Master Builder magazine April-June 2022 by Master Builders Queensland

April - June 2022

ADAPT, EVOLVE, CHANGE

7-part feature: Adapting to our ever-changing industry

NOMINATE NOW

It's time to make an impact in the Master Builders Election 2022

STUNNING METAMORPHOSIS Gold Coast’s Norseman project takes top honours at National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards

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APRIL - JUNE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

7-PART FEATURE: ADAPT, EVOLVE, CHANGE From building a resilient home to adapting your business model and evolving to succeed in our everchanging industry.

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President’s Message: Rising costs continue CEO Message: Lobbying at our core Master Builders Australia CEO Message: Strong building, stronger economy #Trending: What has caused the perfect storm? Regional Profile: Wide Bay Burnett

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FEATURE: ADAPT, EVOLVE, CHANGE

COVER STORY Gold Coast’s Norseman reno by Projects and Designs Engineers takes top honours at National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards.

20-21 22 23 24-25 26 28 30

Building for the future Steel Institute update National Construction Code update Combining an age-old industry with modern technology Loren Hickey: Evolve to thrive Reach out to a MATE Keep calm and carry on

MEMBERS CORNER 31

38 55 58

MASTER BUILDERS’ ELECTION 2022 This is an election year for Master Builders and the process for electing our governance bodies will commence in August.

INDUSTRY LEADERS LUNCH Newly appointed CEO and Commissioner of the QBCC, Anissa Levy was the guest speaker at our Industry Leaders lunch in Brisbane.

TRAINING FOR SUCCESS The team at SX Homes on the Sunshine Coast believe in training for the future of our industry. Check out the latest Master Builders training courses on offer.

32 33 34-35 36-37 38-39 40-41 42

SERVICES & ADVICE 44-45 47 48 49 50 51

54 55 56 58 59

MASTER BUILDERS QUEENSLAND 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000 Phone: (07) 3225 6444 Web: mbqld.com.au Editor: Angela Kelly editorial@mbqld.com.au Graphic designer: Kristine Nilsson

Master Builder is the official magazine of the go-to peak industry association, Master Builders Queensland. All advertising and

editorial adheres to Master Builders Advertising & Editorial Policy at mbqld.com.au Disclaimer: Advice and information in this publication is given in

Our Experts Debt lifeline for struggling builders and tradies Project trust account update Change to Superannuation legislation Positive uptake of annual reporting Industry wake-up call – time for a business health check

WHAT'S ON

Published by

Housing & Construction Awards tickets on sale Tradie profile: Chris Cannings Tradie profile: Rodney Daly Advocacy Focus 2022 Cover story: Waterfront makeover gets gold at national awards Master Builders 2022 elections Sponsor Spotlight The Real Deal

Events calendar Industry leaders lunch Social scene Training insight Upcoming courses

Advertising: Mary-Ann Zammit News Corp Custom Publishing mary-ann.zammit@news.com.au (07) 4690 9370 Print and distribution: News Corp Australia Cover photo: The Norseman project on the Gold Coast by Projects and Designs Engineers good faith, on the understanding that any contributing person or organisation are not to incur any responsibility for negligence or legal liability if content is incorrect, incomplete, inappropriate or defective. All liability is therefore disclaimed.

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

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

RISING COSTs CONTINUE TO BITE THE LATEST BUILDING APPROVALS ARE ON A DOWNWARD TREND AND HIGHLIGHT AN INDUSTRY CRAVING CERTAINTY AND STABILITY. Despite a jump of 8.2 per cent in March, building approvals have started their anticipated shift to a downward trend. Alterations and additions are driving the residential sector, with post-flood alterations and additions contributing to a 6.1 per cent jump. Approvals for units also surged by 31.8 per cent over the month. While monthly figures are never sufficient for major predictions, the good news is they don’t indicate any kind of free fall. However, with the recent announcement of a hike in interest rates, the SEQ floods, Russian trade tariffs and continued unpredictability in labour and

4 | Master Builder

materials prices and shortages, there is no doubt these will all have an impact and there is potential for more pain on the way. With the current market volatility, it’s never been more important to work towards bringing back certainty and stability for our industry. In May, we welcomed the new Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) Commissioner, Anissa Levy, to our Industry Leaders Lunch, where she confirmed the QBCC was sympathetic to the predicament and current situation facing many builders. Our intention is to work collaboratively with the Commissioner, who stated her intention to continue to listen to industry stakeholders, such as Master Builders. We’ll be pushing for

the Commissioner to use her discretion in policy areas, such as MFRs, to ensure building industry policies, processes and legislation are achieving their purpose and that the burden they impose is proportionate to the protection they provide. With the expectation that price hikes and material and trade delays will run right through 2022, our role as a voice for the industry has never been more important. While there is no silver bullet solution for these problems, we’ve continued to lobby and advocate, particularly in the media, and looked for any opportunity to provide our industry relief and support. Read more on the impact of the SEQ floods and Russian tariffs on our #trending page. RALF DUTTON, PRESIDENT

Q&A

WITH JIM’S BUILDING INSPECTOR

Laurie Thompson

After many years of hard work on the tools and the stress of managing projects Laurie Thompson became a Jim’s Building Inspector Franchisee. Sam Robertson talks with Laurie about the experience. Sam: What was your previous role before becoming a Jim’s Building Inspections franchisee?

Laurie: I was a Site Supervisor and Project Manager on domestic and commercial construction sites. It was pretty full on and stressful. Sam: What made you look for change? Laurie: I was over the domestic side with project home builders and commercial sector as well. A physical injury also made me sit back and think about working smarter rather than harder. I had put in a lot of physically demanding years so it was time for a change. Sam: After deciding on a change, what attracted you to look at the Jim’s franchise? Laurie: Basically, I was looking to get out of the building industry, but given it is all I have ever known this is where my skillset was. I really just wanted to get out of the managerial side of things. My lovely wife actually found out about Jim’s Building Inspections through an internet search so she began looking into it for me and here we are. Sam: What was the onboarding and training process like? Laurie: My wife and I went through everything very thoroughly and you hear a lot of horror stories about franchises, but we really liked what was presented so we took our time to make sure it suited us. It took some time initially, but we realised quickly how thorough Jims are with their training and their support in helping me get my Queensland license. There is also a lot of variety in terms of the types of inspections we do, which is all included in the training. There is a mixture of in the classroom and onsite training which is great. It’s very hands on.

Sam: Heading into your 12 month anniversary, how have you found your time? And is it what you expected? Laurie: I couldn’t have come in at a better time as it’s gone crazy out there at the moment. In the beginning my head was spinning a bit. We certainly haven’t slowed down. With all the training and work on we have been very, very busy, but I couldn’t have asked for a better start. Sam: What advice would you give to people looking to make a change? Laurie: Meet up with a franchisee to see what it’s like. If you are looking to get off the tools, this is the ideal choice, or it certainly was for me. There’s a fair bit of training and in the beginning some travel, but less than 6 months in, jobs are settling to my local area. There’s a lot of work out there. Also, make sure that you talk to the QBCC to make sure you have all the correct licensing.

ARE YOU LOOKING TO GET OFF THE TOOLS? FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES EXIST FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE REGISTERED BUILDERS OR CURRENT BUILDING INSPECTORS. Jim’s Building Inspections offers you the best opportunity to combine your knowledge as a qualified and experienced builder with Australia’s most recognised and successful franchise brand to build a business that offers you independence, flexibility, financial reward and all the support you need to succeed.

TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 131 546 OR VISIT jimsbuildinginspections.com.au

jimsbuildinginspections.com.au

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

LOBBYING AT OUR CORE WITH TWO RECENT LOBBYING WINS UNDER OUR BELT, WE’RE TURNING OUR FOCUS ON ADVOCACY EFFORTS IN 2022. Following on from the Queensland Government’s announcement to extend deadlines for the Project Trust Account (PTA) regime, and a win in the procurement and tendering arena, our attention is now on the issues we’ll be lobbying for in 2022 and beyond. PTAs and procurement wins In response to our extensive lobbying and advocacy campaign urging the government to extend the deadlines, the government recently announced they are extending the deadlines and giving the building industry more time to prepare for the remaining phases of PTA frameworks. Starting dates are now 1 April 2023 for private sector contracts over $3 million and 1 October 2023 for private sector contracts over $1 million, which gives some much-needed breathing space for industry to get their head around the

6 | Master Builder

requirements and be prepared.

Advocacy Focus 2022

Our second win was in relation to Queensland Government procurement practices. In our discussions with the Department of Energy and Public Works we raised concerns about unfair tendering practices, including tender validity periods and other actions being taken by some government agencies that were at odds with the government’s standard conditions of tender for building projects. These discussions resulted in a directive from the department’s Director-General recommending agencies avoid tender validity periods and instead adopt strategies that support industry to tender and deliver projects effectively for the Queensland Government, with regard for the current market conditions.

The focus of our advocacy and lobbying efforts in 2022 will be firmly centred on ensuring the industry is well-placed to weather what is going to be another turbulent year. We’ll also be calling on the Queensland Government to make changes that will see the industry positioned to continue Queensland’s economic recovery and make it a better place to work.

Both decisions are significant wins for the industry and an acknowledgement from government of the instability created by COVID-19, particularly the constraints in supply chains, that are affecting both labour and materials.

In our recently released Advocacy Focus 2022, we’re therefore calling for a number of initiatives aimed at creating certainty for the industry, financial stability, building quality, physical and mental health and effective enforcement. In particular, with our industry facing such uncertain times, we’ll be looking to explore better tools to support the mental health of workers – building on existing initiatives such as Mates in Construction. Read more on pages 34-35 PAUL BIDWELL, CEO

Free information on minimising water damage to timber

Cleaning up after floods is messy at best but following appropriate processes can both speed up the task and maximise the recovery and reuse of materials. WoodSolutions Technical Design Guide 12 - Impact and Assessment of Moisture-affected Timber-framed Construction is a comprehensive resource that covers not only timber-framed walls, but roofs, floors, inbuilt cupboards, joinery and more. It’s available for free download from the WoodSolutions website, under the Resources menu, or by using the QR code on this page.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

STRONG BUILDING, STRONGER ECONOMY MASTER BUILDERS AUSTRALIA’S PLAN FOR THE NEXT FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AS WE GO TO PRINT ON THE EVE OF THE FEDERAL ELECTION, WE REFLECT ON THE BIG ISSUES MASTER BUILDERS AUSTRALIA HAS LOBBIED ON. The advocacy campaign, Strong Building, Stronger Economy was launched in April to push government to ensure economic recovery for our industry. The focus of our lobbying efforts in 2022 will be aimed at increasing the domestic supply of building materials and resolving the price hikes. Focus will be on providing incentives for private investment to supply raw materials through their manufacture in the country.

8 | Master Builder

Master Builders Australia is campaigning to ensure home ownership is within reach for everyone and there is enough new homes, rentals and social and community housing.

Construction Commission (ABCC) to be scrapped.

We know builders and tradies want a plan for economic recovery.

If Labor is serious about being businessfriendly then it can’t abolish the watchdog which makes sure everyone in the construction industry plays by the rules.

We need an economic plan that will help the more than 400,000 small builders and tradies that are right now suffering a severe cost and cashflow crunch.

Top policy priorities include getting more people into work, creating job opportunities and incentives for employers to take on more apprentices.

For them it is not about wage increases because they don’t get a wage. The money they are able to draw from their business depends entirely on how well their business is going. That’s why they want a plan for economic recovery above all.

A push for investments to meet the needs for a range of transport, defence and social infrastructures is also included in the report.

The campaign also calls for Labor’s plan to abolish the Australian Building and

DENITA WAWN, CEO MASTER BUILDERS AUSTRALIA

REBUILDING REBUILDING FINANCIAL FINANCIAL REBUILDING CONFIDENCE CONFIDENCE FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

#TRENDING

What HAS CAUSED THE PERFECT STORM? 2022 WAS ALWAYS GOING TO BE A TOUGH YEAR FOR THE RESIDENTIAL SECTOR, BUILDERS AND THEIR CUSTOMERS, BUT NOBODY COULD PREDICT THE IMPACT FLOODS WOULD HAVE ON OUR INDUSTRY. MATERIAL AND TRADE PRICE HIKES AND DELAYS SEEN IN 2021 WERE EXPECTED TO RUN RIGHT THROUGH 2022 – AND THAT WAS BEFORE THE IMPACT OF THE RECENT FLOODS. THIS HAS BEEN EXACERBATED BY THE CONFLICT IN THE UKRAINE, WHICH HAS SEEN PRICES OF SOME PRODUCTS SURGE FURTHER.

