OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
VOLUME 10 NUMBER 4 SEP-OCT 2013
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CoNteNts
ouR CoveR The 2013 Goldfields Esperance Building Excellence Awards saw RJ Donaldson Building Contractor and Westralia Homes sharing the honours. See pages 32-36 for details. And Brookfield Multiplex reigned supreme at the Great Gatsby-themed Excellence in Construction Awards night – pages 38-41.
Forewords
Updates
Feature Project
President’s File................................................... 2
Personal Pars .................................................. 42
Wickham Recreational Precinct ....................... 74
Director’s File .................................................... 4
Building Business ............................................ 48
Reports
Membership ................................................... 52 Safety .............................................................. 54
Features
Master Builders General News .......................... 6
Industrial Relations ......................................... 56
equipment hire ............................................... 78
Master Builders Branches ................................ 28
Members’ health ........................................... 58
Foundations /Pilings ........................................ 82
Awards
Member Profile .............................................. 60
Goldfields esperance Awards .......................... 32 excellence in Construction Awards ................. 38
Legal .............................................................. 62
What’s New ................................................... 84
Technical ......................................................... 64 housing .......................................................... 67 Insurance ........................................................ 69 Training .......................................................... 72
HEAD OFFICE: 35-37 Havelock Street, West Perth WA 6005 Post: PO Box 167, West Perth WA 6872 Phone: (08) 9476 9800 (Country) 1300 550 262 Fax: (08) 9476 9801 Email: mba@mbawa.com Website: www.mbawa.com
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Crowther Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd Phone: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising Sales: Patricia Davey, Dean Wedding Email: sales@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design: Carol Taylor, Byron Bailey, Aniko Gaspar & Andrew Crabb Editor: Sue Guilfoyle Production Coordinator: Brooke Travers Printed by Newstyle Printing Master Builder is the official publication of The Master Builders Association of Western Australia. It is produced five times per year and published by Crowther-Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd. Master Builders Association of Western Australia was established in1898 and is the state’s oldest building industry organisation. The MBAWA is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. Master Builder is produced to keep members informed of matters affecting them. Opinions and/ or statements in any editorial and/or advertisements are not necessarily those of the publisher and/or the MBAWA. The publisher reserves the right to reject any material deemed unsuitable for publication. Other than for the purposes of and subject to the conditions prescribed under the copyright Act 1968, no part of Master Builder may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permission from the MBAWA or Crowther-Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd.
MBAWA BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: President: Robert Shaw Senior Vice President: John Ripp Treasurer: Chris Lillis Immediate Past President: George Allingame Board Members: Simon Birkhead, David Crothers, Jason Kunkler, Andy Peppercorn, Dan Perkins, Jack Pleiter, Robert Spadaccini, Michael Vermey SENIOR STAFF: Director: Michael McLean Housing & Economics Director: Gavan Forster Contracts & Administration Manager: Charles Anderson Construction Director: Kim Richardson Membership Services Manager: Veronica Mill Communications Director: Geoff Cooper Marketing Manager: Kelly Dewar-Matusik Events Manager: Pippa Tearne Technical Advisor: Romina De Santis Training Director: Neil Du Rand Training Manager: Michael Fitzgerald
MASTER BUILDERS TRAINING CENTRE 594 Hay Street Jolimont WA 6014 Phone: (08) 9441 8000 Fax: (08) 9441 8001 Email: training@mbawa.com REGIONAL BRANCHES: Albany-Great Southern: Linda Gibbs Ph 9841 6232 Bunbury-South West: Geoff Bosustow Ph 9721 6547 Geraldton-North West: Dianne Gilleland Ph 9921 5061 Kalgoorlie: Jade Hayes Ph 0412 487 970 Esperance: Doug Backhouse Ph 0437 184 366 MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: Veronica Mill Ph (08) 9476 9800 SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES: Master Builder is available for subscription at a cost of $55/year. Contact Membership Services Manager Veronica Mill via email at veronica@mbawa.com for further information.
WA Master Builder
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foReWoRd: President’s File
local government reform essential but just part of the solution Builders generally have more personal contact with the third tier of government, local authorities, than we do with State and Federal government. Our assessments of dealings with local government are very much influenced by our personal experiences. Builders require competent and obliging local government staff and efficient systems to process building applications satisfactorily. The move to a hybrid private certification system with local government endorsement certainly has been a welcome initiative for the building industry and has prompted a number of local government authorities to review their internal processes. Why? Because more businesses are going to the private certifiers than the local government staff. This form of competition is good for builders and our clients. Surely 100 percent private certification cannot be far away. Master Builders recently met the new Local Government Minister Tony Simpson to discuss the Government’s plans to reform local government. We all were impressed with Mr Simpson’s understanding of the big ticket issues and what needs to be done to fix some of the problems. he now has to get his bureaucracy and local government authorities on side to achieve his objectives. The Barnett Government has a clear mandate to reform local government. A previous steering committee concluded that 61 of our 139 local governments are unsustainable. It also found that 82 percent of local government lacked adequate integrated long-term planning strategies in the areas of asset and financial management. Master Builders provided a submission to the Metropolitan Local Government Review. We supported most of the recommendations in the report, including an amalgamation of local governments, appropriate training for elected councillors and the establishment of a Local Government Commission to oversee the reform process. We also recommended one Minister for Planning and Local Government as the two portfolios overlap considerably and both require an overhaul. One of the major reasons for our Association supporting a reduction in local government authorities is to reduce the inconsistencies that prevail between many of them. Builders would be familiar with the different crossover requirements, different fencing materials, limitations on roof colours and materials, different building orientations and even landscaping required from one area to another. For project builders, in particular, who operate on standard display home designs, it has
Acknowledging the Support of our 2013 Partners:
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become a nightmare keeping up with the variety of local government special conditions. The Building Code of Australia and Residential Design Codes were introduced to avoid these inconsistencies but unfortunately, some over-zealous councillors have chosen to interfere with previous uniform practices with adverse implications for builders. Although Master Builders looks forward to the Government’s reforms, what is really required is a change in culture at a local government level. The focus should be on achieving a good outcome, not on rigidly following a detailed process. There are some local authorities that have staff who consistently work with industry to achieve commonsense outcomes in the context of their regulatory obligations. These are the ones we need to clone! Those authorities who do this well enjoy an excellent relationship with most builders. Regrettably, there are just as many local authorities whose staff don’t have a customer service focus and continue to find ways to reject building applications rather than assist builders and their clients. It is an interesting time for local governments. Some will embrace the reforms ahead of them positively while others will cling to their power base like the captain of a sinking ship. For the building industry it is a time to be supportive of the Government’s plans and be patient with some of the teething problems that will follow. There is no doubt in my mind that Local Government Minister Tony Simpson understands what is required and knows that the end users of local government will be better off with what lies ahead. Bring it on! exempting single detached housing that complies with the R-Codes from the planning process is the next logical step. Master Builders is working hard for affordable housing and commercial projects by reducing red tape! Robert Shaw President
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foReWoRd: Director’s File
Reflections over 30 years They say time flies when you’re having fun. After 30 years with Master Builders I honestly can say it’s been a lot of fun with never ending challenges and changes. I take this opportunity to reflect on some notable memories over those three decades. When I commenced in August 1983 as industrial relations manager, disputes with the BLF, BWIU and other unions dominated; so much so, that another three industrial officers were employed to deal with demarcation disputes, lost time claims, concrete bans, no-ticket-no-start disputes, wage claims, award interpretation and employment issues. Giving evidence in the BLF deregistration proceedings and advocating cases before the IR Commission against eminent legal counsel kept you on your toes and even resulted in some satisfying wins against the odds. Involvement in the Cole Royal Commission highlighted IR’s dark side and why an effective government agency dealing with unlawful industrial relations practices is so important. I’m glad current project managers are not subject to the same ordeals. A turning point came with a market downturn, the Association’s decision not to enter into industry agreements with the unions, Graham Keirath’s commitment to a Code of Practice and Task Force and BGC’s ability to withstand union pressure not to enter union agreements which encouraged others to follow suit. New safety legislation in 1987 also was significant - moving from a prescriptive regime to duty of care regulation. Delivering State-wide training on the new legislation made me an unanticipated instant expert! Introduction of green card safety inductions facilitated a unique Master Builders-CFMeU alliance which eliminated multiple inductions on every construction site. Other milestones which stand out include: • National industrial disputation which lead to Cbus and industry superannuation to circumvent National Wage Fixing Principles in 1984. • establishment of the State’s portable long service leave scheme in 1987. • establishment of a redundancy fund in 1989, again following disputation and numerous IR Commission hearings. • Our 1998 centennial celebrations which triggered the Robert Law Award (named after our first president) at our annual CeO lunches. • Introduction in 2005 of the Ric New Medal and Rising Star Award presented at our Apprentice of the Year Awards. • Building our Geraldton office, followed by purchase and refurbishment of Albany and Bunbury properties. • Our training program’s growth and establishment of the dedicated Jolimont Training Centre.
Acknowledging the Support of our 2013 Partners:
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• The move from a general insurance broker to MBA Insurance Services, vindicated through comprehensive industry products and dividends back to members. • establishment of a health alliance raising awareness of important industry health issues and proactive health care. Working with eight presidents has taught me a lot about the industry. As a membership organisation, each office bearer, committee representative and volunteer plays an important role but none more so than our presidents. I have been fortunate to form life-long friendships with each of these individuals who have dedicated many hours to bettering our Association and industry. It has been pleasing to watch the number of our alliance partners and sponsors grow. Some, like Jackson McDonald and Butler Settineri, have been involved since I commenced, while others - like Bankwest, Toyota, Telstra, RSM Bird Cameron and Caltex - have greatly enhanced membership value. The director’s job can be demanding, juggling lobbying, staffing budgets, editorials and networking, but it has brought enjoyment and job satisfaction. This has come about largely through the quality of people I have met and dealt with. I feel privileged to have met so many high achievers and dedicated individuals, not only within our staff and member ranks, but also within the political fraternity, bureaucracy, statutory authorities, kindred organisations and business circles. Fortunately, I remain fit and well to carry on for a few more years. Good health and high energy are prerequisites for success so an exercise regime including the odd corporate golf day, tennis afternoon or participating at our lawn bowls club might be more helpful than boardroom lunches, members’ sundowners, support staff breakfasts or special event dinners. In these reflections, I would be remiss not to recognise the support I have received from my wife Anna on both the home front and in accompanying me to numerous awards and other functions. Michael McLean Director
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RepoRts: General News
‘Iconic’ Arena wins WA architecture awards
The Perth Arena, described by the George Temple Poole jury as iconic public infrastructure.
The Perth Arena, designed by ARM Architecture & Cameron Chisholm Nicol - Joint Venture Architects, has taken out the highest overall honour, the George Temple Poole Award, at the Australian Institute of Architects WA Architecture Awards announced in July. The AIA says the George Temple Poole jury viewed an impressive array of outstanding architecture in determining the award, presented each year to the project judged most worthy of all the award winners in each category. “Visually, the Perth Arena is a building that delivers an aesthetic unlike anything previously existing in WA and regardless of whether it is revered or reviled, it generates enormous interest and stands as an outstanding example of what architects contribute to the built environment,” the jury said. “The architects have delivered a building of great visual complexity, outstanding functionality, a building that has captured the imagination of the general public and which delivers for Perth an iconic piece of public infrastructure.” The Perth Arena also took home the Jeffrey howlett Award for Public Architecture, the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture and an Architecture Award in the Interior Architecture category.
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Another major city development, Brookfield Place by hASSeLL and Fitzpatrick + Partners, also featured prominently in the presentations at the Perth Concert hall, taking out the Margaret Pitt Morison Award for heritage, the John Septimus Roe Award for Urban Design and the Ross Chisholm and Gil Nicol Award for Commercial Architecture. Other significant awards went to Kerry hill Architects (the Marshall Clifton Award for Residential Architecture), Jonathan Lake Architects (the Peter Overman Award for Residential Architecture - Alterations and Additions) and Formworks Architecture (the harold Krantz Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Residential). Projects from the awards progress to the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards to be held in November.
RepoRts: General News
AIB reviews Curtin course The Australian Institute of Building is conducting a review of Curtin University’s Bachelor of Construction Management and economics Degree. Building industry representatives attended an industry liaison meeting with the AIB accreditation panel at Master Builders’ West Perth headquarters early in August.
AIB CARRIeS out accreditations of all Construction Management and economics Degrees at Australian universities. The Institute says it is an important role that largely goes unrecognised by many in the building and construction industry. “Without this important role, industry will not get graduates who have exposure to industry requirements,” AIB says. “The accreditation includes a series of reviews and face-to-face meetings with university personnel. Once accreditation approval is granted it remains in place for five years and is reviewed annually in conjunction with industry and the university. The importance of industry participation with AIB in this process cannot be emphasised enough because it is at this point that the learning outcomes to be delivered by the degree are determined.” In WA, AIB has had a long association with Curtin University. The Institute says Curtin continues to produce outstanding construction managers and other professional positions for industry. Curtin’s Bachelor of Construction Management and economics Degree was last accredited by AIB in 2007. Ron Kilcullen (Kilcullen Constructions) is WA chair of the course accreditation committee, assisted by Greg Downing (Downing Construction Support Services).
Bowling Club patron and Master Builders’ director Michael McLean with Ivan Franich, Enzo Gionotti and Don Manning.
The Institute’s accreditation panel includes Sally Allen (AIB national education manager), Professor hisham elkadi (Deakin University), Atul Kumar (The Village Company) and two WA Chapter representatives. To date, AIB has conducted six accreditation visits nationally, with another seven university visits scheduled before the end of 2013. The panel continually considers changes to meet the dynamic environment of the building profession. AIB says its WA Chapter is ideally placed to provide support to industry through its CPD calendar, strong ties with Master Builders, Curtin University and the Young Builders Alliance and builder-supported site visits. For further information on AIB go to www.aib.org.au or contact the WA Chapter.
sterling stirling bowling Contractors and Association staff temporarily abandoned their posts to take to the Stirling Bowling Club greens with the Master Builders Bowling Club in June. The rainy forecast didn’t dampen any spirits with a great turnout from the club and members who thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon.
RAY SARICh, Cyril Drew and Angelo D’vua, along with debutant Monique Milne from the Master Builders’ events team, took first place. Runners up were Paul Loveland, Darrell Sweeny and Brian Vuleta. First round winners were Don Manning, Ivan Franich and enzo Gianotti and second round, Jack Greenway, Glynn Stiles and Barrie head. Master Builders sponsors the annual members’ bowls day meet in conjunction with the Association’s Bowling Club. The club itself plays once a month at different bowling clubs around Perth and is always keen to welcome new members. No previous experience is necessary. Contact Bill Pitt on 0412 943 167 for more information. Action on the Stirling Bowling Club greens during the annual Master Builders bowls day.
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RepoRts: General News
Cbus chairman moves on Former Victorian Premier Steve Bracks has resigned as chairman of the Cbus superannuation scheme to take up an Australian diplomatic post in New York in September. IN AN address to a group of Master Builder members in Melbourne recently, Mr Bracks said Cbus is now the fourth biggest super fund in Australia with more than $21 billion in funds. This is predicted to double in eight years. There currently is about $1.4 trillion tied up in all superannuation funds. Mr Bracks said Cbus, formed in 1984, has generated an average rate of return on members’ funds of over nine percent. Cbus Property has about $2.5 billion in property around Australia, including 140 William Street in Perth. The project won a Master Builders’ Construction excellence Award for Probuild several years ago.
New apartments for Claremont development
Master Builders’ director Michael McLean met Cbus representatives Elissa Gallichio and Chris Lockwood at the Association’s West Perth offices recently.
Mr Bracks said 11-12 percent of Cbus funds are invested in infrastructure and this has provided a good rate of return of approximately 10 percent. however, Mr Bracks said the Federal Government would need to relax liquidity ratios if super funds are to be able to invest more in costly infrastructure projects. he also said Australia needs better infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing and ageing population.
Town of Claremont CEO Stephen Goode (left), LandCorp general manager Luke Willcock and Georgiou Capital executive director John Siamos survey the site of Claremont on the Park’s first apartment complex from the vantage point of nearby Claremont Oval. The project will deliver more than 70 apartments in the sought-after suburb.
The State Government recently announced an underutilised parcel of land in the heart of Claremont will be transformed, with Georgiou Capital to develop the first apartment complex at LandCorp’s Claremont on the Park development. CLAReMONT on the Park, which borders Claremont Oval and is close to the local shopping precinct, will feature medium to high density housing including apartments, townhouses and a number of specialty boutiques, cafes and offices. Lands Minister Brendon Grylls says LandCorp will work with the developer and the Town of Claremont to deliver quality housing that is well connected to community facilities. “Claremont on the Park will deliver more housing and retail options, building on, and further utilising, existing amenities,” Mr Grylls said. “The proposed design complements the Claremont Oval precinct, taking full advantage of the view and providing easy access from the apartments down to the oval.”
“Through projects such as Claremont on the Park we are helping to address WA’s growing demand for housing and revitalising underutilised spaces in some of Perth’s established and most soughtafter suburbs,” the Minister said.
Claremont on the Park is in line with the State Government’s Directions 2031 and Beyond initiative addressing WA’s population growth and urban sprawl.
Claremont on the Park will include public spaces for community events, along with extensive walkways and cycleways to connect with transport and the Claremont town centre.
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RepoRts: General News
CtC snapshot generally positive
perron enters hall of fame
The latest Construction Training Council Western Australian Construction Industry Snapshot publication says WA’s construction industry contributes almost 10 percent of the Gross State Product and currently employs 9.74 percent of the State workforce.
Developer Stan Perron has been inducted into the Property Council hall of Fame. Mr Perron is owner and chairman of the Perron Stan Perron Group of Companies with a property portfolio valued in excess of $3 billion comprising 11 major shopping centres, several large office buildings and numerous commercial and industrial properties.
AT FeBRUARY, there were 132,010 people working in the industry with an annualised average of 127,030 in the previous 12-month period. The industry workforce rose by 3920 in the last quarter but fell by 6670 from a peak of 138,680 in May 2011. On a year-to-year comparison to the end of January 2013, there was a 10.34 percent reduction in construction apprentice commencements and a significant reduction in electrical apprentice commencements of 12.87 percent. As at January, the industry including electrical, employed almost 39 percent of all WA’s apprentices. WA’s population grew by 3.3 percent for the year to June 2012. This figure compares favourably with Queensland (1.9 percent) and Victoria (1.6 percent). The WA unemployment rate increased to 4.7 percent during March 2013, up from a rate of 4.6 percent in February. This compares favourably to the national rate of 5.6 percent. The seasonally adjusted participation rate in WA dropped to 68.5 percent in March from 68.9 percent the previous month. It is estimated that approximately 29,000 construction industry employees are working on resource industry infrastructure construction projects. In the year to December 2012, the value of residential and nonresidential construction work, excluding heavy engineering, increased by 2.75 percent compared to December 2011. The engineering construction sector, excluding heavy engineering, grew by 37.48 percent between December 2011 and December 2012. The housing sector continues to be suppressed with annual dwelling unit approvals to February 2013 at 21,428 (16,790 houses), compared to a previous peak of 26,191 (20,886 houses) at February 2007. Seasonally adjusted, building approvals for all dwelling units increased by 5.35 percent between January and February following a 7.94 percent increase over the three months to February. This was in sharp contrast to a decrease of 49 percent in April 2012 which was partially attributed to changes in the approvals process. Trend building approvals in WA decreased by 0.9 percent between January and February but rose by 18.5 percent over the year. Seasonally adjusted, dwelling commencements increased by 23.65 percent in the quarter to September 2012; however, on an annualised basis compared to September 2011 they decreased by 10.04 percent.
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The PROPeRTY Council established its hall of Fame to honour individuals who have provided sustained leadership, made a major pioneering contribution and left an outstanding legacy to the property industry and Australian community. Mr Perron is chairman of the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation which supports more than 100 charitable organisations with a focus on children’s charities and medical research. The Foundation is entirely funded by guaranteed process from the Perron Group operations. Mr Perron has been the recipient of numerous awards including the Order of Australia. In accepting the award Mr Perron said it was a great honour to be nominated and joked that he didn’t think people had even “heard of us from the wild west”. “I operate as Perron Group, a family company with a very dedicated and long-serving staff with the object of being honest and ethical in all our operations and keeping things simple,” he said. “Our first commercial building was St Georges Court in Perth in 1969. It was a 12-storey office block of some 12,000 square metres built by John Roberts in his early days at a cost of $1.2 million. “In 1973, we purchased Phoenix Park Shopping Centre and fortunately, Ian Armstrong came with the centre. Ian has been in charge of our operations ever since. We have grown over the years and are now involved with 11 shopping centres together with office blocks, car parks and so on throughout Australia. I thank the Property Council for the Award, and with special thanks to my very loyal staff together with my wife and family for their support.”
