2014 Master Builders Victoria Magazine Apr-May by arkmedia4217

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA April– May 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 7

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Drug and alcohol testing: it’s time p.18

April – May 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 7

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS

official journal of the MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

CONSTRUCTION CIVIL TRAFFIC SECURITY INDUSTRIAL OH&S RAIL

Young guns: Regional Apprentice Awards kick off. p.17 Money tips: Learn some tricks to maintain cash flow. p.22 AppWorld: Get some apps to make your life easier. p.13

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

A word from the Editor

Tackling the big issues Drugs and alcohol are serious business. They become even more serious when they affect those working on potentially high risk construction sites. In a bid to tackle this issue, the Victorian Government will require mandatory drug Laura Luvara Editor and alcohol testing policies to form part of any construction tenders after 1 July. This move has caused some controversy with unions arguing that this is an overreaction to a negligible issue. Master Builders supports the right of employers to undergo testing, regarding the safety of workers on site to be paramount. In this issue of Master Builder, you’ll find a number of articles dealing with this issue including a feature from our OHS Manager John Darcy on p.24 and Chris from Case Study Construction tackles the issue on p.32.

Another contentious topic addressed in this issue is rightof-entry laws. Industrial Relations Manager Daniel Hodges discusses some recent breaches of this law on p.17. The Awards season is ramping up with the Regional Apprentice Awards now over and Regional Building Awards starting up. Turn to p.17 to read all about the winners of the Regional Apprentice Awards and make a note of Friday, 8 August if you’re interested in attending the Excellence in Construction Awards. More details on that to come. Of course you’ll also find all the latest news and information in the news pages of this magazine but for up to the minute news, you can go to our new blog www.mbavnews.com.au anytime of the day or night. Don’t forget to check it out. Enjoy! Laura.

CEO Radley de Silva also provides his thoughts on the contentious topic on p.18.

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contents forewords A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

1 7

GUEST FOREWORD

Senator Eric Abetz, Federal Minister for Employment

FROM CEO RADLEY DE SILVA

membership 18

MATERIALS MANUFACTURING AND SUPPLY COMMITTEE

FINANCIAL SERVICES

OHS 24

NEWS ROUND UP

CASE STUDY CONSTRUCTIONS

Chris takes on the drug dilemma

MEET THE STAFF

SOCIAL PAGES

REGIONAL ROUND UP

DIRECTORY 68 69

Drugs a concern for the whole construction Industry

Di Mase Architcts

VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP

2014 MASTER BUILDERS EVENTS CALENDAR

ADVANTAGECARD 50

INSURANCE 26 Understanding Management Liability Insurance

BLSC 28 Participants rave about new Australian Training environments

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS

MEMBER MILESTONES

NEW MEMBERS

general features SAFETY 56

TRAINING 29 Building up your business with training

GREEN LIVING

MEMBER PROFILES Aluminium Glass Façade Systems Pty Ltd

Money Tips you may have missed

regulars

contents

features

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

WHAT’S NEW

Master Builder Victoria

STAIRS & BALUSTRADES

STEEL 66

Green Living Builders exceeding the standards

Master Builders Association of Victoria 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au www.mbav.com.au Master Builder is the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is the state’s oldest employer organisation. The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. The keynote is service: and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them. Membership of the Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience. Board of Management: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Vice President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham (Treasurer) Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Robert Ferrari.

Council of Management: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Deputy President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham, Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Robert Ferrari, Michael Clemenger, Tom Basel, Lindsay Barber, John Rowe, Claude Salvatore, Michael Cameron, Brendan Liddle, Philip Robinson, Neil Grenfell. CEO: Radley de Silva, 9411 4501 General Manager, Commercial Services: Viviana Hood, 9411 4516 General Manager, Corporate Services: Lawrie Cross, 9411 4582 General Manager, BLSC: Marc Lyons, 9411 8001 MANAGERS: Membership: Dom Butera, 9411 4598 Legal: Angelo Simonetto, 9411 4593 Industrial Relations: Daniel Hodges, 9411 4562 OHS: John Darcy, 9411 4521 Training: Julie-Anne Sheppard, 9411 4544 MBA Building Services: Geoff Woolcock, 9411 4573 MBA Insurance Services: Kevin Pattison, 9411 4532 Policy & Communications: Tim Salathiel, 9411 4515 Business Development: Tony Biffaro, 9411 4557 Finance & Administration: Rod Cole, 9411 4556 Human Resources: Margaret Short, 9411 4540 Sponsorship & Alliances: Danielle Penna, 9411 4551 Magazine Editor: Laura Luvara, 9411 4534, lluvara@mbav.com.au

Published by

Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising: Paul Baird Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: sales@crowtherblayne.com.au Production: Brooke Travers Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design Team: Aniko Gaspar, Andrew Crabb, Byron Bailey and Carol Taylor Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: adelaide business bureaux Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of Victoria, 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.

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

President’s Foreword

Master Builders is well placed to protect your interests Our building and construction industry has been at the forefront of recent state and national media. Foremost is the Royal Commission directed at union misconduct, including the recent decision and fines imposed by the Greg Zuccala President Supreme Court of Victoria in regard to the CFMEU/Grocon case. Read more on page 12. Notably, Senator Abetz spoke about “restoring order to our industrial relations framework” at the Master Builders Members’ Conference in February this year, and he provides our guest foreword in this edition. Our March industry breakfast also featured Nigel Hadgkiss, Director of Fair Work Building and Construction, as our guest speaker. Red tape has been an ever increasing burden to the building and construction industry. We welcome the review of regulation being undertaken by the Federal Government and in particular the announcement by the Minister for Small Business for a Board of Taxation Review to identify barriers created by the tax system to small business. Tax compliance is a key burden and the requirement introduced by the previous government for contractors and builders to report every transaction they make with one another to the Australian Tax Office is an excessive administrative encumbrance that needs to be removed.

Confidence continues to build in the housing recovery that started last year and, as Master Builders Chief Economist Peter Jones said in April this year; it’s important that building approvals continue to strengthen in coming months to exert downward pressure on house prices by overcoming the undersupply of housing. Consumer and business confidence continue to be the critical factors in the recovery, with housing affordability also an essential part of the mix. Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey has been conditioning Australians for a tough May budget, a budget that he says is in need of repair, and where “everyone is going to have to make a contribution; big business, small business, all people from all demographics across the community.” This budget will be the first real test of the Government to manage our economy, to maintain growth and confidence while also presenting a responsible budget. Likewise, the same applies to the Victorian Government in its May State budget, but this will be its last opportunity before the November election. This will be a crucial period where federal and state governance, including prudent economic management will affect the prosperity of our industry, and I’m confident in saying that Master Builders continues to strongly represent the interests of our industry to all levels of government and to all sides of politics.

Master Builder Victoria

Guest Foreword

forewords

In praise of a hard working industry Recently I had the pleasure of addressing Master Builders Association Victoria during which I made the following observations.

Senator Eric Abetz Federal Minister for Employment

We as a Government know that it is our job to set the overarching policy but it is people like you that actually create jobs.

The Government understands that it is critical to ensure that the economic settings are right to help your businesses prosper, which will in turn give you the confidence to employ more Australians. We know that the Carbon Tax collects $7 billion each and every year. If every dollar of that money was spent by employers on employing people that’s 60,000 more jobs right there. We know that the Mining Tax is scaring off foreign investment in this country, which has a flow on effect throughout the economy, including construction. We know that the workplace relations laws need to be recalibrated to the sensible centre. And, most obvious of them all, we know that the culture of questionable conduct in the building and construction sector means lost productivity, projects falling behind and an unsettled workforce. An international comparison of Trade Labour Force Entitlements compiled by Davis Langdon shows that Australia has the most adversarial and underworked construction workforce of all countries considered. For the highest pay, we also have the least days worked – including on average 26 rostered days off a year. We have the lowest level of ordinary hours worked per week and have an average of 12 weather-related disruptions per year. We need to lift Australia’s productive capacity. Importantly, we need to lift Australia’s productive capacity on building sites, which is why the Government introduced legislation to reintroduce the ABCC in the first Parliamentary sitting week following the election. The ABCC when it last existed had an economic welfare gain in excess of $6 billion. Importantly, it helped make workplaces less combative and more harmonious. People regularly reported to the Government that, for the first time in years, they looked forward to coming to work each day to actually build things, rather than dreading facing another day full of the sort of belligerent pettiness that so often characterises the industry.

It’s critical for our nation’s competitiveness that unions work with employers to ensure sustainable wages and conditions that do not cost jobs. It is critical to a productive and prosperous Australia, and Victoria in particular, that we re-establish the ABCC. We know the ABCC will work, because it worked before. While the ABCC existed, the economic and industrial performance of the building and construction industry significantly improved. For example, a 2013 Independent Economics report on the state of the sector during this period found that: industry multifactor productivity grew by 16.8 per cent; consumers were better off by around $7.5 billion annually; and fewer working days were lost through industrial action. This is a proven regulator that makes sure that those investing are in control – not the dodgy union bosses and their bikie mates. Our ambition is to see a productive building sector, a building sector not plagued by lawlessness and thuggery and a harmonious environment where workers can go to work in peace, safety and be rewarded with a good income. This Government will do all it can to return the rule of law to the building industry and ensure that wrongdoers are held to account, whoever and wherever they are. We wholeheartedly believe that workers deserve to be able to go to work each day without the fear of being harassed, intimidated or threatened with violence. Thank you for your support in our mission to re-establish the ABCC and restore the normal standards of commercial conduct that apply in every other sector of the economy. Australia cannot afford to have a building and construction industry which is inefficient and unstable. The restoration of the Australian Building and Construction Commission and the Building Code which supports its work is a critical reform for Australia and I look forward to continuing this vital work.

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Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au for up

the date:

Friday 8 August Held at Melbourne’s Premier Venue, the Palladium, Crown, the night is sure to impress, with fine dining and entertainment to be enjoyed by all. View works from some of the State’s top Commercial Builders as our members vie for the title of 2014 Master Builder of the Year.

Join us for the 2014 Master Builders Excellence in Construction Awards. When? From 6.15pm on Friday, 8 August. Where? The Palladium, Crown. Please look out for further details shortly or speak with the team at Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

Senior appointments made at VBA Victorian Building Authority Chief Executive Officer, Prue Digby, has announced a shake-up of roles throughout the organisation. David Wolf has been appointed as Director of Enquiries and Dispute Resolution. David has wide experience dealing with investigations, compliance and communications, having worked previously as the Chief Municipal Inspector at Local Government Investigation and Compliance Inspectorate. Mr Wolf will be leading efforts to reform the disputes resolution processes. Jarrod Edwards will move from WorkSafe Victoria to be the Director, Technical and Regulation. At present, Mr Edwards is WorkSafe’s Director of Workplace Hazards and Hazardous Industries Group. He has more than 15 years of experience in the public sector, largely working in

community safety roles with a specialist technical focus on regulatory reform. Murray Smith will be the Director of Compliance and Performance, having had experience as a compliance professional and having worked at the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, Department of Justice, Responsible Alcohol Victoria and Consumer Affairs Victoria. Adam Toma has been selected as the Director of Licensing and Registration, having previously worked in both the public and private sectors, including at the Commonwealth Bank. He is currently the Director of Licensing at the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation. In addition to these operational appointments, Ms Digby has also selected qualified CPA Stephen Gregory as Director of Corporate Services and Marlo Baragwanath as Director of the Office of the Chief Executive.

news

Master Builder Victoria

to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

Members hear from Bradbury, Abetz and O’Brien at 2014 Members’ Conference A popular line-up of guest speakers inspired and educated a 133 strong crowd at the 2014 Master Builders Members’ Conference in February. Held at the Pullman, Albert Park, the two day conference featured speakers to appeal to members from all sectors of the building and construction industry. The main day began with Winter Olympic gold medallist, Steven Bradbury OAM who gave a speed skating demonstration as part of his inspirational talk on achieving your goals. Bradbury was followed by Bank of Melbourne Senior Economist Hans Kunnen who provided a valuable insight into the state of the local and global economy. Budget buster: State Treasurer Michael O’Brien talks budget.

Kunnen was followed by Federal Minister for Employment Eric Abetz who talked about restoring the national industrial relations framework.

Probuild Design Manager, Aleks Baltovski gave a presentation on Building Information Management systems and a panel discussions on reforming the residential industry and planning laws were also well received. Former AFL Operations Manager and AAAdvisory consultant Adrian Anderson talked about sport and building, drawing comparisons in an insightful discussion. Finally, keynote speaker, State Treasurer Michael O’Brien provided an insight into investment priorities for the building and construction sector for the future. Members were positive in their feedback of the conference.

Media pack: Senator Eric Abetz does a doorstop with media after his Conference speech.

For more detail on Conference speeches, visit www.mbavnews.com.au

SPONSOR INFORMATION Cbus Established in 1984. Cbus is the national industry superannuation fund for the construction, building and allied industries, with more than 700,000 members and 80,000 participating employers.

Fordham Group Fordham acts exclusively for private businesses, their owners and their families. We help our clients manage and improve their businesses, build and protect their wealth and plan and structure their lives.

Incolink Incolink has been supporting your industry since 1988, and is the oldest and largest redundancy funds provider for the commercial building and construction industry; Incolink is a long term partner of the Master Builders Association of Victoria.

Medibank Medibank believe in better health for all Australians. Not by pushing for big changes, but by encouraging small steps. It’s all part of the Generation Better initiative. Medibank has transformed from being purely a private health insurer to an integrated provider of health insurance and health services. Medibank offer a wide range of Workplace Health Services accessible Australia-wide.

news

Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au for up

Royal Commission kicks off The Royal Commission into union governance and corruption allegations is expected to commence hearings shortly and has been asked to provide a report of its findings and recommendations by the end of the year. Jane Fitzgerald, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission, has urged people and organisations that have information that may assist the inquiry to contact her office. The terms of reference for the inquiry are broad, allowing the Commissioner, the Hon John Dyson Heydon AC QC, to go wherever the evidence may lead. This means that union officials, employers and anyone else involved in any form of corruption, collusion or coercion will be subjected to equal scrutiny. Federal Employment Minister Eric Abetz has suggested some employers may have to give an account of themselves, warning the commission was a “sword that will cut both ways”. Law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth has advised employers should take a proactive approach to the Royal Commission rather than purely responding to requests for information, anticipating the inquiry will delve into donations or payments made to unionrelated entities. It is also possible that, in regard to the construction industry, inquiries will be made into the employment of unionnominated labour and the making of enterprise agreements (particularly greenfields agreements). The law firm expects a number of employers to be called, not only to produce significant volumes of documents but also for individuals to give evidence, and notes that some protection of legally privileged communications and documents will be allowed.