Buildings needing flood repair:

PANDEMIC The perfect storm started with COVID-19 supply chain disruptions. At the same time there was a surge in demand for right around the world as governments used construction to stimulate their economies. Two years on and COVID-19 isolation requirements continue to disrupt construction schedules in unexpected ways.

PRICE HIKES

35% tariff

25% increase

Imports from Russia

Wood Products

45,451

4,048

Residential

Commercial

FLOODS Thousands of properties were battered with the south-east Queensland floods in March, further increasing the demand for tradespeople and construction materials. The Insurance Council of Australia estimates more than 50,000 buildings (residential and non-residential) will require repair or rebuild, and this could take years. As part of our 2022 Industry Outlook, we predicted 38,000 new homes would be built during 2022 – almost a 20 per cent increase on 2019 (pre-pandemic). However, Master Builder CEO, Paul Bidwell said this outlook was prepared before the recent severe weather event – so the impact of that is yet to be fully understood.

UKRAINE CONFLICT From April an additional tariff of 35 per cent was applied to all imports from Russia and Belarus. “We’ve just seen, as a result of the Ukrainian conflict, the federal government impose tariffs on goods coming out of that region and the immediate impact has been a 25 per cent increase on engineered wood products,” Paul Bidwell said.

INTERSTATE MIGRATION Queensland has had a spike in interstate migration which saw people moving north and building their dream home.

Master Builder | 11

LONGLINE 305® — the obvious cladding choice When clients talk about ‘sustainable design’, not everyone is on the same page. For some, it’s about reducing their impact on the environment over the longer term. Others, though, have more immediate goals in mind. That was the case for the owners of this outstanding home, winner in the Residential Projects category in the most recent Lysaght Inspirations Design Awards. Director of Chan Architecture, Anthony Chan, says thermal comfort was the driving force behind their interest in sustainable design. “It was not so much that they were solely focused on sustainability, but they did want to be comfortable without the need for mechanical heating and cooling,” he says. “It was all about a well-performing house that would save them money in the longer term.” Chan designed a two-storey home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus a more private living space on the upper floor featuring a skylight. A guest bedroom and ensuite on the ground floor is off to one side of the entranceway but central to the design is a spacious open plan kitchen, dining living space, characterised by a double height void. A simple palette of concrete, timber and steel creates a rhythm for the internal spaces that is at once contemporary and warm while the masculine angles of the spaces are broken up with more feminine curves for the walls of the bathroom and living space upstairs. Chan says the challenge was balancing the desire for privacy with the need for space. “They really liked that sense of space,” he says. “They are definitely people who like to spend time at home, and they wanted that feeling of space internally.” To ensure the house performed well, Chan positioned the house on the 2000sqm block so that the main living areas faced north, allowing the polished concrete slab to passively regulate temperatures, keeping the house naturally cooler in summer when the sun is higher and warmer in winter as the slab releases heat into the evening. A thermal chimney directs hot air up

Kenny Street House featuring LYSAGHT LONGLINE 305® shaped from COLORBOND® steel LYSAGHT LONGLINE 305® cladding delivers a bold aesthetic with its slender, high ribs and broad, flat pans that make a dramatic statement on any structure. Using a concealed fixing system to maintain its clean lines LYSAGHT LONGLINE 305® cladding is available tapered for a fan-like effect where curvilinear roofs require a tailored cladding solution. and out of the house via windows on the top floor and the entire house has been heavily insulated, with the ceiling insulated to R7, the highest insulation batts available on the Australian market right now. Outside, LONGLINE 305® cladding was the obvious choice, thanks to its versatility, flexibility and reflective qualities. “The clients really wanted longevity and robustness and we wanted a product that could wrap around the building,” says Chan. “That pretty much narrowed it down to LONGLINE 305® cladding.” Shaped from COLORBOND® steel in colour Surfmist®, the cladding also reflects, rather than absorbs the heat. “The idea was that they wanted something that would reflect the light and make sure that it didn’t get too hot inside,” he says. The sloping roof also allowed plenty of space for a substantial photovoltaic system, providing more than enough power for the family. Timber cladding and stacked stone break up the facade, while recessed reveals on the upper windows add depth and a sense of permanence to the home. “When we do these recessed reveals, it

makes it look a bit more substantial and gives it a bit of depth,” Chan says. “The advantage of using LYSAGHT® products is that we’re assured that it’s all shaped from COLORBOND® steel so the flashings are the same colour as the cladding so that it looks like it is wrapping.” Given the local region was once dominated by farmland and orchards, the choice of cladding was also a nod to the history of the site, albeit a more sophisticated treatment thanks to the taller ribs and sharp shadows of the LONGLINE 305® profile. “When we got there, the old farmhouse was still on it,” Chans says. “It had been butchered over the years, so we designed this as a reference to the history of the site, with a barn-like shape.” And after several months in the house, you could say the new building is already bearing fruit. “It was always hard to know how well it would perform so I got in touch with the owners a few months after they moved in,” he says. “They said it was amazing all through their first winter — the temperature never dropped lower than 19 degrees inside the house. For such a big internal space with a double height void, that was a great result.”

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

BE BOLD BE BOLD DLOB EB WITH WITH H T I W 305 5 0 3 305 LONGLINE LONGLINE ENILGNOL ®

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Master Builder | 13

This region has certainly benefited from regional migration with building approvals across the region shooting up to 2,610 new residential approvals in 2021. This is 42.9 per cent more than the approvals for the previous year, putting Wide Bay Burnett among the fastest growing areas in the state. Why are people moving here? World famous attractions to the region include the sheltered waters around Hervey Bay are a stopover and playground for migrating humpback whales, making it the unofficial whale watching capital of the world. Agnes Water and 1770 are also tourist meccas with world class surf beaches, and amazing coastline views. A temperate climate, easy access for boaties for either open sea or sheltered waters and great off roading opportunities, as well as quality schools and improving medical facilities all add up to an attractive lifestyle. While residential approvals have tapered off, they are still in good shape when compared to previous years. What is truly exciting for the Wide Bay Burnett region is the proposed and planned pipeline of commercial and other projects. CSQ predict that there are $1.7 billion in committed projects and a total of $7.6 billion in planned projects. Currently there are 10,429 people employed in the building and construction industry. CSQ expect that this pipeline of work will provide between 1,460 and 3,950 in new jobs. Green fields projects include a 3,200-lot redevelopment at Burnett Heads, a $150 million, 44-hectare factory for Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, a $239 million rail manufacturing plant at Torbanlea, a $2 billion, 226 turbine wind farm in the Tuan forest. Several solar farms, lifestyle villages and other projects are also in various stages of planning or construction. IAN LANGER Master Builders Regional Manager, Wide Bay Burnett

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Regional growth is currently unprecedented, with an influx of new residents from south-east Queensland and interstate, taking advantage of our liveability and lifestyle.

Bundaberg region suitable for residential development, with a highyield scenario of 18,936 dwellings. There are dozens of approved residential developments waiting for the developers to proceed. I’ve heard of approved new-home owners waiting almost two years for houses to be built.

This mass migration has resulted in higher housing prices and an all-time low residential vacancy rate of 0.3 per cent in February 2022.

I support the call for a National Housing Summit to address these issues, involving state, federal and local governments, and stakeholder organisations such as Master Builders.

With ongoing supply chain and workforce pressures added to the mix, we’re in the midst of a housing crisis.

The Bundaberg Region has fantastic potential, but growth is currently being constrained by the housing crisis.

Bundaberg is not alone in this, with similar pressures being seen in neighbouring communities such as Hervey Bay and across Queensland.

Urgent action is needed.

Median vacant land price

GEORGE SEYMOUR

FRASER COAST MAYOR

$1.060 B

2,436

7,942

Value in building approvals

New dwellings approved in the region during the past 12 months

Construction workers employed in the region (8.0% of total employment / fifth largest employer in the region)

The Fraser Coast continues to grow, pushed along by an influx of residents of all ages seeking an affordable and attractive lifestyle in a beautiful natural environment.

a purpose-built $239 million manufacturing facility to constructed at Torbanlea (north of Maryborough), which will support up to 800 construction and manufacturing jobs.

Just three hours to Brisbane’s north, our population is expected to reach 150,000 by 2036, with Council processing a record number of building and development applications in recent years.

Under a joint venture between renewable energy companies Sword and Stone and ESS Inc, Iron Flow Batteries will be made in Maryborough, with the factory supporting 125 jobs initially and increasing to 250 workers at peak operation.

Many new residents are heading here to take advantage of the expansion of the region’s manufacturing sector. The Fraser Coast is central to the largest investment in train manufacturing in Queensland’s history a $7.1 billion investment.

Median new house price

$163,000

As of December 2021, there were 15,793 hectares of land in the

The housing boom is not being driven just by retirees heading north.

$395,500

The battery factory will be near the $60 million Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions plant and the Hyne Timber’s Glue Laminated factory, while there are also plans for a $2 billion wind farm in the Tuan Forest.

$24,894 Median personal income per year

$58,921 Median family income per year

7.5% of total employment from building & construction industry

The Fraser Coast is the ideal place to live, invest and do business.

Up to 65 trains will be built in

Master Builder | 15

Source Queensland Government Statistician’s Office, Queensland Treasury, Queensland Regional Profiles

BUNDABERG MAYOR

JACK DEMPSEY

The Bundaberg Region is the food bowl of Australia with beautiful beaches, iconic country towns and worldrecognised brands.

‘

’ ATO certifie Single d for To Payrolluch

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who are constantly looking for ways to improve the package which is in perpetual development as the market changes and users’ needs evolve.

Founded in Perth by director Peter Fonte, the concept for the software came about when, working as a builder himself, he realised the need for an integrated building package.

When it comes to setting itself apart from other similar products on the market, BEAMS offers the unparalleled knowledge and understanding of a builder come company director with years of practical, hands-on experience.

BEAMS was five years in the making and although initially developed for internal use only, the ease and functionality of the software prompted them to make it available for commercial use in 1994. Since then, BEAMS has enabled a greater understanding of what is required to manage and maintain a profitable business thanks to its coverage of the entire building process. Unique in its offering, BEAMS covers web leads in CRM, estimating with CAD Image, scheduling and accounts, plus the addition of mobile functionality. In addition to this, BEAMS is back by an experienced and dedicated team

“BEAMS software was developed by a builder who understands the wants and needs of users within the construction industry,” Peter said. “BEAMS customer support is suited to both the East and West coast, resulting in the longest support hours for our Clients. “We are currently the only software provider that integrates the functions of at least nine separate applications generally required to manage and operate a successful business, such as word processing, document storage, estimating, scheduling, CAD Image Take-off, email monitoring, accounting, CRM & Beams

Mobile to name a few.” And while having a vast offering is a key point of business for BEAMS Software, simplicity and functionality have always been areas in which they endeavour to deliver time and time again. “Users are able to prepare quotes quickly and respond to their clients in a timely fashion,” Peter said. “We offer the ability to maintain accurate cost control which results in better profits, including time-line scheduling. “BEAMS is keeping up with legislation changes including GST, T Par, Super Stream, Single Touch Payroll and provides full financial reporting, including BAS & PAYG.” Backed by over 28 years in business and a relentlessly dedicated team, it is easy to see why BEAMS continues to lead the way in the construction software industry and with international expansion plans in the pipeline, it seems the sky is the limit for this innovative company.

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BUILDING FOR THE futur e More needs to be done to prepare homes in flood-prone regions across Queensland for the next natural disaster. Queensland’s weather extremes are increasing in frequency and severity, and the financial and emotional impact on communities can be devastating and long-lasting. Suncorp research has found almost a third of Australians moved or considered moving for a sea change/tree change during COVID-19. However almost half of them failed to consider the impacts of natural disasters when moving, and even more did not consider the impacts when selecting the type of structure to live in.

BUILD BACK BETTER Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston said the insurance industry have long been calling for greater investment in making homes, businesses, and communities more resilient in the face of worsening extreme weather. Following the devastating floods in March, the Queensland Government launched a Resilient Residential Recovery package worth more than $700 million. This was to provide families whose homes had been badly damaged by flooding with a range of options that included retrofitting, house raising or the voluntary buy-back of homes at high risk from future floods.

ONE HOUSE In April last year, Suncorp worked with CSIRO, James Cook University and Room11 Architects 20 | Master Builder

to design, prototype and test what’s now known as One House. The home utilises normal building materials and uses them in a way to help it withstand natural disasters, while remaining competitive to the price of a standard architecturally designed home. Builders can replicate One House completely or use aspects of it to improve the resilience of an existing property. One House features several examples of how we can futureproof our homes against extreme weather including installing power points at least one metre above floor level and electrical wiring in the roof to prevent loss of power during flooding. Steve said One House is a conversation starter on building standards. “It’s making sure standards continue to be reviewed as extreme weather increases and impacts property and communities more than ever. “The current building code is focused

on saving lives. It doesn’t give the same consideration to, say, water and wind through windows and doors, as it does to keeping the roof on. So, while a house can be built to code, it can still suffer significant damage during extreme weather,” he said.