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RepoRts: General News
Support for local government reform
stiff penalties for incorrect advertising
Master Builders has welcomed the proposed reduction in the number of local authorities as the first step towards an improved planning and building approvals process in WA
Builders, painters and building surveyors have been reminded by the Building Commission that they must observe new advertising provisions of building legislation which took effect from August 2011.
MASTeR BUILDeRS’ director Michael McLean says that the amalgamation plans will reduce inconsistency in the requirements and likely outcomes of planning and building applications between local authorities. For builders and homebuyers this would mean more certain outcomes, decreased approval turnaround times and reduced holding costs on new developments. however, Mr McLean said amalgamations will not by themselves produce a more efficient process. Rationalisation of various town planning schemes also needs to occur. “For years builders have been frustrated by divergence in requirements for planning and building permit applications between local governments,” Mr McLean said. “This new plan provides some hope for greater certainty of approvals for the building industry but represents only the first step in the whole reform process. “The reform process will benefit builders and their clients to be able to transact business with fewer local authorities in a more transparent manner. hopefully those local authorities which already have developed a good customer service culture will be able to pass this on to others.” Mr McLean said that during the transition period, local councils will need to sort out the differences in their town planning scheme requirements to generate greater consistency and efficiency in the approvals process. “We look forward to a speedy introduction of the proposed reforms,” he said.
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UNDeR SeCTION 8 of the Building Services (Registration) Act, a building service contractor must ensure that any advertising in respect of availability to carry out prescribed building services contains the contractor’s registration number. This covers, for example, newspaper, radio, television, or website advertisements. A penalty of up to $25,000 applies. A building service contractor is either a builder, painter or building surveyor, registered by the Building Services Board,
and entitled to carry out a building service prescribed by the regulations for that class of contractor. Practitioners who are not also contractors are not entitled to contract for, or carry out, a prescribed building service but can be nominated supervisors for partnerships or companies. People registered as practitioners only, or who are unregistered, are not entitled to advertise for work using another contractor’s registration number.
Competitiveness agenda welcome Master Builders Australia CeO Wilhelm harnisch says the national competitiveness agenda announced recently by the Prime Minister is an important turnaround as Australia makes the transition from a resources driven economy.
“The BUILDING and construction industry must feature large as the economy transitions from the mining resources boom,” he said. “The new agenda must result in an increase in global and domestic competitiveness as well as increasing productivity. “Master Builders would support an agenda that focuses on business productivity, addressing the regulatory impost on business, education, skills and training, infrastructure and improving the small business environment.” Mr harnisch said that while the national competitiveness agenda will have a focus on the labour market, Master Builders disagrees with the Prime Minister that the Fair Work Act represents the right balance in the workplace relations system.
“The building and construction industry needs a more flexible workplace relations system that supports productivity and makes it easier for businesses to hire more workers and train apprentices,” he said. “The Fair Work Act is dramatically skewed towards the trade union movement and acts as a barrier for building industry employers, especially small businesses, to take on more workers. Conversations about the labour market must also focus on returning to a respect for the rule of law in the building and construction industry, particularly by trade unions. The national competiveness agenda should also include reforms to our tax system.”
RepoRts: General News
Mates work together MASTeR BUILDeRS says its relationship with MATeS in Construction WA Ltd has strengthened each year since it began in 2011 and this is evidenced by the Association’s commitment to deliver the MATeS in Construction national On Site newsletter with Master Builder magazine. The Association says it will provide information to allow many more Master Builder members to easily get high quality help for any concerns they or their families are experiencing. The MATeS program was developed in direct response to the high levels of suicide in the building and construction industry. Research suggests that every year around one in 500 Australians attempts suicide and one in 20 has suicidal thoughts. Workers are twice as likely to die by suicide as in an industrial accident and with young workers this increases to six times more likely. With the support of Master Builders and other industry partners, almost 3000 workers have completed mental health training through the MATeS program and, importantly, almost 200 people have been assisted through a difficult time in their lives. The simple but highly effective MATeS program has led to two prestigious National Safety Council Awards for Best Workplace health and Wellbeing Program and excellence in Occupational health and Safety. MATeS in Construction WA Ltd says companies not yet on board the program are fast becoming the exception and their workers are missing out. To find out more, take a look at the On Site newsletter accompanying Master Builder.
Master Builders Australia chief economist Peter Jones says the latest national survey shows low contractor confidence.
Industry sentiment falters The JUNe quarter Master Builders National Survey of Building and Construction saw builder sentiment drop back, leaving the industry in the doldrums. The survey of more than 450 builders and contractors across the country reported business conditions and business confidence took a step backwards after improving in the March quarter. Peter Jones, Master Builders Australia’s chief economist, says there has been no tangible recovery in the building and construction industry despite interest rate cuts and early signs of improvement in some Australian Bureau of Statistics indicators. “The survey reveals an industry bouncing around the bottom and at best indicates that business conditions may have troughed,” Mr Jones said. “The big question for builders is the timing of a substantive upturn. Promised improvement down the track does not help pay the bills in the here-and-now and is putting many businesses at risk. “Survey results for display centre traffic and enquiries fell back in the June quarter but are still trending upwards after a sharp rise in March. There was a slight improvement in the sales index, but it remains below 50, meaning sales are not growing. “As a key forward indicator, a pick-up in display centre and enquiries is a hopeful signal that the market is slowly responding to lower interest rates and that the worst may be behind the industry. To accelerate the move to a sustained upturn in the industry, the Reserve Bank must retain its bias towards lower interest rates.
Master Builders’ staff endorsed the benefits of the program after undergoing a MATES general awareness training sessionin August last year.
Mr Jones said the next Federal Government also must implement policies that help restore business and investor confidence, seemingly, the missing ingredient at the moment.
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Nicola Weaver addresses the Name and Shame industry breakfast.
Happy hour tops for site thefts Construction site theft peaks on Fridays between 4 pm and 6 pm, a Name and Shame industry breakfast was told in July. Mark Fleskens, WA Police state coordinator for crime prevention and diversity, said there was not a lot of night theft on construction sites. Friday “happy hour” thefts allowed the stolen goods to be moved over the weekend.
MR FLeSKeNS addressed the high incidence of copper theft and the need for industry to inform police or the Name and Shame team about site theft. “Let us know,” he stressed on several occasions.
Meridian Security director Kevin Minchinton also re-affirmed the need for the industry to join the Name and Shame initiative to help collect data to identify trends and to address costly site crime.
Name and Shame consultant Nicola Weaver quoted Australian Institute of Criminology research commentary that theft and vandalism may be underestimated. The research found that the most common reason given by victims of theft and vandalism for not reporting to the police was they believed the incident “was not worth reporting or not serious enough” (66 percent for unreported thefts and 73 percent for unreported vandalism incidents). She said that theft, vandalism, damaged goods and graffiti have an impact on builders and also on subcontractors, suppliers and clients.
“Our aim is to deter thieves and vandals, make it easier to catch and convict them, and then publicly name and shame them so everyone knows who the bad guys are,” he said. “We need industry support. Criminal activity impacts upon everyone, but with deterrent campaigns, security patrols, surveillance and police liaison and reporting functions, Name and Shame gives builders the tools to fight crime. And it gives members of the public real rewards of up to $3000 for their help.”
Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper said the findings were consistent with reports the Association had received from members.
Griff Morris, director of Solar Dwellings, stressed the need for cultural change. “Theft is something that is allowed,” he said. “You need to create a culture where stealing is unacceptable. A cultural shift is required. You cannot say it isn’t my problem. engage with tradies, your staff and people on the street who can report everything. engagement with everyone is the most important thing, and then you can shift the culture.“
“Our understanding is that many builders don’t report crimes due to the time involved in completing reports and the perceived difficulties in apprehending culprits,” he said. “But the overall costs to the industry of theft are huge, so it is worth reporting to help measure and address crime that impacts on the affordability of housing and commercial buildings in WA.”
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“even the theft of cement bags still has to be reported,” Mr Minchinton said.
Visit nameandshamewa.com.au to find out more. Send any comments to Geoff@mbawa.com.
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Hepburn, Celebration Homes’ Housing Excellence Awards winning home in Landsdale. Housing approvals are up and the August interest rate cut is welcome, but much of the building industry is operating well below capacity.
ATO reporting adds to red tape overload INDUSTRY LeADeRS are concerned that some building and construction operators are not yet aware of the first of the new Taxable Payments Annual Reports which fell due by 21 July. Under the reporting scheme, businesses are required to provide the ATO with details of payments they have made to contractors engaged for building and construction services. Master Builders’ chief Wilhelm harnisch says that while the scheme was designed to gather additional information about contractors who under-report income or fail to submit tax returns, the obligation to document and report every payment to a contractor is creating a red tape nightmare for building industry contractors and businesses. “Master Builders has previously questioned the fairness of adding another layer of red tape for the vast majority of contractors and businesses who comply with the law in order to catch the minority involved in tax evasion,” Mr harnisch said. “We will continue efforts to work with the ATO to ensure that the administration of the new tax reporting scheme will not impose further unnecessary burdens and compliance costs on law abiding building and construction industry operators.”
Rate cut should boost building Master Builders is looking for August’s interest rate cut to reignite much needed confidence and stimulate greater activity across all segments of the building industry. Director Michael McLean says the cut was welcome but underscored the need for further policy action to strengthen the building and construction industry so it can play a more important role in the transition from the resources boom. “ALThOUGh hOUSING approvals are up 25 percent in WA, there is much more capacity within the industry to build more homes and commercial properties,” Mr McLean said. “The announcement and the banks’ passing on of the cut also was particularly good news for people struggling with mortgage repayments.” Mr McLean said banks must play their part in stimulating the economy. “The immediate challenge ahead is to restore confidence to enable a private sector recovery in the housing and commercial building markets,” he said. “To date, the private sector housing recovery has been tepid and the industry is banking on rate cuts helping to boost confidence in an uncertain market.”
small business assistance initiatives win applause The Federal Government’s recent announcement of initiatives to assist small business, in particular, the commitment to consult with business to lessen the impact of late payments, has met with Master Builders Australia approval.
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“The AUSTRALIAN building industry includes thousands of small and medium enterprises which struggle with cash flow as they help build the homes and community infrastructure of their communities,” Master Builders’ boss Wilhelm harnisch said. “Master Builders welcomes the Government’s recognition that small business plays a crucial role in the economy and welcome measures which will enhance their ability to create jobs and a stronger economy. “Also encouraging is the Government’s commitment to give business greater access to the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal to include complaints by small business against APRA regulated super funds. “Regulatory bodies such as the SCT collectively have a significant impact on the running of small building businesses and enhanced access and dispute resolution procedures on a par with members and beneficiaries is a positive development.”
RepoRts: General News
National awards to complement Canberra conference
The 2013 Master Builders’ National excellence in Building and Construction Awards will be held in Canberra in November in conjunction with the Building Australia conference. WA builders collected a record seven wins at the 2012 awards including Young Builder of the Year to Master Builders WA Board member Chris Lillis and National Residential Builder of the Year to the much-acclaimed Brian Burke homes. Lifting the bar yet again, the awards move from Parliament house’s Lesser hall to the Great hall for the 2013 awards in what promises to be a fitting finale to Building Australia. And lifting the bar at the conference is a formidable array of leading national and international speakers including leadership guru Lisa McInnes-Smith, economists Chris Richardson and Peter Jones, IBISWorld founder and chairman Phil Ruthven and businessman and Winter Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury.
The Building Australia conference will provide an ideal opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings of Canberra.
New training fund board Training and Workforce Development Minister Terry Redman has appointed a new Construction Training Fund Board for the next three years. The board manages the Construction Training Fund. Its members are drawn from the building industry and it has an independent chairperson. IT PRePAReS an annual operational plan for approval by the Minister. The plan considers the training needs of the whole industry and includes allocation of funding of about $30 million to programs managed by the Fund. The new board comprises Ian hill (chairman), Max Rivett (Cooper and Oxley), Susan Bailey (hIA nominee), Les Wellington (Construction Skills Training Centre), hayley McBride (Brookfield Johnson Controls and NAWIC), Mick Unger (ertech) and Les McLaughlan (electrical Trades Union). Ralph Dawson provides the secretariat services to the Board as the CTF executive director. For information on how CTF operates, phone 9244 0177.
Another highlight will be the Friday evening conference dinner at the National War Memorial ANZAC hall. Delegates will enjoy predinner drinks in the WW1 aircraft display area and the “Over the front” feature before moving into dinner at the G for George Lancaster Bomber area which includes a dramatic sound and light show. Keynote speaker is the most highly decorated serving member of the Australian Defence Force, Victoria Cross winner Ben Roberts-Smith. Corporal Roberts-Smith’s motivational and inspirational presentation will draw on his life in the military and actions while serving in Afghanistan where he earned the Victoria Cross and Medal for Gallantry on separate occasions. Conference organisers say it will be an inspirational opportunity to hear Corporal Roberts-Smith deliver his presentation, Frontline Leadership – the Battle for Success, focusing on leadership, teamwork, preparation and leading by example to inspire others to be the best they can. The Master Builders National Building Australia conference is in Canberra from November 14 to 16 as part of the capital’s centenary celebrations. The formal program is complemented by an exciting social and partners’ program. To find out more visit www.masterbuilders.com.au/events/ national-conference.
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Women face challenges in the construction industry
Unions: you gotta love ‘em According to CFMeU state secretary Mick Buchan in his union’s latest Construction Worker magazine, the Master Builders hates unions intensely.
Master Builders’ director Michael McLean was moved to a measured response to CFMEU rhetoric accusing the Association of an “intense dislike for unions.”
The STATeMeNT has spurred Master Builders’ director Michael McLean into action to set the record straight. In an email shot off to Mr Buchan, Mr McLean says he feels obliged to challenge the statement made in Construction Worker, namely that “The Master Builders Association are intense in their dislike for unions...” “This is not true,” Mr McLean said in his email. “Our Association has no policies which remotely suggest we intensely dislike or simply dislike unions. The fact that our Association works co-operatively with your union and others on such boards as My Leave, ReddiFund and Cbus should clearly dispel such a position.” Mr McLean said that Master Builders also worked co-operatively with the union and others on the Construction Training Fund board, WorkSafe’s Construction Safety Advisory Committee Committee, MATeS in Construction and other consultative forums. “On none of these bodies do our representatives display any form of dislike (intense or otherwise) to your union or others,” the email said. “Although we may support a range of policies which your union might disagree with, such as the re-establishment of the ABCC, this should not be construed as a philosophical dislike of unions. Our support for the ABCC, for example, is in line with our support for a body that can deliver a lawful industrial relations environment in the building and construction industry.
A discussion paper commissioned by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) reveals challenges for women in securing and maintaining a career in the construction industry. NAWIC’S CeO Sheryle Moon says that female employees represented only 11.7 percent of the construction workforce. “The INDUSTRY suffers from a range of misperceptions, such as the unsuitability of roles for women, which act as significant barriers to women choosing construction careers,” Ms Moon said. A number of cultural barriers to women’s participation in the sector remained, from inflexible workplaces through to a lack of female role models. “A lack of control with regard to flexibility, often due to women accepting the role of family carer, appears to be at the heart of why women leave the industry,” Ms Moon said. The discussion paper encouraged the industry to support flexible working hours and female friendly networking opportunities. Ms Moon said such changes would benefit the industry as a whole. Reducing the gender disadvantage would enable the construction industry to open up its talent pool to build and develop current skill levels and drive innovation. The full report can be found at www.nawic.com.au.
“Similarly, the fact that your union pursues policies which we might disagree with, such as a 35 percent increase in first year apprentice wages or a union eBA on every commercial construction project, should not lead you to the conclusion that our Association dislikes unions.” Mr McLean said that the notion of dislike had not been reflected in any dealings that he had had with the union over the last 30 years and he didn’t envisage this changing. “The fact that several of our members are prepared to advertise in your magazine should also be noted,” he continued in the email. “Most of these members would probably have employees who are union members and respect their right to do so. “It is not the dislike of unions but certain union actions and behaviours that our Association dislikes. There have been numerous examples published in the media, recorded by previous Royal Commissions and transcribed in Industrial Relations Commission proceedings over the years. I hope this communication clarifies our Associations position on unions.”
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A NAWIC-commissioned discussion paper calls for flexible employment arrangements to encourage more women into construction industry careers.
RepoRts: General News
federal election opinion Builders want policy road maps to strong economy AT ThIS Federal election, Master Builders Australia, the voice of the $100 billion building and construction industry, will judge the policies of Australia’s political parties by whether there are real road maps for reform, not empty slogans or meaningless promises. The major parties must deliver policies for a strong building and construction sector if it is to be the engine of economic growth and employment as Australia transitions to a post resources economy. Master Builders will endorse policies that are based on substance and not the rhetoric of an election campaign ‘announceable’. Master Builders wants whichever party wins government to radically change Australia’s public policy narrative with forward looking policies to address the challenges facing the economy, the building and construction industry and the needs of our community.
STRONG BUILDING STRONG ECONOMY Strong building creates a strong economy. Strong building creates more jobs. Strong building creates better communities. This Federal Election, remember: Strong Building. Strong Economy.
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The immediate priorities for the next Government should be: • Take urgent and responsible steps to reduce the structural budget deficit and set an economic strategy based on sound economic principles to give confidence back to investors and consumers. • ensure that Australians have access to more affordable housing options to reduce the cost of living and improve opportunities for more families to enter home ownership. • Find better ways for the public and private sectors to fund and build more new and better community infrastructure. • Genuinely engage with the whole spectrum of Australian business, to help develop business-friendly policies. • Return to a balanced industrial relations system that is easily understood and makes it easier for employers to employ and retain employees. • Restore the powers of the Australian Building and Construction Commission to tackle the ongoing unlawful industrial behaviour in the building and construction industry.
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Master Builders has put these policy priorities to the major parties and looks forward to a positive response.
AROUND 5000 jobs will be created as a result of the State Government’s Budget decision to increase the first home owners grant and improved affordability for new home buyers. Master Builders housing and economics director Gavan Forster says that an increase of $3000 for new home buyers from 15 September could combine with low interest rates to produce an additional 900 new dwellings this year. Realignment of the scheme in favour of new homes will also add to WA’s housing supply.
Master Builders’ housing and economics director Gavan Forster.
state budget to boost construction jobs
“We estimate that as a result of lower interest rates and now this new incentive, there will be a $300 million boost to new housing industry this year,” Mr Forster said. “This will provide a buffer to the State’s economy and offset the current downturn in other industries.” In the commercial building sector there were few new projects announced which would commence construction this year. Several projects were announced but work is not scheduled to start for several years. “Much of the infrastructure spending is on existing large new projects. Not surprisingly in a climate of fiscal restraint, capital works outlay on new projects is restrained,” Mr Forster said.
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Master Builders backs Coalition IR policies Master Builders Australia has welcomed the Coalition’s proposal to fast track reestablishment of the Australian Building and Construction Commission should it win government. CeO Wilhelm harnisch says Master Builders has consistently called for the ABCC to be resurrected to address unlawful industrial action in the building industry. “The CAMPAIGN of ugly industrial thuggery directed against Grocon by building unions clearly demonstrates the need for the restoration of the agency and the return of its stronger powers,” he said. “Fair Work Building and Construction has been shown to be ineffective in countering unlawful industrial action such as in the Grocon dispute and there has been an upsurge in industrial activity on its watch. “Master Builders’ policy is that, regardless of which party forms government after the next Federal election, the restoration of the ABCC and the laws and powers it applied is essential for a strong building industry and strong economy. Prior to the establishment of the ABCC, unlawful industrial action in the building industry was commonplace and a dead weight on the productivity of the industry and the wider economy for decades. “Independent research commissioned by Master Builders shows that a productivity boom followed the establishment of the ABCC, with the building industry out performing other sectors of the economy and delivering a $6 billion a year dividend to the Australian community.” Mr harnisch said that Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens had highlighted that productivity gains are essential to a strong building industry capable of driving Australia’s economic prosperity post the resources boom. “Master Builders will be presenting evidence to the working group announced by the Coalition which will demonstrate why reforms to restore the ABCC are fundamental to achieving these objectives,” the CeO said.
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Master Builders Australia CEO Wilhelm Harnisch.
his organisation also has expressed support for a crackdown on corruption as an appropriate step in reform of Australia’s industrially registered organisations. Mr harnisch said no party in the workplace should receive special treatment. “The Coalition’s proposal in its policy Better Transparency and Accountability of Registered Organisations, to impose personal fines and jail terms for officials of registered organisations who break the rules, is one facet of reform which should be given careful consideration,” Mr harnisch said. he said Master Builders would be releasing a detailed submission to provide the Government and Opposition with the building and construction industry’s first priority and first step for reform of the industrially registered organisations legislation. “People with management and control of registered organisations would need to prove before being appointed, that they have not been convicted of certain criminal offences,” he said. “This test would be the first hurdle that would need to be passed. Master Builders also will recommend that the current fit and proper person test, which regulates whether or not a union right of entry permit is granted under the Fair Work Act, should be strengthened. “Master Builders’ second priority is that people with management and control of registered organisations would need to prove they are of good character.”
