacks, properly chosen and installed, provide a versatile, attractive, hard-wearing, longlasting and trouble-free finish that can be tailored to suit almost any design, style or environment.

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Tiled splashbacks are more resistant to chemicals than many natural materials, and less susceptible to cuts or scratches (although they will scratch if they’re properly abused).Ceramic tiles are comprised of a mixture of clays, which are shaped then either fired at high temperature or kiln dried. installing tiles Ceramic tiles are installed using one of two basic methods – thin bed and thick bed. Kitchen splashbacks only require thin bed installation. Thin-bed installation is so called because the tiles are set bonded to the surface in a thin layer of adhesive, usually about 3mm thick.

Tiles themselves are tough and rarely fail in most cases, if tile splashbacks do have problems it’s because grouting or adhesive has been improperly prepared or has grown ineffective. stainLEss stEEL spLashbacKs One of the most expensive of all the splashback materials, stainless steel is a beautifully modern and clean choice for your kitchen. Stainless steel splashbacks can be installed directly onto plasterboard, or even over existing tiles with an appropriate contact adhesive.

Thin bed installation is reasonably cheap in terms of labour costs, and installation and curing are reasonably quick. Thin bed is also ‘thinner’ (as you’d expect), and therefore places less stress on the wall. Thin-bed installation does require that the wall the tiles are being fixed to is structurally sound, level or plumb, and properly prepared. The backs of the tiles also need to be smooth.

Steel splashbacks can be bought pre-cut to suit standard cooktop widths and cabinet heights, or custom made, depending on the shape of your kitchen and your design requirements. As with all splashback surfaces, custom cut designs will cost considerably more.

In dry areas (like behind cooktops and similar), a tile splashback can be installed directly onto plasterboard. Grouting and Waterproofing Grout is what’s used to fill the joints between tiles, and is usually selected together with mortar. Grout is normally a cement-based filling. One of the downsides of tile splashbacks is that grout can be difficult to maintain, and may get dirty or mouldy in wet areas. Splashbacks in wet areas in general will need to be properly waterproofed using a special membrane, so that even if the grouting on the tiles fails and lets water through, the structure of your house won’t be threatened by rot.

Stainless steel splashbacks normally come in 0.5 to 1.5mm thicknesses of grade 304 stainless steel, which provides excellent resistance to corrosion. Joints for stainless steel splashbacks should be properly welded together. maintenance One of the drawbacks with stainless steel is that, because it’s a beautiful, reflective and uniform surface, marks on it will be fairly prominent. The sorts of marks that will be most obvious include food smudges, fingerprints and water marks. For that reason, you’ll need to be reasonably vigilant with your cleaning if you’re keen to maintain the pristine look of your splashback. Thankfully, the most that normally requires is a good wipe down with a damp cloth.

Pressed tin Panels Pressed Tin Panels, pressed from Aluminium, are reproductions of the original Wunderlich panels. These were a very popular decorating option in the late 1800’s up to the 1950’s when the factory ceased trading. In the past our panels have been traditionally used for restoration of period builds however today they have become increasingly popular for commercial applications.

Pressed Tin Panels are suiTable for a myriad of aPPlicaTions such as feaTure wall and ceiling linings, bar fronTs, sPlashback areas, even lifTs! High stock levels are kept at all times so turn-around times are kept to a minimum to help meet tight deadlines, with delivery available across Australia and internationally.

Pressed Tin Panels are lightweight and affordable available from many distributors across Australia.

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22 Vale Rd Bathurst P. 02 6332 1738 www.pressedtinpanels.com

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acryLic spLashbacKs Acrylic splashbacks are a tough and cost-effective alternative to glass and tiles. Acrylic sheets can be cut to specification and coloured to your requirements. The acrylic comes in large sheets that are cut to your exact specifications. Wherever possible, a single sheet of acrylic is normally used to create a splashback. What are acrylic splashbacks made From? Acrylic is a generic name for rigid plastics made from a substance called ‘polymethyl methacrylate’. This material has the greatest transparency of any material (even more than glass) and will allow UV to pass right through it, meaning that it won’t yellow over time. Acrylic is used in many applications, including motorcycle helmet visors, large aquariums and the bulletproof ‘glass’ protecting bank tellers. What are the properties of acrylic? Acrylic’s strong, lightweight and very easy to work with, though can be vulnerable to cracking if it’s put under too much pressure. Acrylic can be tinted to change the colour of the light it lets through, creating dazzling effects at different times of the day if it’s properly positioned. Acrylic glass also allows 92% of visible light to pass through it. Unlike thick glass, which has a green tint, acrylic is clear.

installation requirements One of the downfalls of acrylic is that because they’re effectively plastic, most acrylics don’t stand up too well to heat, and therefore can’t be installed directly behind cooktops without some other form of compensation. A 200mm high layer of stainless steel or tiles above the cooktop will provide sufficient protection - although some people may offer for a different type of surface for the entire area behind the cooktop. A builder should be able to advise on how you’re able to install the acrylic splashback - as well as on any specific conditions for warranties. maintenance Acrylic splashbacks can be cleaned with a damp sponge and a general purpose cleaning agent. Depending on the particular material and how it’s been manufactured, acrylic may be susceptible to scratching. While scratches can normally be buffed out, it’s worth testing samples before you buy to ensure that the acrylic you’re looking at is tough enough for your purposes. Information provided by www.build.com.au and Pressed Tin Panels.

If you’re installing an acrylic splashback, the most basic way to achieve a certain colour is to paint the wall behind a clear acrylic in the colour of your choice. Acrylic splashback products do come in various colours, however, and you may find that a coloured acrylic provides a more solid look.