THE CURRENT BUILDING CODE IS FOCUSED ON SAVING LIVES Suncorp believes the purpose of the National Construction Code should be expanded to include consideration of increasing resilience of buildings, such as floor heights in floodprone areas, and reducing displacement rather than only loss of life. “If we can improve building resilience and adapt to a future of more extreme weather, generations to come will be better protected and less likely to be displaced before, during, and after natural disasters,” Steve said.

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Photo: Suncorp

ROCKHAMPTON's RESILIENCE ROAD A STREET IN ROCKHAMPTON HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST RESILIENT, BY UPGRADING HOMES WITH FEATURES DESIGNED TO BETTER PROTECT AGAINST EXTREME WEATHER. Dubbed ‘Resilience Road’, it puts into practice the innovation of Suncorp’s One House prototype launched last year, showing how practical and accessible features like installing ember guards or cyclone mesh screens can make homes stronger and safer. Suncorp’s Bernadette Norrie said Resilience Road aimed to encourage homeowners, builders, and government to make home resilience a priority. “While these upgrades are not a silver bullet to avoiding extreme weather, it is all about helping protect homes and the Australian way of life by lessening the impacts. “As a nation we must boost investment in stronger homes and local infrastructure that

makes communities safer and more resilient,” she said. Many homeowners aren’t aware of what they can do to reduce the impacts of extreme weather without costing a fortune. The houses on Resilience Road had upgrades that ranged from $200 for a weather seal installation on an external door to $6,000 to install Crimsafe screens to stop wind-driven projectiles. “We took the lessons from our One House partnership with James Cook University and the CSIRO, and then worked with builders and suppliers to determine what upgrades could be done to better protect the families next time they face extreme weather.”

UPGRADES TO THE HOMES > Upgrading garage doors to withstand cyclones, winds and limit fire embers entering enclosed areas. > Upgrading gutter guards to prevent debris build-up causing internal leaking and to stop fuel building for fire embers to light. > Installing weather seals on doors and replacing smoke alarms. > Tree lopping to ensure branches don't pose a potential debris risk during a storm. > Relocating air conditioning units away from the elements to prevent damage in a storm. > Replacing Colorbond roof sheeting including cyclone washers, fixings and flashings to ensure roof and flashings remain intact during strong winds.

> Reinforcing carport roof battens to strengthen structure. > Replacing wall lining with cement cladding to protect from water ingress. > Replacing doors with solid fire-rated hardwood material (rather than hollow plywood) as this better protects against storm and fire. > Raising the height of power points to ensure electrical safety in the case of a flood. > Installing louvres and Crimsafe screens to protect against flying debris in the event of a cyclone or storm and protecting against flying embers and bushfire heat. > Installing a water tank for storage reserves.

Master Builder | 21

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As part of the National Structural Steelwork Compliance Scheme, the Australian Steel Institute has prepared a full list of requirements to ensure fabricators are complying with the standards;

NEW STEEL STRUCTURES STANDARDS T

steel.org.au/focus-areas/qualityand-compliance/nsscs-for-builders. A full list of certified fabricators is available at: scacompliance.com.au/certifiedcompanies

his year’s update of the National Construction Code has major implications for how you as a builder procure fabricated structural steelwork for your projects.

automatically becomes CC2. The easiest way for you to ensure compliance is to obtain fabricated steelwork from a steel fabricator certified by Steelwork Compliance Australia.

Once the NCC 2022 is released in September, there will be a legal obligation for you to ensure the steel fabrication for your projects is being undertaken to meet the required construction category from Australian Standard AS/NZS 5131 as specified in the contract documents.

SCA certified fabricators have competency and extensive knowledge of not only AS/ NZS 5131, but the Australian steel material, welding and bolting standards that are referenced by both AS 4100 and AS/NZS 5131.

If a construction category has not been noted in the contract documents, then it

They also have procedures in place to enable full traceability of all the materials used in the fabrication process, to provide

confidence that the components are fit for purpose, with the ability to identify and rectify any faulty components. To enable peace of mind, you can have confidence that SCA certified fabricators have been audited and certified against the specified requirements to match the level of the required construction category specified in the building contract. FOR ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE THE MASTERBUILDERS BUILDING SERVICES TEAM IS HERE TO HELP. CALL 1300 30 50 10.

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NCC CHANGES COMING SOON Changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) have been delayed until 1 September due to the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. A preview of the changes is now available. The Australian Building Codes Board will outline the proposed changes at a series of seminars to be held throughout Australia during July and August.

KEY CHANGES 2022

A new performance requirement is proposed to provide additional protection to buildings where evacuation is unsafe.

IMPROVED USEABILITY

FACE MOUNTED BALUSTRADE

With the intention to provide a NCC that is user-friendly, NCC 2022 comes with important changes to its structure and format.

The Code will now limit the gap between the face of a trafficable surface and the balustrade to a maximum 40mm.

The focus will be on digitisation of the code and improving its readability.

ACCESSIBLE HOUSING

QUANTIFICATION

The intended purpose of the accessible housing (or livable housing) inclusions is for new housing to be easy to enter, easy to navigate in and around, capable of easy and cost-effective adaptation and responsive to the changing needs of occupants.

The NCC includes new quantified performance requirements to provide a practical approach to meet the requirements within the Code. EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRES Revised provisions aim to address situations where an early childhood centre is located on upper levels of a multi-storey building. BUSHFIRE PROTECTION The changes are to include bushfire protection provisions for certain nonresidential buildings with vulnerable occupants be included in the NCC.

The provisions will require: •

Step free access path

•

Step free dwelling entrance

•

Wider doors and corridors

•

Larger bathrooms

•

Hobless & step-free shower

•

Reinforced walls

LEAD IN PLUMBING PRODUCTS The changes require all new copper alloy plumbing products in contact with drinking water to have a weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25 per cent. NEW WATERPROOFING STANDARD The standard introduces new risk categories based on the probability of an area being exposed to moisture and provides certainty in determining the water proofing requirements. Stone tiles and concrete have been included as an option for water resistant surface materials. A new determination of ponding has been introduced. NEW WIND LOADS FOR HOUSING STANDARD Previously it was unclear how to calculate the maximum height of the house on a sloping site. The new standard includes clarity on geometric limits.

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO OUR WEBSITE MBQLD.COM.AU/NCC

ENERGY EFFICIENCY NCC 2022 preview draft does not yet include energy efficiency and condensation amendments as they have not yet been endorsed by Building Ministers. We can still expect a preview of those amendments prior to adoption. Class 1 buildings star ratings will increase from 6 to 7 stars. The changes

for class 2 buildings will require the building to have an average of 7 stars with no sole occupancy unit being less than 6 stars. The DTS requirements for housing have been increased dramatically and the tables are extensive. It is very likely that ceiling fans will be required to be installed in all bedrooms and living areas.

There is also the proposed introduction of a ‘whole of house assessment’ which introduces an energy usage budget for air conditioning, heated water systems, lighting, and swimming pool and spa pumps. Master Builders is seeking a 3-year transitional period for the introduction of these requirements.

Master Builder | 23

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WALLPAPER BROTHERS REINVENT THE RULE book Combining an age-old industry with modern technology B

uilt on traditional values and cuttingedge products, Milton & King wallpaper manufacturer challenges old systems, rewrites new rules, and questions industry operations. The brainchild of Toowoomba brothers, Richard and Bryce Capp, Milton & King is a family business, started in 2008 and dedicated to the evolution of the wallpaper and fabric industry.

and adapt quickly to learn the market, the product, and the selling process, among other things,” Bryce said. It’s this ability to evolve and learn on a personal level that has contributed to the success of their business. When the brothers set out on their venture, where they wanted to be was two years ahead of the technology at the time.

“My brother and I started our wallpaper journey as sixth generation farmers. So, not exactly experts.

Bryce said manufacturing a commercially viable product was the easy part, but the brothers struggled initially to make it profitable.

“It was, and still is, important to us to evolve

“We knew that the demand for digitally produced wallcoverings was increasing, and we

24 | Master Builder

Our first order was $14,000 – a massive number to us at the time, considering we only sold $9,000 of product in our first year. had to be prepared to answer the call in a way that was sustainable. “When technology finally caught up with our goals, and printers became available that would suit our needs, our priority became sourcing a base paper that met our standards and was affordable.” The brothers spent time researching options and finally came across the perfect product – but with it came a large financial commitment to fulfil a minimum quantity order from the mill in Europe.

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“We’ve built our business with very limited capital, being 100 per cent customer funded. We’ve had to think outside of the square every step of the way and use the resources at hand to push ourselves forward.”

GROWTH Milton & King will be expanding to the United States this year.

EMBRACE CHANGE

With more than 90 per cent of its orders being shipped to the US, this was the natural next step for the company.

For a long time, hiring someone new to do a job wasn’t an option due to capital restraints, so developing new skills, asking questions, and broadening their knowledge was a necessity for Bryce and Richard.

The new HQ for North America will be opening in Dallas, Texas and will incorporate a showroom, customer support, sampling, and production facilities.

“To really succeed, we have had to constantly be pushing boundaries. It doesn’t do any favours for a business or its employees to remain static, especially in a world that changes as rapidly as ours.” They have had to be willing to collaborate, and experiment, to view things from new perspectives and take risks to get to where they are today.

From this new base Milton & King intend to increase its wholesale and private label production for US clients by producing ondemand wallpaper with no minimum orders, zero inventory, lower set up costs, sampling and drop shipping, with reduced shipping costs. “We won’t ever forget how and where started, but we know that change is necessary, and we will always be willing to take the next step to better meet the demands of an everchanging world,” Bryce said. Master Builder | 25

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Being able to demonstrate your ability to adapt and thrive under ever-changing situations is essential to positive career development Photo credit: John Holland Group

EVOLVE TO thrive Loren Hickey is the Precontracts Manager of Infrastructure at John Holland Group with experience across the civil infrastructure, building, rail, natural resources, and property development sectors throughout Australia. She strives to better the industry through change and having open conversations around diversity in construction, breaking stereotypes.

front of mind when leaders go looking for people to help them tackle that situation.”

Loren said her ability to dust herself off and recover quickly from difficulties or challenges was her superpower.

Loren lives in Brisbane with her husband Matt and two children Elke and Billy.

“I do think that genuine resilience is hard to come by. A lot of people, through no fault of their own, are not naturally resilient. But on the flip side here in lies the kryptonite, or more of a self-awareness that this could come across as lacking compassion. "

She was one of the guest speakers at the Master Builders Influencers Lunch where the topic of conversation was adapting to an ever-changing work landscape.

Loren worries she can come across a bit cold as she tends to quickly look forward to the solution to a challenging situation as opposed to dwelling on what just happened.

“Being able to demonstrate your ability to adapt and thrive under ever-changing situations is essential to positive career development. Through adversity comes opportunity,” she said.

“I feel that people look to me for the way out, the next steps to move forward and perhaps go to others for the debrief or the decompression on the situation,” she said.

She believes saying yes to opportunity creates career pathways.

Loren said women bring their own brand of agility to think outside the box as they have a natural ability to read a room.

“If there is a current, challenging situation within your workplace, being known as someone who is agile and able to adapt quickly and positively will ensure you are

“We typically can identify and interpret emotions more quickly and accurately than men. Picking up on body language, a tone of voice or subtle facial expression can be the

26 | Master Builder

key to turning a souring conversation around or identifying the true need of a client or employee." Loren believes the use of this greater emotional recognition to create a clearer emotional profile of your key clients and teammates, and appeal to their needs on a deeper level, speaks to the more subtle elements of a problem, desired outcome. “For construction, marrying this emotional intelligence with technical understanding is the key diversity of thought we need to ensure we are hitting problems or opportunities at all angles and create amazing outcomes. " The COVID-19 pandemic has caused businesses to respond and work in ways they’ve never done before. John Holland is a flexible workplace with several staff working from home regularly. Loren said the pandemic had increased the amount of time people spent with their families and close friends, as they were forced to keep their circle tight. Her vision for the industry is a collaborative, inclusive and sustainable outcome for our people and businesses. “For me, that is achieved by placing a focus on mental health and sustainable working practices and expectations and ensuring risk allocation and contract models enable stable business outcomes so that we can continue to offer employment security to our workforce.”