Make sure you regularly visit www. mbavnews.com.au to keep up with the latest news regarding the Royal Commission. Supreme Court rules CFMEU is not above the law The Supreme Court has this week imposed a $1.25 million fine on the CFMEU for illegally blockading Victorian construction sites in 2012, having disobeyed court orders. The blockade centred on an industrial dispute at the Emporium construction site between the union and Grocon, which involved ugly clashes with police in Melbourne’s central business district. In addition, the union has also been ordered to pay Grocon’s legal costs, which could be in the order of a further $1 million or more. At the end of 2012, the CFMEU Victorian/Tasmanian Branch had more than $12.3 million in cash at bank and short term deposits as well as net assets worth $51.9 million. Strong, loud signal sent Master Builders’ Chief Executive Officer, Radley de Silva, welcomed the court’s findings. “The Supreme Court has sent a very strong, very loud signal to the CFMEU that no-one is above the law,” said Mr de Silva.

“Our industry and our community were held to ransom by the CFMEU for weeks during this blockade.” No apology, no remorse In his judgement, Supreme Court Judge Anthony Cavanough described the Emporium blockade as “highly visible and high memorable”. “I regard these contempts as exceptionally serious. So much so that they warrant explicit classification as criminal contempts, perhaps for the first time in the Australian industrial context,” said Justice Cavanough. “The Court must visit the defiance of the CFMEU with a penalty which will not only adequately respond to the defiance but also act as a general and specific deterrent.” His Honour also noted the union has yet to show any signs of regret for its actions in directly disobeying orders from Victoria’s highest court. “...the CFMEU initially ignored the Court. Later, it contested its liability. It has made no apology. It does not claim remorse,” Justice Cavanough found. ‘Horrific scenes of lawlessness’ Federal Employment Minister, Senator Eric Abetz, discussed the unlawful blockade when speaking at the Master Builders Members’ Conference.

“These unlawful blockades were part of a militant union campaign aimed at acquiring onsite power, regardless of the costs, and could not be legitimised on the basis of genuine health and safety concerns.

“The law needs to be enforced, whenever it is broken,” said Senator Abetz.

“It’s time the union threw out its outdated playbook tactics of chaos, fear, intimidation and lawlessness to advance its industrial agenda.

“The conduct itself was bad enough, but what made it even more contemptible was that it involved a deliberate breach of orders of the Supreme Court.

“All of us will recall the horrific scenes of lawlessness on the streets of Melbourne in August 2012.

news

Master Builder Victoria

to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

“It’s hard to imagine a more flagrant display of contempt for the rule of law. The Minister also spoke to members about the near 18-month timeframe between the first court hearings on the blockade and the final penalties being announced. “The old truism says that ‘Justice Delayed is Justice Denied’,” Senator Abetz said to members. “While I am conscious of the separation of the executive government from the judiciary, I trust there were good and cogent reasons why it took nine months for the Supreme Court to reach a decision that the CFMEU was guilty of contempt of court. “There are no doubt equally good and cogent reasons why it is taking another nine months for the court to hand down its penalty. “Suffice to say I find it difficult to explain these delays to those that may be minded to seek the protection of the law and desperately need speedy resolution of their issues.” Fines show the need for the ABCC The court’s decision reinforces the need for the Senate to pass legislation reestablishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC). “It’s events like this that show why we need a strong construction industry watchdog,” said Mr de Silva. “Labor and the Greens can stand up for jobs and investment by supporting legislation to re-establish the ABCC or they can continue to turn a blind eye to activity that can cripple our sector at the union’s whim.”

In this section in Master Builder we will review useful apps that can help your business (and your life) run more smoothly.

Do you use mobile applications to do your work more efficiently and easily? These applications, better know as ‘apps’ are pieces of software that can run on the internet, your computer, your phone or other electronic device (e.g. tablets).

iWork Price: $10.49 each. Category: Productivity. Available on: iPad. Features: Incorporates a Microsoft Office-type suite of tools including Pages, Numbers and Keynote. All available to download separately. Pages: A word processor and page layout tool to assist with creating great looking documents, newsletters and reports. Numbers: Features professional templates, easy to create formulas and dynamic tables, charts and spreadsheets. Keynote: Enables you to create captivating presentations using powerful tools and impressive effects.

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Loans for new homes hit January record prospects for those in our industry,” Mr de Silva said. The number of first home buyers continues to remain low, however. In January, just 13.2 per cent of owner occupier homes financed across the country were for first home buyers. In Victoria, it was just 12.7 per cent, an increase compared to figures for the end of 2013.

Source: ABS 5609.0

“There has been much talk about property bubbles and rapidly rising home prices that is scaring off potential first home buyers,” said Mr de Silva. There were 14.2 per cent more home loans issued in Victoria for newly built or off-the-plan homes in January compared to the same time last year.

In total, $634.8 million worth of owneroccupier loans were issued for the month, which was $79.3 million higher than the same time last year.

There were 2058 loans approved across the state in January, up from 1802 in 2013. The news follows a recent climb in home building approvals data. “We are seeing some really optimistic signs for home builders with approvals and loans climbing at the start of the new year,” said Master Builders’ Chief Executive Officer, Radley de Silva. “The January figures are the best start to a year we have seen since 2010, which was a bumper year for the new homes business.”

Source: ABS 5609.0

“Last year ended on a very positive note, with the value of home loan commitments in December reaching its best level since August 2012, and hopefully we will now see these commitments turn into solid business

“Now is actually a good time for first home buyers to purchase a new home, with the average loan taken out for off-the-plan homes in Victoria dropping from $291,000 in October to less than $280,000 in January. “We have seen small increases in the first home buyer percentages in recent months, but they remain much lower than what we have seen in recent years. That’s why Master Builders wants to see an independent review into housing affordability undertaken.” A Senate inquiry into housing affordability commenced in December 2013, which will examine the taxes and levies imposed by national, state and local governments as well as worldwide best practices for funding affordable housing schemes.

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Master Builder Victoria

to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

Land supply target to boost construction sector In a bid to boost confidence in Victoria’s construction industry, Planning Minister Matthew Guy has announced a 50,000 lot land supply target for Melbourne in 2014. “It is vital for the Victorian economy that our supply of land for housing growth is strong,” Mr Guy said. "The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to growing our building industry, which is a key economic driver. Every million dollars spent on housing construction creates seven full time jobs in the building sector, with further flow-on jobs.” In both our most recent State Budget and Plan Melbourne submissions, Master Builders called for the State Government to ensure sufficient land supply is available, appropriately zoned, assessed and suitable for long term new housing needs in Victoria. “Land supply remains a key issue driving housing affordability in Victoria,” Master Builders CEO Radley de Silva said.

“It is vital that the State Government ensure land supply keeps up with demand to help ensure Victorians can achieve the great Australian dream of owning their own home.”

Development Contributions Plans will apply to each structure plan, which will provide for extensive open space, community facilities and local infrastructure.

The 50,000 lot land supply target will be delivered by the Metropolitan Planning Authority, and applies to land in Melbourne's western, northern and south-eastern growth corridors.

More than 500 hectares of employment land will also be included within the structure plans. Geelong will also be a key focus of land supply actions in 2014.

All of the 50,000 lots will be within Melbourne's urban growth boundary, and no changes to the boundary are being proposed.

The Metropolitan Planning Authority has recently invited public comment on Precinct Structure Plans for 21,000 housing lots in Melbourne's southeast growth corridor.

Victoria leads the way in new home approvals Victorian home building approvals climbed 10.4 per cent in January and were 26.6 per cent higher than the same time last year, seasonally adjusted. The figures show renewed confidence in the home building sector and we have not seen approvals this high in the first month of any year since 2011. There were more than 2800 detached houses (seasonally adjusted) approved across the state in January, which is the highest figure in 31 months. A further 2000 multi-unit homes were also approved in January, which will be further bolstered by Planning Minister

Matthew Guy’s decision to fast track a further 2000 high rise apartments in Melbourne’s CBD alone.

population without putting upward pressure on housing affordability,” said Master Builders CEO Radley de Silva.

The new data shows there were more new homes approved in Victoria during January than anywhere else in the country, with 4846 here compared to 4736 in New South Wales and 3542 in Queensland.

“With the Reserve Bank today keeping official interest rates steady at record low levels and significant stamp duty savings for eligible first home buyers, now is a great time for Victorians to invest in a new home.”

In trend terms, January was the eighth consecutive month that home building approvals increased in Victoria. “This is great news for our industry and for our community as it will generate jobs and investment as well as helping Victoria meet the needs of a growing

The positive residential approval figures follows news of a surge in confidence among Victorian builders, with recently released Master Builders’ research showing confidence in the industry’s future prospects is at its highest point since mid-2010.

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Non-residential approvals up 14% in January Non-residential building approvals worth $855 million were issued across Victoria during January. These approvals are 14.4 per cent higher than the previous month and 39.2 per cent higher than the same time last year (seasonally adjusted). In fact, in the whole of 2013 there were only two months where seasonally adjusted approvals were higher – in October and May. The trend for non-residential building approvals has now moved positively in each of the last twelve months, providing a hopeful sign that activity in this sector will pick up pace throughout 2014. The latest data follows the release of new Master Builders’ research that shows builders and construction companies are more positive about the industry’s future prospects than at any other time since mid-2010. As the next graph shows, Victoria has been leading the charge over the past year when it comes to nonresidential building approvals. A year ago our state was at level pegging with Queensland and well behind New South Wales. Today, the gap between New South Wales and Victoria has closed slightly and there are now some $96 million in additional approvals happening here in trend terms per month compared to Queensland.

Record apartment approvals signal thousands of new construction jobs More than half a billion dollars of new private investment was approved for Melbourne’s CBD yesterday in what the Victorian Coalition has dubbed Super Tuesday. Yesterday marked the largest number of private residential permits ever made on one day by the state government with 248 storeys of new high-rise apartments fast tracked for central Melbourne. Planning Minister Matthew Guy said the release of the five towers would provide more options for new home buyers. “Demand in Melbourne’s high-rise, high density market is strong with recent surveys showing Melbourne now having more apartments being sold than Surfers Paradise,” Mr Guy said. The move will create 2000 new apartments, $557 million in new construction work and up to 4000 new construction jobs.

The permit approvals include: • 127-141 A’Beckett Street, 632 apartments, 63 storeys, 196 metre high, worth $164 million; • 464 Collins Street, 185 apartments, 55 storeys, 181 metre high worth $100 million; • 398 Elizabeth Street, 466 apartments, 55 storeys, 178 metre high, worth $135 million; • 420 Spencer Street, 438 apartments 38 storeys, 131 metre high, worth $70 million; and • 395 Dockland Drive, 360 apartments, 18 storeys, 61 metre high, worth $88 million (a total of 122 metres of development). • Master Builders Association of Victoria CEO Radley de Silva welcomed the development. “This is a sector of our economy that is crying out for investment and we are heartened by the government’s actions,” Mr de Silva said. “We look forward to the construction jobs that will flow through as a result of fast tracking these permits.” Mr Guy said the approvals reflected new Plan Melbourne policy.

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to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7

Right-of-entry update Why would a CFMEU organiser with right-of-entry permits refuse to lawfully exercise those permits and instead trespass on a construction site? This is exactly what Victorian CFMEU organiser Jo Myles did despite having a federal right-of-entry and state Authorised Representatives of Registered Worker Organisations (ARREO) permit. Mr Myles would be aware that contractors working on government funded projects are required to ensure union entry onto site is in strict accordance with right-of-entry legislation. He would also be aware of the fines and loss of permit privileges that he risked. The CFMEU ‘spin’ on what it views as a ‘worrying trend’ was that the law shouldn’t be applied as the organiser in question ‘was known to everyone on site’ and that ‘workers have a right to call on their organisor over a safety matter on the job’. There are three major problems with the CFMEU’s reasoning. Firstly, whether a union official is ‘known’ or not is irrelevant to the question of whether right-of-entry is being exercised. The CFMEU is not above the law. The Federal Court of Australia in Ramsay v Sunbuild Ltd (2014) FCA 54 confirmed that the Fair Work Act 2009 regulates state and territory work health and safety rights-of-entry. Secondly, workers do have a right to call on a union organiser to investigate a suspected safety breach (in accordance with the applicable safety resolution procedure), provided that organiser legitimises that entry by exercising right-of-entry in accordance with the law. Thirdly, the organiser in question is ‘known’ for abusing safety to further the industrial interests of the union. As reported in the Herald Sun in February, Mr Myles was fined almost $5000 for his part in stopping work on a $350 million project in Queensland in 2010. The Federal Circuit Court heard that Mr Myles abused a staff member who questioned his lack of safety gear, stating “I don’t have to answer to you, you f***** little grub”. Mr Myles was one of three officials seen with an EFTPOS machine when talking to workers on the site during the incident. The Court heard the visit was about recruitment and membership retention, not a safety issue as the officials had claimed. If the CFMEU is serious about safety, they should immediately end the practice of abusing safety for industrial purposes, and ensure their officials enter in strict accordance with right-of-entry laws. Master Builders is encouraged by the manner in which Victoria Police is currently responding to requests to having trespassers removed from construction sites. It comes at a time of renewed focus on right-of-entry compliance by both FWBC and the CCCU; and with the Federal Government moving to address the current imbalance of right of entry legislation brought about by its predecessor. For advice on right-of-entry or other information contact the IR Department on (03) 9411 4560.

Regional apprentice of the year awards The culmination of seven weeks of judging and awards presentations came to a close on 20 March with the South West Regional Apprentice Awards in Warrnambool. This year there were more than 350 apprentices nominated for the seven different regions with 114 apprentices interviewed for the chance to win one of the three major awards presented at each night. Combined attendance reached more than 1500 people consisting of apprentices, employers, parents, partners and training providers. The awards recognise and applaud the achievements of the outstanding nominees for their achievements in the academic year of 2013. The winners of each section have now been interviewed in front of an expert panel to vie for the Regional Apprentice of the Year Award, the State Employer Nominated Award and the President’s Award and ultimately the chance to be named the Master Builders State Apprentice of the Year. We would like to wish the regional apprentices the best of luck with their interviews and congratulations on your achievements so far.