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sustainability

THE SUSTAINABILITY HORIZON and whY Your stove MaY Be no Good

sustainability is mercurial, an ever retreating horizon. Just when you think you’ve arrived, you find it’s moved on, and yet again you have to rethink your strategy, your cahoices, your designs and specifications. and you have to keep moving on.

at this point in human history, sustainability in not a known destination. it is a process, a journey. a journey begins with the first step, and it’s important to recognise that our society – and the building industry within it – is a giant resource-hungry beast, with all the inertia of a super-tanker at full speed. changing direction is not instantaneous, and can be jerky, especially with the poor long term political vision we suffer. but change is certain. drivers for change have been with us since time began. some drivers are aspirational, like the invention of brick veneer: a house that looks like a real brick house but is much faster and cheaper to build. others spring from necessity, such as the trend toward smaller lots: there just isn’t enough land to maintain the quarter acre dream. some drivers come from heeding the warnings of science, and the political imperatives that (should) follow them. basix in nsW is one such, as is bca 6 star in other states. the notion of ‘journey’ can be seen clearly: in 1998, from a base of zero, the nsW Energy smart homes policy was australia’s toe-in-the-water for thermal performance regulation, with a minimum compliance level of 3.5

stars. It was introduced in response to more than twenty years of warnings about climate change, and the electricity grid’s regular failures to cope with demand. The sky did not fall - but then, 3.5 stars is a doddle for a blind man on a tightrope. The journey continued when BASIX arrived with its slightly higher 4.5 star (average equivalent) standard, which scared a lot of builders. Surely the sky would fall. It was supposed to introduce orientationspecific designs, and rid us of the bane of greenhouse emissions and peak load management: air conditioning. It did neither. The blind man danced a jig on the tightrope and not much changed. Other states later adopted the BCA’s 5 and then 6 stars, although with its slightly less stringent methodology. In 2007 three federal ministers, convinced the sky would fall, launched an unprecedented attack on the Australian Building Codes Board over the “outrageous” introduction of thermal performance into the BCA. Ministers Macfarlane, Campbell and McDonald said that this would mean: “the death of the iconic Queenslander”. As it happens, Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen was already dead. That same year I won a national design award for a contemporary tropo Queenslander that was rated at 6.5 stars. The sky once again did not fall, in fact the blind man learned to dance a jig standing on his hands on that tightrope. But all of that is only about thermal performance of the building envelope, which is just one tile in the broad and growing mosaic of sustainability. Which brings me to the topic of stoves. We have thought for the last twenty years that gas is a generational stepping stone to wean us off coal, with emissions believed to be about 30% of black coal. Turns out that’s a bit wrong, because the rogue emissions at the well-head are not counted, nor are leaks. Given unburnt gas’s massive greenhouse impact, real emissions may be more than 50% of coal. Then the CSG juggernaut rolled into our forests and farmlands, and a whole new truckload of risk and damage factors entered the equation. All fossil fuels now have so many known and suspected negatives, that the ever-advancing sustainability movement has dropped them like the smelly old fossils they are. Gas is now off the agenda for any project pursuing the most sustainable practice. Hot water, cooking, the lot but replaced with what? The drivers for change? Technology and economics have moved on dramatically in the last couple of years. Solar power is now so cheap, and heat pumps and induction cooking so efficient, it actually makes more economic sense to get back to the old 60’s saying “Live better electrically”. There are various ways of setting this up, with or without generous feed-in tariffs. The best method is to align most of the building’s loads with the peak solar (PV) productive hours. For example, an efficient heat pump, with a coefficient of performance of 4 or better (CoP = units of heat produced for every unit of energy consumed), can heat a 315L tank in a few hours, in winter. This is stored for later use either as potable hot water, or for hydronic heating, or both. Hydronic heating has no equal in the pleasant radiant heat it imparts to occupants. The cost of a combination hot water and hydronic heat pump system has almost halved by using PV powered heat pumps instead of solar-gas systems. And they can achieve zero emissions, with zero running costs. Getting customers to see those benefits is not hard! Cooking with induction cooktops requires a lot less power than the old resistive elements, although ovens still use them, albeit for very few hours in the course of a year. The trick with cooking, which is mostly done in the

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Advanced Optronic Devices (Australia)

In 2004, Advanced Optronic Devices was the first company to develop high power pure white LED. Ongoing research and development by AOD has now produced 130 lumens per Watt and development is still continuing to produce even higher outputs. To date AOD has not only illuminated factories, roadways, airports and commercial buildings throughout the world, AOD has also developed 12 complete â&#x20AC;&#x153;smartâ&#x20AC;? cities.

sustainability

evenings, is to store some of that clean solar energy harvested during the day. Energy offset management systems (clunky title, but hints there’s more to it than just ‘batteries’) allow the PV system to ferret away excess power, rather than exporting to the grid for a pittance. This is stored and managed by intelligent systems that allow it to be used in the home as required later, before anything is imported from the grid. Other savings include the deletion of any gas connection, pipework and gasfitting labour charges. In the case of hot water, tanks and heat pump locations are very flexible, and the plumbing between them simple and inexpensive. Never mind the blind man, the tightrope has joined in the dancing! This shift will reduce domestic demand for gas of all kinds, both “natural” (which it isn’t) and “unconventional” (fracked from coal seams). The media beat up about a looming gas shortage, in fact driven by the rush to export gas for higher prices, will cease to be an issue – they can do with their gas what they like – we don’t need it! Listen now for the cries about the sky falling. Dick Clarke is principal of Envirotecture and an Accredited Building Designer with over 35 years experience, focusing exclusively on ecologically sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings, as well as sustainable design in vehicles and vessels, he has received many Design Awards. He holds a Master of Sustainable Futures degree (by research at the Institute for Sustainable Futures, UTS), on the topic of the effect of state and local planning instruments on the sustainability of the built environment. By Dick Clarke.

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