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REACH OUT TO A

mate

upport for better mental health in the workplace is a step in the right direction if we are to continue to reduce suicide in the construction industry. An all-encompassing approach supports the message that it is OK to not be OK, it is OK to reach out to a mate if you think they are doing it tough. Learning and understanding the signs that a mate might be doing it tough and how to start a conversation, often simply to just check in with them or be with them means they no longer face those tough times alone. They know they have a mate that will sit with them through that tough time and will help connect them to help if they need it. This has been the MATES in Construction model of community development from early on, to help members of the construction industry understand the signs that something just isn’t quite right with a mate or fellow worker, and how to best check in with them. Put simply, we find it much easier to offer help to a mate in need, rather than ask for help when we need it ourselves. Help offering is far more effective, and easier than help seeking. Kevin Brady from KeyBuild Services understands the importance of checking in with a mate, family, or community member to see how they are travelling, which is why the company’s 53 staff have had General Awareness Training (GAT) by MATES in Construction. At least 10 of them then

volunteered to become Connectors. The purpose of a Connector is not to try and fix anyone’s problems. It is to simply sit with them, keep them safe and as the name suggests, connect them to appropriate help when needed.

no matter what that looks like, is important in knowing when to reach out and check in. Keybuild Services are an accredited site with implementation of the Australian Building and Construction Industry Blueprint for Better Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.

Kevin said if he hadn’t done the training, he wouldn’t feel as comfortable going up to people and asking if they’re OK.

MASTER BUILDERS IF SOMEONE HAS A PROBLEM DONATES $1 MILLION TOWARDS MATES NOW, YOU GO UP TO THEM AND SAY, 'ARE YOU OKAY? SUICIDE PREVENTION

"We’ve all done the training, so it’s a lot easier.” Every year 190 Australians working in the construction industry take their own lives. This means we lose a construction worker every second day to suicide. “One guy I helped.... he just didn’t seem himself, he didn’t come into work for two days…I rang head office and told them there’s something wrong as he wasn’t answering his phone, and he’d normally talk to me. “It was unusual, I just wanted to check in. “They sent someone around to his house and turned out he was considering suicide,” Kevin said.

Master Builders chose Mates in Construction as the recipient of its $1 million donation earlier this year. In December last year, Master Builders received a $1 million dividend as a shareholder of Construction Income Protection Limited (CIPL). As it was money earned from industry members funds, the Master Builders Board determined it should be immediately put back into the industry from where it was generated. The donation will provide support to builders over the next three years in supervising apprentices, particularly around mental health and delivering essential life skills to apprentices.

Recognising a change in someone’s behaviour,

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE TRAINING AND SUPPORT OPTIONS AVAILABLE WITH MATES VISIT MATES.ORG.AU. 28 | Master Builder

ADAPT | EVOLV E | CHANGE

HomeGuard Termite Management System saves from ongoing costs In this day and age, we are constantly faced with higher expectations, challenging designs, and new method requirements. The Ronald McDonald House in Perth was one such build. As an international charity that helps the families of sick children with support and accommodation during their times of treatment, it was essential that the building be an exemplar design and construction for this type of project and purpose. The building achieved a LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] Silver rating, a global recognition and certification for environmentally sustainable buildings, the first of its kind in Australia. Several significant challenges presented themselves at Ronald McDonald House. In particular, the new construction

method affected the supporting basement retaining walls by creating gaps in the structure large enough for a small child to squeeze through. As with every unique project, this required new way of thinking. The Homeguard team at FMC Australasia proudly assisted the HomeGuard Accredited Installer, Termico Pest Management Services, to install a HomeGuard Termite Management System. The solution was HomeGuard termite protection ‘sheeting’ – it provided great flexibility coupled with chemical repellence that could wrap the retaining walls and cover all entry points from subterranean termite infestation with no worries about exposure to residents as it is fully contained in the sheeting’s matrix. HomeGuard is designed, researched and developed in Australia for Australian conditions to last for the design life of the building. So, Ronald McDonald house can rest assured that in the future their limited funds can be spent on the young patients and their families, not on continually termite treatments. Perth’s Ronald McDonald House by Perth Architect Gerry Kho, built by Doric Construction HomeGuard installed by Termico Pest Management Services, and supported by FMC Australia.

Master Builder | 29

ADAPT | EVOLV E | CHANGE

KEEP CALMcaANDrry

RESEARCH DIRECTOR AT CONSTRUCTION SKILLS QUEENSLAND, ROBERT SOBYRA WEIGHS IN ON THE ‘PERFECT STORM’ AND HOW BUSINESSES ARE ADJUSTING.

It’s no secret that builders are under massive strain with housing booming while supply chains have seized-up. As schedules have blown-out, margins on fixed-price contracts have dwindled. It’s become known as the ‘profitless boom’. It doesn’t take much to tip from a profitless boom into an ‘insolvency crisis.’ Many people are getting worried about this doom loop leading to record numbers of company collapses in 2022. We’ve already seen some big players fall over during this pandemic. But what does the data say?

Profits are up Make no mistake – somebody is making a lot of money. Quarterly profits for the construction industry jumped 27 per cent during the pandemic. And while there is a common view that small construction players have been worst off, the data does not support this.

Year-on-year sales for small construction businesses has been as much as 20 per cent higher than usual during the pandemic. Not only that, but overdue payments are also at the lowest level on record.

That said, there was a three to six-month period at the start of 2021 when the costs builders paid for materials diverged sharply from the prices, they charge their customers.

There is no doubt that insolvencies are creeping upward, but we need to keep this in perspective.

This is the insolvency trap. And this was a pivotal moment where some businesses may have gotten into trouble.

Under normal circumstances, around 400 construction firms go into administration every quarter. During the pandemic, that figure was halved because the government placed a moratorium on insolvent trading – effectively allowing otherwise bankrupt firms to continue operating.

However, the speed that businesses adjusted and started passing on increases means we probably won’t see the tsunami of insolvencies that many are concerned about.

That moratorium expired on 31 December 2020 and what we are now seeing is a return to normal.

Builders passing on costs We have, so far avoided the doom loop of a profitless boom turning into an insolvency crisis by paying for it. Although building costs are rising steeply, firms have been quick to pass them on to their own customers.

Tax agent 25726830

30 | Master Builder

MEMBERS CORNER

HOUSING AND CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

tickets now on sale

aster Builders’ Housing and Construction Awards are nothing short of the industry’s Oscar Awards – and in 2022, we’re really excited to be able to celebrate the best of the best on the red carpet. This is your opportunity to hang out with like-minded industry professionals and celebrate your own hard work and achievements, as we put the year’s most impressive homes, projects, and people in each of our regions in the spotlight. Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards program has become one of Queensland’s most prestigious industry events since its inception in 1987. The incredible entries we’ve received this

year shows off your quality workmanship and passion as you have gone above and beyond in achieving excellence.

industry. Tickets are now on sale, so don’t miss out, it’s sure to be a night to remember.

Don’t miss your chance to come together and recognise the brightest stars in our

Visit mbqld.com.au/hctickets to book your seat or a table.

REGION

DATE

VENUE

Brisbane

15 July 2021

Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

Downs & Western

22 July 2021

Rumours International Convention Centre

Gold Coast

29 July 2021

RACV Royal Pines Resort, Gold Coast

Wide Bay Burnett

5 August 2021

Bundaberg Multiplex

Sunshine Coast

6 August 2021

Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, Twin Waters

Central Queensland

12 August 2021

Frenchville Sports Club, Rockhampton

Mackay & Whitsunday

13 August 2021

Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre

Far North Queensland

19 August 2021

Pullman Cairns International

North Queensland

20 August 2021

Quayside Terminal, Port of Townsville

Master Builder | 31

MEMBERS CORNER

Chris gs C annin

CANNINGS GARDEN & LANDSCAPE

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INTO THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY? I have always been good with my hands. Even from an early age I knew working indoors was never for me. Being able to create something from nothing and seeing the results of your hard work drove me to where I am today.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB – AND A MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM THOSE EARLY DAYS? My first big job was paving 280m2 around a pool and patio area. The whole thing seemed so daunting and complicated. There was limited access. We had to set up conveyer belts to remove all the existing pavers and to get all new materials in. Looking back years on, I shouldn’t have stressed so much.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE – AND WHAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT IT? I own a structural landscaping and arborist business with my wife. I started the business in 2004 in Sydney, moving to Townsville with my wife and two kids this year. I love the fact that I am always outdoors, working with my family and I get to see a client's face when their home has been transformed.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME? As we are reasonably new to NQ, we’d like to see our business grow and expand, having a similar, solid, and fruitful client base as we had in Sydney. Then…. hopefully having time to kick back a little and enjoy all that FNQ has to offer. 32 | Master Builder

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? It would have to be a new build that was completed last year. Outside was a blank, ugly dirt patch on a sloping block. I constructed retaining walls, large backyard hardwood timber deck, hardwood timber landing and stairs from the front of the property to the street. We laid turfing, drainage, and irrigation, also adding a driveway, and surrounding concrete paths. We turned a dust bowl into a showpiece.

WHAT’S THE TOUGHEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED, OR BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU’VE OVERCOME? My biggest challenge at times is being able to come together with the customer on design and works to be completed, then clarifying the complexities of the process being undertaken and in turn the resulting cost of the quote. Having customers understand that with my quote they are not only being provided with my knowledge of local and current guidelines and practices, but also my 18 years of experience.

FINALLY, WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN? Happy wife, happy life. My wife has helped me improve productivity, time management and general practices... lending her eye of OCD and aesthetics over all our work.

MEMBERS CORNER

TOUCHSTONE TILING SERVICES

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INTO THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY? Growing up, my family had a very strong dairy farming background. I was the youngest of five boys and we were a sporty, hands-on type of family. My father had a motto “If you can’t fix it with a hammer, nails and wire, it’s not worth fixing”. I feel that ingenuity and taking something broken and making it useful again was the blueprint to my career in construction, tiling and waterproofing.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB – AND A MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM THOSE EARLY DAYS? After graduating high school, I went into an apprenticeship as a diesel mechanic. After a year, the large mechanical company I worked for went into bankruptcy and I joined River of Gold Slate Mine. I learned the entire operation and became a tiler’s assistant. In the early days there was great camaraderie onsite between all the trades… before mobile phones. At smoko, we would sit together and have a quick yarn about the hot topic of the day. It was a time when we all had Ute dogs. I once had a white cat called Scratchie that I took to site every day, and she would climb scaffolding and chase the dogs. She rode in the front of my cruiser and was one tough cat.

TELL US ABOUT ANY AWARDS YOU’VE WON? Touchstone Tiling won the Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders 2021 Housing & Construction Queensland Awards.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CURRENT ROLE – AND WHAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT IT? My role is Operations Manager and Trainer. My strength is in maintaining the day-to-day relationships with site supervisors and project managers and co-ordinating staff. At 50 years old, I still lay tiles on some of the more modest commercial jobs we do. Over the years I have trained apprentices and building those relationships and seeing them grow into men and go out on their own makes me feel quite proud.

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? In 2011 I was Supervising Head Tiler that was part of an ex-patriot team of tilers flown to Fiji. We worked for a multi-national company that built a resort on Denarau Island. I had almost 40 local tilers under my stewardship.

WHAT’S THE TOUGHEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED? Not knowing your profit margins and not keeping a tight rein on your financials overheads and expenditure will walk you into trouble.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME? Happily married and on adventures with my two teenage kids. Career-wise, I feel very comfortable with our customer base and the business relationships I have built and maintained over the years. Master Builder | 33

MEMBERS CORNER

ADVOCACY FOCUS2022 IN 2022, OUR ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING EFFORTS WILL BE CENTRED ON ENSURING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IS WELL-PLACED TO WEATHER WHAT IS GOING TO BE ANOTHER TURBULENT YEAR, AS WELL AS MAKING SOME CHANGES THAT WILL SEE THE INDUSTRY POSITIONED TO CONTINUE QUEENSLAND’S ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND MAKE IT A BETTER PLACE TO WORK FOR INDUSTRY PARTICIPANTS.

CERTAINTY FOR INDUSTRY •

Continue to keep the industry working to a clear set of rules as COVID-19 cases rise and have a clear plan for dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks.

•

Amend workers compensation legislation so that COVID-19 claims do not impact WorkCover premiums.

•

Provide a Queensland Forward Procurement Pipeline for accurate and timely information on the government’s program of building work, in particular infrastructure to be delivered as part of the Olympic preparations.

•

Replace the Best Practice Principles, Ethical Supplier Mandate and Ethical Supplier Threshold in the government’s procurement policy with a process for assessing the performance of all suppliers across all industries. Allow practical amendments to the government’s procurement policy in the regions to the 10 per cent training requirement for apprentices, indigenous and female workers on government jobs.

•

Introduce a single, mandatory, statewide Housing Code for greater certainty and efficiency in housing development.

FINANCIAL STABILITY •

Implement an early intervention payment dispute system that can address defective work and nonpayment without the need for court action. It should extend to cover all work that is completed lawfully and within the licensing framework.