RepoRts: General News
Red tape must be addressed The COALITION’S policy announcement on boosting productivity and reducing regulation is part of a critically important policy debate for the Federal election, says Master Builders Australia. A spokesman said Master Builders welcomed the Coalition’s policy for discussion and looked forward to seeing the Government’s approach to boost productivity and reduce regulation in response. “The building and construction industry is one of the most intensely regulated industries in Australia, with legislation and red tape applied at all three levels of government,” the spokesman said. “Time spent dealing with red tape and duplicative compliance processes diverts precious resources from the industry and stops it from doing what it does best – creating jobs, driving the economy and building homes, hospitals, schools, roads and other vital community infrastructure. “There has been a raft of legislation and regulation introduced in recent years that is anti-productivity and which adds unnecessary costs. Policy discussion focussing on increasing productivity and decreasing regulation is certainly welcome. In recent times legislation has been introduced without robust and transparent consultation.
“Master Builders believes new legislation should only be introduced with an accompanying Regulation Impact Statement that cannot be circumvented by the Government of the day. Providing incentives for Government and bureaucrats to reduce the amount of regulation and red tape imposed by legislation and setting aside Parliamentary sitting days to repeal of out of date legislation is a welcome approach.” The Coalition’s commitment to give small business a greater voice on regulatory bodies also won Master Builders’ support. CeO Wilhelm harnisch said measures giving business a greater voice on regulatory bodies are welcome. he said building industry businesses are struggling against strangulation by over-regulation. “Red tape might not get the general public’s pulse racing, but Australians need to understand the negative impact it has the cost of building. Less red tape would improve housing affordability, commuting times and people’s ability to access new and better community infrastructure where they live,” Mr harnisch said. “At the election, we want to see policies from the major parties which outline real reforms and ensure the voice of business is genuinely heard and acted on.”
Master Builders, Australian Christians meet on policy AUSTRALIAN ChRISTIANS WA state director Gary Kleyn recently met with Master Builders’ director Michael McLean to discuss issues facing the building industry. During the discussion Mr McLean outlined legislative changes that industry is dealing with and stressed the need to support the building sector. Michael McLean and Australian Christians’ Gary Kleyn following discussions on policies of concern to Master Builder members.
Mr Kleyn indicated Australian Christians was keen to speak to Master Builders, recognising the important role the building sector plays in WA. The party believed it was important to work closely with WA’s peak building industry body as it developed its policies in the lead up to the Federal election. Mr. Kleyn said several prominent Master Builder members support Australian Christians and believe the party will back the building sector, if elected to Parliament. Australian Christians housing and accommodation policy sets out that Australians should have the opportunity for housing whether they choose to rent or buy. It believes that the best government policy is one which encourages and does not burden people providing for their own basic housing needs. Australian Christians is keen to explore ways to reduce taxes and red tape on the building sector and believes there is benefit in decentralising populations to regional areas through taxation and other government incentives to industry, small business and home buyers. Australian Christians is a national party which is fielding candidates across Australia at the upcoming election. It was the first party to endorse candidates for all 15 house of Representative and two Senate positions in WA. It is expected to play a pivotal role in determining the makeup of the next Federal Parliament, working closely with other parties. Master Builders board member and director of Genesis homes Jack Pleiter says he is impressed with the housing polices of Australian Christians.
Australian Christians’ Senate candidate Jamie van Burgel with Master Builders board member Jack Pleiter.
“This party has very sound and well balanced policies that deserve the attention of people in the building industry,” Mr Pleiter said. “Quite regularly I meet people who work in the building industry that are looking for a voting alternative. I enjoyed speaking with the Australian Christians’ Senate candidate Jamie van Burgel about some of the issues faced by those in the building and construction industry.” For more information on Australian Christians visit www.australianchristians.com.au.
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RepoRts: General News
Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper.
headline grabbing economists and politicians have carelessly latched onto a short term peak in mining investment to herald the end of a boom in WA, says Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper.
No gloom, no end of boom, look long term A CLOUD of unnecessary pessimism has descended in WA, blanketing our view of the positive long term trends that underpin our economic success. Uncertainty about short term mining investment levels is the mist that is causing the confusion. It is true that a recent spike in mining investment peaked in 2012. Cyclical retreats in commodity prices, combined with continued project cost increases, had the immediate effect of deterring investment in mining. Capital market funding tightened quickly, some planned mining projects in WA were put on ice, and contracts under negotiation were abruptly halted. You have to wonder what our regulators were thinking when they imposed significant additional costs on resource investors in the last three years. These included an unexpected mining tax, an ineffectual carbon tax that drove investment overseas, costly labour market changes that facilitated a more adversarial dispute settlement process, and the imposition of higher costs and delays in the process of recruiting foreign workers. But let’s look at the bigger picture. Mining investment, even if it has peaked for now, remains at significantly elevated levels from a decade ago. Oil and gas projects and exploration in particular are still underway to meet the apparently ever growing demand for energy. WA also now has the benefits of the production phase of long life resource projects. Our mines and their transport infrastructure will need to be maintained and operated to deliver cash flows to owners, driving ongoing employment and investment. But we shouldn’t get bogged down with mining investment, which is, after all, only one element of our economy. While it is an important employer, the mining sector – post all its investment in the last few years – only employed 8.2 percent of Western Australians or 108,000 workers in 2012, even though some other employment directly flows from mining investment. More people still are employed in construction – 9.8 percent or about 128,000 workers. More people also work in retail trade – 134,000 – and health care – 144,000 (see ABS Cat 1306.5). It has been too quickly forgotten or ignored that WA has many other sectors that can drive growth and economic success for our WA community.
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Residential construction in WA is already responding to lower interest rates. It has picked up an impressive 26 percent in the last 12 months. Given below par residential construction in recent years, there is further scope for housing growth provided that employment remains steady. By the time you read this, interest rates may have been cut again to stimulate even more activity in this important sector. Commercial construction will rely on further commitments by tenants. Lower interest rates will boost confidence. There are several significant size buildings already going up around the Perth CBD for office, residential and hotel accommodation that will keep a large proportion of the industry busy. Construction has a strong multiplier effect on economic activity, and flows through to manufacturing, importing and retail businesses. The WA economy is also set to benefit from the tailwind of a lower Australian dollar. A recent fall of more than 15 percent from its peak value is good news for important sectors in WA (and Australia): • Tourism is one obvious beneficiary, with more foreign tourists able to holiday in WA. Domestic tourism becomes more price-competitive. • Domestic manufacturers will benefit from weakened importers. • higher education providers will be better placed to attract foreign students to our colleges and campuses. • Agriculture, a large generator of wealth in WA, will become more competitive and lift income levels. Low inflation is another positive which reduces wage cost pressures that have been evident in previous decades in WA. Relatively solid employment levels, even allowing for some softening, should support our economy, notwithstanding a softer mining sector. The final point is that WA has not seen an end to resource investment despite a retreat from the peak. The lower Australian dollar improves our competitive position. The high levels of completion among mining contractors will make projects more viable again. So the mining cycle will at some point return to growth. So keep focused on the substantial positives in WA and make the most of any opportunities that present! Send your comments to Geoff Cooper - geoff@mbawa.com.
RepoRts: General News
Website upgrade for Master Builder members Master Builders’ refreshed website will help members quickly find the information they need, says the Association’s marketing manager Kelly Dewar-Matusik.
“One thing that Master Builders has is plenty of information!” Ms Dewar-Matusik said on the relaunching of the website in August. “The popular mbawa.com site attracts hundreds of visits a day to access this information. “But it’s often hard to find the right page, and that has meant that there has been a lot of cross-referencing and clicks to get what you want. So Master Builders has relaunched the membership website with a new look and feel and with powerful new search functions.” Ms Dewar-Matusik said key word searches will allow users to find building information, details on upcoming or past events, media releases and information from past issues of the weekly express newsletter. She said quick links also will assist and the new page structure is more intuitive. “New features added to the website include online event ticket booking and payment, opportunity for comment via our blog section, one central area to view all events across the State and a ready access training calendar,” she said. “You still have the ability to update your details in the Members Only section with access being gained by using your member business name and number.
Marketing manager Kelly Dewar-Matusik says the Association’s refreshed website will make finding information much easier.
“Consumers will be able to easily search for members using the ‘find a member’ function on the front page of the website. The Building Directory is still there, along with many of our standard features which are now at your fingertips, such as buying contracts and making payments online, information on careers and a list of member savings. You will now be able to make comments on these topics.” “The site is mobile and tablet friendly, which will help members who access on the road (not while driving, of course) or on site. Check all of this out and more on your computer or phone and watch this space for more exciting features which will be added in the coming months!” If you have any questions regarding the website or would like to provide feedback, don’t hesitate to contact Ms Dewar-Matusik via kelly@mbawa.com.
Master Builders’ website has a new image.
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Masters launches timber range Masters, Australia’s newest hardware and home improvement store, is please to be offering LP SolidStart™ lumber veneer laminate (LVL) sourced exclusively from the US, in all stores, all year round. Offering several advantages over traditional lumber, LVL is an excellent choice for most load-bearing applications in building construction. engineered for straightness and consistent performance and dimensions, LVL resists warping, twisting, bowing and crowning, which means less waste and more efficient use of resources - saving time and money! Manufactured from ultrasonically graded veneers, bonded with exterior-grade adhesives LVL is remarkably strong and offers greater design flexibility than lumber. LVL is a great substitute for alternate timber products such as hardwood beams, which are becoming difficult to source in long lengths and are subject to natural defects. Kilogram for kilogram, LP SolidStart™ LVL delivers more load-bearing capacity than typical grades of sawn lumber, allowing for longer spans. Plus LP’s procurement processes are certified to ensure forest sustainability.
Masters will be offering LP SolidStart™ LVL with h3 treatment, which allows timber to be used outside above ground. Protecting against moderate decay, borers and termites, h3 treatment can be used for cladding, fascias, pergolas and decking. h3 treated LVL’s will be available early October. Imported especially for Masters, the entire LP SolidStart™ LVL range is available in Masters stores nationally in 3.6 metre and six metre lengths with load bearings of e14/F17. These can be found in the pigeon holes in the trade area all year round. What’s more, Masters’ Trade Member Program provides trade customers with unbeatable trade-only offers, product updates, incentives, competitions and promotions and is valid across all Masters stores. To redeem a five percent discount*, trade customers must scan their Masters Trade Member Card at the checkouts and make payment using their Trade Account card. The Trade Account^ has been built to meet the needs of trade business owners, and includes benefits such as monthly statements with receipt information, job referencing, GST itemisation, no annual Card fee or online account management fees, and up to 60 credit-free days. Masters is a joint venture between Woolworths and leading US home improvement retailer Lowe’s.
For more information contact: Website: www.masters.com.au
* Excludes gift cards, commercial quantities, trade packs and quotes. ^ American Express approval criteria applies. Subject to Terms and Conditions. Charges may apply. Cards are offered, issued and administered by American Express Australia Limited. American Express Australia Limited (ABN 92 108 952 085). Registered Trademark of American Express Company.
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340505_MBA_WA
RepoRts: Branches
Master Builders’ Great Southern committee elected at the 2013 Branch AGM (l-r): Asher Schlager, Anderson Dufty, Tammi Owens, Murray Philip, Andrew Holmes, Luke Leeder, Marcus Hodge.
Members of Master Builders’ South West Branch committee outside the Association’s new Bunbury premises (l-r): John Buckingham, Andrew McIntyre, Sam Karamfiles, Christine Pidgeon, Charles Grist, John Hovey, Rade Ristovic, Geoff Bosustow and Graeme Davis.
South West membership outstrips population growth SINCe 2009, the South West region’s population has grown by 11 percent according to government data but Master Builders’ regional manager Geoff Bosustow says the Association’s South West Branch membership has grown by more than three times that amount in the same period. Jacqueline Barker, Tim Trouchet and Anthony Probert enjoy a drink at the AGM at the Association’s new Albany premises.
leeder in charge Luke Leeder has been elected unopposed as chairman of the Master Builders’ Great Southern Branch at the Branch’s recent annual general meeting. Mr Leeder is project manager for Greg Leeder Building Service. ABOUT 70 Master Builder members gathered at the Association’s new function room in Graham Street Albany for the AGM. Outgoing chairman Anderson Dufty opened the meeting. After two productive years in the top position, he stood down but will continue contributing in a committee role. Mr Leeder said he was honoured to take on this chairmanship. ”I now take on this role to continue the great work that has been done and to bring new vision for the future of Master Builders,” he said. “It is testament to the efforts of the Great Southern committee that I look forward to strengthening the presence of Master Builders within the Great Southern region. Being involved with Master Builders since 2011 as a committee member then as deputy chair certainly inspires me to tackle this role head on.”
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“It proves that we are doing things right in regional areas,” Mr Bosustow said. “Our South West members together with suppliers from all over the State have been busy over the last eight months undertaking the massive task of delivering our new Bunbury premises which are now very close to completion. I would like to thank everyone who has been so generous with the donation of their time and energy along with the provision of product that has shaped the new home of Master Builders in the South West.” Mr Bosustow said the Bunbury centre would be a hub for regional building businesses and provide an ideal training venue. he encouraged regional members to familiarise themselves with the training opportunities available in the region. “If you are seeking specific training for one, two, 20 or 30 staff Master Builders can arrange it,” he said. “We take all of the hard work out of organising training and as a Registered Training Organisation we process any Construction Training Fund requirements leaving contractors’ pockets heavier and shoulders lighter and with more time on their hands to do what they do best.
Could it be you? MASTeR BUILDeRS has opportunities for tenants at its completely refurbished Bunbury premises. Regional manager Geoff Bosustow is inviting prospective lessees to view the available space within the centre. he says there are two office suites and a warehouse area ideal for tenants to maximise exposure to the building and construction industry. Contact Mr Bosustow on 9726 0939 to discuss this rare opportunity to co-locate with the leading construction industry Association in the South West.
RepoRts: Branches
Corrina Cassin, Dirk Ertzen, Brian Day, Megan Parker, Shane Hill and Karina Day at the presentation of donations raised through the Geraldton North West Branch barefoot bowling event.
Cheques make a difference Master Builders’ Geraldton North West Branch and Combined Metal Industries recently presented cheques worth almost $4000, the proceeds of the Branch’s barefoot bowling fundraiser, to Camp Quality and Midwest Men’s health. ReGIONAL MANAGeR Di Gilleland says the fundraiser, the second such event run by the Branch and sponsored by Combined Metal Industries, not only raised funds for worthy causes, but also raised awareness of those being supported. “Master Builders became aware of Camp Quality through their lockup-your-boss fundraiser and we decided it was a worthy organisation to support,” Ms Gilleland said. “And Midwest Men’s health plays an important role in this community. The funds raised from the lawn bowls day were split between both charities and we hope that our small contributions can make a difference.” Local Camp Quality volunteer group leader Steve Pawelski thanked Master Builders and Combined Metal Industries and said that the donation will allow all local Midwest Camp Quality families to attend one of the organisation’s family fun days. “Our families really look
forward to these days,” he said, “not just for the fun we have but to also catch up with other families who understand what they are going through. having events locally is great for families as Perth is just that little bit too far to drive for a fun day.” Acting manager for Midwest Men’s health Shane hill said the funds will go towards Midwest region men’s programs such as suicide prevention. The presentation also was attended by Combined Metal Industries’ Gary Smith and the vice president of the Wonthella Bowling Club Dirk erzten.
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RepoRts: Branches
Leafy treat for Andrew GeRALDTON NORTh West Branch past chairman Andrew Crothers, known to most as Mint because of his love of mint leaves, celebrated his fiftieth birthday recently. Given his many years of service to Master Builders, it was only fitting that the Branch provided him with a cake to mark the occasion – suitably trimmed with the appropriate confectionary.
Working group dinner participants (l-r) Jo Van Kints, Romina De Santis, Dave Gibson, Paul Mandosio and Tim Carson.
Industry and City meet over dinner IN A FReSh approach, the Geraldton North West Branch-City of Geraldton working group, set up following the amalgamation of the Greenough Shire and the City of Geraldton, met over dinner in late July. The working group stems from a meeting in 2007 which brought together the new City of Greater Geraldton and builders, architects and designers for informal discussions on local issues including planning approval time-frames. It was a great success and the working group was set up and continues to meet six years on.
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The July meeting was the first time a dinner function had been held. BlueScope Steel sponsored the dinner and business development manager Tim Carson provided the attendees with information on the company’s upcoming launch of its colour range. Guest speaker, Master Builders’ technical adviser Romina DeSantis, addressed changes to the Building Act and participated in interactive discussion with the audience. Branch regional manager Di Gilleland thanked BlueScope Steel for its sponsorship of the dinner and the City of Greater Geraldton for its continuing relationship with the Branch.
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Rondo internal corner bead products (R01, R02) have a Zinc coating known as Z275 (the equivalent of 275gms of Zinc per surface square metre of steel). This coating provides protection to the bead when installed indoors in dry conditions and is the industry standard for all internal steel wall framing components. The exterior texture coat finishes zinc coating of Z450 is applied to Rondo eP32 Corner Bead (suitable for Blue Board applications) and a zinc coating of Z200 is applied to Rondo eP17, eP50 and eR11 Stopping Beads. All of which are additionally protected by powder coating after manufacture. This is why Rondo confidently guarantees the performance of all of their beads. So why risk it?
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A cheap copy may even feel sturdy, but that is usually only due to the extra thickness of the metal used at the expense of a thinner surface coating, and it is the coating that provides the protection.
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GoldfIelds espeRANCe AWARds
The Curtin School of Mines Graduate Hall was glammed-up to give a little taste of Paris for the Master Builders Bankwest Goldfields Esperance Building Excellence Awards.
GoldfIelds GlIsteR, pARIs GlAMouR The Curtin University WA School of Mines Graduate hall was transformed with a Paris theme for the Master Builders Bankwest Goldfields esperance Building excellence Awards in July. RJ DONALDSON Building Contractor earned the major plaudits on the night, winning the MBA Insurance Services Best Country home for a project on Peek Road, esperance. The home also took a swag of general awards including best appointed kitchen and bathroom and excellence in wall and floor tiling and floor treatments. The Bankwest Best Commercial Building Award was taken out by Westralia homes, for the company’s Pira Avenue, Kalgoorlie project. It was the crowning achievement for Westralia homes on a highly successful night where it also won awards for contract homes in the $250,000 - $275,000 and $275,000 - $300,000 categories and for multi-residential developments both under and more than $800,000. In addition, Darron Champion, Westralia homes’ site supervisor, was awarded the Regional Member of the Year Award.
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For the third year running, the John Truman Award was presented to Goldfields homes which also was the recipient of the gong for excellence in Building Practice. The John Truman Award recognises consistent high quality work across the winning company’s range of projects. More than 100 guests gathered in the School of Mines hall for the night of congratulations, music, camaraderie and fantastic food. The awards were run jointly by recently appointed Master Builders’ regional liaison officers Jade hayes and Doug Backhouse of Kalgoorlie and esperance respectively. The Association’s affable housing director Gavan Forster was master of ceremonies and in addition to the smooth progress of the awards presentation, he and Master Builders’ president Robert Shaw kept the crowd up to speed on the football and rugby scores throughout the night.
GoldfIelds espeRANCe AWARds Best Country Home Award winner Rob Donaldson of RJ Donaldson Building Contractor proudly displaying his award plaque with Master Builders’ president Robert Shaw (left) and MBA Insurance Services WA state manager Nick Vernon.
Darron Champion, representing Westralia Homes, holds the Best Commercial Building Award which the company won for its Pira Avenue, Kalgoorlie entry. Mr Champion gained prestige in his own right, winning the Regional Member of the Year Award. He is pictured with Master Builders’ president Robert Shaw.
The John Truman award is presented at the Goldfields Esperance Building Excellence Awards to the company judged to consistently build its projects to a high standard. Goldfields Homes has had something of a mortgage on the award and, for the third successive year, Nigel Byrd was happy to accept the trophy from Robert Shaw.
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GoldfIelds espeRANCe AWARds
A peek at Peek Road’s winning qualities The GOLDFIeLDS esperance Building excellence Awards Best Country home, built by RJ Donaldson Building Contractor has more than one winning quality. The house, on Peek Road in esperance, is a sprawling, split level, single storey home nestled into the sloping terrain adjacent to Salmon Beach. It comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms, powder room, laundry, home theatre, office and a large open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area and was designed to capture panoramic ocean views from almost every part of the house. Award winning quality is evident throughout. As well as the overall top award, it was best contract home over $1 million and took awards for the best appointed bathroom and best appointed kitchen. The project also received a number of trade awards for cabinet-making, wall and floor tiling and floor treatments. Trent Chalmers and Dave Green were also awarded the Tradesperson of the Year Award for their work on the tilingone of the highlights of the masterly home.