Winners: Ballarat Regional winner Timothy McGee

Gippsland Regional winner Richard McPherson

Employer Nominated winner Travis Moschetti

Employer Nominated winner Jason White

Diploma winner Charlee Kitchin

Chairman’s Award winner Brandon Betts

Chairman’s Award winner Bryce Conheady

North West

Geelong Regional winner Matthew Burrell

Regional winner Samuel Winfield Employer Nominated winner Scott Humphreys

Regional winner Gabe McClelland

Chairman’s Award winner Jordan Bett

Chairman’s Award winner Matthew Broad

North East

Warrnambool Regional winner David Kingan Regional winner Ryan Leeder Chairman’s Award winner Dylan Baillie

Regional winner Matthew Bekker Employer Nominated winner Clayton Sessions Chairman’s Award winner Lachlan Cale Bendigo Regional winner Luke Lougoon Employer Nominated winner Samuel Hartley Chairman’s Award winner Corey Ah-Dore

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Master Builder Victoria

F r o m CEO Ra d l e y D e S i lva

Radley de Silva CEO, Master Builders Association of Victoria

Drug and alcohol testing a must Workers safety should always be paramount whether on a work site big or small. Master Builders has supported Victorian Government moves to improve security and tackle dangerous work practices on taxpayer-funded building sites. Amendments will be enacted from 1 July, 2014 to require construction companies to implement comprehensive drug and alcohol screening measures. This will both improve safety of construction workers and ensure companies are eligible to tender for State Government construction contracts. Changes to the Implementation Guidelines to the Victorian Code of Practice for the Building and Construction Industry will also require companies to demonstrate best practice security measures such as CCTV monitoring, biometric scanning and smartcard technology. “Fraud and theft on Victorian Government construction sites has a direct impact on construction costs, which are ultimately borne by the taxpayer,” said Premier Denis Napthine. “The government will take whatever steps are needed to put a stop to this unfair impost.”

Master Builders has previously called for support for organisations that have sought to institute drug and alcohol testing onto their commercial building sites, particularly after the Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission ruled that the EBA does not preclude drug testing. The CFMEU, dissatisfied with the outcomes of the Fair Work decision have hindered and obstructed organisations from taking this action. The government have now taken action to counter the actions of the CFMEU. The CFMEU claims that there is insufficient evidence pointing to issues around drug taking on construction sites. This, however, contradicts results of research undertaken by the Sustainable Built Environment National Research Centre, which found that 11.1 per cent of surveyed construction workers had used cannabis within 24 hours of its 2012 survey. The same research also found that 4.6 per cent of construction sector workers had used ecstasy or methamphetamine type substances in the 24 hours before the survey and 9.2 per cent in the previous week.

It’s time for the CFMEU to face reality when it comes to drug and alcohol use in our sector. If it really cares about workplace safety, the union will support this testing. Despite protestations from the unions, the construction industry isn’t being singled out by this move. Drug and alcohol testing applies to motorists, transport workers, aviation and civil construction sectors. Notably, drug testing has also been rolled out on Thiess’ M80 Ring Road upgrade project in Melbourne, despite the objections of the CFMEU. So it seems the construction industry is actually playing catch-up when it comes to this area of the industry. It’s a natural next step in the pursuit of onsite safety and productivity.

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Sector Group Commit tees

Materials Manufacturing and Supply Sector Group Committee In each issue this year, Master Builders will be doing a feature on our Sector Group Committees and their priorities for 2014, to give you a better understanding of the work they do and how they represent your needs. The Materials Manufacturing and Supply Sector Group Committee (MM&S) represents the manufacturers and suppliers within the building industry. The committee is comprised of 10 members, chaired by Rob Ferrari from CSR, and holds two Council of Management positions. This committee is a strong voice that discusses key issues affecting the industry, such as product compliance and regulation, market trends and issues affecting the supply of materials. The committee also meets with the Housing Sector Committee twice a year, keeping

the lines of communication open for identifying common issues between suppliers and builders. The key priority identified by the MM&S Committee members for 2014 is communicating product information and quality concerns to Master Builders members. Among the issues that the committee would like to make you aware of is the need for composite gas pipe protection from Ultra Violet Light. There are potentially unsafe situations resulting from the use and installation of cross linked polyethylene/ aluminium (PE-X/AL/PE-X) composite pipes where they are exposed to UV light with an increased risk of mechanical damage. Currently, composite pipe may be used in a gas installation, including where there

is a connection to a gas metre. Where the service passes through a wall or when exposed to sunlight, the composite pipe has been known to fail, including cracking of the outer skin of the pipe. Fair Trading NSW has recommended that where any part of a gas installation is exposed, an alternative pipe material should be used. Updates on product issues will be provided in future issues of the magazine and email newsletters. For further information about our Sector Committees or to provide feedback to the MM&S Committee please contact Policy Adviser RenĂŠe Dunstan-Ratcliff on (03) 9411 4531 or via email rdunstan-ratcliff@mbav.com.au.

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Financial Services

Money tips you may have missed Many complain they have not received the ‘money secrets’ from their parents so they too are destined to be Harry Pontikis Manager Financial battlers their Services whole lives. This is my endeavour, to assist with general information regarding prudent money management. Smart money management is about spending less than you earn, investing early and often and becoming knowledgeable regarding money. No short-cuts: Stop searching for shortcuts and secrets. Focus instead on spending only the money you make and learn the difference between good and bad debt. Exit the ‘stuff’ trap: More stuff will not make you happy. Working harder or getting more in to debt for additional or newer things will never satisfy you – it’s a never ending trap. Pick the low-hanging fruit: Cut costs on unnecessary things like bank fees, high credit card costs, and annual membership fees on credit cards, etc. Automate everything: When it comes to saving and investing, you are your own worst enemy. So remove yourself from the equation. Automate your savings, bill payments and investments. No silver bullet: Waiting for the perfect investment or opportunity before making a commitment to saving or investing will squander years from your wealth creation opportunities. Redirecting 10 per cent of your income into your home loan’s offset account until you find a good investment is a good idea.

Surround yourself with experts: Real estate agents, credit advisers and accountants may not be the most exciting group of people to have over for a barbecue, but they can definitely provide you with advice, insight, and information which may not be freely available. Take charge: Don't blame the Prime Minister, your ex or your business partners for your financial situation. Your circumstances may not be entirely your fault, but they are your responsibility. Protect your credit file vehemently.

Learn, grow and do something: Don't wait for someone else to tell you what to do. You have the guts and the brains to run your own business. Do the same with your finances. Money may not make you happy but it provides you with options and choices in life! For more information, contact Harry Pontikis on 0411 258 058 or email harry@mbafinance.com.au. DISCLAIMER: This article is not to be considered specific advice. It is general in nature and your circumstances have not been taken into consideration. Chocolate Money t/a Master Builders Financial Services and is the holder of an Australian Credit License - 387277

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OHS

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Drugs a concern for the whole construction industry The Victorian Government’s requirement for mandatory drug and alcohol testing on state construction John Darcy OHS Manager tenders after 1 July 2014 will have significant implications for the industry. Principal contractors that tender for state funded projects will need to implement drug and alcohol policies that provide for random and ‘for cause’ testing into their businesses. These contractors will need to implement their policies in consultation with their employees and health and safety representatives. Principal contractors will need to weigh up the various types of testing that are available, identify service providers and assess the cost implications for their businesses. Many of the workers that will be tested will not be direct employees of the principal contractors. Subcontractors will therefore need to consider the actions that they will need to take when one of their employees tests positive and is asked to remove themselves from the site. Transferring the worker to another workplace on the back of a positive test simply will not be an option. Subcontractors will need to think seriously about having their own drug and alcohol policies to cater for testing subsequent to that provided by the principal contractor. In response to the Government’s announcement, the CFMEU suggested that the most recent research from Flinders University in South Australia indicated that two percent of workers go to work and enter workplaces under the influence of alcohol or drugs and that

there was no evidence to suggest that construction workers were any different.

campaigned strongly on the drug in recent months.

The CFMEU also suggested that the research showed that drugs and alcohol had ‘only’ had a three percent impact in the number of fatalities at workplaces.

The OHS Unit recently assisted a domestic builder with advice about drug testing. The member advised that one of his subcontractors had lost their team of five employees, who were simply not turning up for work because of the drug Ice.

Both responses seem to provide a pretty sound rationale for the introduction of mandatory testing. In recent months there have been numerous headlines in the press about the scourge of the drug ‘Ice’ (i.e. methamphetamine) into the community. In January 2014 the regional centre of Mildura was referred to in the Herald Sun as ‘Ice town”. On 29 August 2013 The Age reported that rampant methamphetamine use was devastating regional Victorian towns and some of Melbourne’s outer suburbs, with senior police describing the drug as the most harmful they have seen. The Age reported that police in Geelong, Albury, Horsham and Warrnambool had also reported increases in family violence and thefts they believe were connected to ice use. Newspapers in Geelong, Bendigo and Gippsland have

The OHS Unit and the Industrial Relations Department regularly speak to members about live situations where workers are on site and are suspected to be under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The issue is just as relevant, and critical, to domestic builders and trades. Having drug and alcohol policies in place helps an employer to proactively inform their employees and subcontractors that they intend to manage risks to ensure that workers are not entering their sites under the influence. This is clearly preferable to the alternative, reactive approach which is akin to trying to put out a fire out when it has already gotten hold of the curtains. For more information contact the OHS Department on: (03) 9411 4555

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Insurance

Understanding Management Liability Insurance Management Liability Insurance is an area that is drastically under insured in the construction Luke Hueston industry. It protects Victoria State Manager MBAIS you and the company against the risks and exposures of running the company (i.e. your liability for mismanagement). Without adequate protection you could risk losing, not only your business, but also your personal assets. This insurance protects you personally, and therefore your wealth and lifestyle. The legal costs to defend allegations of wrongful acts alone can be financially crippling for businesses and individuals. Management Liability Insurance is not Professional Indemnity Insurance The purpose of Professional Indemnity ('PI') Insurance is to respond to claims from third parties in respect of the professional/specialist services (including advice) you provide NOT for claims that you mismanaged your company and caused loss to others. You have to take out separate insurance for this exposure. Where PI Insurance covers the 'activities' of the company, Management Liability Insurance focuses on the 'act of running a company'. What does Management Liability Insurance cover? • Damages and claimant costs awarded against you • Defence (i.e. legal) costs • Investigation costs • Civil fines and pecuniary penalties.

else involved in the management of a company for claims alleging a wrongful act and for which the company does not grant indemnification to such person. Employees can also be covered. Employment practices liabilities Provides cover to the company, directors, officers and employees for claims made by current, past and prospective employees for issues arising from employment practices, including harassment, unfair dismissal and other employment issues. Statutory liabilities Covers certain individuals and the company for fines and penalties from operating the business including fines related to workers compensation and occupational health and safety. Crime cover A comprehensive crime section provides cover to the company for loss arising from dishonest acts such as theft and fraud by employees including theft of stock. Corporate entity liabilities Extremely relevant for companies that are owned by the directors by providing cover to the company for actions arising from managerial matters. A claim against the company will cause the same financial hardship to the owner; therefore this cover is extended to provide protection to the company. Many of the same claims against the directors and officers will, typically, be brought first against the company. Legal representation costs Legal representation costs that are incurred by directors/officers and the company for attendance at official investigations or inquiries are covered.

Management Liability Insurance is a packaged product which will normally cover the following management liability risks:

Other covers include tax investigation, public relations and crisis containment

Directors and officers liabilities Will protect the past, present and future directors and officers plus anyone

Additional management exposures can also be insured against under management liability insurance, to

reimburse the company for certain costs incurred during a tax investigation by the ATO or to engage professional assistance in a crisis. Some pointers • The potential for the severity of loss grows as revenue in the company increases. The bigger the company, the bigger the claims tend to be. • Not only can directors be held personally liable (exposing personal wealth) but also managers and employees. • As the regulatory environment changes, directors are often unaware of their full responsibilities at law. • Directors are responsible for the risk management of their company. ASIC has been on the front foot, putting directors on notice. • A company's reputation can be damaged if they are investigated, not to mention the ongoing legal costs to defend claims. • In the current economic climate – companies have seen an increase in: 1. Business failures. 2. Regulatory investigations. 3. Employment practices claims. 4. Employee theft. 5. Regulatory actions. Most common types of claims under Management Liability Insurance • Breaches of director's duties and/or fiduciary duties, including breach of trust. • False, misleading and deceptive conduct by directors/officers and employees. • Actions alleging improper and illegal conduct. • Statutory breach of duty i.e. under legislation. • OHS prosecutions and inquiries. • Employment: Unfair/wrongful dismissal, discrimination, harassment, wrongful failure to employ or promote. • Defamation by directors/officers. • Breach of intellectual property rights by directors/officers. • Employee theft, including theft of money and property. • Statutory fines and penalties. • Taxation investigation costs.

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B LSC

Participants rave about new Australian training environments Marc Lyons General Manager BLSC

New view: Participants view the new Australian environment on the 15-metre wide parabolic screen at the BLSC.

Completely enthralled: Launch guests view the scenes â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;backstageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Stop there: Actors get into character at the launch of new Australian scenarios.

Australian construction companies and builders now have access to the most advanced and current simulated training environments in the world.

newly created residential environments which include a green field site located in Point Cook and a knock-down rebuild in Strathmore.

This year welcomes the most exciting initiative for the BLSC since its opening in 2012 with the first ever training course conducted in our newly created Australian virtual construction sites. This first course utilised our commercial training environment project Istana, a 25 storey residential and retail building located in the heart of Melbourne at 218 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beckett Street. Future residential courses will now also utilise the two

These new environments now provide access for the Australian building and construction industry to virtual, risk-free training environments that reflect current Australian building practices and construction methods. The inclusion of current Australian building documentation, processes and procedures has also significantly increased the scope of training possibilities at the BLSC.

In addition to the new environments we have also incorporated the newly developed Australian scenarios. These scenarios have been based on extensive stakeholder engagement ensuring that they are current and relevant to Australian business needs. The introduction of these new environments, documentation and scenarios have significantly enhanced our ability to truly immerse participants in sites that better reflect current building methods and practices, leading to even better learning outcomes being achieved. To find out more about how the BLSC can help your business visit: www.blsc.com.au

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Training

Building up your business with training By Corrie Williams and Anna Thomas

Deciding that you want to develop a new skill or brush up on some old ones can be a confusing time – you’ll be asking yourself what kind of qualifications you want? And more importantly, where can you get them? Knowing that you want to get some more accounting skills for balancing the books or that tips on how to best manage your team is a great first step. However, you need to ensure that you find the right training provider for you and your situation. As a starting point, the Federal Government’s training site www.training.gov.au can help you find the vocational qualifications for the field you’re trying to brush up on – all you need is a few keywords for what you’re trying to achieve. And in case you were wondering, yes – there are qualifications for Circus Arts in Australia. Once you’ve understood the range of qualifications available for your topic of interest, the site also very helpfully lists all organisations and Registered Training Organisations that deliver training for those specific qualifications. When you’ve found the organisations that provide the training you’re after, there a few questions to ask to make sure it’s the right fit for you: • Is the training nationally accredited? • Does the training lead to a full qualification? • Where will the training take place? • How long will the training take? • Is the training full or part-time? • What is the reputation of the provider? • What is the background of the trainers? • What are the costs and are there any "extras" that I need to pay for? • Is there any funding that I am eligible for? • What are the class sizes like? • Does the training organisation provide learning support and if so, does this cost extra?