•

Delay the introduction of Project Trust Accounts into private sector projects over $3 million until 2023 and over $ 1 million until 2024.

•

Use the opportunity in the upcoming developer review to ensure that security payment measures start at the top of the supply chain with developers and owners.

•

Review the Minimum Financial Requirements to ensure they are achieving their purpose and that the burden they impose is proportionate to the protection they provide.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

•

Provide better tools to support the mental health of workers, building on initiatives such as Mates in Construction.

•

Contribute to the development of the Psychological Health Code of Practice and address the lack of clarity around what compliance looks like.

34 | Master Builder

Require a ‘suitable person test’ for industrial relations and workplace health and safety permits so that only those who are ‘fit and proper’ can exercise the powers of the permit.

•

Raise the maximum deposit for domestic building projects to 7.5 per cent to support contractors’ cashflow and their ability to fund construction work up front.

BUILDING QUALITY •

Provide free access to Australian Standards referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC).

•

Ensure requirements for energy efficiency and accessible housing added into the NCC are buildable and cost effective.

•

Introduce an industry-wide, mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme, including a New Builder Program to raise the bar for new residential builders.

•

Determine workable options for funding the rectification of buildings with combustible cladding.

•

Require manufacturers to confirm product conformance against the NCC requirements and communicate product information in a standard format (Product Technical Statements).

EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT •

Reform the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) to ensure that its regulation of industry is transparent, accountable, reasonable, reviewable, consistent with the legislation, and otherwise carried out with the highest integrity.

MEMBERS CORNER

CERTAINTY FOR INDUSTRY The construction industry is heading into 2022 expecting another turbulent year. Open borders will bring both challenges and opportunities. In 2022 Master Builders will work to ‘steady the ship’ and see that there is some certainty in the environment in which construction projects are delivered.

FINANCIAL STABILITY Builders will continue to struggle with unprecedented supply chain challenges, with soaring costs and delays expect to continue throughout the year. Master Builders will work to support financial stability in our industry and help head off widespread insolvencies.

BUILDING QUALITY The rules builders work to ensure building quality must be workable and not take away from the affordability of new construction.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH Our industry can be a challenging place to work. It is important to support the physical and mental health of our workforce. There can be no room for this to be compromised by other agendas.

EFFECTIVE ENFORCEMENT Buildings are delivered through supply chains. There needs to be effective enforcement of the entire supply to ensure that those who responsible are held to account.

•

Reform the rectification of defective building work process to ensure decisions are fair, proportionate and targeted at all relevant parties, including builders, subcontractors, developers and other principals.

•

Reform the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme to ensure that payment of claim decisions are fair to all parties, subject to appropriate internal review

processes, and recovery actions are undertaken in a manner that is lawful, transparent, and otherwise consistent with the highest standards of regulatory behaviour.

IN 2022, WE WILL USE EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO LOBBY ON BEHALF OF THE QUEENSLAND BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND OUR MEMBERS AND SEEK SUPPORT FROM THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT ON THESE KEY ISSUES. FOR MORE INFORMATION, EMAIL INDUSTRYVOICE@MBQLD.COM.AU, CALL 1300 30 50 10 OR VISIT MBQLD. COM.AU

Master Builder | 35

MEMBERS CORNER

WATERFRONT MAKEOVER GETS GOLD at National wards

icardo Ramirez and his team from Projects and Designs Engineers transformed a single storey, 1980s brick home into a modern, architectural designed upmarket Gold Coast residence. The remarkable metamorphosis wowed this year’s National Excellence in Building & Construction Awards judges, winning the Home Renovation/Remodelling Project from $650,000 up to $1 million category. This comes after winning both the Gold Coast and Queensland awards. Overlooking the canal at Paradise Waters, the double level home boasts five bedrooms and bathrooms and superb skyline views. Ricardo with the help of Habitat Studio Architects set out to bring the 40-year-old house back to life and make it look beautiful. “We kept the existing slab on the ground and the external walls, and from there we went

36 | Master Builder

We set out to bring the 40-year-old house back to life and make it look beautiful up. We tried to keep the same footprint of the house. “What really makes it special is we were able to have an architectural design, and minimalistic style,” he said. Ricardo’s favourite aspect of the project is the special location and the courtyard pool area. “A lot of new houses these days have the

pool in the backyard. But we were trying to keep the same configuration that was the trend in the 90s and 80s to have the pool in the courtyard, in the middle. So as soon as you enter the house there is a double high volume, and it flows into the building,” he said. An entry sequence was provided from the front gate entry through to the front door through this courtyard space. One of the biggest challenges the Projects and Designs Engineers team faced was the start of COVID-19 just months into the reno. “We didn’t really know what could happen next week, or in a month or the week after. There were a lot of parties involved in the project, so it was building under challenging times,” Ricardo said. A structural engineer, Ricardo said he was involved in every phase of the project until completion which was very special.

MEMBERS CORNER

BEFORE

AFTER

KITCHEN Ambrose Home

Canibuild National Contract Home – $500,000 to $750,000

BESIX Watpac

Infrabuild National Health Facility Award

Top Plate Building

National Alterations/Additions Award – $200,000 to $400,000

Projects and Designs Engineers

National Alterations/Additions Award - $650,000 to $1 Million

Graya Construction

National Alterations/Additions Award - over $1 million

Concept Kitchens & Detail Joinery

National Specialist Contractor of the Year - Residential

Gordon Bourke Constructions

Office HQ National Contract Home – under $350,000

Brighton Homes Queensland

Structure Consulting National Display Home – $250,000 to $350,000

Platinum Residential Designer Homes

Toyota National Display Home – $500,000 to $1.5 million Master Builder | 37

Champion Champion MEMBERS CORNER

your your industry. industry.

ELECTION ELECTION ELECTION2022 2022 2022 2022 is an election year at Master Builders. Now 2022 2022isisananelection electionyear yearatatMaster MasterBuilders. Builders.Now Now is your chance to bring out the best in building and isisyour yourchance chancetotobring bringout outthe thebest bestininbuilding buildingand and construction and be a champion for your industry. construction constructionand andbebea achampion championfor foryour yourindustry. industry.

Every member can have an impact. Every Everymember membercan canhave havean animpact. impact. At Master Builders, we believe you’ve got the right AtAtMaster MasterBuilders, Builders,we webelieve believeyou’ve you’vegot gotthe theright right tools for the job. Any eligible member can nominate tools toolsfor forthe thejob. job.Any Anyeligible eligiblemember membercan cannominate nominate for a position, from commercial and residential for fora aposition, position,from fromcommercial commercialand andresidential residential builders to subcontractors and trade professionals. builders builderstotosubcontractors subcontractorsand andtrade tradeprofessionals. professionals. Whether you’re on the tools or behind the desk, we Whether Whetheryou’re you’reononthe thetools toolsororbehind behindthe thedesk, desk,we we welcome nominations from anyone who wants to welcome welcomenominations nominationsfrom fromanyone anyonewho whowants wantstoto make an impact. make makeananimpact. impact.

Nominations open Nominations Nominationsopen open Nominate for a position that suits you by visiting Nominate Nominatefor fora aposition positionthat thatsuits suitsyou youbybyvisiting visiting www.mbqld.com.au/election2022 www.mbqld.com.au/election2022 www.mbqld.com.au/election2022

How How Hownominations nominations nominationswork work work

VOTING VOTING VOTING MEMBERS MEMBERS MEMBERS

ALL ALL ALL MEMBERS MEMBERS MEMBERS 38 | Master Builder

Master Builders Master Master Builders Builders Electoral College Electoral Electoral College College

Board Board Board

Divisional & Branch Divisional Divisional && Branch Committees ofBranch Management Committees Committees ofof Management Management Policy Subcommittees Policy Policy Subcommittees Subcommittees

Housing Sector Housing Housing Sector Sector Committee Committee Committee

Construction Construction Construction Sector Committee Sector Sector Committee Committee

Notice Noticeof ofAnnual AnnualGeneral GeneralMeeting Meeting-18 18October October2022 2022

The TheMaster MasterBuilders BuildersAnnual AnnualGeneral GeneralMeeting Meeting(AGM) (AGM)will willbe beheld heldon on 18 18October October2022 2022at atMaster MasterBuilders’ Builders’head headoffice officeininBrisbane. Brisbane.General General business businessto tobe beconducted conductedisisoutlined outlinedininfull fullon onMaster MasterBuilders Builderswebsite. website. The TheMBEC MBECmeeting meetingwill willimmediately immediatelyfollow followthe theAGM. AGM.

Why Whyput putyour yourhand handup? up?

AD AGENCY

It’s It’syour yourindustry industryand andyou youcan canhave havean animpact. impact. Nominating Nominatingfor forany anyposition positiongives givesyou youthe theopportunity opportunity to tohave haveaasay sayabout aboutthe theissues issuesthat thatmatter matterto toyou. you.

Timeline Timeline AUG AUG

SEP SEP

OCT OCT

NOV NOV

DEC DEC

Nominate Nominateand andelect elect Master MasterBuilders BuildersElectorial Electorial College Collegeand andElectorial Electorial Divisional DivisionalRepresentatives Representatives

Nominate Nominate President, President,Housing Housingand and Construction ConstructionSector Sector Committee CommitteeChairs Chairsand and Master MasterBuilders BuildersBoard Board

AGM AGMand andMBEC MBECMeetings Meetings Election, Election,Housing Housingand and Construction ConstructionSector Sector Committee CommitteeChairs Chairsand and Master MasterBuilders BuildersBoard Board

Nominate Nominateand andelect elect Housing Housingand andConstruction Construction Sector SectorCommittee CommitteeMembers Members

AGM AGMand andElections Elections Divisional Divisionaland andBranch Branch Committees Committeesof ofManagement Management

Nominate Nominate Divisional Divisionaland andBranch Branch Committees Committeesof ofManagement Management

Nominate Nominateand andappoint appoint Policy Policysubcommittees subcommittees

Nominations Nominations open openon on 11August August

sponsor spotlight WGC LAWYERS LOCATED ON SHERIDAN STREET ALONG THE FRINGE OF THE CAIRNS CBD HAS BEEN PROUDLY SERVICING CAIRNS AND THE NORTH QUEENSLAND REGION FOR 50 YEARS. WGC is a full service commercial legal practice dedicated to serving the needs of North Queenslanders in commercial and property law, building and construction law, dispute resolution, wills and estates and

family law. WGC has highly skilled, experienced and trusted legal professionals committed to providing down-to-earth, timely and costeffective advice to major corporations and groups, private developers, large and small businesses, families, and individuals. WGC’s Managing Director, Doug Mcinstry has been a member of Master Builders for more than 20 years and is highly regarded

for his personable approach to handling the toughest of cases with the benefit of his 35 years’ experience in building and construction law and dispute resolution. WGC is proud to be a long-standing sponsor of Master Builders Far North Queensland. If you require relaxed, highly competent, and caring legal advice, WGC Lawyers are here to help.

CONTACT WGC LAWYERS AT CAIRNS@WGC.COM.AU OR PHONE (07) 4046 1111

QUEENSLAND BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND CLAIMS CONSULTANCY PROVIDE COST-EFFECTIVE NON-LEGAL SERVICES FOR BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION DISPUTES. With years of experience in the construction industry, they understand there are many reasons why disputes arise and may be able to help you to reach an economical and fair resolution, using the right processes. Given what they do, they get asked lots of questions by their clients, but these are the top two. HOW DO I GET PAID? Every situation is different, however if you have crossed your ‘t’s’ and dotted your ‘i’s’ in respect of your statutory and contractual obligations, it will make it easier to recover money you are owed. If the Head Contractor goes bust, then serving a Subcontractor’s Charge may assist. Otherwise, BIFA adjudication may be an option for quicker recovery than court proceedings.

WHY DID I SIGN UP TO THAT? Only you can answer that. It is important that you know what you are agreeing to before you sign any contract, especially the terms and conditions such as warranties, timeframes for variations and EOTs, even how you are supposed to serve a notice. Unfortunately, contractual obligations can’t

be treated with a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude if you want to ensure you will be properly paid for work you do on a job. They can assist you to navigate complex contract conditions. Their team has the experience and knowledge to help you with these issues, and many others, or even just with day-to-day strategies from project inception to completion.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SERVICES WE PROVIDE, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT QLDBCCC.COM.AU OR SEND US AN EMAIL TO INFO@QLDBCCC.COM.AU.