This year’s Best Country Home in the Goldfields Esperance Awards has sweeping views over Salmon Beach. (Top) The impressive living area of the award winning RJ Donaldson Building Contractor home. (Bottom)
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GoldfIelds espeRANCe AWARds
Winning project a boon to disabled Westralia homes faced challenges in completing its Best Commercial Building Award winning project in Pira Avenue, Kalgoorlie. The seven bedroom, three bathroom residence was built to house disabled indigenous adults in need of 24-hour care. IT INCLUDeS hospital-like amenities, a fully monitored and Department of Fire and emergency Services linked fire protection system and remote controlled commercial style glass sliding door to the rear veranda. In constructing the specialised building, schedulers, supervisors and the all-important trades had to adapt to ensure BCA and Australian Standards requirements were met in relation to the disabled living features. The project was built in seven months, on budget and with high quality workmanship throughout.
Westralia Homes award winning Kalgoorlie project is designed to provide specialised disabled accommodation.
AWARD SPONSORS
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GoldfIelds espeRANCe AWARds
Award Results BeST COUNTRY hOMe Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services RJ Donaldson Building Contractor Peek Rd esperance BeST COMMeRCIAL BUILDING Sponsor: Bankwest Westralia Homes Pira Ave Kalgoorlie BeST KALGOORLIe hOMe Golden Hind Homes Tindals Cres. hannans JOhN TRUMAN AWARD Sponsor: J & A Truman Pty Ltd Goldfields homes TRADeSPeRSON OF The YeAR Sponsor: Cbus Trent Chalmers and Dave Green – T. Chalmers Tiling Peek Rd esperance ReGIONAL MeMBeR OF The YeAR Sponsor: Boral Midland Brick Darron Champion – Westralia Homes BeST CUSTOMeR SeRVICe Sponsor: Bankwest GJ Gardner Homes Esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN BUILDING PRACTICe Sponsor: Building Commission Goldfields Homes JUDGeS’ AWARD Sponsor: First National Real estate Kalgoorlie Jmac Building Auralia Chantilly Circuit Castletown CONTRACT hOMeS UNDeR $250,000 Dixon Construction Johns St esperance CONTRACT hOMeS $250,000 - $275,000 Westralia Homes Collins St Kalgoorlie CONTRACT hOMeS $275,000 - $300,000 Westralia Homes Frank St Boulder CONTRACT hOMeS $300,000 - $325,000 Jmac Building Chantilly Circuit Castletown CONTRACT hOMeS $325,000 - $350,000 GJ Gardner Homes Esperance Thistle Ave esperance
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CONTRACT hOMeS $350,000 - $400,000 Golden Hind Homes Tindals Cres. hannans CONTRACT hOMeS $400,000 - $500,000 Goldfields Homes Riseberry Way Somerville CONTRACT hOMeS $800,000 - $1,000,000 KJ Norton Building Co Ormonde St esperance CONTRACT hOMeS OVeR $1,000,000 RJ Donaldson Building Contractor Peek Rd esperance COMMeRCIAL BUILDING OPeN VALUe Westralia Homes Pira Ave Kalgoorlie MULTI-ReSIDeNTIAL DeVeLOPMeNTS UNDeR $800,000 Westralia Homes Collins St Kalgoorlie MULTI-ReSIDeNTIAL DeVeLOPMeNTS OVeR $800,000 Westralia Homes Tali Mews Kalgoorlie BeST APPOINTeD KITCheN Sponsor: The Laminex Group RJ Donaldson Building Contractor Peek Rd esperance BeST APPOINTeD BAThROOM Sponsor: The Laminex Group RJ Donaldson Building Contractor Peek Rd esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN PAINTING Sponsor: esperance express M Tyrell Painting Chantilly Circuit Castletown eXCeLLeNCe IN ROOFING Sponsor: Stratco Brett Trockiniski - BJT Carpenters Chantilly Circuit Castletown SILVeR TROWeL AWARD Sponsor: Brikmakers Benjamin Ritchie – Goldfields Homes Sanders Close Somerville
MOST AFFORDABLe FAMILY hOMe Sponsor: Department of housing Dixon Construction Johns St esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN PLASTeRING Sponsor: Disability Services Commission Neil Wilson Castletown Quays esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN FLOOR TReATMeNTS Sponsor: Kalgoorlie Miner Kim Gillespie and Neil Harland – K Gillespie Paving Peek Rd esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN CeILINGS Sponsor: Jackson McDonald Gavin Rae and Chris Drake - CTD Contracting Riseberry Way Somerville WATeRWISe AWARD Sponsor: Water Corporation Golden Hind Homes Tindals Cres. hannans eXCeLLeNCe IN CARPeNTRY (INTeRNAL/ eXTeRNAL) Sponsor: Toyota Marcus Boers – Boers Construction and Nathan Bright - NLB Construction Ormonde St esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN WALL & FLOOR TILING Sponsor: VV Tiling Shop Trent Chalmers and Dave Green – T. Chalmers Tiling Peek Rd esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN CABINeT MAKING Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services Ramon Dellaca – Esperance Cabinets Peek Rd esperance eXCeLLeNCe IN STeeL Sponsor: Roofmart KB Dixon Construction hockey Pl. West Beach
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exCelleNCe IN CoNstRuCtIoN AWARds
With Baz Luhrmann’s film the talk of the town, Crown Perth was taken back in time to the 1920s Great Gatsby era for this year’s Master Builders Bankwest Excellence in Construction Awards
On a night of hot competition, Ali Bodycoat provided cool entertainment.
Commerce Minister Michael Mischin addresses guests at the Excellence in Construction Awards.
Versatile awards MC Tim Campbell.
Construction excellence celebrated 1920’s style More than 670 guests donned their slickest tuxedos and most glamorous gowns and went back to the Great Gatsby styled 1920’s to celebrate WA’s premier event for commercial builders, the Master Builders Bankwest excellence in Construction Awards in June.
Constructions for Brookfield Place, BGC Construction for Perth Arena, Perkins Builders for the All Saints Performing Arts Theatre and Doric Contractors for the Wickham Recreation Precinct.
The AWARDS, held at the newly refurbished Crown Perth for the first time, featured singing, dancing, acting heart throb Tim Campbell as host.
The crowd was serenaded by the sultry sounds of Ali Bodycoat, and danced late into the night with Tim Campbell, who followed his MC gig with a party set.
With more than 60 entries this year, the sense of rivalry among the attendees was keen with some of the biggest names in commercial building hanging out to see who would take home the top prize. Notable winners on the night included Brookfield Multiplex
Special guests included Commerce Minister Michael Mischin, Master Builders Australia CeO Wilhelm harnisch and Master Builders National president Peter Kennedy.
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exCelleNCe IN CoNtRuCtIoN AWARds
Brookfield Multiplex tops construction awards Brookfield Multiplex’s Brookfield Place in the Perth CBD was announced Best Project winner at the Master Builders Bankwest excellence in Construction Awards in June.
A UNANIMOUS favourite among the judges, the project also won a record five other awards, including Best historic Restoration and Renovation, excellence in energy efficiency Over $40 million, Best Retail Over $5 million, Best Building Fit-out Over $10 million and Best Office Building Over $30 million. Brookfield Place is a 45-storey office tower and is the tallest side core building in the southern hemisphere. Five heritage buildings were refurbished in the construction of the building which comprises about 75,000 square metres. It has been fitted out with a childcare centre, gym and 10 tenancy cafe court. Master Builders’ director Michael McLean congratulated Brookfield Multiplex for its outstanding work in winning the top construction award for 2013 – the seventh such win for the company in 23 years. “Brookfield Place is one of the most important office buildings in Perth and presents a striking feature on the city’s skyline,” Mr McLean said. “The project also created an impressive retail, office and entertainment precinct in some of Perth’s most sympathetically restored historical buildings.”
Best Project presentation: Bankwest’s Brid Hutchinson and Chris Hutchins (together, centre) with the Brookfield Multiplex award winners and Master Builders’ director Michael McLean (left).
The Master Builders Bankwest excellence in Construction Awards showcase the quality of construction in the areas of structure, external finishes, services, internal finishes and civil works. Other areas considered are time management, value for money, innovation, site management, form and function. There were 60 entries in the 2013 awards totalling more than $2.5 billion in contractual value which Mr McLean said reflected ongoing solid levels of activity in commercial construction in WA. Brookfield Place wasn’t the builder’s only success on the night with its Queen elizabeth II Medical Centre Central energy Plant a finalist for Best Project and winner of the Best State Government Building and Best Civil engineering Works Awards. Other winners on the night included DORIC Contractors, which won the Best Regional Project for Wickham Recreation Precinct and Perth Rigging Co which won the Cbus Subcontractor of the Year for structural steel on the Perth Arena. Most of the WA winners will compete in the national Master Builders awards in Canberra in November.
The complex structural steel work on the Perth Arena won Perth Rigging Co the title of Subcontractor of the Year.
The already familiar form of Brookfield Place which took off the 2013 Best Project Award at the Master Builders Excellence in Construction Awards.
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exCelleNCe IN CoNstRuCtIoN AWARds
sponsors
Wealth of experience in awards judging JUDGING The excellence in Construction Awards is a demanding and involved process but with a collective two centuries of experience, the expert panel makes it look like a breeze. The judges, featured here left to right, were Peter Bruechle, Michael Croudace, Rod Sproule and Geoff Allen. Mr Allen and first time judge Mr Sproule come from the building fraternity while Mr Bruechle and Mr Croudace were on hand to give engineering and architectural advice respectively. They are pictured with Pippa Tearne (left) and Monique Milne, the Master Builders’ events Team.
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exCelleNCe IN CoNstRuCtIoN AWARds
exCelleNCe IN CoNstRuCtIoN AWARds Results 2013 BeST PROJeCT Sponsor: Bankwest Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place 2013 BeST ReGIONAL PROJeCT Sponsor: Building Commission Doric Contractors Wickham Recreation Precinct SUBCONTRACTOR OF The YeAR Sponsor: Cbus Perth Rigging Co Pty Ltd Perth Arena BeST hISTORIC ReSTORATION OR ReNOVATION Sponsor: Crowther Blayne Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place BeST ReFURBIShMeNT OR ReNOVATION UNDeR $10 MILLION Sponsor: Brikmakers Georgiou Group Georgiou Collaboration and Case Study Centre BeST ReFURBIShMeNT OR ReNOVATION OVeR $10 MILLION Sponsor: Brikmakers Probuild Constructions: Crown Casino Stage 1 Gaming Floor expansion and Day Spa Refurbishment eXCeLLeNCe IN WASTe MANAGeMeNT Sponsor: Instant Waste Management Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Fiona Stanley hospital BeST STATe GOVeRNMeNT BUILDING Sponsor: Building Commission Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Queen elizabeth II Medical Centre Central energy Plant BeST MULTI-UNIT DeVeLOPMeNT Sponsor: Cockburn Cement Georgiou Group Birra Birra Village Camp B eXCeLLeNCe IN eNeRGY eFFICIeNCY UNDeR $40 MILLION Sponsor: AutoControl Systems PS Structures Cannington Leisureplex
eXCeLLeNCe IN eNeRGY eFFICIeNCY OVeR $40 MILLION Sponsor: AutoControl Systems Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place BeST heALTh/AGeD CARe BUILDING Sponsor: Jackson McDonald John Holland Albany health Campus BeST ReTAIL BUILDING UNDeR $5 MILLION Sponsor: hays Buckingham Redevelopment Company Cottesloe Beach hotel Courtyard
BeST PUBLIC USe BUILDING Sponsor: Stramit BGC Construction Perth Arena BeST CIVIL eNGINeeRING WORKS Sponsor: hanson Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Queen elizabeth II Medical Centre Central energy Plant JOhN ROBeRTS BeST NeW BUILDeR Slatter Constructions
Subcontractor of the Year Awards BeST ReTAIL BUILDING OVeR $5 MILLION Sponsor: hays Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place BeST INDUSTRIAL BUILDING Sponsor: Levesys Broad Construction Services (WA) Pty Ltd Parts Distribution Centre BeST eDUCATION BUILDING Sponsor: Kone Perkins Builders All Saints College Performing Arts Theatre BeST BUILDING FITOUT UNDeR $10 MILLION Sponsor: West Australian Mechanical Services Leeda Projects Pty Ltd Print hall BeST BUILDING FITOUT OVeR $10 MILLION Sponsor: West Australian Mechanical Services Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place BeST OFFICe BUILDING UNDeR $30 MILLION Sponsor: ReddiFund PS Structures Pty Ltd Department of Fire and emergency Services
CLADDING CURTAIN WALL Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services Alcom Fabrications Perth Arena FINISheS CABINeTWORK/JOINeRY Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services Stylewoods Commercial Interiors All Saints College Performing Arts Theatre FINISheS CeILINGS Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services C&L Ceilings Crown Casino Stage 1 Gaming Floor & Day Spa Refurbishment STRUCTURAL STeeL Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services Perth Rigging Co Pty Ltd Perth Arena SeRVICeS PLUMBING/hYDRAULIC/FIRe Sponsor: MBA Insurance Services Cooke & Dowsett Albany health Campus
BeST OFFICe BUILDING OVeR $30 MILLION Sponsor: ReddiFund Brookfield Multiplex Constructions Brookfield Place ARChITeCTS AWARD Sponsor: Toyota Peter Hunt Architect
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updAtes: Personal Pars
Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays
Layton moves on from AMCA The SeRVICeS of Alan Layton as executive director for the last seven years of the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association were made redundant at the end of June. Alan is now the executive director of the WA Pony Club. Maree Licastre’s administrative position at AMCA also has been made redundant. WA AMCA president Richard Udinga (hexagon Services) is the new contact for the Association. Alan (centre) is pictured with Peter Tuck (NeCA CeO), left, and Master Builders’ Michael McLean.
The National Centre for Vocational Education Research has appointed Rodd Camm as managing director. Rod is a former CEO with Skills Queensland. He takes over from Dr Tom Karmel who was had been in the position since 2002. Brian Bentley has been elected secretary of the newly formed Plumbers and Gasfitters Union in WA. Plumbers formerly were aligned with electricians in an amalgamated union. Les McLaughlan is the secretary of the new Electrical Trades Union. Donald McKenzie is the relatively new CEO of Skill Hire, based in Kewdale. Brue Arlow has rejoined the Apprentice and Traineeship Company as its Perth-based manager. Jodie Cleverly has been appointed group training co-ordinator with Skill Hire following the departure of Lisa Legena. Condolences to Carolyn Fitzgerald, Master Builders’ safety co-ordinator, on the passing of her father in June after a short illness.
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Congratulations to the team at Home Base Expo in Subiaco on celebrating their twenty-fifth anniversary. Master Builders was directly involved in the Home Base Expo during its first five years and subsequently via the late Trevor Smith who was the general manager for 20 years. Gino Premici is now the GM. Bill Fiddian has stepped down from Master Builders’ Construction Council and left Mirvac and has relocated to the Margaret River region to dabble in the odd building project. Alan Hughes will be retiring from Cbus as its inaugural employee co-ordinator in September. Alan has done a great job in promoting Cbus Superannuation to building workers over the last 29 years and has been a first class ambassador for the fund in WA. Enjoy your retirement, Alan. There’s further movement at Cbus: Elisa Gallichio has been appointed key partnerships national manager, based in Melbourne. Reporting to Elisa in WA is James Moore who commenced in June as WA partnerships manager. The newly created role will see Cbus engaging
more with key employers and identifying growth opportunities. James previously worked for ME Bank for seven years, most recently as its business development manager. Cbus also has appointed two employer account managers in Perth, Salma Sallie and Igor Zecic. Former NECA and Department of Training employee Ray Harris is now working as an executive director of the Central Institute of Technology in Perth. Well done Dale Alcock Homes in donating $40,000 to the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal this year. If your business has contributed to a charity Master Builders would be pleased to promote your efforts to other members. The building industry has always been generous in its support for a diverse range of charities and other worthwhile causes. WA’s Equal Opportunity Commissioner Yvonne Henderson retired in June after 10 years in the job. Commerce Minister Michael Mischin has commissioned a review of the Equal Opportunity Commission by the Public Sector Commission.
John Gillies has left Brookfield Multiplex to take up a position with a construction firm in Thailand. John also has stepped down as Australian Institute of Building vice president. Stacey Rimene, the construction manager for Home Group WA, has been appointed to the national board of the National Association of Women in Construction. Condolences to the family and friends of Dimo Christides who died after a short illness earlier this year. Dimo was employed by Jackson McDonald in its construction law team. He was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed. The Department of Planning has made a number of senior appointments, including: Ann Hill as, strategy, policy and projects executive director, Lance Glare (strategic projects director) and Ben Harvey (strategy and projects director). A big cheerio to Don Couzens (EMCO) and Peter Hunt (Peter Hunt Architect) who are battling ill health.
updAtes: Personal Pars
Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays
SOMeONe ReCeNTLY spotted Ralph Dawson, the executive director of the Construction Training Fund, in exmouth fishing. We believe Ralph was enjoying a well earned holiday rather than looking for skilled workers in the area. Check out the coral trout Ralph caught on a charter fishing trip.
RAY SPUTORe (pictured) has resigned as managing director of Decmil. Jonathon holmes (formerly at John holland) commenced as executive general manager in July.
In-Vogue is building this year’s Telethon Home at Honeywood Estate in Wandi. The site was donated by the Satterley Property Group and Wandi Anketell Holdings. Some of the major contributing suppliers are Boral Group (bricks, paving, concrete, plasterboard and timber flooring), James Hardie (exterior cladding) and Monier Roofing (roof tiles). Members are encouraged to check out the home when it opens to the public in September prior to being auctioned on the Telethon weekend on 20 October. David McDonnell has left Dale Alcock Homes to form his own IT business, House into Home. David was the recipient of last year’s Ric New Medal. He has developed an app which assists building supervisors and home-buyers identify problems and communicate better during the building process. The Combined Small Business Alliance of WA has appointed Graham Pridham (Independent Contractors Association) and Aiden O’Grady (NECA) to replace Glenn Hutchinson and Ray Harris as board members.
Bradley Rea has been employed as specialist OHS lawyer with Master Builders Australia, based in Canberra. Andy Thomas (One Steel) has been elected president of the National Fire Industry Association in WA. Congratulations to Colin Emmott (Mann Judd) and his team at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation on raising $440,000 at its annual charity ball in Perth in June. This is an Australian record which once again highlights the generosity of WA businesses and citizens. Lester Anderson, a long-serving member of Crothers Construction staff, died in June after a short illness. Lester was a highly regarded project manager and a previous winner of Supervisor of the Year in Master Builders mid-west Building Excellence Awards. Condolences go to Lester’s family and many friends within the industry. ABN Training has appointed Jeff Williams as trade development manager.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ReIWA president David Airey on celebrating 40 years in the real estate industry. David does a great job in representing the real estate industry in WA, having previously been the national president.
Daniel Hunt has been appointed general manager of WA Mechanical Services and has joined Master Builders’ Construction Council. Dan Young has been appointed general manager of Advance Drilling and Sawing. Dan now sits on Master Builders’ Safety Committee. Graham Teede has been appointed senior site supervisor with Pyramid Constructions, currently based on a Baldivis project. At its AGM in July, the Australian Institute of Building elected Graham Teede president taking over from Peter Iancov (Doric). Rod Sproule (Perkins Builders) was elected vice president.
The Department of Housing has appointed Will Carroll to the new position of business development director. Will’s focus will be on developing pro-active initiatives to deliver more affordable housing options to communities across WA through the Department’s Affordable Housing Strategy. Collaboration and forging partnerships with the private, government and not-for-profit sectors are clearly part of the program. Tony Tate has retired from Curtin University’s Research and Development Department after 11 years and is now the chair of the Animal Resource Authority as well as having involvement on three research advisory bodies at Curtin. Having more time to spend with his two grand-children is the highlight of his week.