• How have other people used the qualifications earned through the course? What kind of experience/ knowledge level do I need before enrolling in the training program? Knowing what kind of experience or skills are required before entering a class can help to ensure that you’re not punching above (or below) your weight when it comes time to study. Master Builders’ Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) is a great example of this – it’s an accelerated course aimed at people with three or more years experience in the building industry. We assume that you know how to read a plan, know all the building terms and when we give examples of working on site you know what we are talking about.

This course is one of the qualifications towards becoming a Registered Domestic Builder, enhancing your career path and earning potential. Master Builders has excellent courses available to help you with your business and develop your skill sets – give our Training Team a call today on (03) 9411 4555 to see how we can help develop the skills that can boost the success of your building business. We have a great understanding of builders’ training needs, so if we don’t have a course that is right for you, or covers what you’re after, we might be able to point you in the right direction. For more information, contact the Training Department on (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbavtraining.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

Green Living

features

Green Living Builders exceeding the standards

Phillip Alviano Sustainability Adviser

GJ Gardner Homes in Geelong recently completed construction of a new display home that was rated at 9.1 Stars hoping it will appeal to electricity savvy homebuyers.

The Balance 9.1, in the Warralily Coast Estate at Armstrong Creek opened its doors to the public on 18 January 2014. Achieving its 9.1 rating through a mix of intelligent design and innovative internal features, the home’s expected day-to-day energy consumption costs for heating, cooling and lighting are expected to be minimal. It was able to reach this rating without compromising on a range of stylish and sophisticated aesthetics that complement its energy efficient qualities. Rohan Smith, G.J. Gardner Homes Geelong Franchisee, believes that

the new offering presents an exciting opportunity for residents looking to build in the area. “We’re proud to offer a home with an energy rating that, as far as we are aware no other builder in Geelong has ever attempted to put on display,” Rohan said. “At the end of the day, a high energy rating is going to save the residents money and reduce the impact on our environment, which is a win-win for everyone involved.” The exterior architecture features simple yet strong lines of design with the clever interior layout catering for all types of families. With three spacious bedrooms, storage space and a generous size kitchen, The Balance 9.1 is displayed with an optional fully equipped outdoor room and plunge pool for the ultimate in summer socialising.

As a south facing home, it was important to place living zones at the rear (i.e. north facing) to take advantage of the sun for heating during winter. The northern orientation of living zones also assists in capturing natural light and thus reducing the need for excessive artificial lighting. High performance, double glazed timber awning windows also helped. The double glazing units are separated by a 10mm space filled with argon, an inert gas that provides lower conductivity than air. In addition, all gaps between the windows, door frames and timber wall frames were sealed with low pressure expansion foam. A high star rating cannot be achieved without the effective use of thermal mass. In the case of The Balance 9.1, the use of reverse masonry construction, combined with a centrally placed internal masonry wall and exposed concrete slab on waffle pods provided the thermal mass elements.

Display home: GJ Gardner’s The Balance 9.1 is a good example of a practical, sustainable home.

features Insulation included R6 batts in the roof and R2.7 in the walls. Natural ventilation was encouraged with the fitting of insect screens and ceiling fans. All external doors were fitted with weather seals to prevent draughts. Ceiling draughts are prevented using exhaust fans fitted to the bathroom and ensuite which are self closing and sealed downlight fittings. Draughts were further reduced with low pressure, expanding foam around the window frames and wall frames and the concrete slab and wall frame bottom plate. Zoning is also used in The Balance 9.1 to great effect. Internal doors between the open plan living area and the bedroom, wet areas and hallway reduce conditioned air loss. Closing the internal door to the conditioned zone before opening external doors can severely reduce the amount of heat transferred from one zone to the next and thus reduce the amount of energy required to re-condition the air. A host of other features help to improve the sustainability of this home including: Dual pipe estate: Class A recycled water supplies sanitary flushing within the home and alfresco while also providing for garden irrigation. Rain water tanks: Two 2,000 litre Slimline tanks capture all rainwater from the dwelling to provide water for a plunge pool. Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rated plumbing fixtures: Water efficient shower heads, tap ware and water closets installed throughout. Landscaping: Water wise native and coastal plantings with artificial grass to reduce irrigation requirements. In-floor heating: Gas fired, hydronic, in-floor heating system which uses the concrete floor’s thermal mass to radiate warmth throughout the home.

Master Builder Victoria

Green Living

Living zones: The kitchen and living zones of The Balance 9.1 feature a range of sustainable features to improve energy efficiency.

Light Emitting Diode (LED) downlights: Fully sealed downlights installed throughout.

requirement, the inverter technology means it will be running as efficiently as possible when required.

Induction cooktop: Approximately 30 per cent quicker to heat than conventional cooktops and more efficient with on-demand heat control.

Home automation: A home automation system designed to interface with lighting, appliances, air conditioning, alarms, etc. so that at the touch of a screen (in home or via iPhone) homeowners can control the item providing ultimate control of electrical energy consumption.

Instant hot water: Instantaneous gas hot water system provides hot water ondemand which in turn means no energy cost to continuously heat stored water. Photo Voltaic (PV) solar panels: A 5.4kW SOLbond solar panel system provides power to the home but also provides power for the ‘energy hungry’ pool pumps which are programmed to run during the day when the solar system produces the most output. Inverter pool pumps: 8 Star energy efficient inverter pool pumps which diminish the energy demand through the use of variable pump speeds. Inverter split system cooling: Although the energy performance of the house should mean a minimal usage

The Balance 9.1 is located at 27 Coastside Drive, Armstrong Creek and will be open for inspection Saturday through to Wednesday from noon until 5pm, commencing Saturday 18 January.

Master Builders Green Living Victoria is supported by:

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Master Builder Victoria

Ca s e S t u dy C o n s t r u c t i o n

Chris takes on the drug dilemma

Chris from Case Study Construction

Chris from Case Study Construction listened to the talk back discussion on the radio. A flurry of callers were ringing the station after the Premier announced that contractors tendering for State Government projects after 1 July 2014 would be required to have mandatory drug and alcohol testing policies.

Chris contacted the Master Builders OHS Unit and spoke to OHS Advisor James Curtin.

Chris was under the same impression as many of the callers who said that drug and alcohol testing was already prevalent in other sectors including mining, rail, road transport and aviation.

“The type of testing that you are referring to Chris is ‘for cause’ testing, where you have a suspicion that a worker might be under the influence of alcohol or a substance. We would strongly recommend that any move to have a worker tested for the presence of drugs or alcohol would be conducted in accordance with a policy that provides for testing,” James advised.

The discussions prompted Chris to think about his own business and about what he would do if a worker arrived on one of his sites potentially under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Chris recalled the recent newspaper headlines about the drug ‘Ice’ and how the use of the drug was becoming more prevalent. He also recalled reading an article in a construction industry newsletter some time back which revolved around a survey of young workers who claimed that ‘Speed’ was their preferred ‘drug of choice’.

“Hi James, if I had a subby rock up onto one of my sites today and I suspected that he was on drugs could I get him drug tested?” Chris asked.

“And if the worker tested positive what would you recommend that I should do then?” Chris asked. “Drug and alcohol policies will provide for both random and for cause testing. The policy should also provide for disciplinary action, including possible termination,” James advised.

“It is important to recognise that drugs and alcohol are a social problem and the policy should provide for counselling and support for a worker that might have a drug problem. The action that an employer might take should be dependent upon the particular circumstances at that time,” he continued. “You also have the support of our Industrial Relations staff to guide you”. James made Chris aware of the various types of testing and assisted Chris to identify a couple of drug and alcohol testing service providers. Chris realised that introducing a policy would help him to be ‘ahead of the game’, making it clear to his employees and subbies how he would respond to workers under the influence of drugs and alcohol on site. He also realised that introducing random testing was a proactive measure that would help his workers understand that they should not come to his sites under the influence. For more information, contact the OHS Department on: (03) 9411 4555

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Master Builder Victoria

A DVERTORI A L

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ACRS – eliminating breaks in the ‘Chain of Certification’ Quality construction projects require quality materials with demonstrated compliance. Selecting construction materials based on price alone can end up costing significantly more than using materials that are selected on the basis of quality and performance – particularly if it is determined that fault in law could be found. Put simply, it doesn’t matter how well you build if you have built in a high risk of structural failure through using unverified materials from an uncertified supplier. 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 substandard construction materials, in these days of widespread litigation and strict ‘chain of responsibility’ legislation, the use of non-compliant 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.

• 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

Major construction clients, designers and contractors worldwide, recognise and even specify ACRS and its product certification scheme to confirm the technical competence of suppliers and gain assurance of consistent product quality.

WARNING Just because the steel originally came from an ACRS certified mill, does not mean the end product is “ACRS certified.”

ACRS is the expert, independent, third party product certification scheme for construction steels supplied to AS/NZS Standards. ACRS was created in 2000 as a not-for-profit body to provide a cost effective, but credible means of verifying through direct, factory and in-market assessment, that the construction steels supplied to building sites consistently meet the requirements of engineers, specifiers, builders, building certifiers and customers. 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

When it comes to ACRS certification, there are only ever two options, either: 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 webbased 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

Non-compliant steel is a gamble that can lead to heavy losses. • Whether you’re an engineer, certifier, builder or supplier – using and signing off on non-compliant steel is simply a gamble that’s not worth taking. • If the integrity of your structure fails, loss of reputation and financial liability could just be the beginning of your problems. • Building with steel that appears less expensive could also mean it doesn’t comply with Australia/New Zealand Standards for construction. • ACRS Certificates of Product Compliance help check compliance to Australian/New Zealand Standards and the Building Codes.

• How do you know your building or construction is safe if you don’t know if the materials are compliant? • Understanding how you can protect yourself is critical. You have the power to refuse to use non-compliant steel. • So ask yourself this – is it worth building without a ACRS test certificate?

It’s not a gamble worth taking. Demand the ACRS Certificates of Product Compliance. Contact ACRS on (02) 9965 7216 or info@steelcertification.com or visit www.steelcertification.com ACRS – The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545

www.steelcertification.com

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Master Builder Victoria

M e e t t h e S ta f f

Name: Ingrid Mountford Position: Assistant Membership Manager Location: East Melbourne

Name: Deborah Simmonds Position: Building Service Coordinator Location: Bendigo

How long have you been with Master Builders? About 18 months.

How long have you been with Master Builders? Five months.

What does your job entail? I coordinate projects aimed at improving what we offer members. This might be new offers, different ways of communicating, or changing the way we do things to free up time so we can help members even more. I also talk to members and provide advice, mostly about the assistance we can offer them through the builder registration process.

What does your job entail? I issue building permits and also carry out office administration tasks as required.

What’s one thing members may not know about your department? We call every member who is well overdue with their membership fees and talk with them about their situation. We try to find out if they are experiencing some difficulty, or if there may be something that they are unhappy about. In some cases, members aren’t aware of a service that we offer that could help them, and in other cases we find out about an area in which we can improve.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Satisfying our clients, especially issuing their permits.

How do you help Master Builders members? I help members understand the services we offer that can help them with different situations, often related to builder registration. This might be over the phone, in person or at Master Builders events. What’s the most rewarding part of your job? When I talk to a member and the advice or information I give seems to genuinely help them. It gives me a sense that I’m contributing to something very worthwhile. What’s the most challenging part of your job? The long commute to and from work. What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? The fun, enthusiastic bunch of people that I work with. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Taking part in solo and team open-water swim events with a bunch of friends. So far I’ve been in ones at spots around the bay and I hope to go in one from Perth to Rottnest Island next summer. I also love kayaking, (particularly seeing dolphins while kayaking at Balnarring) and cooking (and eating) cakes. Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself? In a moment of enthusiasm I bought a house from the trading post (for relocation and renovation, naturally soon after saying I’d never renovate again).

How do you help Master Builders members? We assist members with all of their permit requirements and advise how Master Builders can help with all of their enquiries including legal, training and more.

What’s the most challenging part of your job? Issuing building permits in line with the timeline expectations of our clients. What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? Meeting the staff from all over Victoria. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? My hobbies are tennis, wine and food and my beautiful family. Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself? The scariest thing I’ve ever done was abseiling off Table Top Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. I loved it! I do love to travel.

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Master Builder Victoria

Master Builders staff and members have been busy networking, learning and enjoying themselves at a range of events including the Tomorrow’s Leaders function at Honey Bar, the March Industry Breakfast and the Regional Apprentice Awards. Check out all the fun here. Top apprentices: Jane Alexander and Michael Taylor from ABBTF with Bendigo Apprentice of the Year, Luke Lougoon.

Lead speaker: Director of Kililla Property Group, James Weaver, at the Tomorrow’s Leaders function at Honey Bar.

Successful smiles: Peter Bell from Llyod Group and Scott Matterson from May Constructions catch up at the Tomorrow’s Leaders function.

Congratulations Timothy: Ballarat Apprentice of the Year, Timothy McGee accepts his award from Master Builders General Manager of IR and Corporate Services, Lawrie Cross.

Guest speaker: Jeff Pulford from Ballarat City Council was guest speaker at the Ballarat Members’ Night.

Breakfast wrap: Director of Fair Work Building and Construction, Nigel Hadgkiss, gives members the low down at the March Industry Breakfast.

Top work: Trevor MacNish from FXD (centre) with award winners at the Ballarat Apprentice Awards.

social pages

Question time: Members grill Master Builders staff at the Ballarat Members’ Night.

If you have any photos you’d like to submit for the Social Pages, please email them to lluvara@mbav.com.au naming who is in the photo and where it was taken. Likewise, please contact us on (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au if you’d like to know what events are happening in your area.

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Master Builder Victoria

Regional Round up

Ballarat

Geelong

Gippsland

It has been a very busy three months since the Christmas break with a high level of domestic activity in the Ballarat region and also our involvement with developer projects in various regional centres. There continues to be an expansion in the residential estate land development in the two growth areas to the west of Ballarat with infrastructure construction well underway and many dwellings already occupied. A new shopping centre will form part of the new Lucas suburb.

The Geelong Region has a number of new Estates that are developing at a steady pace in the Armstrong Creek area.

The 2014 Gippsland calendar started off with the Regional Apprentice Awards held at The Premier Function Centre in Traralgon on 26 February. We had a very good attendance and the night was a great success with some very impressive winners that are sure to go on and become leaders of our industry.