40 | Master Builder

PLASTAMASTA TOOWOOMBA IS THE ONLY DEDICATED PLASTERBOARD DISTRIBUTOR IN TOOWOOMBA. The sought-after supplier and their expert staff services the needs of plasterers, builders and renovators alike in Toowoomba and surrounds. They also supply regional towns and areas west of Toowoomba, including St George, Roma and Goondiwindi, Warwick and Stanthorpe. Store Manager, Craig Knauth and his talented and qualified team have boundless expertise to assist your project requirements. They are committed to customer service and pride themselves on supplying orders on-time and in full. Their Toowoomba store stocks a full range of products as well as a comprehensive range of tools and accessories. They offer insulation, James Hardie products and Armstrong ceiling panels and specialise in fire and acoustic systems. Backed up with the Siniat technical team, PlastaMasta offer engineered

solutions to most construction situations.

•

Automatic and hand tools

PlastaMasta Toowoomba products and services include the following:

•

Full James Hardie Stockist

•

Technical assistance

•

Siniat Plasterboard

•

Delivery service

•

Siniat Steel

•

Prompt and friendly staff

•

Insulation

•

Knowledgeable sales team

•

Armstrong grid and tile

•

No job too big or small.

•

Screws and fixings

CONTACT PLASTAMASTA ON (07) 4635 0260 OR EMAIL SALES@TOOWOOMBAPLASTAMASTA.COM.AU

The benefits of consulting an experienced lawyer in these circumstances, even if it is only to “acid test” advice you have already received, include: • •

•

SURVIVAL IS TOUGH - TREAD WEARILY As if juggling cash, creditors, employees, customers, suppliers and sometimes your loved ones isn’t enough, trying to find appropriate advice is often just as difficult. McInnes Wilson Lawyers knows your business is your livelihood and if it goes bad it can cause your financial ruin. Other than your health and personal relationships, it is likely the most important thing in your life.

If your business is distressed and you find yourself needing assistance, consider engaging a qualified and experienced professional to assist you. The principal choices are turning to a qualified and experienced insolvency professional (e.g. a liquidator), an unqualified salesperson with “the great pitch” and allegedly “cozy relationships” or a suitably qualified and experienced restructuring and insolvency lawyer. Would you leave serious health issues to a non-qualified health professional?

The lawyer is compelled to act in your best interests Advice given to you by a lawyer is protected from liquidators whereas communications with a non-lawyer (written or oral) is not If your worst fears are realised and matters go South, and they can, having received appropriate legal advice may assist in mitigating the consequences of your actions.

Finally, seek help sooner rather than later. Statistics and experience evidence that the sooner distressed businesses seek assistance, the better the outcomes. Once the business has reached situation critical the available outcomes are often severely inhibited. MCINNES WILSON OFFERS A NO FEE 30-MINUTE TELEPHONE CONSULTATION TO DIRECTORS OF DISTRESSED BUSINESSES. CALL (07) 3014 6553.

MEMBERS CORNER

deal

The Real

AS A BUSINESS OWNER, YOUR DAY-TO-DAY EXPENSES AND PROJECT RUNNING COSTS CAN QUICKLY ADD UP. AT MASTER BUILDERS WE’RE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU, SO WE’VE TEAMED UP WITH SOME INDUSTRY PARTNERS TO HELP YOUR DOLLAR GO FURTHER. We give you access to exclusive deals, discounts and special offers that can save you money on the things you need to operate your

business effectively. But, life isn’t about all work and no play, which is why we've got your holidays and lifestyle covered for you too. Our range of member discount providers have been sourced across different categories to meet your diverse needs. Categories include vehicle and fleet, health and safety, travel and lifestyle, tools and equipment, and products.

HELP BUSINESSES THRIVE THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES Wondering why you’re busier than ever but not sure if you’re going to see a decent profit after all the hard work? As building and construction specialists – Xact Accounting can help you solve the big challenges as your business grows – setting you up to protect and grow your profits through the current conditions. They’re also Queensland’s leading QBCC accounting specialists. In addition to a range of member only discounts, Xact Accounting has a Master Builders Member hotline, phone (07) 3124 8666. This service is free for members and offers a 1-hour consultation to talk through any tax, accounting or commercial challenges. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MBQLD.COM.AU/XACTACCOUNTING

HAVE YOU GOT AN AMPOLCARD? Take advantage of Australia’s largest fuel network and manage your on-road business costs with the new AmpolCard. As they transition to the Ampol brand, your AmpolCard will be accepted across the entire network of over 1,900 Caltex* and Ampol branded locations. AmpolCard gives you instant access to savings on fuel and vehicle related expenses, all for a low monthly fee. *Ampol Limited, through a subsidiary, is a licensee in Australia of the Caltex trademark, but is in the process of transitioning its network of over 1,900 sites to instead trade under its own Ampol trademark.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT MBQLD.COM.AU/AMPOL

JOIN THE FOLD WITH GOLD FLEET Did you know, as a Master Builders member, you receive exclusive Gold Fleet discounts on Toyota vehicles? You can get the buying power that’s usually only accessible to large national businesses. The discount depends on the model purchased. With more than 50 years in the Australian market, Toyota is Australia’s best-selling car brand. From passenger vehicles through to SUVs and light commercial vehicles, Toyota offers a wide range of options for your business. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MBQLD.COM.AU/TOYOTA

These are just some of the great deals available to Master Builders members. For a full list of discounts and special offers, visit mbqld.com.au/member-discounts

MEMBER DISCOUNT PROVIDERS

Amex, Ampol, BMW, Buildxact, Bupa, Departure Lounge, Interscale, Isuzu, Mazda, Mini, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, NobleOak, Officeworks, QSolutions Group, Robam Appliances, SIXT Australia Car & Truck Rental, St John Ambulance. Telstra, Totally Workwear, Toyota, Xact Accounting 42 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

ASK OUR EXPERTS

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

KAREN HAWORTH

GARY HOGG

TONIA MIRON

JULIAN LANE

Manager Planning Services

Advisor Workplace Health & Safety

Manager Licensing Services

Principal Lawyer Members Legal

The building and construction industry can be complex, which is why we receive thousands of member enquiries each year. Here at Master Builders, our friendly and knowledgeable experts are on hand to answer your questions about the issues you face in the day-to-day running of your business. This advisory service is free to members – and it’s just one of many ways we’re committed to giving you a valuable membership experience. Over the following pages, this edition’s panel of experts share some of the common questions they are asked.

We’re here to help, whether you need advice about: •

Contracts, including which contract to use

•

Disputes and getting paid

•

Employment, wages and staffing

•

Workplace health and safety practices

•

Industry compliance and licensing requirements

•

Enterprise bargaining agreements

•

Legislation and how it applies to you

•

Insurance products

•

Plus much, much more.

Remember, if you’re seeking professional advice, call Master Builders on 1300 30 50 10. Master Builder | 43

SERVICES SERVICES & & ADVICE ADVICE

BUILDING & PLANNING

WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY

with Karen Haworth

with Gary Hogg

Manager Planning Services

Advisor Workplace Health & Safety

WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED ENERGY EFFICIENCY CHANGES MEAN FOR HOME DESIGNS?

I HAVE BEEN HIRED TO DO REPAIRS TO A DAMAGED PROPERTY AND I SUSPECT THERE’S ASBESTOS, WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will significantly affect the homes we build. The proposed increase in energy efficiency under the National Construction Code 2022 will by default force passive house design principles.

If the home is built before 1990, then it is likely to contain asbestos. Before disturbing the asbestos materials to undertake repairs, you should contact a NATA approved testing laboratory to analyse the product before continuing.

A house design that works with the local climate to maintain a comfortable temperature is classed as ‘passive design’. A passive designed house should reduce or eliminate additional heating and cooling. Designing to the climate you are building in can ensure a comfortable home. There are eight different climate zones, Queensland has four zones these being 1,2,3,5.

If dust is visible near the damage, wipe up any dust with a damp cloth or paper towel, and dispose of the cloth by placing in two plastic bags, tied individually. Apply either PVC glue or paint to seal to the damaged area.

WHAT ARE THE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS? A house designed for climate zone 1 (Hot humid summer, mild winter) will require effective cooling. The design considerations in this zone will need the house to be orientated to take advantage of cooling breezes, bedrooms located on lower levels, low to no thermal mass in bedrooms to prevent radiant heat, covered outdoor spaces, ceiling fans in all rooms, ventilated roof space, shading to windows and walls, use of light roofs and walls, insulation, and tinted glazing. Where a house is designed for climate zone 2 (Warm humid summer, mild winter) the objective is to eliminate the need for heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. The design considerations in this zone are to orientate the house for cooling breezes by design of narrow floor plans and openings to encourage movement of breezes, locate bedrooms on lower levels, covered outdoor spaces, ceiling fans to bedrooms, and living spaces, low U value glazing, shading east and west walls and glazing, and appropriate insulation. The main aim for a house design for climate zone 3 (Hot dry summer, warm winter) is to reduce the need for cooling in summer. The design considerations are insulated thermal mass, orientated for cooling breezes, north facing high thermal mass to living areas, avoid overuse of glazing and shade walls and windows. When designing a house in climate zone 5 (Warm temperate) the main objective is to reduce heating and cooling. The design considerations for zone 5are identify any site constraints, use of solar heating and cooling, ventilating roof space in summer and sealing in winter, shade east and west glazing, and ceiling fans.

44 | Master Builder

If only minor repairs are required to the asbestos cement sheeting, you can undertake the repairs, however, you should not use power tools (drills, saws, or sanders etc.) or high-pressure water blasters. If the product is not in disrepair than then the safest option is to leave it alone. CAN I REMOVE THE ASBESTOS MYSELF? If the area requiring removal of asbestos is under 10m2 then you can remove under controlled conditions, however if the area is greater than 10m2 a qualified asbestos removalist must be engaged. When removing the material, yourself, you must ensure that you and the residents are not exposed to released fibres. Residents should vacate the area before work commences and to reduce the exposure to yourself while doing the work; you should wear personal protective equipment such as P2 respirator and overalls, goggles, and gloves. To protect the surrounding areas lay down heavy-duty plastic to capture any debris, dust, and offcut. Dampening down the surface and isolate the area of work by closing and sealing internal doors but leaving external doors and windows open to maximise ventilation. A Class H vacuum must be used to clean up and decontaminate the work area. HOW DO I DISPOSE OF ASBESTOS MATERIAL? Contact your local council and they’ll inform you of where the product can be disposed of or if it should be disposed of through a licensed waste contractor. When transporting asbestos waste for disposal, weight limitations apply. Ensure the material is wrapped and secured in heavy-duty plastic and mark asbestos waste.

SERVICES & ADVICE

MEMBERS LEGAL

Licensing POLICY

with Julian Lane

with Tonia Miron

Principal Lawyer Members Legal

Manager Licensing Services

HOW DO I TRANSFER A CONTRACT TO ANOTHER PERSON?

ARE YOU ON THE RIGHT ROAD TO BECOMING A FULLY LICENSED BUILDER?

For a variety of reasons it might become necessary to replace one party to a building project with another (e.g. that party may become insolvent). When the parties to a building contract agree to replace one party with a new party, they can do so with a deed of novation. NOVATION AND ASSIGNMENT ARE DIFFERENT While one contracting party can assign their rights under a contract (e.g. to receive payment) to a third party without the consent of the other contracting party, it cannot assign their obligations (e.g. to make the payment). Novation is where all contracting parties consent to one of them transferring their rights and obligations under the contract to a third party. HOW DO I NOVATE A CONTRACT? To transfer of both rights and obligations to a third party, all parties to a contract, and the third party, can enter a deed of novation. A deed is a more formal form of promise than a simple contract. A deed of novation is subject to formal legal requirements which do not apply to ordinary contracts. Once a novation is completed, the original contract is read as if the new party is named in place of the original contracting party. In other words, the new party replaces the old. WHAT ARE THE RISKS? There are many risks associated with deeds of novation including: • •

•

One party may waive amounts of money or variations not accurately captured in the deed Potential insurance gaps by waiving a legal right to make a claim, because the waiver is not limited to payment of fees, but to any legal claim,and Doubling liability by duplicating responsibility to both the outgoing and incoming parties.

HOW CAN I MINIMISE THE RISK? To avoid these risks you should ensure that the deed of novation is drafted by a lawyer and: • The obligations and rights of each of the parties are carefully set out • All figures are accurate • The deed is properly executed by all parties,and • Ensuring a released outgoing party provides reciprocal releases to the remaining parties.