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updAtes: Personal Pars
Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays
James Komninos has been reappointed managing partner of RSM Bird Cameron based in Perth. RSM Bird Cameron is Master Builders’ business advisory and accounting services partner with offices in all major regional centres around WA. Congratulations to the team at Silver Thomas Hanley, an architectural firm specialising in health facility planning and design, on celebrating its sixtieth anniversary. Condolences to the family and friends of Warren Owens who died in June, aged 87. Warren was a senior public servant with Homeswest for many years. Gary Bovell has decided to retire as a Geraldton-based builder and as a result Admiration Homes has ceased trading after being a Master Builder member for 30 years. Enjoy the sunset over the beach, Gary. The Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia has appointed Brendan Watkins as CEO, based in Melbourne. David Syme takes on the national manager role. Doric has appointed Vince Mulholland as commercial construction general manager. Vince was previously employed with John Holland. Joe Martin and Keith Somers have left Doric. Former Master Builders’ membership officer Christine Moran is now working for Engineers Australia (WA Division) as business development manager. John Stokes has been appointed executive director of the Master Builders Association of South Australia. He was previously the state manager of the Australian Institute of Management in Adelaide. Ben Carter has replaced Mitchell Fox as media relations officer with Master Builders Australia, based in Canberra. Mitch has decided to relocate to London with the love of his life.
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Former Master Plumbers Association CEO and Liberal Member for Hasluck Stuart Henry has relocated back to Perth from the USA. Stuart is the deputy chairman of the World Congress of Plumbers. This year’s World Plumbing Conference is being held in New Delhi in November. Congratulations to Thomas Jacobs on being appointed a partner at Master Builders’ alliance partner Jackson McDonald. Jill Jameson has been appointed managing director of Polytechnic West, replacing Wayne Colyer.
CONGRATULATIONS TO Dale Alcock and his 400-plus supporters who helped raise $134,812.60 for the St Vincent de Paul Society by participating in this year’s CeO Sleepout Campaign in June. All of the funds raised go to supporting homeless people.
There have been changes aplenty at Master Builders where Kelly Watt has left and Skye McCartney has taken on the daunting task of executive assistant to director Michael McLean. Melissa Buckley has started membership assistant helping membership services manager Veronica Mill. Siobhan Harvey has been promoted to membership services officer and Kimberley Alexander has been promoted to communications officer.
New chief at JacMac MALCOLM SheLTON-AGAR has relocated from Singapore to take on the Jackson McDonald CeO role held by John McLean for the last 14 years. Malcolm’s CV includes managing director of DLA Phillips Fox and COO of Allen & Gledhill LLP, Singapore’s premium law firm. Jackson McDonald say that, having worked in both national and regional firms, Malcolm is eminently suited to his new role with the firm in Perth.
updAtes: Personal Pars
Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays
30 questions for 30 years With 30 years’ service at Master Builders under his belt, we put 30 questions to director Michael McLean about his time with the Association. WhY DID you apply for a job with Master Builders? I had relocated to Perth from Port hedland for family reasons after working for Mt Newman Mining for three-and-a-half years and the industrial relations job seemed interesting and challenging. Who employed you? harvey McLeod, the then director. When did you start? 25 August 1983. Who was previously employed in the industrial relations role? John Bamford. how many staff did Master Builders have in those days? Seventeen, including current staffers Gavan Forster and Charles Anderson. Who was the President in 1983? Tom Oxley of Cooper and Oxley. What was the industrial relations scene like when you commenced? Rather unstable. The unions were claiming site allowances on most major construction projects as a way around the Wage Fixing Principles and there were lots of disputes. What were the issues that caused the most strikes in the 1980s? Non-unionists working on site, the employment of union activists, inclement weather disputes, safety issues and pay claims. Who were the main union officials you were dealing with? Kevin Reynolds (BLF secretary), Ron Kinney (organiser), Mark Cuomo (industrial officer), Bill ethell (BWIU secretary), Rick Todd (organiser) and Graham Young (industrial officer). What was the longest dispute? In 1988 the building unions campaigned for a $52 weekly wage rise; $20 per week ended up as a redundancy payment and there were two $16 per week wage increases.
What was the most significant dispute? In the mid-1980s, the union representing roof tilers decided to pursue a wage claim for tilers in the housing sector. This had the potential to unionise the housing industry. There was concerted resistance among the project builders and manufacturers to defeat the threat. The union was unsuccessful. how bad was the IR scene in those days? Chaotic, unpredictable and unlawful. It was a time when building unions would take 24, 48 and even 72 hour strikes because a builder had allegedly breached an agreement. They would then pursue payment via a private arbitrator and generally get paid for the lost time. Shocking! What about the IR Commission? They were powerless to reign in the industrial action and sometimes just institutionalised the problem by sanctioning commercial settlements. What contributed most to improve the IR scene? A combination of factors – a downturn in the economy, Master Builders deciding not to enter into industry-wide agreements with the unions, the ability of BGC to resist union pressure in the commercial sector and the commitment of Graham Kierath to introduce a Code of Practice and Task Force in 1993. Which politicians have impressed you the most? Labour Relations Ministers Graham Kierath and Peter Dowding and housing Ministers Kevin Prince and Keith Wilson. What have been some of the greatest changes you have observed since 1983? The impact of the mobile phone and internet, the increased jurisdiction of the Federal Government, smaller lot housing developments, tilt up construction, transportable/modular housing and a more stable IR environment.
Who has had the most influence on your thinking? All of the eight presidents I have had the pleasure to work with but also life members Rob Torrance and Ron Doubikin who are very astute people. Your greatest achievements? Surviving this long and still being passionate about the job is something I am very proud of. helping to establish the State’s portable long service leave scheme in 1987 which now has about $340 million of funds invested, nearly 5000 employers and more than 120,000 workers registered with more than 76,000 now being contributed for on average every quarter. Weaning Master Builders’ IR representation away from the employers Federation also fulfilled an objective for my employment. Being involved with a television show, home in WA, for nearly 15 years to promote members and topical issues is also gratifying. Organising a variety of events to both commemorate and celebrate our Association’s centenary in 1998 was memorable; especially as our CeO Lunch and Robert Law Award have become annual events. Most memorable victory? Advocating a case before a Full Bench of the IR Commission involving which union should have coverage of mobile plant operators. Lawyers Paul Marsh (BLF) and Derek Schapper (BWIU) were arguing for exclusive rights for their unions whereas the Commission decided in Master Builders’ favour as we suggested a clever split. When did you start as MBA Director? September 1996 after harvey McLeod retired. What was the transition like? having had 13 years’ previous experience with the organisation, helped a lot but I didn’t realise when I accepted the promotion how little I really knew about being a CeO and the building industry generally. Letting go of the IR job was hard initially.
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updAtes: Personal Pars
Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays
CONGRATULATIONS TO Richard eaton who celebrated 20 years with ReddiFund (the WA Construction Industry Redundancy Fund) as its accountant in July. Well done, Richard!
ROB MCLAUGhLIN has been appointed state manager of Badge Construction.
So, what are you primary responsibilities? Overseeing the entire operation of the Association – financial, staffing and services. This entails providing a secretariat to our Board, representing the Association at numerous meetings and functions, policy development and lobbying at a state and national level and assisting staff as required.
Do you have any regrets? There are generally too many things happening to get bogged down on regrets. The circumstances surrounding the demise of the MBA Group Apprenticeship Scheme in 1999 was very disappointing and could have been avoided. I wish more members would include the Master Builders’ logo in their advertising.
Is there much travel involved in your job? Yes. Quarterly meetings of our national Board and executive directors which tend to be rotated around the various capital cities. The last one WA hosted was in Karratha last August. I also try to get to each of our regional offices once every year.
Who do you admire most in the industry? There are too many champions to mention, including some who are no longer with us like Lyn Bennett, Ken Brine, Ric New, Kevin Guidice and John Roberts. Our industry has many contemporary leaders like Len Buckeridge, Dale Alcock and lots more who have a much lower profile.
Any novel places visited? A site allowance claim during the construction of the casino and resort on Christmas Island was interesting. What drives you to keep going after 30 years? The dynamic nature of the industry, variety and challenging nature of the work and the large number of dedicated and talented people who are involved in our industry.
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What are the economic prospects for the building industry in WA? Being an optimist, I’m somewhat biased but I believe with our population growth and resources rich State, there will be lots of opportunities for builders and specialist contractors in WA for many years to come. Unfortunately there will always be downturns along the way.
What are the biggest challenges confronting our industry? The first is attracting a skilled workforce through both apprenticeship training and overseas labour to meet future demand. Secondly, providing more affordable land, for first home-buyers in particular. Thirdly, reducing and overcoming the increasing regulatory environment/red tape that is stifling productivity and proving a disincentive to employ more labour. how much longer do you intend to keep going? While my health, energy levels and job satisfaction prevail, I’ll take it a year at a time. I intend to liaise with our Board on an appropriate succession plan in due course. It will be important to eventually have a reasonable hand-over period to share some of my corporate knowledge with my successor – who no doubt will be more IT savvy than me.
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RepoRts: Building Business
What makes your business unique? If there is nothing different or unique about you, people will only buy from you because of convenience or price, nothing more. Added to that, you’ll never be able to raise your prices: if there’s anyone doing it cheaper, people will buy from them. You need to work out what is special about you, and then make a big deal about it. We use a unique selling proposition or USP to position you against your competitors and to develop powerful guarantees that get to the heart of your customers’ frustrations. So what makes a successful USP and guarantee?
Rueben Taylor
For a start, it has to have IMPACT - it needs to make people sit up and take notice, and it has to get them thinking and talking. You need to think of the aspects of your service that make a difference to people. Your uniqueness needs to tackle your competitors head on, and your guarantee needs to answer the most common frustrations your customers face.
A successful USP should be: • Truly unique. • exciting to your target market. • Something that will get people talking. • Something that can’t be easily copied, or if it can be copied, it will be an obvious rip-off on the part of the offending business.
A successful and powerful guarantee should be: • Specific. • Something that addresses the main frustrations and fears of the customer when dealing with your industry. • Complete - it should say ’either this happens or we’ll do this’. • Impressive. Now of course, it’s a tall order to do all of that, especially if you’re in a mature industry where most angles already have been tackled. Sometimes it pays to get an outsider’s perspective. Chances are, you’re probably too wrapped up in your own business to look outside it. Just ask the person on the street - what would you like to see a business in my industry offer? When you get a few opinions, don’t think about why it can’t be done - give some thought to how it CAN be done.
So why do they work? People have been burnt before - they’ve used products and services which they were told fantastic things about, only to be bitterly disappointed. You must take that risk away for them. Remember, when customers buy, they are not buying your product or service, they are buying the benefit of owning or experiencing whatever you sell.
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For example, customers don’t buy food, they buy satisfaction, survival and the pleasure of eating. In the case of a restaurant, they also are buying an experience and a social occasion. If you guarantee to give people the benefit that they are after in the first place, there is a high chance that they’ll want to deal with you. If people are unsure that they will get the main benefit from dealing with you, they may hesitate when it comes to actually buying, or they may buy from someone else who makes them feel more secure. When people feel as though they have nothing to lose, they are more likely to buy and take action. Most action is delayed forever, simply because people are afraid of what will happen if they make a mistake.
A myth about guarantees Many people are frightened of guarantees - they honestly think that customers will rip them off. The truth is, most guarantees are never taken advantage of, even when the customer is genuinely dissatisfied. There are two reasons why. First, people are lazy, and couldn’t be bothered. Second, it takes a lot of confidence to stand up and say ’hey, I’m not happy, give me my money back’. The fact is, most people lack this confidence. So, what can you guarantee? Define what makes your business unique and use it in all your marketing - you’ll be amazed at the results. For 12 years, Rueben Taylor has helped Perth businesses achieve sustainable growth, strong cash flow and to run smoothly without the business owners constantly being there. He has written a special report for the building and construction industry, 5 Ways to Double Your Customer Base in the Next 90 Days, available exclusively to Master Builder members by emailing bwe@actioncoach.com.
RepoRts: Building Business
Reddifund: employers benefit too
Consider your target audience
Following its recent rebranding, ReddiFund (formerly the WA Construction Industry Redundancy Fund) has appointed Jill Dixon as business development manager with the aims of making industry more aware of the organisation and of attracting construction industry employers to become members.
Social media expert, Linda Le, has urged Master Builder members to think about their companies’ target audience when using social media as a marketing tool. Speaking at Master Builders’ first Business Basics Workshop recently, Ms Le encouraged members to determine where their clientele are ‘living’ online and invest time in that particular social media.
MS DIXON began her role in July bringing with her considerable experience of work in the engineering and advanced manufacturing industry in the UK. While working for the UK-based Sector Skills Council, she was employed in a national role which focussed on strategic workforce planning with employers within the automotive, metals, mechanical and electrical sector. The role involved working closely with trade associations and employers of all sizes to provide support in identifying current and future skills requirements and driving qualification development to meet these needs. She also was involved in programs to change the image and attractiveness of the sector through the promotion of opportunities for young people to enter the wide range of highly skilled and technical roles offered in the industry. She says there are very good reasons why employers in the construction industry should be involved with ReddiFund. “I’m really keen to have the opportunity to present the benefits offered by the fund to employers who are not yet members,” she said. “ReddiFund is an organisation that offers advantages to employers as well as employees. While it provides redundancy entitlement security to employees, it also offers employers the benefit of being regarded as preferred employers which is something of value in today’s highly competitive marketplace. “employers benefit further by taking advantage of the fact that contributions are tax deductible in the year made, if they are making contributions via ReddiFund. This is something they’re not able to benefit from if making their own provision for redundancy internally. Further, ReddiFund enhances the chances of quality workers being retained in the industry if they were to lose their jobs as a result of a business going under.” Ms Dixon said ReddiFund gives a feeling of security to what can be quite an uncertain industry, as well as giving the employee the funds needed when in a difficult situation. “ReddiFund offers a win-win for both employees and business operators alike, something that I suspect many employers are not aware of,” she said.
“TheRe ARe hundreds of social media to choose from,” she said. “however, the best thing you can do is pick one or two and do them well.” She encouraged members to consider posting when their target audience is most likely to be online. Posts outside business hours have a 20 percent higher engagement rate. She surprised workshop participants by stating that what companies post the most is what consumers like the least. “Companies post more links on their pages than anything else,” she said. “however, consumers are not as interested in links as they are in photos and videos. eight-five percent of consumers are more likely to purchase a product if they learn about it by watching a video, rather than reading about it.” Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper says Master Builders is looking to engage members through social media. “We currently are utilising Facebook and Linkedin to provide our members with photos of events, videos - especially home in WA, and industry information,” he said. “To connect with Master Builders on Facebook and Likedin, search for Master Builders Association Western Australia and ‘like’ us!”
For more information on how ReddiFund can help you and your business, contact Jill Dixon on 9481 0259, 0437 554 330 or jdixon@reddifund.com.au.
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RepoRts: Building Business
the real cost of replacing an employee The cost to a business when a good employee leaves is hard to recover, but it can be reduced by better people management. have you ever been disappointed when a good employee resigns without warning? Do you know the real cost of replacing such an employee? UNFORTUNATeLY, many employers underestimate, by a very large amount, the actual cost of employee replacement. More often than not, a manager will also fail to identify the real reasons a good employee has moved on. The fault often can be traced back to inefficient human resources management and an absence of policies, procedures and skills.
Cost reduction Numerous case studies have revealed that the financial cost of replacing a good employee can be between 100 percent and 150 percent of the new employee’s salary. For example, a replacement employee paid $80,000 per year could cost an employer a further $100,000 to get to the level of productivity and efficiency of the previous employee.
• Meaningful work gives confidence and status. An employee will stay longer in a job that provides recognition, both within and outside the work itself. Relationships with co-workers also play a key part in why employees attend work and stay in that employment environment. • Wages and conditions of employment. These often will factor into why an employee decides to change employers. however, it is rarely the primary reason, and it is not uncommon for employees to change jobs for less pay, when one or more of the above reasons is the determining factor.
Managing a retention program
These costs arise from obvious upfront activities like advertising, interviews, induction and training, as well as the not-so-obvious, including lost productivity, customer dissatisfaction (external and internal), lost business, lost intellectual property and lost corporate culture. Knowing how these costs arise and where they can be reduced requires human resource management. More specifically, it requires employee retention and employee satisfaction techniques. It is necessary because it saves a lot of money.
In order to manage your employees, you need to be able to measure your workforce. When it comes to staff retention, you should take some time to consider the costs, why it is occurring and how to increase retention. The most effective method of retaining employees is to adopt a whole-of-business policy to improve communication, share information, acknowledge worthy performance, quantify the improvement and reward the effort. The techniques will vary from one company to another, however, it will require training in people management skills, regular performance assessments, information sharing or updates on business performance and a general review of human resource policies and procedures.
Reducing staff turnover
Getting started
To reduce staff turnover, managers need a plan to neutralise the most common reasons employees will leave their jobs. These reasons may include: • The relationship the immediate supervisor or manager has with the employee. An unhappy working relationship without communication, objectivity and support from the employee’s manager is fertile ground for employee dissatisfaction. • Opportunity for flexibility in work and life. Within reason, an employee expects to be recognised for more than just the role they perform at work. Family obligations, or personal arrangements that cannot be accommodated by an employer, will eventually lead to an employee moving to a more flexible workplace. The National employment Standards enable flexible working arrangements for parents with young children.
Master Builders’ human Resources Manual is a must for employers in the building and construction industry to develop a platform for managing people. It contains a ready-to-use disk of templates, forms and policies. Master Builders can provide further assistance in training and consultation to ensure you get the best possible results on reducing staff turnover and costs. For more information contact Master Builders on 9476 9800. To order a copy of the Master Builders hR Manual contact lucy@mbawa.com.
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An edited version of this article was first published in the Queensland Master Builder Magazine.
RepoRts: Building Business
Master Builders’ communications assistant Kimberley Alexander reports on a recent Futurenet breakfast briefing delivered by award-winning entrepreneur and social media expert Tenille Bentley. Ms Bentley’s key message...
Your business needs a social media presence AT The Futurenet breakfast briefing, Tenille Bentley explained that social media can and should be used by companies to build trust and loyalty with clients. Australians spend an average 1.6 hours a day on Facebook, more than any other country in the world, and our consumption of the networking site is on par with that of television. While it was previously seen as something for Gen Y to take part in, the fastest growing group of participants now is women over the age of 55. But it’s not just Facebook that Australians are crazy about. It seems we’re also addicted to Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin and any other form of social media we can get our hands on. But how does this affect your business? One of the biggest concerns for many companies is that it is difficult to see the direct cost benefit of employing a staff member to spend time on Facebook. What you should know is that 40 percent of Australians
make a purchase after searching for the product on social media. This means your business is missing out if you cannot be found, as many consumers will search for, and buy from an alternative business that does have a social media presence. Social media should be used to create an ongoing community with clients. People will talk about your company on social media, regardless of whether or not you have a presence there. If a negative comment or situation arises, it will be far more beneficial for your business to deal with it quickly and openly, rather than to let it manifest and tarnish your brand by not responding. This is not to say that more traditional forms of media are becoming irrelevant. The goal should be to connect with your current and potential clients through a range of traditional and social media. In the words of erik Qualman “We don’t have a choice on whether we do social media. The question is how well we do it.”
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updAtes: Membership
Travelling? Make sure you’re one step ahead of your Smartphone Follow these tips and…Don’t be outsmarted by your phone! SMARTPhONeS provide access to an array of services and features, for both business and pleasure – email, web browsing, music, video, gaming, pictures, mobile TV, navigation or messaging are just some of the common uses. These features all consume data.
What is data? Put simply, mobile data is access to the internet on your phone (via the mobile phone network). Data is used when you browse the internet, use email, use Twitter or Facebook, and download and use any apps installed on your phone or mobile device (such as a tablet). Most mobile phone plans for Smartphones (including the Master Builders–Telstra plan) have an included data allowance or ‘pack’ for data used while you are in Australia. But, if you take your phone on holidays with you, data used overseas is not included.
Travel tips
Skye McCartney can assist subcontractors with information on the Master Tradesman classification.
Good reasons to become a Master Tradesman IF YOU’Re an individual subcontractor and have a commitment to quality building workmanship, you should become a Master Tradesman. The Master Builders’ initiative, which seeks to promote higher standards in WA’s construction industry, is gaining momentum. Master Tradesmen can promote their businesses on the Master Tradesman website, which consumers visit regularly to find subcontractors they can trust. They also have access to vital industry information to keep them up to speed with changes to the business and regulatory environment and access to a large range of training courses and qualifications to suit the needs of construction businesses. Master Tradesman classification is only $99 for the year. To find out more about becoming a Master Tradesman, call Skye McCartney on 9476 9800.
here are some tips to ensure you don’t arrive home to a huge mobile bill. • Contact Master Builders Telco on 1300 88 13 72 prior to travel. Our consultants can give you information about our international roaming data packs. • Manage your automatic notifications and software updates. If data roaming is switched on while you are overseas, you can reduce your costs by switching automatic notifications and software updates on/off as required. • Download maps before you go or only when using a free Wi-Fi hotspot. Do your research before you leave home by saving maps and directions to your device, or download them only when you are accessing the internet using a free Wi-Fi connection. • Check current rates. It’s important to check the current rates that apply to voice or video calls, SMS, MMS and MessageBank retrieval in the countries you’ll be visiting. Remember that any included allowances you get as part of your mobile plan can only be used in Australia. • Advise family and friends of the best way to contact you. Charges apply to both calls made and received overseas. SMS is a great way to keep in touch with family and friends while overseas, as it will only cost 75 cents to send an SMS from any country.