The Master Builders activity has been very high in March with the extremely popular Regional Apprentice Awards, Ballarat Section Meeting, Wimmera Section Meeting and a Members’ Night. The Ballarat Section Meeting involved a cruise on Lake Wendouree on the rebuilt paddlesteamer and an insight into the problems associated with the restoration and then rebuild after extensive fire damage which virtually destroyed the original boat. Two members of the Paddlesteamer Association provided an historical summary of the boat activity on Lake Wendouree over the past century and advised that they are establishing a museum at the boat shed. The Ballarat Office have a new staff member in Nada Mijatovic who is enjoying the challenge of a new career. Regional training has not developed at the Ballarat Office as we would have liked and therefore request that members contact this office to enable us to provide courses for members which are of greatest need. Call the Ballarat Office on: (03) 5320 9999.

Land is now released on both sides of Torquay road where there are a number of new homes well under construction MBA Building Services, Geelong have agreed to provide the Geelong Section Committee a $500 voucher to use as a prize for any member of the Geelong Section. A draw will be carried out at each Section Meeting where the member must be in attendance to be eligible to win the $500 voucher, so come along to the next Geelong Section Meeting on 22 April at the Grovedale Hotel from 6pm to have a chance to win. You will enjoy a bite to eat and listen to some very knowledgeable speakers. OHS Manager John Darcy attended the previous Geelong Section meeting where he provided a very informative update about new OHS legislation, particularly with regards to Workplace Bullying legislation. For more information, contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

Our first section meeting was a breakfast function held in Traralgon on 5 March with guest speakers including OHS Adviser, Richard Jones, Membership Manager, Dom Butera and CSR Accounts Manager, Shaun Debnam. The food, coffee and information was all of the highest standard - a great way to start a day. On 13 March we held a Gippsland barbecue bowls event at the Wonthaggi Bowls Club. It was our first go at this type of event so numbers were kept a bit low, but the quality was high and a great time was had by all. Trent Allen from Hotondo Homes Inverloch was the standout bowler on the night and has bragging rights, for now. We were fortunate to have Legal Manager Angelo Simonetto agree to come to Warragul and deliver a two hour contracts seminar for our local members on 25 March. The topic is obviously important as we had more than 35 members attend and by all reports the session was very informative and of great benefit to all. Angelo has also agreed to run another session in Bairnsdale on 21 May. Finally, watch this space because our new Gippsland office will be opening shortly in Traralgon. Keep an eye out for official announcements very soon. Upcoming events Wednesday, 30 April – Gippsland Section Meeting Breakfast – Inverloch. Wednesday, 21 May – Contracts Seminar – Bairnsdale. For more information contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

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Master Builder Victoria

Regional Round up

Shepparton

Wimmera

We had our first North East Section meeting held on Wednesday, 5 February. Thanks to the members that were able to attend after a booking error.

The Wimmera Wanderers had their recent section meeting at Stawell. Ballarat Building Inspector Jason Foote attended to provide an informative update on the 2014 National Construction Code. Members were also pleased to hear about the lobbying the Master Builders are doing including the red tape reforms to boost productivity and reduce costs for Victorian businesses.

Some important issues came out of that meeting: • Safe working temperatures for employees. If you don’t have an EBA agreement in place with your employer, then you need to have a discussion with your employer and mutually decide what is safe and what is not. • Regional Manager David Green discussed the new domestic construction changes that will come into effect this year. (If you need to know these please do not hesitate to contact us on (03) 5822 4980). • Warranty Insurance changes were raised so we will have State Insurance Manager from MBAIS, Luke Hueston attending the next meeting to cover all changes on the 13 May.

North East & West Upcoming events Tuesday, 6 May – North West Dinner – Mildura. Tuesday, 13 May – North East Section Dinner – Sebastiens Restaurant, Shepparton. Tuesday, 20 May – Murray Division Information Dinner – Commercial Club, Albury.

It was pleasing to hear Dean Hogan’s apprentice Sam Winfield won an award at the Regional Apprentice Awards recently. Also, Jim Browne’s apprentice Travis Moschetti, won the award for Best Employer Nominated Apprentice. Both Sam and Travis will now compete at state level. Interviews are being held this month with the State Awards held on Friday, 9 May, at the Pullman Melbourne in Albert Park. Our next section meeting will be held in Horsham on 18 June.

The next Section Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 13 May.

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Master Builder Victoria

A DVERTORI A L

MC continues to be a market leader in providing labour and personnel solutions across a broad range of industries. To Support industry into the future, MC has continued its focus on the up skilling and cross skilling, to allow us to move with innovation and shifts in the market. MC Labour is committed to understanding the unique needs of each individual project and client. This ensures that our clients receive efficient, cost effective and quality labour hire solutions, tailored specifically to suit the exact job requirements. Combine this with the MC Database of more than 20,000 experienced personnel who can be mobilised at short notice across a broad range of industries.

advertorial MC is a specialist provider in: • Construction • Rail • Civil • Security • Traffic • Industrial • Natural Resource Sectors In addition MC can supply IR, HR and Safety specialists as well as Site and Project Managers. MC has developed strategic alliances with a number of premium business partners. Supported by our AS4801 accreditation, MC can provide more personnel solutions than ever before. For more information please visit www.mclabour.com.au or call our 24/7 National Customer Service Centre on 1300 10 12 14.

Create your own health cover and get 10%* off for Master Builders Members. At Australian Unity we know you only like to pay for health insurance you’ll actually use. So we’ve created exciting new hospital covers and extras options that let you make your very own health cover. Start with your choice of hospital cover then add or top up the extras you need. Plus, Master Builders Members receive a 10% discount. Visit australianunity.com.au/mbav or call 13 29 39. Health cover made just for you. Simple. Useful.

* 10% discount includes all other retail discounts and is available when paying by direct debit. The discount is not available through brokers or comparators, and excludes Overseas Visitor Cover and Exclusive Lifestyle Packages. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discounts.

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Master Builder Victoria

MM &S M e m b e r P r o f i l e

Aluminium Glass Facade Systems Pty Ltd business • Based in Ardeer • Member for 10 years • MM&S member

Curtain walls: Some examples of AGFS work at ‘The Gauge’ in Docklands (left) and Q2 (below)

Offering a complete package in design and construct, AFGS uses an engaging team of drafts people and engineers to achieve the best possible design solutions tailored to suit the clients’ needs.

AGFS services include: • Curtain wall systems • Pre-glazed panelised modules to suit captive and structural glazed systems, designed to be installed from inside the building at each level. • Aluminium windows and doors • Skylights and canopies • Architectural panel and cladding systems • Louvres • Automatic doors and architectural entrances • Folded panels, flashing, trims and brackets

With 25,000 square feet of factory space and an overhead crane, AGFS has the capacity to fabricate, assemble, glaze and load panelised curtain walls onto stillages ready for delivery to site.

AGFS and Master Builders AGFS have been members since 2006 and have found Master Builders to be extremely professional and prompt in answering queries that come up from time to time.

Aluminium Glass Facade Systems (AGFS) commenced operation in 1998, and is now fully established within the construction industry. Providing a comprehensive manufacturing structure, as well as a total constructive service, AGFS have proven expertise in the aluminium window and facade construction areas.

Contact AGFS: 20 Reid Street, Ardeer. Phone: (03) 9363 8266 Email: agfs1@bigpond.com or agfs.estimating@bigpond.com

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Master Builder Victoria

M e t r o p o l i ta n M e m b e r P r o f i l e

Di Mase Architects • Based in North Fitzroy • Associate member for two years • Works in metropolitan and regional Victoria

Unlike many architects, Antony Di Mase never had a burning desire to join the trade. “I was unsure of what I really wanted to do when I left school but I had good marks in both art and science so I started my first week of architecture in a bit of a daze,” he explains. After graduating in 1987, his first job was spending two weeks on a building site as a labourer. He recalls making a pretty poor impression on his first day. “I embarrassed myself when the builders found out I didn’t know chippie is another name for carpenter,” he said. “I learnt an important lesson - and that is to never be afraid to ask a dumb question.” “Upon reflection, I think I entered the building industry because I wanted to make something and be part of building things – it is something that I still enjoy. There really is no better feeling than walking through a building we’ve designed and seeing people use the spaces we’ve created. Di Mase’s work is contemporary, bespoke and crafted to suit the people who live and play within it. With a focus on creative re-use of existing buildings, daylight integration and building performance – all work is client focused. Di Mase services residential clients, hospitality projects and community projects for the Uniting Church and Scouts Australia.

Varied projects: Di Mase Architects work on a range of projects including this canteen at Matilda Bay Brewers.

Antony would like to see more focus on developing communities and buildings that are designed to last and be a legacy to the next generation. “I believe we need to invest in architects to innovate and continue the fine tradition of well-designed buildings here in Melbourne and Victoria,” he said. “I think as any builder will tell you a good set of working drawings makes for a smoother project on site, less variations and better outcomes at the end of the project. I am particularly keen to better explain design services to others; to explain how architects work and how the design process directly affects the outcome for clients.”

“I love working with people to make things happen,” Antony said.

Antony made the unorthodox decision, as an architect, to join Master Builders to see what services were offered and the sorts of professional development that is in place.

“I love seeing young people develop skills in architecture and seeing people become better at what they do. Building needs a co-operative approach to work well.”

“I have met some interesting people and I have particularly enjoyed attending the Industry Breakfasts, which I have found very informative and educational,” he said.

I like seeing things from a different viewpoint and seeing the world from a builder’s viewpoint can only help in my endeavors as an architect.” Antony said persistence and patience were the key to success in the building industry. “I am constantly amazed at how much there is to learn and every day there are issues I need to appreciate and resolve,” he said. “Having good systems in place and investing in people is also hugely important. It is not an easy business especially the cyclical nature of the industry. However, design and building are richly rewarding areas.”

Master Builder Victoria

A DVERTORI A L

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Wired for the future: Preparing homes for the NBN Around Australia, the NBN rollout is in full swing. Once complete, it will provide high-speed broadband to all Australian homes and businesses.

What is the NBN? The NBN is a Government initiative designed to roll out high-speed broadband technology across Australia. With speeds of up to 100Mbps for downloads and 40Mbps for uploads, the NBN offers high-speed internet, even if you live a long way from an exchange or have multiple devices connected. Retail service providers like Master Builders’ Alliance Partner, Telstra, sell NBN services on the network to consumers. Whilst there’s a high awareness that the NBN is coming, there’s low understanding among consumers of how to position telecommunications equipment in the home and design wiring to get the best performance out of the new network. With broadband now viewed as an essential service, home owners are turning to builders for help getting their home NBN ready during the building stage. How can a builder best assist their customers? A little pre-planning can help to futureproof a new home and boost customer satisfaction. Here’s what to consider. 1. Have a discussion up front Talking to the home owner before the walls go up can save a lot of hassle down the track. Just like electrical cabling, broadband and phone cabling should be factored in at the blueprint phase. Ask the home owner to decide where they want to use internet-connected services in the home. This will help you locate Wi-Fi and wired access points. Consider including data ports for all your TV’s, gaming consoles, kitchen and office.

2. Decide where NBN Co equipment should be installed To connect a building to the fibre network, NBN Co will install equipment both outside and inside the premises. In most cases, as a part of a standard installation, NBN Co will install up to 60 metres of fibre cabling from the boundary of the property to the NBN Premises Connection Device (PCD) and up to 40 metres of cabling from the NBN PCD to the NBN Network Termination Device (NTD) inside the house. It is recommended that the builder work with the owner to agree the location of the internal NTD during the planning stage. The home owner will need easy access to the NBN NTD so they can check the indicator lights and alarms if there’s a problem. 3. Consider wired vs wireless These days households use a mix of wireless and fixed connections in the home. To maximise Wi-Fi coverage, Wi-Fi gateways should be located in a central location in the dwelling. Wireless coverage – via a Wi-Fi gateway – ensures portable devices like laptops, smart phones and tablets can access the NBN throughout the home. Wi-Fi is a flexible connectivity option. However, like all wireless technology, it is subject to interference and generally provides slower broadband throughput than cabling. Wired technology, on the other hand, provides faster and more efficient broadband access. Telstra predicts 1 in 5 Australian households will have internet connected televisions by 2015. If a home owner wants to stream internet content to their TV, they should consider installing structured cabling to a port behind

their TV cabinet, with Ethernet cabling installed back to the NBN Co NTD or patch panel. The home owner might also like to consider a wired port next to their home PC – this will ensure they can enjoy optimum NBN performance when transferring files, using video chat and when working from home. If you’d like to secure more information, contact Belinda Meyer at your Master Builders Telecommunications helpdesk on 1300 88 13 72.

T E L S T R A FO R L E S

ONLY FOR MASTER BUILDERS MEMBERS Connect to the $90 unlimited plan and receive: •

up to 25% off mobile phone plans to lower your call costs

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Starting from $550 + GST Bluerise Digital is a website development group created exclusively to service Master Builders members. The Bluerise team are leading online specialists with extensive experience servicing some of the biggest names in the building industry. In association with Master Builders, we are able to offer custom-built, featurepacked websites at a fraction of the usual cost. These discounted rates are available exclusively to Master Builders members. No matter how small or large your needs, Bluerise can offer a simple and cost effective way for your business to have a strong online presence, without all the technical and complex jargon.

If you need a custom built site that gives you a strong online presence, we can help in a simple, fast and cost effective way that will allow you to get on with the running of your business while the internet works for you.

For assistance, call Master Builders Assist on (03) 9411 4555 or visit our website at bluerisedigital.com.au

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Master Builder Victoria

Membership

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value of my You may be just starting out or hoping to grow your business. No matter what your place is in the construction industry, you don’t need to go it alone.

What is the value of my Membership

Think of Master Builders as an important member of your team. In this section of Master Builder we‘ll highlight the value of your Master Builders membership. There may be member services that you are not aware of, or financial benefits that you have not considered. We hope this section will help you to make the most of your membership.

Thinking of taking on staff, subcontractors or an apprentice? This is a complex area. Our advice on legislation, employer rights, pay rates, agreements and entitlements can give you the support you need to build your team and get your weekends back. Our team can also advise you on complying with Victorian and Federal Government wage rates and FairWork requirements.

You don’t need to be in trouble to benefit from legal advice Everyone needs a bit of legal advice at some point. Don’t worry about who to call. We offer you plain-English advice about contract and client issues, managing payment defaults and other project legal queries. Can you afford not to remain a member? The fee to a private lawyer for just a few hours of advice is likely to cost you significantly more than your annual Master Builders membership fee.

To find out more about these or any other member services, contact our friendly team. We would love to help.

Call us on: (03) 9411 4555

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With more than 700,000 members and 80,000 participating employers nationwide, you can be confident that Cbus are in it for US.