The road to becoming a builder can range from being straight forward to facing dead ends. Your journey relies on good planning, early, and setting the right steps in place. If one step of your journey is not set up the right way, it can block your eligibility when you apply. To avoid roadblocks in your journey, understand the road ahead and plan well. WHAT ARE THE FIRST STEPS TO BECOMING A BUILDER? Start by completing the builder qualification for the licence class you are targeting; this may take a year or so to complete. After completion of your qualification, you should apply for the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) builder site supervisor licence. Ideally, complete your study before working with your licensed builder for the onsite supervision experience that you must detail in the application. Once you hold the site supervisor licence then you should gain employment with a licensed builder as a site supervisor. As the site supervisor you will need to run construction jobs from site set out to completion, personally supervising the construction. You will need to supervise for at least two or four years (depending on your qualifications) and provide the site details in your application. The most commonly occurring dead end in a builder application is not being employed by your supervising builder as a site supervisor. The supervision experience you complete needs to be legally gained. Unlicensed and unsupervised projects are illegal and not accepted by QBCC in your application. How you gain your supervising experience is very important. There are many roads to becoming a builder, the situation described above is the typical journey. If your journey has started and does not fit the typical journey, then it is a good time to check in and review. The Master Builders Licensing Team can help you with any QBCC application enquiries.

Remember, if you’re seeking professional advice, call Master Builders on 1300 30 50 10. Master Builder | 45

46 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

DEBT LIFELINE FOR STRUGGLING BUILDERS AND TRADIES LEGISLATIVE CHANGES MADE IN 2021 BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO HELP SMALL BUSINESS WITHSTAND THE IMPACT OF COVID, ARE NOW PROVIDING A MUCH-NEEDED LIFELINE FOR BUSINESSES STRUGGLING WITH AN OVERHEATING BUILDING SECTOR.

he Small Business Restructuring Process (SBRP) is designed to provide financially distressed small businesses with access to a single, streamlined process to restructure their debts while allowing owners to remain in control of their business. A far more favourable option than the traditional insolvency process, the SBRP has four major advantages: 1. There is no requirement to hand the business over to an administrator. This means the business owner stays in control and can continue to make every day operational decisions. 2. Administrative and legal costs are significantly lower than traditional insolvency action.

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE SBRP THE BUSINESS MUST: •

Be an incorporated company – i.e. Trusts, partnerships and sole traders are not eligible.

•

Have total liabilities which do not exceed $1 million on the day the company enters into an SBRP – this excludes employee entitlements like Super.

•

Be likely to either be insolvent or become insolvent soon.

•

Appoint a SBRP practitioner to assist in the process, including documentation of debt restructuring plan and restructuring proposal.

•

3. In contrast to other insolvency action, the QBCC do not see the SBRP as a trigger event for licence cancellations or exclusions. 4. With the assistance of a SBRP practitioner, an effective debt restructuring proposal can result in small businesses negotiating a compromise with creditors that is not only formal but also relatively favourable.

Have all tax lodgements up to date -i.e. activity statements and tax returns all lodged on time. The tax debts do not need to be paid to enter into a plan but must be lodged.

WHAT DEBTS CAN BE INCLUDED IN THE SBRP? •

Any unsecured debts incurred prior to the commencement of the SBRP

•

Employee entitlements due either prior to or following the SBRP (super, leave, long service leave, etc) cannot be included in the plan. These debts and any other debts incurred during and after the SBRP must be paid outside the plan.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN SBRP? •

Before implementing a debt restructuring plan all current employee entitlements, particularly superannuation, must be paid and ATO lodgements must be up to date.

•

The business must engage a qualified SBRP practitioner to design a debt restructuring plan and proposal to be presented to creditors.

•

More than 50 per cent in value of creditors must vote in favour of the plan for it to be adopted.

•

Once the plan is accepted, payments will be made to each creditor at the same time, at equal “cents in the dollar” amounts until all obligations are paid under the plan.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SBRP, CALL XACT ACCOUNTING ON 07 3124 8680 FOR A FREE CONSULTATION.

Master Builder | 47

SERVICES & ADVICE

MORE TIME TO PREPARE FOR TRUST ACCOUNT CHANGES T

he Queensland Government has extended the deadline for private sector project trust contracts.

Since 1 March 2021, changes were made to the Building Industry Fairness Act to support a revised trust account framework. Under the revised framework, project bank accounts (PBAs) were phased out and replaced by project trust accounts (PTAs). Under the changes, a PTA is required for specified building contracts and a separate single retention trust account is required for the holding of cash retentions. The rollout was due to expand on 1 July 2022 to include eligible private, local government, statutory authorities and government-owned corporations’ contracts valued at $3 million or more (Phase 3), and on 1 January 2023 to include all eligible contracts valued $1 million or more (Phase 4). Phase 3 will now begin on 1 April 2023 and Phase 4 on 1 October 2023.

Minister for Public Works Mick de Brenni announced the changes on 26 March saying the building industry had been hard hit by COVID shortages and the floods. The framework already includes eligible private, local government, statutory authorities and government-owned corporations’ contracts valued $10 million or more. The Minister said analysis of industry readiness for expansion of the trust account framework has enabled application to large contractors from 1 January 2022 however it identified additional time for smaller contractors would be beneficial to the framework’s overall success. The final round, Phase 4, will begin on 1 October 2023. In the interim, contractors can continue to use the existing security of payment protections available.

KEY DATES FROM 1 OCTOBER 2023, eligible private sector contracts over $1 million will require a PTA. FROM 1 APRIL 2023, private sector contracts over $3 million will require a PTA. 1 JANUARY 2022, PTAs are now required for eligible private sector, local government, statutory authorities’, and governmentowned corporations’ building and construction contracts (entered from commencement) and valued at $10 million or more. 1 JULY 2021, eligible government and hospital and health services building, and construction contracts valued at $1 million and over. 1 MARCH 2021, eligible state government contracts and tendered projects from $1 million to $10 million require PTAs.

Protection

against termites

// Still the Australian Standard in Termite Protection Kordon is a physical termite management system and can be used for perimeter or full under-slab protection. It is quickly and easily installed in all building applications by the Bayer Accredited Kordon Network and is certified by the Australian Building Code.

CMA-CM40182

Bayer CropScience Pty. Ltd., Environmental Science Australia, Level 1, 8 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, Vic. 3123 Technical Enquiries: 1800 804 479 es.bayer.com.au Kordon® is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group

48 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

CHANGES TO SUPERANNUATION SEVERAL CHANGES TO SUPERANNUATION ARE COMING INTO EFFECT FROM 1 JULY 2022, INCLUDING SOME THAT WILL IMPACT EMPLOYERS. BUSINESSES NEED TO BE READY FOR THESE CHANGES AND FACTOR THE ADDITIONAL COST INTO NEW WORK THEY’RE UNDERTAKING AFTER 1 JULY 2022. REMOVAL OF THE $450 MONTHLY INCOME MINIMUM From 1 July 2022 the requirement for an employee to earn $450 per month (before tax) will be abolished. This means employers will have to make superannuation guarantee (SG) payments for all eligible employees regardless of their income. Employees still need to meet the other SG eligibility requirements.

As an employer it’s important to ensure you pay super at this new minimum rate as there are financial penalties for not meeting your SG obligations. WORK TEST REMOVED FOR THOSE AGED 67–74

SUPERANNUATION GUARANTEE INCREASE

Those aged 67–74 will be able to make and receive personal non-concessional contributions and salary sacrifice contributions without meeting the work test from 1 July 2022. They will also be able to access the bring forward option, allowing eligible individuals to make up to $330,000 in non-concessional contributions a year.

The minimum super an employer must pay their employees; the SG will increase from the current rate of 10 per cent to 10.5 per cent on 1 July 2022.

People in this age bracket will still need to meet the work test or work test exemption to claim a tax deduction for personal nonconcessional contributions.

Employers will need to ensure their payroll and accounting systems are updated before 1 July 2022 for this change.

INFORMATION ON THE CHANGES CAN BE FOUND AT BUSSQ.COM.AU. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PAYING THE CORRECT SUPER FOR YOUR EMPLOYEES CALL TROY WOLTER FROM BUSSQ ON 0417 702 822.

JOG Computer-Controlled Grouting Re-levels Waterfront Property A two-storey brick home situated along the banks of the Woronora River had been experiencing ongoing settlement due to adverse ground conditions. The home was built on soil comprised of sand, silt and clay associated with the river. The poorly compacted ground had caused the property to sink by approximately 200mm. Attempts to re-level the home a few years prior by a 3rd party had proved unsuccessful as they were unable to achieve the degree of lift required to reinstate the home back to its intended levels. Mainmark delivered a non-invasive solution using its proprietary JOG Computer-Controlled Grouting technology, which was identified as being one of only a few products available in Australia that could provide the lift that the client was seeking. The client required the home to be re-levelled by 200mm, returning it to its original level. The owner was also seeking a

permanent, long-term solution that would prevent the home from future settlement. The low-viscosity JOG grout solution was applied through more than 60 injection points which were positioned in a grid pattern across the ground floor of the property. This helped to ensure that the house was re-levelled very gently and evenly, reducing the risk of any possible concentration around individual pressure points. The application process followed the exact engineered specifications to re-level the building. The home was returned to its original level without causing any undue stress to the structure.

For an obligation free, expert opinion contact us

1800 623 312 www.mainmark.com Mainmark Ground Engineering Pty Ltd QBCC Act Licence No. 1316403

Learn more about JOG

Master Builder | 49

SERVICES & ADVICE the minimum financial requirements. Back in 2019, 77 per cent of licensees with a turnover of more than $30 million complied with net tangible asset and current ratio requirements. For the reporting that was due in December 2021, more than 90 per cent of that group met those requirements. The improvement has been even more impressive amongst those in the industry turning over up to $30 million a year. For those licensees (earning between $800,001 and $30 million) compliance with the key measures of NTA and current ratio has leapt from 47 per cent in 2019 to 74 per cent last year.

POSITIVE UPTAKE OF ANNUAL REPORTING T

he requirement to submit financial information annually to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) has been part of the regulatory landscape for licensed builders in Queensland since 2019. So, how has the construction industry adapted and evolved to this new regime? The answer is, “very well.” Annual financial reporting allows the QBCC to have oversight of the financial sustainability of the industry and gives builders a once-ayear opportunity to check how they stack up

against the minimum financial requirements that they need to meet to hold their licence (although we hope that builders are keeping a constant eye on their finances). Since March 2019, the QBCC have seen that annual reporting has made a real difference to the financial position of builders and other contractors. More than $1.4 billion in working capital has been injected into the top end of town (QBCC licensees turning over more than $30 million annually). That cohort has also significantly improved its compliance with

To go from just under half to nearly threequarters in compliance is a testament to the desire of most Queensland builders wanting to do the right thing by their creditors and customers and run a financially strong business. The minimum financial requirements give builders a touchstone to help gauge the financial strength of their business and we encourage builders to leverage this opportunity in combination with professional accounting and business advice to weather these challenges.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT QBCC.QLD.GOV.AU/FINANCIAL-REPORTING-LICENSEES/MINIMUM-FINANCIAL-REQUIREMENTS

Be you with BUSSQ. We’re a leading industry fund with a history of strong long-term returns and personalised service to help you sort your super and insurance.

SUPER BUILT FOR YOU.

We’re here to help you. Visit bussq.com.au or call us on 1800 692 877.

This advertisement provides general information only and does not take into account your personal financial situation or needs. Before acting, you should review the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure you have all the information about the relevant BUSSQ product and how it works and consider the appropriateness of the information to your needs or obtain financial advice tailored for your personal circumstances. The PDSs and Target Market Determinations for BUSSQ products can be found at bussq.com.au/forms-and-resources. Prepared by BUSS(Queensland) Pty Ltd (ABN 15 065 081 281, AFSL 237860) as Trustee for BUSSQ (BUSSQ Fund, ABN 85 571 332 201).

50 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

INDUSTRY WAKE-UP CALL -TIME FOR A BUSINESS HEALTH CHECK

or an industry that has always operated on narrow margins, price rises and delays over the last few years have bought many businesses to the brink. But is this just the tip of the iceberg? Mick Renton from Xact Accounting says that strong demand has covered up a looming crisis - with revenues continuing to grow, businesses have been able to cover losses from previous jobs with cashflow from the next job. “It’s a vicious cycle of robbing Peter to pay Paul… a strategy that works when the market is on the way up, but if demand starts to drop, as interest rate rises and cost of living pressures kick in, we are bound to see more collapses”. Mick has seen his fair share of failures and economic cycles, working as an insolvency expert before specialising in building and construction. He recommends business owners take the following test to see if they’re

showing tell-tale signs of financial stress: •

Are you using receipts from new jobs to cover costs from previous jobs – i.e., robbing Peter to pay Paul?

•

Are you spending a significant amount of your time looking at and worrying about your short-term cashflow (i.e., next two weeks)? Do you have outstanding debt to the ATO for tax and superannuation? Are you unable to specify the actual profit on your last 5 jobs?