International casual traveller data packs Once-off charge
$29
$85
$160
$350
$550
$1050
$1800
Included data
20MB
60MB
120MB
300MB
500MB
1GB
2GB
International casual traveller data packs are a great way to minimise the amount paid for data overseas, but there are other precautions to take. email, automatic notifications and apps (such as map services) use considerable amounts of data as does downloading music files, gaming or streaming video. even short sessions can be extremely expensive. Turning these features off before travelling can help avoid incurring charges. It is also useful to know how much data is used to perform certain tasks on your phone. For example, an email with a 1MB attachment will cost $15.36 to download. Your international data pack will only cover this if you have included data to use. If you don’t want to purchase an international data pack, a good option is simply to turn your data off and use available free Wi-Fi hotspots. Most hotels now offer free Wi-Fi. To find out how you can turn off data on your phone, visit the Telstra website for travelling tips and videos at www.telstra.com.au/info/roaming or check your phone’s manual. Remember that data used outside of your data allowance will be charged at 1.5 cents per KB (which equates to $15.36 per MB). Telstra also has a series of videos for five of the most popular handsets on their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/TelstraCorp. To discuss your telecommunications options, call Master Builders on 1300 88 13 72 or email phones@masterbuilders.asn.au.
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updAtes: Membership
Master Builders welcomes the following
new members Accento Home
08 9385 4575
Ace Construction & Maintenance Pty Ltd
0424 511 227
ADCO Constructions Pty Ltd
03 9832 1400
Anderson Sheds
08 9534 9990
Baessler Construction
0409 683 639
Brun Kitchens Co Ltd
pINs add security to Caltex fuel cards Master Builder members who have signed up for hundreds of Caltex fuel cards, saving time when buying fuel and on monthly tax statements, should be aware that Caltex has made important changes to improve card security. PeRSONAL IDeNTIFICATION numbers (PINs) are to be added to all fuel cards with Caltex advising this will provide a number of benefits to cardholders. The PIN increases card security and helps minimise fraud by protecting cardholders where a card is lost or stolen. In addition, PINs give cardholders added convenience and flexibility in accessing outdoor payment and Pay@Pump terminals.
CAB Trust
0433 565 824
Climate Roof Restorations
08 9470 5244
Contract Solutions International
08 9400 8500
Cubic Building Solutions
0409 411 939
David Russell
08 9306 9602
Diamond Carpentry & Construction
0432 390 592
DJ Personnel
0405 826 348
DLF Homes
1300 20222
Exclusive Limestone Render Pty Ltd
0411 988 251
Glory Construction
08 9248 5111
If cardholders forget their PINs they should call Caltex Customer Service on 1300 36 50 96.
Grand View Homes (WA) Pty Ltd
08 9445 2442
Tips to help safeguard cards and PINs
Home Re-Styling
08 9248 5111
Hot Cleaning Services
08 9921 2544
Ian Hardisty
0403 363 323
JazCorp Australia Pty Ltd
1300 667 709
Jim’s Fencing (Bibra Lake)
08 9494 1037
Kleenit (Cottesloe)
08 9255 4533
Leeson Developments Pty Ltd
0408 087 272
Marrbuilt Homes
0407 633 882
Midwest Electrical Service
08 9923 2277
• Don’t use a recurring series of numbers (such as 0000 or 1111), the last four digits of the card number or 1234 as a PIN – these offer poor security and are often the first combinations used for stolen cards. Caltex recommends choosing a PIN that is difficult to guess. • Only communicate PINs to others on a needs basis and be aware of who is listening. • Don’t write down the PIN and store it in an easily accessible location, such as the vehicle glove box. • Set daily and/or monthly purchase limits on all Caltex cards to reduce exposure. Purchase limits help control fuel and shop spend and can limit exposure to unauthorised use. When combined with PIN security, purchase limits provide a higher level of security and added peace of mind. • Keep fuel cards in a safe place. Caltex advises against keeping cards in vehicles where practical.
Perth Extensions
0487 445 752
Pilbara Industries Construction & Maintenance
0419 881 198
PJ & T Ellis Builders
0404 081 966
PoolWerx WA
0417 914 085
PrimeMark Building & Construction
0405 282 610
RIOCM Australia Pty Ltd
08 6323 1149
Shelford Constructions Pty Ltd
08 9592 3177
TADWA
08 9379 7400
WA Glass Pool Fencing
0402 232 113
Adding a PIN to existing cards New cards will not be issued. Caltex changed all existing cards to ‘active PIN status’ overnight on 4 June. Cardholders who have not done so already will need to choose and enter a PIN. Follow these instructions: • Re-fuel the vehicle. • Swipe the card at the counter. • enter the odometer reading (only if the odometer option is assigned to the card). • Select and enter a PIN (which must be between four and eight digits). The PIN will be saved in the system. • Remember the PIN, as it will need to be entered each time the card is used from this point forward.
To get a Caltex fuel card, or to find out more about existing cards and the PIN change, call Master Builders on 9476 9800 and talk to Kimberley Alexander.
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updAtes: Safety
OHS&E officer Kathleen McCloskey is a fan of Synaptor Training developed in collaboration between Northerly Group and Synaptor.
Crane company, director fined $71,000 over fall A crane hire company and its director have been fined a total of $71,000 (plus more than $1600 in costs) over an incident in which a worker was seriously injured when he fell through a roof. TeRRY’S Crane hire Pty Ltd and director Terrence Brown pleaded guilty to failing to provide a safe work environment and, by that failure, causing serious harm to a contractor and were fined in the Perth Magistrates Court. The company was fined $51,000 and Mr Brown $20,000.
Northerly, synaptor fine tune safety apps
In August 2010, Mallon Company Pty Ltd was engaged to replace the roof of commercial premises in Osborne Park after it was damaged in hailstorms. Mallon then engaged Debri Pty Ltd to perform the reroofing work and Terry’s to provide a crane to land the new roofing and lift down the removed roofing.
Master Builder member Northerly Group has assisted Perth-based company Synaptor to produce a new tool tailored to construction industry safety needs. Synaptor Training is a web application for managing the certifications and qualifications of staff and contractors.
In September, Debri employees had commenced work on the roof, removing asbestos sheeting from the rear and moving the wrapped sheets to the front of the roof. Debri’s job safety analysis had identified rusty tin sheets and damaged polycarbonate sheeting at the roof frontage and the company had agreed on how it would access the roof to avoid these hazardous areas.
“ThANKS TO the excellent feedback and input from Northerly, we have built a fit-for-purpose tool that we know meets the needs of construction companies,” says Synaptor managing director Justin Strharsky. “Synaptor Training’s automatic reminders ensure that staff and contractor certificates and tickets remain current. The easy-to-use training matrix simplifies reporting and records management.”
The crane and two Terry’s workers – a crane operator employed by Terry’s and a 19-year-old dogger who was an independent contractor engaged by Terry’s - arrived on site with the crane and began the task of removing the packs of asbestos sheeting and landing the packs of new metal sheets. The dogger accessed the roof frontage to guide the crane operator to land a pack of metal sheets, and was warned by the Debri employees to be aware of the rusty sheets and damaged polycarbonate sheeting.
Northerly Group’s OhS&e officer Kathleen McCloskey says Synaptor Training is a much better solution than that which the company previously used. “I love the ability to sort our records by role,” she said. Synaptor Training follows on the success of the company’s first product, Synaptor Observations, a tool for building live, interactive maps of the hazards on construction sites. It assists companies to meet their obligations under OhS legislation relating to hazard identification Synaptor Training in use. and reporting. The company also has released a free training app for iPad. Synaptor hazard Observation Training is available from the iTunes App Store. Special plans and pricing on Synaptor products are available for Master Builder members. Contact the Association’s Michael Fitzgerald on 9441 8000 or email safety@mbawa.com for details.
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The dogger walked across the damaged sheets, and was again warned about them, but subsequently stepped onto the end of one of the polycarbonate sheets while trying to remove the slings from a pack of metal sheets. The sheet collapsed and the dogger fell to the cement floor approximately 3.3 metres below. he suffered serious head and neck injuries. At the time of the incident, safety mesh to prevent falls was installed below the roof of the building, but it did not continue through to the frontage area, although it was planned to install it there after all the asbestos had been removed. Terry’s had not ensured that the dogger they contracted had been trained in, or informed of, the risks associated with working at heights or with fragile roofing, and he was not adequately supervised by anyone when he carried out the work. Terry’s also did not ensure that, before commencing work, the worker was inducted via a job safety analysis or otherwise adequately informed of any particular hazard on the job or the risk of falling.
updAtes: Safety
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Lex McCulloch said the case was yet another reminder of the importance of fall prevention in workplaces and the wide-ranging responsibility for keeping workers safe. “Falls are a significant cause of workplace death, and 16 Western Australian workers have died as a result of falls in the last four years,” he said. “Many others have been seriously and permanently injured as a result of falls, and it’s really disappointing when we keep finding people working at heights without all the possible preventative measures in place. “This incident has resulted in the prosecution of six entities, all of whom had a part to play in the safety of the workers at the site, whether they were actually in direct control of the workplace or not. The court case should serve as a reminder that contractors must ensure that any subcontractors they send out to jobs are either adequately trained or fully informed of the risks at specific workplaces.
“A Code of Practice on fall prevention has existed in WA for more than 20 years. The current code is comprehensive, providing information on the identification of common fall hazards. I urge any person or entity in control of a workplace that presents a risk of falls to ensure safe systems of work are in place and that this code is available in the workplace at all times.” Further information on the prevention of falls can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 1300 307877. The Code of Practice on the Prevention of Falls in Workplaces can be downloaded from the WorkSafe website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.
support for Asbestos safety Agency funding Master Builders Australia has commended the recent Government announcement of additional funding of $6.4 million for the Asbestos Safety and eradication Agency. Wilhelm harnisch, Master Builders’ chief executive, says that asbestos-related diseases are moving away from heavy exposures during the mining, milling and manufacture of the mineral to diseases resulting from exposure during the abatement of loose asbestos and the use and removal of asbestos-containing materials. “The OCCUPATIONS that account for the greatest number of mesothelioma cases have changed over the years from miners and millers, product manufacturers and insulation workers to other end-users of asbestos-containing materials, in particular workers in the building and construction industry and in shipyards,” Mr harnisch said. “Although the level of individual risk is lower for such end-users, the higher number of workers in building and construction means that these workers contribute greater absolute numbers to the national mesothelioma toll. “Master Builders recommends that the additional funding given to the Asbestos Safety and eradication Agency be spent on education programs that encourage home owners who plan to renovate a pre1990 home to engage a licensed asbestos removalist to identify and, if required, remove asbestos from the home.” Currently, 600 Australians are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Diagnosis of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions is rising with the number of people suffering from asbestos related diseases expected to peak in 2020. By then it is estimated there will be up to 40,000 cases of asbestos-related disease. Mr harnisch said Master Builders supports the introduction of best practice for asbestos management, control and removal. however,
the organisation has some concerns about the National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Awareness and Management 2013-2018 which also was released recently. “One of the strategies is for the development and implementation of a Prioritised Removal Program of asbestos in commercial and government buildings. Such a plan would create unnecessary risks to workers involved in the removal, transport and disposal of the asbestos and to the public,” Mr harnisch said. “The risks posed by asbestos depend on the nature and condition of the materials and the potential for exposure. Left undisturbed, bonded asbestos material in good condition does not pose a risk to health. “Master Builders’ preferred approach is that, wherever possible, asbestos should not be disturbed. Where there is a risk of deterioration of the asbestos material, such as with the weathering of asbestos roofing, Master Builders recommends that the asbestos containing material only be removed by a licensed removalist.” he also expressed concerns over the disposal of asbestos materials if a Prioritised Removal Program was given the green light, saying there currently are no disposal facilities in the Northern Territory that accept commercial quantities of asbestos. This results in asbestos products needing to be transported interstate to facilities such as in Dublin, South Australia.
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updAtes: Industrial Relations
Master Builders’ construction director Kim Richardson says WA’s union right of entry laws need scrutiny.
Master Builders opposes state right of entry proposal Master Builders met Commerce Minister Michael Mischin earlier this year and canvassed several issues of significant importance to the WA construction industry. One important matter raised with the Minister was the very generous union right of entry provisions proposed as part of the state Labour Relations Bill tabled in late 2012. MASTeR BUILDeRS has opposed from the very get go what is an ill-conceived section of the Bill which simply ignores the history of construction unions using safety as an industrial relations weapon. Master Builders was comfortable with the Minister’s response on this important issue and his undertaking to look at it. In essence, the Bill proposes to continue to allow unions to enter a workplace to investigate alleged breaches of the OSh Act, something Master Builders does not oppose so long as it is conducted in a responsible manner. however, union officials have no authority under the OSh Act to make these investigations and never have had. Union officials can only express an opinion about what might be an alleged safety breach. The Bill does not remedy that and nor does Master Builders see any need for change on this point. Only appointed government inspectors under the OSh Act should have enforcement and compliance powers for reasons of transparency and accountability. Regrettably, the construction unions have a long, sorry history of abusing safety for their own vested reasons. Curiously, the Bill sets out that a union official can seek entry to a worksite to investigate an alleged safety breach but does not have to advise the site occupier, usually the builder in the construction industry, what the alleged safety breaches are for up to 24 hours after entering site. That smacks of a fishing expedition and simply is a nonsense. It also undermines the importance of safety: why would a union official claiming there was a safety risk on site, and aware of it, not advise the occupier to begin with? That simply defies the average person in the pub test.
Of real concern to Master Builders is that, in the event a builder or its site supervisor challenges a union official under this proposal about what the alleged safety breaches are, that builder or supervisor will be in breach of the State union right of entry laws. Why? Due to obstruction. Far fetched some might say, but no. Master Builders raised two prosecutions by State and Federal departments in 2003 and 2010 in which builders were prosecuted for asking construction union officials to identify what the alleged and unspecified safety issues were when the officials wanted to enter a building site. The courts have found that the mere asking of a reasonable question was an offence under existing State and Federal IR laws. The proposed change reinforces the risk to site supervisors who ask what the alleged safety risks are and puts them in breach of union right of entry. Other case law of construction unions convicted of unlawful industrial action but attempting to cloak their illegal activity behind safety was put to the Minister. One example involved the CFMeU raising 109 alleged safety issues on a major CBD construction site in 2009 with the court finding none was justified. That is a major example of union abuse of safety. Notably, the CFMeU appealed a $100,000 damages award against it in that case but did not challenge the court finding dismissing its 109 safety breaches claims as false. The union clearly agreed it did abuse safety. Master Builders has been liaising with other State employer groups on this issue which share our concerns. hopefully, the Minister will listen to common sense arguments against a proposal that simply fails any reasonable test.
Disappointment as Fair Work Amendment Bill passes The BUILDING industry’s peak body, Master Builders Australia, expressed deep disappointment at the passage of the Fair Work Amendment Bill through the Senate late in June, saying the legislation brings on another counterproductive, anti-business measure.
Master Builders Australia CEO Wilhelm Harnisch.
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Master Builders described the legislation as productivity-sapping and compliance driven. CeO Wilhelm harnisch says the building industry is a big driver of the economy but such legislation continually makes things more difficult. he said the Bill’s full impact hasn’t been considered. It adds confusion between existing State legislation on bullying and further skews the balance of power unfairly towards unions. The Bill was hastily developed and avoided proper scrutiny through, for example, a regulation impact statement.
updAtes: Industrial Relations
Damages claim for not being sacked? A Canberra public servant recently lost a compensation claim for not being made redundant despite wanting that outcome. As a result, he claimed mental anxiety and depression due to keeping his job. The public servant then took sick leave and refused to return to work and was sacked. Working as a public servant must be onerous.
Do not abuse the mother FWC recently dismissed an unfair dismissal claim by a local resource company Chinese national for verbally abusing a fellow countryman. Abuse of the fellow employee was bad enough but making abusive comments about the other employee’s mother was a definite cultural taboo resulting in immediate termination of employment.
Dispute over facebook? The Victorian union movement is the last bastion of unions nationally. A recent example is the Victorian fire-fighters’ union demand that management revoke a direction to firies they be limited to one hour of social media access per day during work hours.
From the other side A Queensland-based employer facing an underpayment claim probably thought it was ended when the former employee passed away. The employer was wrong as the employee’s estate made a complaint to the FWO which successfully prosecuted the employer, recovering $19,000 with another $53,000 in costs.
And the change is? The day after becoming PM, again, Kevin Rudd immediately flip-flopped on knocking back some of the more severe amendments to the 457 visa programme. He initially indicated he would knock them out but a few hours later changed his mind and pushed them through Federal Parliament. Should his Government survive, it does not bode well for improved relations with the business community.
Minister falls short Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten also back-flipped in Federal Parliament on extending union right of entry under the FWAct by advising employers he would withdraw certain contentious and strongly opposed provisions, but that same day reinstated them and pushed them through Parliament.
Minister backs junior wage increase A major wage claim increasing 20-year-old shop assistants junior wage rates to 100 percent of adult wages has been strongly supported by Minister Shorten in the FWC. With the retail sector struggling and shop assistant jobs decreasing the Minister’s action is curious as it disregards the negative impact on jobs for junior employees in the retail sector and others if this claim gets up.
user-friendly Modern Award remains distant prospect Master Builders believes that a worker or a small business operator in the building and construction industry should be able to understand the basic safety net conditions that underpin their employment. however, a decision by the Fair Work Commission in July maintains the complexity and density of the modern award safety net. The FAIR WORK Commission’s decision and determination provides the outcome of the 2012 Modern Award Review for the building and construction industry. The decision arising from the review of the Building and Construction General On-Site Award 2010 shows the sheer complexity confronting building and construction industry employers and employees when faced with interpreting the modern award safety net. The Commission’s decision provides only a fraction of the clarity needed to make this key award workable for the industry. One positive outcome of the 2012 review was the conciliated agreement reached with the CFMeU and other unions on the meaning of ordinary hours of work in the award. While this is one area where progress has been made and employers will be better able to understand their legal obligations, the fact that something so fundamental to the award as the meaning of payment for ordinary hours was so poorly set out and contradictory reveals how the modern award system can act as a barrier to employment or to inadvertent breach of the law. Disappointingly, the union’s spirit of cooperation was not always evident. employers rebuffed the CFMeU’s attack on daily hire engagement which would have radically narrowed daily hire employment and compounded the complexity of the award. Dauntingly for employers, the lack of progress in simplifying the building and construction modern award means that issues fundamental to the operation of the building and construction industry must now be reviewed during the Commission’s 2014 Modern Award Review. In particular, all of the allowances under the award must be addressed so they are relevant and applicable to the industry’s operation. Master Builders will also continue its campaign to ensure that modern awards do not regulate workplace health and safety by the payment of irregular and out of date allowances. Reform of the law by government should make it a priority that documents like modern awards do not require a law degree to interpret them.
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updAtes: Members’ Health
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MASTER BUILDERS HEALTH ALLIANCE Holyoake (www.holyoake.org.au), Perth Integrated Health Clinics (www.pihc.com.au), Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (www.prostate.org.au), Conan Fitness (www.conanfitness.com), The Well Men Centre (www.wellmen.com.au), Usana Health Sciences (www.cheeseman.usana.com)
eVeRY YeAR, 20,000 Australian men are told they have prostate cancer. each year, 3300 men die of it. More men now die of prostate cancer than women die of breast cancer. September is a great month for a barbie. Spring is in the air, the footy finals are on and Father’s Day falls on the first day of the month, so there’s no shortage of good excuses to dust off the grill and host a barbie. This year we’re asking Australians once again to help us turn up the heat on prostate cancer.
prostate Cancer foundation fires up the barbie September is International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and once again, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia is kicking off its national Big Aussie Barbie campaign, encouraging Australians to get behind the cause and host a BBQ to raise funds for prostate cancer research.
Visit our website to register your Big Aussie Barbie – www.bigaussiebarbie.com.au. WA is launching the campaign with a Big Aussie Barbie in Central Park, Perth CBD, on 6 September 11 am to 2 pm, with Tod Johnson as MC and a special appearance by Divalicious. Come down and enjoy a gourmet sausage in a bun and join in the fun. Companies can get involved during September by either hosting a Big Aussie Barbie for their staff, asking the staff to donate with the company matching donations, or by helping to promote our campaign to their staff encouraging them to host a barbie during September for their work colleagues, family and friends. Raising awareness of this disease and educating men about testing is very important. early detection is the key to saving lives. PCFA provides ambassador speakers to companies and community groups to help educate people about prostate cancer, recommendations on testing and what men need to do to take care of their prostate health. For information on prostate cancer, our WA support group services, or to book a Prostate Cancer ambassador speaker, call our WA office on 9381 7444 or go to www.pcfa.org.au.