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Master Builder Victoria

2014 Master Builders May 6

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

Apprentice of the Year Awards (State)

Pullman Albert Park, Melbourne

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

Trade Night – Preston

NMIT Conference Centre, Preston

Bendigo Section Meeting

TBC

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

Trade Night – Taylors Lakes

Taylors Lakes Hotel, Taylors Lakes

ALink Road Show

TBC

Careers Expo

MECC, Melbourne

Trade Night – Wonthaggi

Wonthaggi Workmans Club, Wonthaggi

June 4

ALink Road Show

TBC

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

Regional Building Awards – North East

The Cube, Wodonga

Wimmera Section Meeting

Horsham

Regional Building Awards – South West

The Pier, Geelong

Geelong Section Meeting

TBC

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Sale

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

ALink Road Show

TBC

Regional Building Awards – North West

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

Regional Building Awards – South East

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

July

ALink Road Show

TBC

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

4 - 6

Build & Renovating Expo

MECC, Melbourne

Trade Night – Shepparton

Sherbourne Terrace, Shepparton

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

Geelong Section Site Visit

TBC

ALink Road Show

TBC

ALink Road Show

TBC

August 8

Excellence in Construction Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

Trade Night – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

ALink Road Show

TBC

Green Living Conference

BLSC, South Melbourne

Trade Night – Geelong

Buckley’s Entertainment Centre, Breakwater

Ballarat Section Meeting AGM

Ballarat

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Warragul

Trade Night – Ringwood

Karralyka Centre, Ringwood

membership

Master Builder Victoria

MEM B ER MILESTONES

MEMBER MILESTONES Master Builders values loyalty and awards certificates to members at milestones of 10, 15, 20 and 25 years, and plaques at 30, 40 and 50 years of continuous membership. We would like to recognise and thank the following members who have achieved these milestones between 9 January and 18 March 2014. We appreciate that many members have continuous years of service that fall between these milestones and hope that you understand that we award certificates and plaques only for the milestones mentioned. If you are a long term member we thank you for your commitment and look forward to recognising your loyalty when you receive your next milestone certificate or plaque.

10 Year Certificate

15 Year Certificate

25 Year Certificate

AAC Modules Pty Ltd Arban Australian Building Enterprise Pty Ltd Beechwood Home Improvements Camberwell Fencing Services Como Civil Pty Ltd D & A Erections Duobuilt Pty Ltd Ellerton Constructions Pty Ltd Essential Doors & Windows Pty Ltd Findon Fences Forrest Constructions FTR Constructions Fynnan Constructions G & A Kyriacou Geelong Building Maintenance Hitek Kitchens Pty Ltd Icecorp Pty Ltd Impact Designer Homes Jims Handyman - Geelong East Kingsway Construction Services Pty Ltd Long Life Gates Maben Group Pty Ltd MAS Allstruct Pty Ltd Melbourne Pool & Spa Service Pty Ltd Mossinc Pty Ltd Multi Pro Building Services My Homes Building Services N M C Pty Ltd P & M Barnes Constructions Pty Ltd Philip Building Group Pty Ltd Professional Plumbing Contractors Pty Ltd Progressive Fencing & Timber Pty Ltd R J Formwork Rennew Homes Pty Ltd Tim Warde Builder Trevor Pugh & Maree Pugh

A Grade Concrete & Construction Pty Ltd Adept Office Furniture Anthony Galle Builders Pty Ltd Arrowhead Constructions Carpentry Co ECC Corporation Ltd Ian Cornall Little Constructions Pty Ltd Marino Construction Management Pty Ltd Marlo Builders Salbo Homes (Constructions) Pty Ltd

April Construction Group Pty Ltd B R & J M Clode Carra Builders Pty Ltd John Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Riley Bldg Contractor M & D Seehusen Pty Ltd MISR Engineering & Constructions Pty Ltd Peter Kydd Builders Pty Ltd Westwood Developments Pty Ltd

20 Year Certificate A R Construction Group Pty Ltd Customcraft Design & Cnstrn E & R Fantini Nominees Pty Ltd G & M Nash Builders Hartcon Australia Pty Ltd Icon Synergy P/L J & A Schembri Johnson Homes K-West Builders M B D Constructions Pty Ltd Program Master Builders Simonds Homes Melbourne Pty Ltd Stephen A Dew & Mgt, Maint. & Development Viewbank Homes Pty Ltd

30 Year Plaque 4 Dimensions Building Contractors Pty Ltd Area Constructions P/L Clark New Homes D & I Campbell Ian F Warburton J R A Construction Company Pty Ltd McMaster Designer Homes Pty Ltd P B Constructions Pty Ltd Pasquale J De Magistris Premier Builders (Vic) Pty Ltd R D Mason Builder Pty Ltd Travatin Constructions V M Romano Construction Group Pty Ltd Van Buuren Constructions Pty Ltd

40 Year Plaque Grollo Industries Pty Ltd

Master Builder Victoria

New Members

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Welcome to our newest members Master Builders is pleased to welcome the following new members in January and February 2014. Congratulations for joining the Master Builders Association of Victoria.

Associate

Housing Provisional

Bluerise Digital Daniele Marco Maisano Deepashree Hanumanthappa Latrobe City Council - Major Projects Montlaur Project Services Pty Ltd Northern House Inspections Something Different Design

Adele Elice-Invaso Adspice Pty Ltd Alexander Havkin Alexander Raunjak Allan Brothers Anestis Alex Chatzidimpas APR Constructions Pty Ltd Asher Knee-Rintel Azonic Building & Maintenance Cameron Vassallo Chris Wood Christian Day Christopher Westley Cladding Master & Applied Finish Pty Ltd Costas Handyman Services D & Y Builders Daryl Tatnell Deandrea Consultancy Downunder - Greenhomes Dragan Franjic Drew Osborne Ebru Saglam Empire Homes & Developments Fanourios (Fred) Tsihlakis Fitzgerald Carpentry Forward Group Pty Ltd Frank Cavallaro Green and Bold Construction Hamish Ewenson Hanacob Constructions (Aust) Harms Building Group Hire A Hubby Doncaster East Hrkon Constructions Ian McClymont Innohomes Pty Ltd International Building Consortium James MacDonald Jason David Lyness Jay Langstaff Jcon Development Pty Ltd John Aforozis Jorg Priester JS Consulting Pty Ltd Kok William Tan Lachlan Brown

Engineering Engineering Innovations Group Pty Ltd

General Contractor Bear Projects Aust Pty Ltd Peter Amoroso

General Contractor Provisional Gromac Building Group Promax Services

Housing Acacia Designs Pty Ltd Active Installs Axia Building Group Pty Ltd Basis Builders Pty Ltd Baucon Haleberry Pty Ltd KN Commercial Pty Ltd Lifestyle by Design Homes Pty Ltd Love-Linay Building Pty Ltd Masters Installation Pty Ltd Maxton Constructions Pty Ltd Monacon Pty Ltd Paul Foley Pensinsula Cable Pty Ltd S and K Group Tempo Via Pty Ltd Three60 Constructions Pty Ltd TKB Buildings Pty Ltd Walsheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alternative Living Pty Ltd

Lachlan Ryan Carpentry Long Tran Luke Matheson Luke Shashkoff Mainella & Colarusso Carpentry Master Abode Creations Mathew Churchill Matt Zwierlein Matthew Fennell Matthew Tennent Michael James Carpentry N Baxters Building Neeson Constructions Norcross Carpentry Olympus Property Group On Site Carpentry Parker Contracting Phillip Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell R & J Fraser Richard Mcdonald Robert Maiolo Royadie Developments Pty Ltd Ryan Cooper Homes Rycon Developments Pty Ltd Samuel Quirk Shane Ward Square One Projects Statewide Insulators Pty Ltd Steve Scamporlino Steven Black STG Group Pty Ltd TJ Reeves Constructions Travis Doherty Tyson Prentner Ultimate Finish (Vic) Pty Ltd Westgarth Home Improvements Young Hun Park

membership .Housing Sub-Contractor

Specialist Contractor

CLN Property Maintenance Group Creative Kwik Kerb and Landscaping David Byrne David Powles Kitchens Doors Fitted Pty Ltd Elfin D I Y EvolJour Pty Ltd Jims Fencing Western Vic & Geelong & Melbourne John Springett Simtech Building SJ Property Maintenance T D Bricklaying Zoran Jorgandzijoski

Ausgroup Property Development Pty Ltd Ballinger Constructions Pty Ltd Bayside Personnel Australia Pty Ltd Fahy Constructions Pty Ltd Godshine Lifts Lexon Group Pty Ltd Mark Abramson MW Investments Pty Ltd Ocon Group Pty Ltd Open Projects Group Pty Ltd Outside Ideas Victoria Pty Ltd Phillip Miles Ronstan International Pty Ltd STE Advantage

Materials, Manufacturing & Supply

Student

Shop for Shops Pty Ltd

Master Builder Victoria

New Members

Adam Lang Brodie Jenner Chris Matty Jeremy Bjørn Nielsen Mark Beattie Mark Smith Matthew Westhorp

Supporting your Industry for 25 Years with Out of Work Redundancy Payments for Workers Insurance Benefits*:

Member Services and Benefits:

•

• • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

Accident Leisure Time Insurance Scheme Income Protection and Trauma Scheme Portable Sick Leave Scheme Cover between Jobs Funeral and Death Benefits Journey Cover Accidental Dental Benefits Emergency Transport Cover Discount on Health Insurance

*Terms conditions and exclusions apply

Critical Incident Response Team and Support Personal Counselling Apprentice & Young Worker Support Program Drug and Alcohol Support Programs Life Care Skills Program Financial Awareness & Problem Gambling Financial Rights Support Employment Services Careers & Training Advice Workplace Health Awareness Programs Health and Wellbeing Programs Support for Workers with a Terminal Illness

Master Builder Victoria

Sa f e t y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SI A

general features

Companies improve OHS globally Companies are shifting from a reactive attitude to a conscious management of operational issues and developing corporate cultures based on strong OHS, according to a global research report. It found that more than 90 per cent of business professionals believe managing health and safety at work has become an integrated part of today's corporate strategy, while 76 per cent have implemented an ad hoc policy, above and beyond what is required by law and regulations.

Predominant OHS risks also vary depending on geographical areas. Ergonomics, for example, is a particular focus in the US (66 per cent) and Sweden (55 per cent), while structural deficiencies of machines and equipment are perceived as a main risk area especially in Asia (54 per cent).

The bigger the corporation the higher the application rate, while 70 per cent of small firms adopt specific approaches too, according to the survey of more than 3,860 professionals from businesses in different industries across Europe, the Americas and Asia.

"The situation varies in different areas of the world, according to legislation, different cultural attitudes and different levels of development of infrastructures, but in general, there is still a lot of work to be done," said Crisciotti.

"A lot has changed in the way companies deal with health and safety at work," said Luca Crisciotti, CEO of business assurance company DNV GL, which conducted the survey together with research institute GFK Eurisko. He said the move to a systematic management of operational issues is an important step in building real corporate culture of occupational health and safety, which will enable companies to focus not only on operations but on organisational aspects of safety as well as the wellbeing of workers. The report found compliance with laws and regulations (87 per cent) and internal policies (73 per cent) are the top reasons firms develop actions to improve OHS.

"Lack of financial resources and pressure on businesses to focus on short term results make these objectives even more challenging but it is important for companies to lead change and keep working on these items."

Three keys to selling safety to executives One key to selling safety to an executive is to speak the same language and focus on linking safety to valued business goals, according to an expert in the field.

OHS is also a concern for global corporations independently of external repercussions that could affect market performance, and brand protection (24 per cent), public opinion (19 per cent) and competitiveness (19 per cent) are considered minor drivers.

"Whenever one talks to an executive one can be tempted to show of one's knowledge by talking in jargon, sharing extraneous details and esoteric data that the executive doesn't need to make a decision, or providing far more detail than the executive wants or needs," said Phil La Duke, a partner at world-leading sustainability consultancy ERM (Environmental Resources Management).

However, lack of financial resources (31 per cent) and a focus on short term results (26 per cent) are the main factors preventing businesses from making more progress in managing OHS around the world.

"Executives tend to think in terms of business cases - dollars and cents - and they want to know how much money will be encumbered by the expenditure and when it can be expected back."

general features Also, La Duke said companies have certain hot buttons which executives react strongly to. "If your organisation values sales, then its best to equate the cost of injuries with sales, by talking about how many more sales will be required to replace the money spent on injuries," he said. "If your company values production, you can equate the cost of injuries to the amount of extra production it would need to replace the money spent on injuries. These can be very compelling arguments, especially to executives." Another key to selling to executives is to provide information not data, said La Duke, who explained that information is useful for outlining a strategy, supporting a business case, or simply reassuring the executive that the idea pitched is a good one. "Too often safety professionals provide data [such as] injury rates, days away or restricted time, body maps, area maps and trends, which baffle executives, forcing them to ask â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;what does that mean?' "This tactic may make the safety professional feel good, but it puts the executive in a position where he or she begins to strongly suggest that he or she is making a bad decision, and that is not where you want the executive if you hope he or she will support your recommendations."

Master Builder Victoria

Sa f e t y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SI A

Simply by sticking to the information (which La Duke defined as data plus analysis) and explaining in simple terms what it means, he said OHS professionals have a much greater chance of gaining executive support. Finally, when selling to executives, he recommended keeping answers short. "There is an old adage in safety that holds â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;once you've made the sale shut up,' and it's sage advice," he said. "An executive at a large consulting firm once told me that one should always keep his or her answers short when consulting. He explained the longer the answer the higher the chances that the executive will become confused and worried that he or she is making a bad decision. "The executive has to feel certain that he or she understands the problem and proposed solution or he or she won't risk supporting it. A short, simple, and to the point answer is always best" he said.

Article by Safety In Australia (SIA). For more information visit: www.sia.org.au.

Master Builder Victoria

A DVERTORI A L

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Preparing Australian construction companies for compliance with the new SuperStream contributions standards Ideally your software system will enable you to meet the new data and payment standards for superannuation.