• •

Mick warns that if these questions raise your anxiety levels, then it’s likely you need to ask for help to further diagnose your current financial position. “The construction game is an unforgiving one. Because of QBCC financial requirements there are fewer levers we can pull to help businesses trade back to health when they’re in trouble… it can be done though, but only

if you get help before it’s too late, and that means before the market starts to drop”. If you are concerned you might be on the edge of a financial crisis in your business, it’s important to seek help immediately rather than hoping things will work themselves out.

AS PART OF OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH XACT ACCOUNTING, ALL MASTER BUILDERS’ MEMBERS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR A FREE ONE-HOUR CONSULTATION.

CT We’ve got the colouRS TTER. foR eveRy PRoject!

Steeline Roofing Products are a locally owned and operated manufacturer of COLORBOND® and ZINCALUME® steel roofing, flashings, fascia, gutter and related accessories. We are also a supplier of leading brand names of insulation, polycarbonate and fibreglass translucent sheeting, ventilators and fasteners. Call us today to discuss your next project and our friendly staff will assist you with expert advice and knowledge. al, with years Phone [07] 3200 8122 | Fax [07] 3200 8566 | 36-54 Badu Court, Meadowbrook, Qld 4131 edge for you roofingproducts@steeline.com.au | www.steeline.com.au COLORBOND® and ZINCALUME® are registered trademarks of BlueScope Steel Limited. ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

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Master Builder | 51

HiAce LWB shown.

TOYOTA FOR BUSINESS

TAILORED SOLUTIONS FOR THE ROAD AHEAD You go further when you have a partner in mobility. That’s why Toyota for Business moves with you to fully understand your business and drive it forward. We can look beyond just A to B solutions and empower your business with new ways of moving. Whether your business is big or small, we can help you revolutionise your business mobility for the road ahead.

To find out more, visit your Toyota Dealer or call 1800 679 247. toyota.com.au/fleet

Scan to sign up for the latest insights from Toyota for Business

52 | Master Builder

eDocs makes online contracts easy Sign up for free, purchase completed contracts and documents as you go. Get started obligation-free! You can sign up to eDocs for free and start creating contracts and documents straight away – so why not try it out today? You’ll only be charged when you’ve completed your contract or document and are ready to purchase it for signing. It’s a buy-as-you go system, with no other hidden charges or

ongoing fees. Plus, we have a support team on-hand and free members-only eDocs workshops to help you get started. Our electronic signature option, provided via our partner DocuSign, has no additional charge and makes it easy to limit face-to-face contact with clients. Eligible Master Builders members can sign up to eDocs and access our suite of commercial and residential contracts, subcontracts, supporting and safety documents.

Power through business faster: ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE OPTION Using DocuSign integration at no additional charge

EDIT AFTER YOU’VE PURCHASED All fields except contractor details and job site address

MULTIPLE COPIES ONE-TIME CHARGE Per document purchased

EXPERT SUPPORT We have a support team, online video tutorials and free workshops to support you.

Get started today. Visit mbqld.com.au/edocs Got a question? Call 07 3225 6558 or email support@edocs.com.au

AUG JUL

JUN

cal e ndar EVENTS

54 | Master Builder

DATE

EVENT

REGION

Business Resilience Breakfast – Accounting and Legal

BRISBANE

Brisbane Influencers Lunch – Women in Building

BRISBANE

Sunshine Coast Influencers Workshop Women in Building

SUNSHINE COAST

Beaudesert Master Builders Golf Day

GOLD COAST

Townsville Master Builders Golf Day

NORTH QUEENSLAND

DATE

EVENT

REGION

Townsville Influencers Women in Building

NORTH QUEENSLAND

DATE

EVENT

REGION

Sunshine Coast Commercial Builders Forum

SUNSHINE COAST

Maryborough Golf Day

WIDE BAY BURNETT

INDUSTRY LEADERS IT WAS A PACKED HOUSE AT RYDGES SOUTHBANK WHEN SENIOR MEMBERS OF THE INDUSTRY GATHERED TO MEET THE NEWLY APPOINTED CEO AND COMMISSIONER OF THE QUEENSLAND BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION (QBCC) AT OUR BRISBANE INDUSTRY LEADERS LUNCH.

nissa Levy was appointed as the QBCC's first female CEO and Commissioner in February.

Lunch

A civil engineer by profession, she has a passion for creating better and more sustainable services and infrastructure for the community and has a distinguished track record of driving transformational change across organisations. Known for her commitment to developing industry engagement and partnerships, the Commissioner has been introducing herself on her travels and hearing from people around the state to identify room for opportunities in the QBCC’s governance. Master Builders CEO Paul Bidwell hosted the lunch and led the Q&A session. The Commissioner said she was looking forward to building a relationship with members and sympathised with industry issues and challenges. She said the QBCC will retain focus on punishing unlicensed building activity where appropriate.

“I'm a strong believer in engaging with and building strong partnerships with industry because I believe that is the best way to affect change and to build trust.

“…It's important that a regulator works with its stakeholders to be successful in achieving our common goals.” Education and engagement are important functions of the QBCC. “This is a key area that I'm keen to partner with industry on to make sure that we are targeting our education and engagement in the right places at the right time,” the Commissioner said. She acknowledged the concerns about existing fixed price contracts, rising costs of materials, and demands on labour were having on the profitability of projects. Believing in getting out of the office and onto sites, the Commissioner said that she, and her team would visit licensees to understand their issues.

We understand your obligations for Project Trust Accounts

Another reason to say

We bank with Macquarie macquarie.com.au/projecttrust AFSL 237502. T&Cs apply. Consider the PDS and TMD on our website to decide if appropriate for you. Master Builder | 55

56 | Master Builder

FLOOD

Protection

CLAD

WATERPROOF CLADDING • WALLS • FLOORS • CEILINGS • ROOF • EAVES

against termites

Do it Once, Do it Right!

Groove Board Cladding 30% savings $38.00/m2

Still the Australian Standard in Termite Protection Kordon is a physical termite management system and can be used for perimeter or full under-slab protection. It is quickly and easily installed in all building applications by the Bayer Accredited Kordon Network and is certified by the Australian Building Code.

size 2700 x 600m

FLOOD-CLAD Interior / Exterior Cladding $27.00/m2

FLOOR Internal / External Flooring 30% savings $58.00/m2

19mm & 16mmTongue & Groove 1.15g/cm3 Structural Flooring & Decking Board

DECK Groove Board Decking 25% savings $58.00/m2

CMA-CM40182

CALL TODAY 1300 933 102

Bayer CropScience Pty. Ltd., Environmental Science, Level 1, 8 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, Vic. 3123 Technical Enquiries: 1800 804 479 es.bayer.com.au Kordon is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group ®

PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED / OPERATED FloodClad is a product marketed by the FireCrunch Group firecrunch.com.au\floodclad

NATA CERTIFIED FIRE TESTED BY

CSIRO / NATA

FireCrunch FCA products

tested by CSIRO

NO METAL CORROSIVE CHLORIDE

MgSO4

Sulphate Board

WHAT'S ON

Master Builders office locations BRISBANE 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, 4000 T: (07) 3225 6444 ask@mbqld.com.au GOLD COAST 18 Central Park Avenue, Ashmore, Qld 4214 T: (07) 5582 7100 gc@mbqld.com.au

ERIC BELIEVES IN tr aining FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR INDUSTRY OWNER OF SX HOMES, ERIC BAIN IS A FIRM BELIEVER IN TRAINING, FOSTERING TALENT AND UPSKILLING HIS STAFF.

he Maroochydore based construction company has enrolled staff in a range of CSQ funded courses at Master Builders.

“I can say 100 per cent of our staff have had CSQ funding for Master Builders courses. I know how critical training is for the future,” Eric said. Eric has had the small business since 2006 and runs it from Tasmania. “The key to running a company from a different state is training. We have weekly Teams meetings on a Friday where we discuss any issues which keeps us, as a group on the same track,” he said. He said the office can run itself because it is heavily supported by training. “We wouldn’t do this amount of training without CSQ funding. Small business funding is critical.” Site Supervisor, Kelsey Hill completed his Master Builders Cert IV Building & Construction last year. The 31-year-old now has the theoretical knowledge to apply it on site allowing him to progress his career. Nominee at SX Homes, Wayne Rosenberg

completed the Practical Communication Skills course in August last year. “Everything we do, is built around the courses, and what do we have to do differently,” Eric said. Newcomer at SX Homes, Jasmine Vassallo has completed the BIFA workshop and has signed up for more.

Your business grows around your people and their capabilities, invest in training and the growth will follow

T: (07) 4659 4200 dw@mbqld.com.au SUNSHINE COAST Level 1, 91 King Street, Buderim, Qld 4556 T: (07) 5456 9800 ssc@mbqld.com.au WIDE BAY BURNETT 162 Boat Harbour Drive, Hervey Bay, Qld 4655 T: (07) 4303 2400 wbb@mbqld.com.au CENTRAL QUEENSLAND 35 Derby Street, Rockhampton, Qld 4700 T: (07) 4923 1900 cq@mbqld.com.au MACKAY & WHITSUNDAY Suite 2, 40 Evans Avenue, North Mackay, Qld 4740 T: (07) 4969 4500 mw@mbqld.com.au NORTH QUEENSLAND Level 1, 266 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale, Qld 4814

The 27-year-old Contracts and Administration Manager will complete the Master Builders contract administration course this month.

T: (07) 4417 1800 nq@mbqld.com.au

Eric said he recruits his staff carefully and wants to foster development for women in the industry.

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND 310–314 Gatton Street, Manunda, Qld 4870

TO FIND A COURSE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS, VISIT MBQLD.COM.AU/TRAINING OR CALL 1300 13 60 02

58 | Master Builder

DOWNS & WESTERN 166 Hume Street, Toowoomba, 4350

T: (07) 4042 8800 fnq@mbqld.com.au

WHAT'S ON

UPCOMING COURSES MAY JUN JUL AUG COURSES

Call us on 1300 13 60 02 or visit mbqld.com.au/training for more information

WHY APPLY?

LOCATION

Business Management for Trade Contractors1*

Apply for your trade contractor’s licence.

Brisbane, Livestream & Sunshine Coast



Payment Claims & Schedules

Learn about protecting your right to payment and avoiding hefty fines.

Livestream



Financial Essentials

Learn essential business skills including cash flow management, bookkeeping, basic P&L, forecasting and more.

Livestream

Commerical Building Contracts Administration

Understand the legal obligations of completing and administering Commercial Building Contracts.

Livestream

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Practical Communication Skills

Learn simple techniques to improve communication skills including DISC profiling.

Brisbane

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Silica Awareness

Understand the health impacts of silica dust and the fit testing Townsville requirements.

Introduction to Digital Marketing

Learn the digital marketing basics including Google AdWords, social media marketing, audience building and more.

Livestream

General Safety Induction (White Card)^*

Your must-do construction course.

Livestream, Hervey Bay & Sunshine Coast

New Waterproofing Regulations

Get yourself prepared for the implementation of the NCC 2022 wet area construction provisional changes, amendments and use of AS 3740:2021.

Livestream

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Certificate III Construction Waterproofing^^*

Reduce defects and provide better supervision of waterproofing work.

Townsville, Cairns, Sunshine Coast & Toowoomba

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Residential Building Contracts Administration

Learn how to correctly complete residential building contracts.

Livestream

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Building Consultant and Expert Witness

Get the information you need to help take you from the job site to investigating building disputes, problem-solving and report writing.

Toowoomba, Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast

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Unfair Dismissal

Learn how to minimise the risks associated with disciplinary action and terminations.

Livestream

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Practical Licensing Applications Workshop

Learn a method of how to write the site experience section of the builder's licence application.

Livestream

Performance Management – Managing Employees

Learn the practical skills and knowledge required to effectively manage employee performance and develop action plans.

Livestream

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Paying your People

Get a refresher on your obligations under the Modern Award and Fair Work Act 2009 in relation to wages and other conditions of employment.

Livestream

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Accredited Test & Tag2*

Get the qualification you need to test and tag equipment in your workplace.

Gold Coast & Brisbane

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Project Trust Accounts

Learn how to set-up and manage project trust accounts to avoid serious fines and potential jail time.

Livestream

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Completed Residential Building Inspector

Learn how to undertake residential building inspections.

Brisbane & Livestream

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Livestream workshops will be hosted via ZOOM. ^CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to work safely in the construction industry. ^^CPC31420 – Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing. 1BSBESB402 – Establish legal and risk management requirements of new business ventures. 2UEESS00174 – Electrical safety testing of electrical cord connected equipment and cord assemblies skill set. *Nationally Recognised Training course. | RTO 30097

Can’t find a date or course you’re looking for?

Course dates are subject to change. Call 1300 13 60 02 or visit mbqld.com.au/training for more information and to enrol. Master Builder | 59

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