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“Let’s raise $1 million to help men like my father survive prostate cancer,” says former Australian cricketer and Big Aussie Barbie supporter Matthew Hayden.
updAtes: Members’ Health
productivity, performance and recovery One of the biggest issues facing Australian business today is productivity. Costs of goods, manufacturing and processes have all increased at a greater rate than our ability to improve productivity.
How does this impact the worker? Personal life and work life often are considered two different worlds. Work-life balance is a pretty popular concept these days but it’s easy to spend disproportionate amounts of our life in work mode. Ideally our work and life should feed off each other and thrive as opposed to one facet existing by itself; much like the principle of synergy, where the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
recover from stress, the body is weaker, energy reserves are lower and the body is more vulnerable. This consequential decrease in energy and productivity causes us to ‘fire on all cylinders’ and push even harder in an attempt to maintain the original productivity. This gradual decrease in productivity per work hour leads to longer hours to make up the shortfall. This in turn leads to further burnout and diminishing returns.
So how do we maximise the productivity of business by maximising the performance of the worker at home and work?
Recovery
Performance In the business realm the biggest challenge of our modern day is keeping up with productivity and the fast-paced world of endless demands. In the personal realm of life there is an endless number of activities that people might spend their waking hours on. Yet the biggest challenge reported by most people is not having enough time.
So how do we keep increasing productivity at work and home to exceed the growth of cost and demand? We need to continually improve our personal effectiveness, be it through better time management, improved systems and automation, or decreasing resource costs as much as possible. Our ‘Performance’ is the measure of our personal effectiveness across all areas of our life. To stay on top of our game we’re not just interested in our performance criteria being exceptional in one area to the detriment of another, because as we know, the person is and functions as a whole. Any stressor placed on the body (immune, physical, emotional, cognitive) will result in a stress response that, depending on the tolerance of that person and their current state of resilience, will inevitably cause a minor post-incident dip in energy reserves. Before we
It all comes down to recovery. An athlete must rest to gain the benefit from their physical stressors, and so too must balanced individuals recover from their physical, mental and emotional stressors before they become stronger from them instead of weaker. Only then can they continue to tackle greater tasks and perform more. So what does recovery entail? There are many ways to approach recovery, but below are the top four to focus on for optimal recovery. • Sleep – optimising the mind and body’s natural recovery. Includes parasympathetic predominance and general rest. • Food and energy – fuel for optimal performance and nourishment as well as physical activity sufficient to improve and optimise energy and endurance. • Stress – resilience and state management strategies. • Personal Discipline – time management, strengthening the body and mind, clarifying goals and targets with more disciplined focus. These four key areas comprise the core of our wellness programs. emphasis in these four areas will progressively drive an increase in performance and productivity and providing that progress is managed and monitored, the maximum potential of the individual will be more attainable. For more details call 1800 791 484.
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updAtes: Member Profile
Mark Slatter
Mark slatter - taking care of business Slatter Constructions (now The Slatter Group) won this year’s excellence in Construction John Roberts Best New Builder award. Since starting the business in 2010, managing director Mark Slatter has overseen significant progress and an impressive growth rate.
The COMPANY specialises in commercial construction, fit out and refurbishment projects throughout Perth and WA with work for both government and private clients. Mark ensures that the company provides professional and personal service and delivers quality commercial fit out and construction. The Slatter Group WA has delivered this level of excellence on various general projects including building construction, interior fit outs and refurbishments, project management and property services, maintenance, repairs and insurance work. Looking back to his start in the industry, Mark remembers the “father/ son career talks” had little effect on him until the house next door underwent renovations. Mark took a strong interest in the construction activities and was very keen to offer help whenever the builders would let him. he remembers thinking that the work looked difficult but very satisfying at the same time. After leaving high school, Mark studied and graduated with an Associate Diploma in Construction, Quantities and Administration. Then, while he was in full time employment, he completed a Diploma of Building and Construction part time to gain the necessary experience to apply for his Builder’s Registration. Mark had always been interested in property development and he believed that real estate, valuation, quantity surveying and/or building would provide a pathway to becoming a property developer. he eventually chose quantity surveying and building, as he believed these careers best suited his skills and passion.
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Now he is something of a veteran, having been in the building industry for 23 years. In 1992 he commenced as a trainee scheduler with project homebuilder JWh, formerly J-Corp, before switching to Dale Alcock homes as an estimator. After five years’ employment in the residential sector, he moved on to commercial construction to work as a contract administrator with BGC Construction. From there, he became a project manager with Merit Projects. In 2004, Mark decided to take the leap into owning his own business. he co-founded a multi-award winning commercial building company where he enjoyed several years of growing the business. This experience was invaluable to Mark and just five years later he sold his share and founded The Slatter Group WA. Mark attributes his passion and competitiveness to wanting to be the best. Whether it is in the sporting arena or business, he finds achievement is satisfying. “In sport, it means winning the contest, in business it is winning clients’ satisfaction,” says Mark. “Technology and innovation help drive ‘better, faster, cheaper’ which is what we are measured by every day, ‘time, quality and cost.’” Mark has achieved merit in his own right and is quick to recognise his mentors in the field. he feels fortunate to have gained valuable experience from market leaders in both the residential and commercial sectors. he says he often calls upon lessons learned to guide him as he continues to develop his company, where his primary focus is taking care of new business and company strategy.
updAtes: Member Profile
Mark was influenced by the energy and drive of Dale Alcock as an enthusiastic leader who nevertheless always remains approachable. Other mentors who have made an impact on Mark and who have shared invaluable knowledge include Martin Goddard, who worked with Mark on the Armadale health Campus and Alan Dodd of BGC Construction.
This can-do spirit has paid off. Not only is Mark at the helm of a rapidly growing business, he has been noticed for his entrepreneurial spirit and business ability. In 2009, Mark was recognised by WA Business News as one of the pre-eminent business leaders under 40 years of age and in 2013 he was awarded Master Builders’ Best New Commercial Builder.
Mark believes that the most challenging and satisfying project his company completed was the Perth Zoo Wetlands enclosure and Penguin Plunge Pool.
Mark sees one of the biggest challenges for the industry’s future is the cost of training future trade apprentices. This has been of great concern especially where there is the lure of potentially more money in the mining sector in the North West.
“Whenever someone asks if we have built a specific project type which we don’t have on our company CV it is great to be able to give the example of the Perth Zoo project,” Mark says. “Not only had we never built anything like it before, we may never get the opportunity to build something similar again. Our role as builders is to build to the design documents. If we can interpret plans and understand the client’s expectations, we should be able to undertake the works and provide a successful outcome no matter what the project is.”
As The Slatter Group WA grows and develops further, Mark plans to continue to apply the lessons he learned from his mentors. he also stands strong by Slatter’s commitment to provide “exceptional service and quality work at every turn, guaranteed!”
NO SAFER TRUCK. NO BETTER TOWING. NO REAL CONTEST. Ford Ranger fears no rival, with towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes,* unsurpassed water-wading# and 5-star ANCAP safety. But the new Ranger XLS isn’t just a workhorse – little luxuries like 16 inch alloys, fog lamps and locking rear diff are standard.
RANGER XLS 4X4
*Braked towing capacity when fitted with an optional towpack and towball. Subject to State and Territory regulations. #Achieved at a depth of 800mm when maintaining a steady speed of not more than 7km per hour. FCORP0128
FCORP0128_Ranger XLS_130x180_MBM_v2.indd 1
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updAtes: Legal
Comply with the ppsA or risk losing your property Hilary Hunt
The first significant Australian judgement relating to determining priorities between competing creditors under the Commonwealth Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (PPSA) sends a clear message that what matters is having what is known as a ‘perfected’ security interest not ‘title’.
The NeW SOUTh WALeS Supreme Court in Maiden Civil (P & e) Pty Ltd; Richard Albarran and Blair Alexander Pleash as receivers and managers of Maiden Civil (P & e) Pty Ltd & Ors v Queensland excavation Services Pty Ltd [2013] NSWSC 852 (the Maiden Civil Case) confirms that if an owner of goods leases them to someone else, then the owner: “… cannot rely on its title to protect its interest in the goods, instead, the owner must register its interest on the PPS register. Failure to do so may result in the owner losing the goods to other creditors;…” What does this mean? Simply put, all owners who lease or hire out goods to third parties should take steps to protect their interest in those goods under the PPSA or risk losing them. Mere title over these goods in itself will not necessarily protect an owner’s security interest. The Maiden Civil Case confirms the (unsurprising) reality of the PPSA and highlights the importance for lessors and owners to perfect their security interests or risk losing their ownership rights.
Maiden Civil Case – the facts in brief Queensland excavation Services Pty Ltd (QeS) purchased certain caterpillar brand wheel loaders and excavators (Caterpillars) and leased the Caterpillars to Maiden Civil (P&e) Pty Ltd (Maiden) on an informal basis (no agreement in writing).
Decision The Court held that the arrangement between QeS and Maiden was a ‘PPS Lease’ which gave QeS a deemed security interest under the PPSA (s 12(3)). As QeS did not register its security interest, it held an unperfected security interest in the Caterpillars. Fast had registered its security interest and held a perfected security interest in the Caterpillars. Under the new PPSA law, when there are two competing security interests in the same goods, ownership becomes irrelevant in determining who might be entitled to the goods. Instead priorities are determined based on the statutory rules – in this case, the relevant rule is that a perfected security interest ‘beats’ (has priority over) an unperfected security interest. On this basis, Fast had a perfected security interest and QeS did not and so QeS essentially ‘lost’ its ownership rights. In addition, pursuant to section 267 of the PPSA, QeS’s unperfected security interest ‘vested’ in Maiden upon the company going into administration. The Court confirmed that the practical effect of this section is that QeS’s security interest is extinguished and Maiden held the Caterpillars subject only to Fast’s perfected security interest.
Lessons learned and action to take QeS did not register its interest on the relevant Northern Territory register that was applicable prior to the PPSA coming into effect. had it done so, that registration would have been ‘migrated’ across to the Personal Property Securities Register (PPS Register) and QeS would have had a perfected security interest. In about March 2012, Maiden sought short term finance from Fast Solutions Pty Ltd (Fast). Maiden granted security to Fast over all its assets under a General Security Deed (GSD), and included the Caterpillars in the list of assets to be charged under the GSD. Fast registered its interest on the PPS Register. Maiden subsequently went into administration and then liquidation.
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The Maiden Civil Case reinforces the fundamental changes to the laws relating to ownership of all personal property (basically, property other than land). The key messages are: • All owners of goods who enter into an arrangement to let a third party operate or use or otherwise have access to their property (Leases or Bailments) should take steps to ensure that if they have a ‘deemed’ security interest in those goods (i.e. a PPS Lease) then they must protect that interest or risk losing their ownership rights. This area of law is complex and the rules are very precise – although the PPSA website encourages people to register themselves, we recommend taking legal advice as we have seen a lot of registrations that are incorrect and would be likely to fail. • If an owner was to supply a company with goods under a Lease or Bailment recognised by the PPSA as being a ‘PPS Lease’ (an arrangement that is capable of existing for more than one year or 90 days for serial numbered goods) and that company still possessed those goods when it went into liquidation then: • Mere title will not of itself protect an owner’s rights and trump other competing interests in all circumstances; and • Whereas under the old laws owners would go in and repossess goods that were not paid for, this is no longer a remedy available to them if they do not have a perfected security interest in the goods when the liquidation occurs.
updAtes: Legal
BUILDER
Supplies window frames on 90 day payment terms to developer Does not register on the PPSR
Bank registers
DEVELOPER (IN LIQUIDATION) Windows are still on site (not affixed)
Builder loses its rights as owner in the windows - Bank’s charge takes priority
The rules relating to what is a ‘serial numbered’ goods are complex. The term itself has a particular meaning and we recommend you seek advice. For example, a large crane would not be serially numbered goods but a trailer with a VIN would be. • While not relevant to the facts in the Maiden Civil Case, the same rules would apply in a situation if an owner supplied goods under a retention of title arrangement (ROT); in a liquidation scenario, if the owner did not have a perfected security interest, the owner could lose its interest in those goods. As an example:
on the PPSR Bank registers on the PPSR Developer grants charge over all assets in favour of its bank
BANK
• If you have an existing Lease or Bailment or ROT contract dated earlier than 30 January 2012, you have ‘temporary perfection’ status until the end of January next year. If the Maiden Civil case had been this time next year, registration would not have been enough to protect the owner’s rights because the security agreement was not in writing. It is essential that you make sure all your security agreements are in writing and otherwise comply with the rules in section 20 of the PPSA (enforceability against third parties). If not, you will have an unperfected security interest (even if you register on the PPSR). This article was prepared by Jackson McDonald Partner Hilary Hunt and Special Counsel Tania Jeyamohan.
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updAtes: Technical
Romina De Santis
Master Builders’ technical consultant Romina De Santis notes that the Building Regulations provide a 12-month transition period for adoption of the annually updated National Construction Code (which includes the Building Code of Australia Volumes 1 and 2).
New safety requirements for windows ThIS TRANSITION means there are a number of the new clauses or amendments in Volumes 1 and 2 which might be applied to a building at the discretion of the building surveyor issuing the Certificate of Design Compliance. One of these clauses is Protection of Openable Windows (Clause D2.24 in Volume 1 and Clause 3.9.2.5 in Volume 2). Because this new requirement was included in the BCA for occupant life safety, and where buildings are subject to the requirement, builders should construct to the 2013 BCA provisions. The Australian Building Codes Board explains the requirements in the following advisory note. The National Construction Code includes important new requirements to protect certain openable windows to reduce the risk of young children falling from those windows. The NCC requires protection for openable windows in new early childhood centres and in bedrooms of new residential buildings (i.e. houses, apartments, hotels and the like), where the floor below the window is more than 2m above the surface beneath. Research has shown that young children are most at risk from window falls in these buildings. For example, in a bedroom, where young children often play unsupervised, it is common to find beds and other furniture which children can climb onto placed under or near windows. Therefore, these new measures are included in the BCA to minimise the risk.
Where a child resistant mechanism is utilised, the window also must be provided with a barrier below it that has a minimum height of 865mm, does not permit a 125mm sphere to pass through it, and does not have any horizontal or near horizontal elements between 150mm and 760mm that facilitate climbing. Fixed glazing under the openable part of the window which meets the height requirements (i.e. transom at least 865mm above the floor etc.) would satisfy the barrier requirement. Where a device or screen is securely fixed in position (eg a screen pop riveted to the window frame) so it cannot be unlocked, overridden, or is very difficult to remove without, for example, a drill, the 865mm barrier would not be required as the securing method is considered a fixture and not a child resistant release mechanism. Protection of the opening is not required for windows where the lowest part of the opening is 1.7m or more above the floor.
What is meant by the term child resistant? The BCA allows a screen or window opening restricting device which protects an openable window to be installed in a manner that allows it to be removed, unlocked or overridden. This would be useful, for example, in the event of a fire or other emergency or to allow for cleaning. In these situations, the unlocking device must be child resistant. A child resistant release mechanism could include a device which requires a key to unlock, a coordinated two handed operation to release, or the use of a tool such as a screwdriver, spanner or allen key to remove the screen or shift the window to the fully open position. The ABCB considers that a block which is screw fixed to the window track to restrict the opening of a window is a device with a child resistant mechanism and not a fixture. There are a number of hardware solutions available, such as short chain winders and barrier screens which will allow windows to comply with the new requirements. Sliding window locks which key lock the sash so a 125 mm sphere cannot pass through, but allow the sash to open fully when unlocked meet the requirements. The screen or opening restricting device must be able to resist of force of 250 N. Care should be taken to ensure that the water performance of the sill is not compromised by the opening restricting device.
The changes in more detail The changes in Clause D2.24 of BCA Volume 1 and Clause 3.9.2.5 of BCA Volume 2 require the affected window to be fitted with either a device to restrict the window opening, or a suitable screen, so a 125mm diameter sphere (representing the size of a young child’s head) cannot pass through. The device or screen also must be able to withstand an outward horizontal force of 250 N.
How do you identify the surface beneath?
The device or screen can have a child resistant release mechanism which can enable the device or screen to be removed, unlocked or overridden.
Compliance with this provision would need to be assessed by the relevant building certifier or surveyor on a case by case basis, but in general, the ABCB’s view is that a roof or ledge that
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The openable window protection provisions apply where the floor below the particular window is more than 2m above the surface beneath. While there is no change in the BCA to the term ‘above the surface beneath’, questions have been raised as to whether a roof or ledge below the window complies with the term ‘surface beneath’.
updAtes: Technical
is not protected at the edge by a BCA compliant balustrade or barrier would not be suitable. The purpose of the window protection provisions is to limit the potential fall height of a young child through the openable window. If a young child can readily fall from the surface beneath the window and onto another surface further below, the ABCB considers that the BCA intent has not been achieved.
This St James home has been built using essential Liveable Homes design features. More details are at www.liveablehomes.net.au.
How will the changes impact on other NCC Provisions? Questions have been raised as to whether the window barrier changes will impact on other BCA provisions such as natural ventilation or energy efficiency.
Natural Ventilation The deemed-to-satisfy provisions of BCA Volume 1 Clause F4.6 and BCA Volume 2 Clause 3.8.5.2 require that natural ventilation must be provided to a habitable room and must consist of permanent openings, windows, doors or other devices which can be opened. The aggregate opening or openable size must be not less than five percent of the floor area of the room required to be ventilated. If window barriers are installed which restrict the opening of the window to less than 125mm, it raises the question whether compliance with the natural ventilation provisions is affected. The short answer is no. The BCA provisions include the words ‘windows, doors or other devices which can be opened and the openable size must not be less than five percent”. Therefore, the window is not required to be always fully open; it just needs to be openable or capable of being opened. In other words, even with a window restricting device, whether the device has a child resistant release mechanism or not, the window sash is still capable of being fully opened and thus the ventilating area is measured as the size of the sash. This is the case regardless of the type of window i.e. whether it is an awning, casement or sliding window. For an awning window, the ventilation calculation area is the area of the sash.
Designing homes with benefits for life ReSOURCeS developed by the Disability Services Commission with support from the housing and building industry, including Master Builders, can deliver enormous benefits to a home over its entire life. Available at www.liveablehomes.net.au, essential Liveable homes design features help improve the adaptability and accessibility of new housing designs or homes under renovation. By enhancing their accessibility, designers, builders and home-buyers are able to meet the changing needs and abilities of people at any stage of life. Number one on the essential criteria list is a need for a flat level walkway to the house’s main entrance. The path should have an even, firm, slipresistant surface and be a minimum 1000mm wide with a level transition and threshold, have reasonable shelter from the weather and a level 1200mm by 1200mm landing area at the door.
Energy efficiency
Accessible homes also should have one level entrance (at least) so people can enter and exit easily. It must incorporate waterproofing drainage and termite risk management that complies with Building Code of Australia performance requirements.
The deemed-to-satisfy provision of BCA Volume 2 Table 3.12.2.1 recognises the potential for high air movement provided by the ventilation opening area. Similar to the wording used in relation to ventilation above, the definition of ‘ventilation opening’ in Clause 3.12 refers to an openable part of a window, a door or other device which can be held open.
Flush entry doors should have a clear 820mm width. Corridors should allow for comfortable and unimpeded movement between spaces and have a minimum 1000mm clear width. Inside, doorways also need to have a clear 820mm width and a level transition and threshold.
Therefore, the use of window barriers does not affect the energy efficiency provisions as the ventilation area is measured as the area of the window sash.
Showers and bathrooms should be designed for easy and independent access—one bathroom should feature a slip-resistant, step-free shower recess in the room’s corner. This allows for grab rails to be installed in the future.
Source: www.abcb.gov.au. A toilet should be on the home’s entry level to support easy access and have a minimum clear width of 900mm between the bathroom walls, if located in a separate room. Also required is a minimum 1200mm clear circulation space forward of the toilet pan, exclusive of the door’s swing. Walls around the shower, bath (if provided) and toilet should be reinforced for the safe installation of grab rails. Solid masonry or concrete walls are exempt from this requirement. Building Code of Australia items such as fire safety, water proofing of internal wet areas, termite protection, window location and size, stairways, floor surfaces in wet areas and on stairs and external weather proofing, are also requirements when designing accessible homes.
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Water proofing challenges WeT AReAS remain a hot topic for technical advice and result in a high number of disputes between builders and clients. By understanding the minimum standards to be adhered to for residential buildings, plans and specifications can include the right information and references to better explain the builder’s intended finished construction versus client expectations.