New SuperStream contribution standards are coming into effect from 1 July 2014. In this article, LEVESYS will bring Australian construction companies up to speed with the changes to ensure you understand what these changes are, and outline the timetable for compliance. What is SuperStream? SuperStream is a comprehensive package of reforms arising out of the Federal Government’s 2010 review of the superannuation system. It is simply new standards for the electronic generation of contributions and payment data. The objective of the new standards is to simplify, streamline and increase the efficiency of the administration of the entire superannuation system. SuperStream will ultimately make it easier for employers to comply with their superannuation obligations, and will provide better information about the amount and timing of payments for employees. For a construction company using a software system with plans to create functionality to meet the SuperStream standards, compliance will largely involve implementing new, in-built functionality and processes. Ideally your software system will enable you to meet the standards by simply generating all necessary data for contributions and payments in one step. Why was SuperStream brought in? SuperStream standards changes have come about out of the Cooper Review into superannuation, conducted by the Federal Government in 2010. A key recommendation from this was to simplify and streamline the processes of superannuation administration in order

to make it easier for employers to comply with their superannuation obligations and for employers to better track and manage their superannuation. When will compliance with the SuperStream standards become a requirement? SuperStream standards come into effect from 1 July 2014 for ‘large’ businesses (employers with 20 or more employees). For ‘small’ businesses (employers with less than 20 employees), SuperStream standards come into effect from 1 July 2015. In both cases, businesses have two years in which to comply with the new standards. Whilst full compliance from 1 July 2014 (for large employers) is possible, the ATO is carefully managing the induction of employers, funds and service providers to ensure the adoption of the new standards is done in a controlled manner, without undue pressure on all stakeholders. The simplest way to comply is to ensure the company behind the software currently in use at your construction company is developing a standardsbased solution. How can a construction company ensure they comply with the SuperStream standards? The simplest way to comply is to ensure the company behind the software currently in use at your construction business is developing a standardsbased solution. Ideally it will be available as an upgrade/update to your current installation, providing you with the means to comply with these standards. If your current software provider does not plan on adding the necessary functionality, you may need to review your options to ensure you can meet your compliance obligations.

Small employers may be able to utilise the free services offered by the Medicare Small Business Superannuation Clearing House to streamline their processing – an effort by the Australian Government to assist small employers with the changes. Want more information? For more information on the standards and your obligations, please visit: www. ato.gov.au/Super/Data-standards/ In-detail/What-you-need-to-know/ Medium-and-large-employers/ Information-about-data-standards-formedium-and-large-employers. The ATO will be increasing their communications with employers over the coming months, both directly and via industry associations.

Article provided by LEVESYS. LEVESYS is a leading provider of ERP software solutions to the Australian construction industry. For more information about the standards, their impact on the construction industry or how software can assist you in achieving your business objectives, call LEVESYS today.

general features

Master Builder Victoria

S ta i r s & B a l u s t r a d e s

Fit for Purpose? The potential risk and impact of noncompliant materials and inappropriate material selection in staircase construction

The Master Builders Association of Victoria asked Mark Crosher to investigate and present on this important issue affecting building practitioners and the industry. While staircases are already a strictly controlled element of a building project, with only minor tolerances allowed, the regulatory environment is becoming even more tightly controlled and more heavily scrutinised. There has been new National Construction Code (NCC) requirements for; ‘continuous handholds (handrails)’ along staircase flights, which came into effect in 2012, and finishes of staircase steps now being required to achieve an ‘R10’ non-slip rating, coming into effect this year. There has also been a greater scrutiny on the staircase as a structural element. Building practitioners need to be aware of the potential risk and ramifications of non-compliant materials and inappropriate material selection in staircase construction on their projects. While it may be frustrating for a builder to receive a request for more information as to the structural integrity of a staircase or worse have a staircase ‘knocked back,’ a building surveyor needs to consider a staircase as a structural element, no different from a lintel or bearer.

The structural requirement for staircases The requirement relating to the suitability of materials used in building and construction is set out in the NCC, Part A2 of Volume 1 for class 2 to 9 buildings, and similarly in Part 1.2 of Volume 2 for Class 1 and 10 Buildings. Here, and as a general requirement of the NCC, “Every part of a building must be constructed in an appropriate manner to achieve the requirements of the Housing Provisions, using materials that are fit for the purpose for which they are intended” (see part 1.2.1, NCC vol. 2). At a fundamental level, the intended purpose of a staircase is “to provide people with safe access to and within a building” (part 2.5 a. NCC vol. 2) and to “be suitable for safe passage in relation to the nature, volume and frequency of likely usage” (part 2.5.1 b. iii. NCC vol. 2). As an inherent part of facilitating its function, taking the loads of people walking up and down the staircase over the life of the home, a staircase must also then fulfil a structural performance requirement. It must; “perform adequately under all reasonably expected design actions” (part 2.1.1 a. i. NCC vol. 2) and “withstand extreme or frequently repeated design actions” (part 2.1.1 a. ii. NCC vol. 2). Part 2.1.1 NCC vol. 2 provides further explanation as to the various types of design actions (at b.) and requirements for the structural resistance of materials (at c.). The Deemed to Satisfy provisions of the NCC vol. 2 also expressly acknowledges the structural requirement at part 3.9.1.1. It states that in the construction of staircases “compliance with this acceptable construction practice satisfies performance requirement P2.5.1, provided the stair complies with the appropriate structural requirements of the housing provisions.” The ‘Housing Provisions’ are a defined term in the NCC vol. 2, meaning “the requirements for Class 1 and 10 buildings contained in Volume Two…” (part 1.1.1 NCC vol. 2). Therefore, to satisfy the requirements of the NCC and be compliant, the materials a staircase is constructed of and/or that take the structural loads bearing on the staircase must be structural materials. If these materials are ‘not structural’, then they would not be deemed fit for the purpose of staircase construction.

Master Builder Victoria

general features

S ta i r s & B a l u s t r a d e s

Non-Structural Materials, risk & liability Non-Structural Materials are those materials without the appropriate structural rating or structural certification for the intended purpose. Possible examples include; non-structural grades of timber, non-structural plywood, and non-structural Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF). The risk of Non-Structural Materials ‘slipping through’ as the main load bearing members in the construction of a staircase on a project logically becomes more likely when ‘cost’ becomes a determining factor in its manufacture. Anecdotally the level of inquiry from home owners for the repair and replacement of structurally deteriorating staircases has been on the rise in recent years and typically has been related to those staircases that are more than 7 - 10 years old. Upon inspection of these staircases that otherwise seem to have been appropriately constructed the rate of structural decline appears to be more extensive than one would reasonably expect in a staircase of that age. Common structural issues included; enhanced deflection across tread spans, deep seated movement between joints resulting in loud grinding ‘creaks’, and a lack of general ‘stiffness’ and ‘rigidity’ along staircase flights. In these staircases the structural rating or structural certification of the material used was not known. The legal implications of failing to provide a staircase constructed of materials fit for purpose are as set out under ‘implied warranties’ or ‘consumer guarantees’ at law. Consumer Affairs Victoria1 identifies relevant consumer protection legislation for building work as the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (VIC), and Australian Consumer Law (which is contained in a schedule to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010). The Building Act 1993 (VIC) allows action to be brought against a builder for up to 10 years from the date the work was completed. All parties in the supply chain of a staircase being provided to a consumer have potential to be exposed to this issue. Appropriate legal advice should be sought if unsure.

Steps a building practitioner can take to minimise their risk To have confidence that a staircase is constructed from structurally compliant materials it is not simply enough to rely on a ‘manufacturer’s word’. Appropriate evidence needs to be obtained; 1. Identifying the structural rating and/or structural certification of the material used in the construction of the staircase. 2. Along with a declaration from the manufacturer stating that the staircase was manufactured and/or constructed in accordance with a set of relevant engineering staircase design parameters. These parameters (and any relevant

Fit for Purpose?

computations issued in an engineering certificate) also need to be included as part of the evidence. 3. Once the staircase has been installed it should be inspected, with the appropriate material ‘branding’ able to be viewed. In the case of timber, ‘branding’ requirements are as identified in the Building Regulations 2006 at Regulation 613. Together, these items (above) can form an Alternative Solution, which is defined at part 1.0.8 NCC vol. 2. For staircase construction, in the way the NCC (vol. 2) is currently written there are no specific structural engineering specifications prescribed or either referenced as part of an acceptable construction manual in the Deemed to Satisfy provisions (part 3). Therefore by failing to follow a similar process as to points 1 - 3 above, a building practitioner will be unable to ascertain or demonstrate the structural compliance of the staircase.

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• Steel Strings with timber treads and timber balustrading.

Master Builder Victoria

general features

S ta i r s & B a l u s t r a d e s

Alternative Solutions

Stair Treads (with open flights)

One option for a building practitioner when implementing an Alternative Solution when using timber is by applying appropriate ‘span tables’ similar to those presented in the Forest and Wood Products Australia Limited (FWPA) technical guide for stairs. These ‘span tables’ are for staircase stringers and treads, Tables 3.4 and 3.5 from that publication respectively, and have been presented below. Section 4.6 of this publication also identifies minimum tread thicknesses for closed staircases supported by risers. However, please note there is a disclaimer on the application of this publication (at www.fwpa.com.au/disclaimer), and therefore independent engineering may still be required for the purposes of an Alternative Solution.

Stair Stringers (maximum stair width 1800mm) Timber Type Species/Group

Stringer – [Depth (mm) x Thickness 9mm)] (1) Grade(2)

200x38

Fit for Purpose?

200x50

250x38

250x50

300x50

Timber Type Species/Group

Stringer – [Depth (mm) x Thickness 9mm)] (1) Grade(2)

200x38

200x50

250x38

250x50

300x50

Maximum Stringer Span (mm)(4) Messmate, Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Kwila etc

F27

2900

3200

3600

3900

4500

Vic Ash, Tas Oak, Jarrah

F22

2800

3100

3400

3700

4300

Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Ironbark, Kwila etc

F17(3)

2600

3000

3300

3600

4200

Douglas Fir (Nth American)

F11

2400

2700

3000

3400

3900

Radiata, Hoop, Slash etc

2300

2600

2900

3200

3700

H3 treated pine

1600

2200

2400

2800

3400

Maximum Stringer Span (mm)(4) Messmate, Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Kwila etc

F27

Vic Ash, Tas Oak, Jarrah

F22

2800

3100

3400

3700

4300

Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Ironbark, Kwila etc

F17(3)

2600

3000

3300

3600

4200

Douglas Fir (Nth American)

F11

2400

2700

3000

3400

3900

Radiata, Hoop, Slash etc

2300

2600

2900

3200

3700

H3 treated pine

1600

2200

2400

2800

3400

2900

3200

3600

3900

4500

Notes: 1. The thicknesses in the table are minimum design thicknesses and may not represent commercially available thicknesses. 2. Timber grading should be in accordance with the appropriate Australian Standard for milled products (ie AS 2792 and AS 4785). The stress grades used for design in accordance with the loading requirements of the BCA are as indicated and can be determined for AS 2082 and AS 2858 as appropriate. 3. The F17 grade included in the Table is intended for unseasoned hardwood, to be used for external stairs only.

Notes:

Source of the above Table: Forest and Wood Products of Australia., Technical Guide for Stairs, Balustrades and Handrails, Class 1 Buildings., Revised Edition May 2012. The following disclaimer applies to this publication, viewable at http://www.fwpa.com.au/disclaimer

1. The size of stringers given in the table are nominal sizes. Design allowances have been made for dressing (depth 10 mm max, thickness 5 mm max). Allowance has also been made for trenching stringers to accommodate treads (10 mm max). 2. Timber grading should be in accordance with the appropriate Australian Standard for milled products (i.e. AS 2792 and AS 4785). The stress grades used for design in accordance with the loading requirements of the BCA are as indicated and can be determined for AS 2082 and AS 2858 as appropriate. 3. The F17 grade included in the Table is intended for unseasoned hardwood, to be used for external stairs only. 4. Stringer span is the centre line length of the stringer.

If wanting to use a material like MDF in the absence of additional structural reinforcement then one must avoid using general purpose (non-loadbearing) MDF. The MDF must have been manufactured and certified for the particular structural or loadbearing application, classified as “High Performance, medium density fibreboard (HP MDF)” in accordance with, clause 5.g. of AS/NZ 1859.2 - Reconstituted wood-based panels. However, as of February 2014 in response to a request for clarification as to the status of certification, the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA) stated that there was “no HP (high performance) MDF boards made by Australian manufacturers certified to AS/NZS 1859.2 suitable for stair treads and stringers.”

Source of the above Table: Forest and Wood Products of Australia Limited., Technical Guide for Stairs, Balustrades and Handrails, Class 1 Buildings., Revised Edition May 2012. The following disclaimer applies to this publication, viewable at http://www.fwpa.com.au/disclaimer

There are a range of other structural materials such as structural plywood or laminated veneer lumber (LVL) that may be available to be used in staircase construction, but one would need to check with the relevant manufacturer or certification body.

general features

Master Builder Victoria

S ta i r s & B a l u s t r a d e s

If evidence of structural compliance for the staircase construction (including the use of certain materials) is in the form of a certification issued under an industry appraisal scheme, it is critical to check that the appraisal has not lapsed and/or that the scheme is still relevant. Manufacturers of building products can now have their products certified under the “CodeMark” testing scheme, administered by the Australian Building Code Board (ABCB). The CSIRO have not registered with the CodeMark scheme.

An industry response may be required The presence of particular staircases that are otherwise appropriately installed experiencing a level of structural decline beyond what would normally be expected raises further questions. • Have these staircases been constructed from appropriately applied and/or structurally compliant material? • How widespread is the problem? • Are environmental factors (outside the normal use of the staircase) affecting the materials in the staircases overtime? • What is the longevity of these staircases for facilitating safe egress and regress for building occupants into the future? If there has been a large volume of staircases constructed from Non-Structural Materials that are shown to be deteriorating, then through continued use (wear and tear) logically one could

expect that these staircases will continue to deteriorate further. Though, upon reaching a threshold level of deterioration, will the degree of structural decline in the material and staircase decrease and plateau stabilising the risk, or instead will it accelerate exponentially raising the risk of failure to dangerous levels? Therefore as a matter of priority the industry needs to consider putting in place a process to investigate the extent and significance of the problem, and if required take steps to manage the potential public safety risk. For more information, contact Master Builders Association of Victoria - Building Services on (03) 9411 4555. Footnote: 1. Consumer Affairs Victoria (www.consumer.vic.gov.au/businesses/registered-businesses/ builders-and-tradespeople/checklists/implied-warranties-and-domestic-building-insurance, March 2014) “Implied warranties and domestic building insurance checklist”.

About the author: Mark Crosher works in a project management role for a building business, Signature Stairs & Signature Build Projects, based in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. He has previous experience working in the regulation of the national transport industry at federal level and also for a state based public land manager on commercial development and construction projects. His relevant qualifications are; Certificate IV in Building and Construction., Diploma of Natural Resource Management., and Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Economics and Human Resource Management.

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advertorial

Master Builder Victoria

A DVERTORI A L

Australia’s Biggest Stair Manufacturer – 60 Years in the Making Always at the forefront of staircase innovation, Stair Lock have recently launched a CUSTOM staircase range to satisfy growing customer demand. Kent Town, Adelaide, is the headquarters of Stair Lock International. The family-owned business, had its beginning in the 1960s when company founders, Ray Lloyd and his son Greg, were introduced to a unique building process that manufactured stairs utilising the very efficient dovetail joining system that locks the stair parts together. Ray and Greg had the vision and foresight to use CNC machinery for this innovative stair system and they patented the design for the manufacturing process. This integrated system allows stairs to be manufactured quickly and at a lower cost, which proved to be very popular with residential builders. In 1982 the company pioneered Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) onto the Australian market for timber staircases and stair construction. Ray and Greg introduced MDF to help the building industry save time and money – critical in any business, and none more so than the highly competitive residential building sector. Since having one of the first CNC routers in Australia, Stair Lock has continued its investment in the latest technology. State-of-the-art computer routers from Germany and Italy, IT systems and drawing packages that reduce production lead time and administration costs are continually reviewed and assessed. Distribution and logistical processes that ensure quick customer service have been central to Stair Lock’s success. From the time of order to delivery on site, Stair Lock’s lead times are unsurpassed in the industry. Innovation and continual improvement are the main focus for Stair Lock. “We have appreciated the support of many of Australia’s biggest and most successful builders for many years” said Edward Lloyd; 3rd generation Lloyd and Stair Lock Managing Director. Stair Lock maintain close relationships with their customers by focusing on their needs and helping them to overcome

The Stair Lock design team

Final production Inspection of our stair stringers

any problems that occur. The result of this ‘customer consultation’ has seen the advent of a new staircase product range.

builders and homeowners to ensure they have a staircase that is as individual as they are.”

New Architectural Designer Stairs Customers wanted a one-stop shop for all their stair requirements and there were very few options to consider. Stair Lock has always been the first option for low cost stairs including MDF and American Oak stairs. The builder and consumer markets have been the drivers for a more individual style of stair, and this has resulted in Stair Lock launching a new range of architectural designer stairs that are highlighted by the diversity of the product and the flexibility of choice.

“We have a skilled team, lead by our Stair Lock CUSTOM Manager, Marco Greco. Our CUSTOM Stair team has over 70 years’ combined experience working in the architectural/designer stair market.”

Edward Lloyd said, “We have been delighted with the uptake on the Stair Lock CUSTOM range. In the first three months of this year we have comfortably achieved over our budget estimates, and orders going forward are very strong.” Today’s modern homeowners are looking for greater range, style and individuality in their homes. Due to the growing popularity of medium and high-density housing, developers and builders are recognising that staircases can become an ‘architectural highlight’. Stair Lock now have a separate design department who consult with the customer and then design and recommend a staircase that is specially made for their home. Edward Lloyd said, “We will work with architects,

Marco says that consumers are demanding a wider range of choice, “In the past few years I’ve been aware that choice is the key to success in this market. Traditional designs in timber, contemporary timber stair designs combined with steel, wrought iron and glass, or one-off designs is a market that we can now cater to.” Edward Lloyd says life is very busy at Stair Lock’s, Kent Town Head Office. “We will continue to be market leaders in our traditional business of manufacturing MDF and American Oak stairs, however the exciting new Stair Lock CUSTOM range will turbocharge our growth in all state markets. I know my grandfather, Ray Lloyd, would be very pleased and I suspect his question to me would be, “Are you still manufacturing the best quality, lowest cost stairs in Australia?” For more information contact: Phone: 1800 088 219 Website: www.stairlock.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

Steel

general features

Building with steel The selection of construction materials on the basis of their contribution to the finished project is an important consideration for builders. When it comes to framed construction – the most common choice for Australian homes – the contribution of the frame to the durability and longevity of the home is immense. The frame bears or transfers almost all loads to which the home is subjected, and also supports all cladding and lining materials and most fixtures. Failure of the frame to fulfill these functions in any part of the home can have serious consequences. Steel framing means a long life, trouble free frame that will not warp, burn or rot. The frame of the home should always be made from durable material that will resist all forms of environmental attack. Any part of the structure made from anything else should be easy to inspect in order to assess and rectify any deterioration. The manner in which most homes are designed and constructed makes this inspection difficult and costly for many parts of the frame, including wall frames, intermediate floor framing and lined rafters in sloping ceiling structures. The frame’s contribution to the serviceability of the building is also

significant. It provides the strength, stiffness and geometric stability of the building. Its ability to stay straight and square indefinitely, through varying seasons with temperature and humidity changes, is vital to just about everything which is attached to it – the exterior skin (brick or other cladding), roof tiles or sheeting, window units, door frames, plasterboard wall linings and so on. Superficial and so-called ‘nuisance’ defects, like sticking doors and windows, brickwork and cornice cracks, nail popping in wall linings and sagging roof lines, can often be traced to instability in the frame and contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Advantages for building When strength, durability and quality are the important selection factors, steel framing is the natural choice for brickveneer and direct-clad home construction. Steel framing offers outstanding homebuilding advantages: • Durability: You need never be concerned that the structural frame you can’t see is deteriorating due to environmental or biological attack by termites, borers or fungi. • Stability: Steel frames will not absorb moisture or dry out. Steel has outstanding dimensional stability to keep your home in shape indefinitely. • Structural efficiency: Engineered steel frames are extremely strong yet are light in weight. • Design flexibility: Create optimum architectural forms to suit your living needs and building conditions, including long clear spans for open plan living and even curved trusses. • Wide availability: The design you want can be built virtually anywhere in Australia. • Fire resistance: Does not burn nor contribute fuel to the spread of a fire. • Low maintenance: Low cost and effort to keep its design qualities intact • Trade familiarity: Steel frames are easy to construct and finish, and you’ll always have access to the skills to modify or extend your home. Environmentally friendly: Steel is 100 percent recyclable, easily accommodates energy efficient design concepts, enables minimal site disturbance and produces little site waste.

general features Advantages for builders As steel framing is an engineered product, it is important to adhere strictly to the supplier’s instructions on the number and positioning of fasteners, brackets, bracing etc. The builder will particularly benefit from the following steel framing advantages: Steel framing is light but strong. There is less mass of material to be handled on site at frame stage, so it is safe and easy to handle and quick to erect. Steel framing fabricators supply prefabricated frame sections in easily transportable and manageable panels and trusses. Frame erection is simple. All components are identified to ensure the correct erection sequence. Connections are quick and easy using screws, bolts and rivets applied with tools from any hardware store. Verifiable quality. Steel is a consistent, engineered product free of natural imperfections. Steel framing is versatile and adaptable. Depending on the home’s architectural design, you can choose steel framing for part of it and combine it with other structural materials. At every stage and for every detail, it’s your choice. Limitations Steel is an extremely durable long life material. Nevertheless, there are certain environments and situations where it may be unwise to use standard steel framing products without expert advice. Fortunately these are very few, and will affect only a small number of builders.

Master Builder Victoria

Steel

Living with steel Apart from the frame, there are a wide variety of factory prepainted architectural steel products available when you reach the finishing stages of your project. These products inherently have a very long low-maintenance life, which is particularly helpful on the higher parts of the home where maintenance access is difficult or hazardous. Much of the environmental impact of buildings is determined at the design stage, through materials decisions, inbuilt efficiencies and performance criteria incorporated into the design. It is therefore important that environmental impacts be considered early in the design process, where the greatest potential is available for influencing outcomes. Virtually all steel products used in residential construction are highly recyclable, contributing to steel’s reputation as the most recycled metal on the planet. Steel generates a very low mass and volume of construction waste, and the small amount finding its way to landfill is basically inert and nonpolluting. Framing steel is fully recyclable and contains approximately 20 percent recycled materials. Methodologies and opinions vary on the assessment of the embodied energy of construction materials. The embodied energy due to the manufacturing process is still considered by some to be higher for steel than for timber framing. The longevity of steel framing along with the advantage of not having to use preservative-treated timber are two of many factors to be considered in the overall equation of lifecycle energy consumption.

Generally speaking, where steel is unsuitable you will also find some limitations on the use of other building materials including aluminium, tiles and bricks. The main environments where precautions are advisable are marine and heavy industrial areas.

Getting started To start the process, all that is necessary is to have designer/ architect drawings of the house or extension, showing details such as floor layout, elevations and room dimensions. The frame supplier will be able to quote a price for the structural frame, including floor, wall and roof framing, and this will usually include any required beams or columns.

For marine environments, the Building Code of Australia Volume Two (Housing Provisions) specifies that metallic coated steel comprising 275 grams of zinc per square metre (Z275), 150 grams of aluminium/zinc per square metre (AZ150) or 150 grams of aluminium/magnesium/zinc per square metre (AM150) may be used for steel framing that is fully enclosed within the building envelope, beyond 300 metres from breaking surf conditions.

The scope of supply and the range of included materials will vary slightly from place to place, so be sure that you and your designer are quite specific as to what you require and verify what is included. The frame supplier will also be able to supply all the necessary components such as brackets, fasteners, and grommets from the same basic design information.

Where the framing is outside the building envelope, such as sub-floor or exposed verandah framing, the same metallic coated steel may be used: beyond 1km from calm salt water, such as a lake or estuary; or beyond 10km from a coastal area with breaking surf. Breaking surf normally occurs in areas exposed to the open sea, with regular breaking of waves about four days per week. It doesn’t include choppy, white-capped water. If you are proposing to build closer to an adverse environment than these distances, painting systems are available to increase the corrosion resistance of steel.

Article by The Owner Builder magazine www.theownerbuilder.com.au or 0402 428 123.

The National Association of Steel-Framed Housing Inc (NASH) website provided information for this article. NASH has a great source of up to date information on residential and low-rise steel framed construction www.nash.asn.au or 1800 656 986.

Master Builder Victoria

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W h at ’ s N e w

what’s new

Tarpaulins & Canvas

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SCREW PILES, A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO MULTIPLE PROBLEMS. A Screw Pile is primarily a steel pipe with a ‘Helix’ or large dia thread at the bottom end with a point protruding. With a down ward force it is rotated to “screw” into the ground by using a hydraulic drive on an Excavator. Screw Piles & Excavations have been providing Screw Pile solutions to foundation problems for many years. Applications for Screw Piles: • FOUNDATIONS and Deep Stumps in filled, wet, soft or unstable ground, that can’t support a conventional footing, • EASEMENT and TREE ROOT protection, • In ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE areas SCREW PILES are now called up so as to minimize ground contact for board walks and foot bridges. • As ANCHOR points to oppose uplift, • RETAINING WALL structural posts in sand etc. Other uses for SCREW PILES; swimming pool support, founding in wet or reclaimed swamp areas, , anchoring for retaining walls, light, power and large sign pole foundations, creek culvert anchoring. Screw Piles & Excavations have shown that Screw Piles are the simple, quick and cost effective way to solve the problem. As there is practically no spoil to remove and no vibrations during installation, Screw Piles are an excellent choice to save time money and excavating. Servicing Nth’n NSW and Vic. Screw Piles & Excavations P/L Branches in Northern NSW & VIC Tel: 0409 939 967 Email: dennis@screwpiles.com.au Website: www.screwpiles.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

W h at ’ s N e w

New Master is bigger inside than out The new Renault Master Low Roof shortwheelbase front-drive van offers many advantages, from its large 8m3 cubic capacity and 1.6-tonne payload to its 2.5-tonne towing capacity. It’s the ideal Master Builder’s mate, short enough to fit into a regular car parking space at the curb and big enough to haul all your gear. And its 12m turning circle gets you out of tight spots quick-as-a-flash. With three-acrossthe-cab seating, it’s more practical than many rivals, too. Equipped with a torquey 350Nm turbo-diesel engine that’s light on fuel, the Master offers a choice of 6-speed manual or automated ‘Quickshift’ transmissions. The load bay is 2583mm long, 1765mm wide and 1700mm high and easily swallows 2 fullsize 1200x1200mm pallets. Like all Masters, it comes with a 3-year/200,000km factory warranty, Capped Price Servicing at just $349 each for the first 3 years or up to every 30,000km, depending on driving conditions, and best of all it starts at $39,990 drive-away from 37 Renault LCV dealers across Australia. Find out more at www.Renault.com.au

what’s new

Sika’s New and Improved Range of Concrete Repair Products Sika’s range of Cementitious Repair Mortars in Australia has experienced steady and continual growth over the past 15 years. This growth has been attributed to a good quality product range using the best technical knowledge and materials available at the time of manufacturing. With the introduction of the European Standards EN1504 Sika international saw this as a great opportunity to improve on the range and as a result have provided Sika globally a new range of repair mortars and systems to comply with the EN1504 standard. This new range offers numerous features and benefits over the existing range that include, reduced drying shrinkage, improved mixing and application, independent testing for installation under dynamic load applications. Aggressive environmental influences, the effects of harsh coastal environments, design and construction faults can all cause concrete damage including corrosion of the steel reinforcement. Once chloride corrosion to the steel has begun this can lead to expensive repairs being required and can lead to the premature failure of the structure. Sika provides an extensive range of systems and products for the durable repair of these defects. For more information contact: Phone: 1300 22 33 48 Website: aus.sika.com

Experts in steel and glass stairbuilding Leading up to 2008, Daniel Auld, Managing Director of Eric Jones Stairbuilding, had been seeing a steady increase in the use of steel and glass in stairs and balustrading in both residential and commercial building. Steel has a number of advantages over other building materials. It is more durable and has a superior strength to size ratio than most other materials, giving the opportunity for engineering slim architectural designs. Additionally, these materials are excellent for displaying contemporary aesthetics, while still being practical and highly functional in producing quality stairs and balustrades.” Over the last decade, Eric Jones has enjoyed considerable growth. The team has grown to over 50 staff, including a dozen highly-skilled and qualified welders as well as in-house draftsmen and 3D computer modeling technicians. The “new” steel division has been integrated within the company framework ensure that projects requiring a mix of materials are delivered without delay. No matter what the client requires - timber, steel strings or glass, stainless steel or aluminum balustrading - there Eric Jones is only partner you will ever need when it comes to stairs and balustrading. For more information contact: Phone: (03) 9874 0411 Website: www.ericjones.com.au

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MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA April– May 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 7

1300 10 12 14

24/7 National Service Line

www.mclabour.com.au

Print Post Publication No. 100008007

Call the People You Can Rely On.

Drug and alcohol testing: it’s time p.18

April – May 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 7

SETTING THE STANDARD FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS

official journal of the MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

CONSTRUCTION CIVIL TRAFFIC SECURITY INDUSTRIAL OH&S RAIL

Young guns: Regional Apprentice Awards kick off. p.17 Money tips: Learn some tricks to maintain cash flow. p.22 AppWorld: Get some apps to make your life easier. p.13