It also is important to note that the Australian Standard does not refer to a time-frame within which water must be removed. Residual water always remains on tile surfaces due to surface tension. however, the safety of occupants is the factor that must be considered for the suitability of a proposed fall (no pun intended) in a wet area.
Bath Installation Bathrooms must comply with the BCA and Australian Standards for water-proofing. A combination of client pressure and builders not fully appreciating the minimum requirements can result in issues arising after completion. Bathrooms are one of the more expensive areas of a home to build, so getting it right the first time makes sense. The main client complaints include water not draining to the floor waste provided, water from the shower leaking outside the shower recess and ponding within the shower recess.
Technical requirements The following performance criteria and deemed-to-satisfy (DTS) Clauses must be complied with for domestic construction: • P2.4.1 Wet areas • To protect the structure of the building and to maintain the amenity of the occupants, water must be prevented from penetrating behind fittings and linings or into concealed spaces of sanitary facilities, bathrooms, laundries and the like (NCC 2013). The Acceptable Construction Practice that meets this performance criterion is found in BCA Part 3.8.1 and wet areas must comply with AS3740 - Water-proofing of wet areas in residential buildings.
Floor wastes In domestic construction, the BCA does not require installation of a floor waste. however, where it is installed, the floor must have a fall so that water flows to the floor waste and does not pond. The recommended ratio is 1:80-100. Where the fall cannot be achieved, as long as the water does drain and not remain resulting in a safety issue or deterioration of building elements over time, then compliance is achieved.
Ponding in shower recesses In shower recesses, the fall should be between 1:60-80. however, the Australian Standard clarifies that this might not be suitable or possible due to: • Finished height requirements at doorways. • height of fixtures or fittings. • Dimensions of tiles (adequate falls become more difficult to achieve as the size of tiles increases). • Area of the floor to be drained. • Requirements of persons with disabilities. If your client has chosen large floor tiles, it is important that the impact of this choice be explained. More suitable shower drains or grates that run along one side of the recess for better water flow to the waste rather than a central waste are recommended. This needs to be discussed early to ensure correct placement and installation of required floor wastes.
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It was confirmed in October 2010 by the WA Building Commission that a detail for bath installation was needed as this was often cited in disputes as a non-compliance with the BCA. The Commission’s Advisory Note 11 provides the detail for interpretation of Part 3.8.1 of BCA Volume 2. The current BCA no longer contains detailed construction practice, instead referring to the Australian Standard. however, the Advisory Note detail remains applicable today.
Showerscreen installations A hob or a minimum 25mm set-down of the floor within a shower area is recommended for maintaining water within the shower area. Many bathroom designs now omit the hob for design or liveable home design requirements. Without a barrier or set-down installed between the shower and bathroom floor, it is more difficult to maintain water within the shower area relying on gradients alone. A shower screen is required and should be installed in accordance with AS 3740. This nominates the screen be installed: • Flush with the shower area side of the hob. • Overhanging into the shower area; or • Inside the hob. In WA, the hob traditionally is installed with a slight fall toward the shower and the screen fixed to the outside edge of the hob. This method is continued today. This is not in accordance with the requirements of the Standard but might be suitable if documented to address the performance criteria of the BCA demonstrating equivalence to the Acceptable Construction Practice.
Maintenance and water-proofing Waterproofing must be installed to shower areas and around the bath perimeter. There are a number of systems and products available that meet the requirements of the BCA and Australian Standard 3740. The Standard also requires installers to consider any movement in masonry construction to ensure a suitable product/method is selected to avoid the failure of water-proofing installations. To reduce the number of claims by clients regarding water-proofing failures, builders must advise clients how to clean and maintain wet areas, the importance of checking grout has not come away and for any cracked tiles so that the water-proofing provided is maintained. It is difficult for builders to defend their work if suitable records are not maintained about water-proofing products/methods used and advice on maintenance. This would include advice regarding providing adequate ventilation to prevent mould and drying up water splash from cabinetry to prevent water damage. Master Builders’ home Buyers Construction Guide gives your client a manual to their new home and includes maintenance and use tips for all areas of their home - including bathrooms.
updAtes: Housing
Carine Rise project on the move Carine’s former TAFe site is set to transform into a welcoming new community with construction work commencing at the Carine Rise residential development. Cedar Woods, LandCorp and St Ives are working together on the 7.93 hectare infill project which ultimately will deliver comfortable housing opportunities to cater for Perth’s rising population. DeSIGNeD TO cater for young families through to empty-nesters, retirees and seniors, Carine Rise will incorporate approximately 110 residential townhouses and apartments, an aged care facility catering for 120 people, a retirement village with 161 apartments and 3400 square metres dedicated to retail, offices and medical facilities. Cedar Woods’ state manager Stuart Duplock says the recent appointment of DM Civil to undertake initial construction work was a milestone for the Carine Rise project. “The start of construction signifies an exciting new phase in the evolution of Carine Rise,” he said. “It is an important infill development for WA and supports the State Government’s Directions 2031 and Beyond strategy aimed at addressing Perth’s growing population which is expected to reach 3.5 million by 2031. “Carine Rise will provide a new way of living in the comfort of Carine. It will optimise the use of otherwise unoccupied land and deliver fresh housing and business opportunities to the area. Its design as a safe,
Turning the first sod at the Carine Rise development late in August: Luke Willcock (LandCorp), local MP Tony Krsticevic, Cedar Woods’ Stuart Duplock and Michael Heath (St Ives).
An artist’s impression of the transformation of the Carine TAFE site.
walkable community and seamless integration into the surrounding community will provide convenient access to existing public transport facilities and infrastructure to benefit residents and visitors to the neighbouring areas.” The initial construction work for Carine Rise is expected to be complete by mid-2014. The public can visit the newly launched project website at www.carinerise.com.au to register interest in purchasing property at Carine Rise, whether the 32 single residential lots, group housing or St Ives’ retirement living or aged care. The sales process for property at Carine Rise will start in early 2014. Retirement village off-plan sales also will commence in early 2014. For more information on Carine Rise, visit www.carinerise.com.au or call the Carine Rise Community Infoline on 1300 635 233.
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Industry consultation for Building Commission A new advisory committee which met for the first time in July will set a stronger foundation for collaboration between the Building Commission and the building, plumbing and painting industries. The Building Commission Advisory Committee is chaired by building commissioner Peter Gow and is comprised of Building Commission directors and staff and representatives of 11 key industry organisations. “The BUILDING Commission is committed to an innovative and productive building and construction industry in Western Australia and to pursuing opportunities that will allow us to work more closely with industry members on matters that may affect them,” Mr Gow said. “The Building Commission Advisory Committee will have a two-way function. It will bring to the table matters raised by building and construction industry groups and help the Building Commission get industry input on key issues.” Committee discussions will focus on industry needs and development, information and education, regulation and Building Commission operational issues. BCAC has representation from the Australian Institute of Architects, Australian Institute of Building, Australian Institute of Building Surveyors, housing Industry Association, Local Government Managers Australia, Master Builders Association, Master Painters and Decorators Australia, Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association of WA, Property Council of Australia, Swimming Pool and Spa Association and WA Local Government Association.
Housing and economics director Gavan Forster.
little to crow about in national survey WA builders are cautious about the future despite a recent improvement in housing activity. That is the conclusion from the latest Master Builders National Survey of Industry Conditions. Key statistical indicators in the survey for employment, investment intentions and likely sales levels were surveyed. MASTeR BUILDeRS’ housing and economics director Gavan Forster says that although the housing sector has improved significantly in 2013, there still are concerns about the longevity of the housing upturn. “Downturns in mining activity, election uncertainty and a tight State Government budget have moderated optimism in the housing sector,” he said. ”The stimulus effect of low interest rates and rapid population growth still is likely to be felt throughout 2013. Trade shortages like those currently being experienced for bricklayers are likely to filter through to plasterers as the house construction cycle continues.”
Members of the Building Commission Advisory Committee at their first meeting late in July.
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In the commercial building sector competition is tight, the survey shows. According to Mr Forster, the State Budget, while providing ongoing funding for mega projects like elizabeth Quay, did not provide many new building opportunities for medium sized contractors.
updAtes: Insurance
MBA Insurance Services’ WA state manager Nick Vernon and his team have the expertise to assist building businesses with their workers’ compensation requirements.
Workers Compensation TheRe IS no denying that workers’ compensation legislation is confusing and difficult to understand. It’s next to impossible to provide a definitive set of questions that allows you, the builder, to determine exactly who is responsible for each worker on the work site in every different circumstance. The following best explains your responsibilities and best practice.
Covering all workers down the contractual chain The Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Act states, if a person (the principal) contracts with another person (the contractor) to perform work which is for the purpose of the principal’s normal trade or business, then both the principal and the contractor are liable to cover any workers the contractor may employ. Both parties are jointly, and severally liable to cover the contractor’s workers. In other words, each must have a workers’ compensation policy. If the contractor in turn subcontracts the work to a subcontractor, then all parties – including the principal, the contractor and the subcontractor – are liable to cover any workers the subcontractor might employ. If one of the subcontractor’s workers is injured at work, a compensation claim could be made on the principal, the contractor or the subcontractor. Therefore, principals should ensure that contractors have current workers’ compensation policies, and all workers should check that they are covered.
It is optional for working directors to be covered under the company’s workers’ compensation policy. however, it is very important to understand that if a working director opts out of the company’s policy, then he or she is opting out of the workers’ compensation scheme altogether and will not be covered under any workers’ compensation policy (i.e. principal, contractor or subcontractor). MBA Insurance Services urges working directors who do opt out of the workers’ compensation scheme to consider other forms of insurance (such as income protection) or risk uninsured medical bills and/or loss of income. MBA Insurance Services can ensure you are appropriately covered and welcomes any opportunity to discuss your workers’ compensation requirements. We can be contacted on 9486 9898.
Contractors and Subcontractors A contractor or subcontractor may be defined as a worker if they are engaged to do work by another person for the purpose of the other person’s trade or business, and they are paid in substance for their personal manual labour or services. examples of people who work under a contract for service and are likely to be considered workers include: • Contractors or subcontractors who perform the actual activities of the employer’s trade or business (e.g. bricklayer or plasterer contracted by a builder). • Contractors or subcontractors who perform activities for the efficient conduct of any employer’s trade or business (e.g. a fencing contractor contracted by a farmer).
It’s your business to register.
It is important to note that if you contract or subcontract work to a Pty Ltd company which is responsible for providing its workers with workers’ compensation insurance, you are not automatically absolved from your responsibility to provide workers’ compensation insurance for those workers while on your site.
Working Directors A working director, as defined by the Act, is a director who performs work for, or on behalf of, the company and whose earnings as a director are in substance for personal manual labour or services. If you employ workers in the construction industry you may be required by law to register in the Construction Industry Long Service Leave Scheme. Find out by visiting www.myleave.wa.gov.au or by calling 08 9476 5400.
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pen portrait: victoria Gash MBA Insurance Services in owned by five of the Master Builders Associations round Australia. It has been operating for more than 25 years with profits injected back into the building and construction industry. In WA, its professional staff have been earning a growing reputation for excellent service. Further strengthening the team is the recently appointed and wellcredentialed Victoria Gash.
What is your role with MBA Insurance Services? As an Account executive I service a portfolio of builders and tradespeople looking after their wide range of insurance requirements including contract works, public liability, tools of trade, workers’ compensation, builders’ indemnity, motor vehicle, business and office packages and strata insurance, as well as putting together tailored packages across all aspects of general insurance to meet our members’ requirements.
What where you doing before joining MBAIS? I have been in the Insurance industry for more than seven years working in various areas. I worked in the claims department for Insurance Australia Group in Christchurch, New Zealand, and Brisbane from 2006 till 2011, including specialising in disaster response, a skill which is very handy in both Christchurch and Queensland. I have been in Perth since 2011 gaining broking experience in trade, business, farm, industrial special risks, commercial strata and office packages, as well as all aspects of domestic insurance.
How have you settled into your new role? Although I have only been in this role for a short period of time I am lucky to be supported by Nick, Kathryn, Rob and Peter, an experienced, friendly and knowledgeable team of building and construction insurance specialists who have been helping me settle in and teaching me the ropes. I am really enjoying the team spirit at MBA Insurance. With everyone always happy to help and answer any questions, it has made my transition a very stress free experience.
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MBA Insurance Services’ recently appointed account executive Victoria Gash.
Before joining MBAIS, what did you know about Master Builders? I was aware that the Master Builders Association was an organisation built on the membership of industry-leading builders, and that it owned a specialist insurance team.
What have you learnt about Master Builders since joining MBAIS? I am pleasantly surprised about the extent of benefits and support Master Builders WA offers its members, and the experience and knowledge within the organisation. The benefit of being able to insure all risks through an organisation which specialises in the building and construction industry is that it ensures specialist knowledge and correct coverage and advice, something that few insurance brokers can offer their clients.
How will you be able to help our members? By helping with any insurance question, queries or requirements they have, as well as utilising the large network of insurers and underwriters associated with MBAIS to keep premiums competitive and coverage appropriate. I’m a firm believer that issues occur in our industry when people aren’t fully informed, aware of the products they require and the policies they are purchasing.
When you’re not at MBAIS, what keeps you busy? I enjoy spending my free time cooking, travelling, catching up with friends and anything outside on a hot sunny day, especially if it involves the beach, BBQs, live music or bumper boats.
AdveRtoRIAl
Construction Training Fund Members of MBA know how the Construction Training Fund can reduce the costs of employing apprentices in WA’s building and construction industry. The Training Fund has introduced a range of new incentives for eligible employers of apprentices in construction trades, with up to $19,000 in cash now available to help reduce the costs of adding a new apprentice to your business. The minimum standard grant available to an eligible employer is now $4,000 (for a 12 month traineeship), rising to a maximum of $10,000 for a 48 month apprenticeship in core construction trade areas. In addition to the standard grants, the Training Fund can provide a one-off bonus to an eligible employer of up to $4,000, depending on trade qualification. existing allowances for employment of indigenous and regional trainees/apprentices remain, bringing the maximum grant available to a total of $19,000.
The new grants are available to employers of trainees/ apprentices registered with the Department of Training & Workforce Development on or after 1 July 2013. Direct indenture employers receive the grant in three equal instalments. The first is paid after probation and six months of employment; the second at the half-way point of the indenture and the final payment is made after successful completion of the qualification. Trade bonus payments – up to $4,000 – are paid to the employer together with the first instalment. You’ll also receive the grant from the Training Fund if you host an apprentice through a group training organisation (GTO). The GTO claims the grant on your behalf each month and then passes it on to you in full as a reduction in the GTO’s hire-out rate. Look for the note on the GTO’s invoice that says “Less Construction Training Fund subsidy”. The new one-off trade bonuses will be claimed by GTOs after the apprentice has completed six months of employment, and then passed on in full to the host(s) that employed the apprentice.Visit bcitf.org or call 9244 0100 for more information about the Construction Training Fund’s apprenticeship grants and other support programs for the construction industry. It’s your training fund.
RECEIVE UP TO $19,000 CA$H WHEN YOU EMPLOY A NEW APPRENTICE
Employ and register a new apprentice or trainee in a recognised qualification after 1 July 2013 and you may be eligible to claim a grant of up to $19,000 from the Construction Training Fund. Visit bcitf.org or call 9244 0100 to find out how you can reduce your training costs.
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The new VET in Schools Certificate II qualification is designed to bring on Year 11 and 12 secondary students to a productive workplace level.
vet in schools to produce work ready apprentices employers looking for apprentices will benefit from a new VeT in Schools qualification recently introduced into WA’s secondary school system. The NeW Certificate II in Building and Construction Pathways qualification gives WA secondary students the opportunity to begin a career in the building industry as part of their Western Australian Certificate of education. Students leave Year 12 with a Certificate II in Building and Construction and employers benefit from a pool of skilled, work ready graduates trained to pre-apprentice standards. The qualification was developed by the Construction Training Fund in consultation with industry and the WA Schools Curriculum Standards Authority. It was designed to reduce the number and complexity of existing VeT in Schools construction courses and to produce consistent, quality outcomes for industry employers in the market for new apprentices. The qualification is divided into two distinct pathways, one for trades and one for para-professional occupations. The trades pathway offers students entry into a choice of 10 different construction trades. In Year 11, the first year of the course, students train in the core areas common to these trades and undertake compulsory site-based work experience. In Year 12, students specialise and choose one of the 10 trades. Their training becomes trade specific and the students also must complete additional sitebased work experience
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The para-professional pathway offers students entry into the industry in some non-trade areas including estimating, scheduling and site management. Students complete core areas of training and undertake compulsory work experience, generally in a building company office environment, across Years 11 and 12. The Construction Training Fund has committed $1 million in 2013-14 for training delivery of the new VeT in Schools qualification, in addition to funding already allocated by the Department of Training and Workforce Development. The additional funding from the Training Fund will provide an opportunity for more students to complete the course should Department funds be exhausted. The Training Fund also will provide a scholarship of $250 to students who successfully complete either the trades or para-professional pathway as part of a VeT in Schools course. The Fund says that for employers, it means work ready, motivated apprentices who already have completed two thirds of their off-the-job training and who are going to be immediately productive in the workplace.
updAtes: Training
Industry calls for self-education expenses cap review Master Builders has joined growing calls for the Government to reverse the $2000 cap on tax deductions for self-education expenses announced in May’s Federal Budget. WILheLM hARNISCh, chief executive officer of Master Builders Australia, said the cap is acting as a significant disincentive for building industry professionals to expand their skill and expertise. “The building industry is disappointed an extremely low cap for tax deductions on self-education expenses has been introduced,” he said. “It will affect many ordinary workers in the industry. It acts as a disincentive to obtain vital licensing qualifications such as diplomas or certificates in building, which often cost in excess of $5000. “It will also act as a disincentive for builders and contractors from attending important industry professional development opportunities to learn about the latest innovations in building practice and safety.
Wilhelm Harnisch
Mr harnisch said the cap was another example of legislation brought in by the Labor Government without proper consultation and one that worked against business, entrepreneurship and innovation. It also discriminated against those who might not have access to Government subsidised training. “Australia should be encouraging workers to expand their skills and expertise,” he said. “Self-education has an important role to play to achieve a highly skilled national workforce.”Reconsidering the cap on tax deductions on self-education expenses is an excellent opportunity for the Government, of whichever persuasion, to show a genuine commitment to the business community.”
New training subsidy rates for 2013-14 The BUILDING and Construction Industry Training Board has introduced a range of new subsidy rates for 2013-14. A new differential funding model has been introduced for employers of apprentices and trainees, with maximum grants of up to $19,000 available. The rates for Supplementary Skills and Oh&S short training courses have increased for all training delivered on or after 1 July. For detailed information, visit www.bcitf.org or download the new Subsidy Guidelines document.
passage of 457 laws disappoints MASTeR BUILDeRS has expressed extreme disappointed that only days before the announcement of the Federal election date, the house of Representatives voted to allow continued unwarranted attacks on 457 visa workers and employers by passing the Migration Amendment (Temporary Sponsored Visas) 2013 Bill. Master Builders Australia CeO Wilhelm harnisch said skilled overseas workers play a vital role addressing skills shortages and boosting the nation’s productivity and the Rudd Government had not got off to a good start on a commitment to re-engage with business. There was no proven evidence of a breakdown in the 457 visa system nor had there been any consultation beyond the Government receiving anecdotal evidence from the trade union movement. Mr harnisch said there was a need for Government to engage with the business community and stop counterproductive, anti-business legislation.
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WICKHAM RECREATION PRECINCT
Doric’s Kimberley Pilbara Building excellence Awards winning Wickham Recreation Centre project is a 3500m2 multipurpose recreation facility that successfully provides a focal point for families in the region to build communities and encourage work life balance.
The ReCReATIONAL and sporting infrastructure involved the upgrade to the existing ovals and new tennis, netball, basketball, beach volleyball and outdoor and indoor cricket facilities. A major lighting refurbishment also occurred, which is essential for year-round participation in outdoor sports in the hot climate.
As the area is a cyclone zone, the building has a Region D Cyclone rating. In addition, all glazing on the recreation centre consists of cyclone rated glass and frames, and all buildings are firmly anchored to concrete footings. The exterior structure was finished to a very high standard for the region.
The new precinct also includes a purpose-built centre with a gymnasium, children’s play area, change rooms, restaurant and alfresco café which is operated for the community by a service provider contracted to Rio Tinto. There are new car parking facilities and dual use pathways throughout the precinct. Around the precinct is a red asphalt cycle path approximately 2.3 kilometres long. The location of the new precinct is in the Wickham townsite approximately 1600 kilometres from Perth and 13 kilometres north of Roebourne in the Pilbara region. The town has a population of approximately 1800. Mining dominates the landscape and is the main operation in Wickham which houses a large fly-in-fly-out population. The Recreation Precinct is the first community facility of its kind in the town and provides a focal point for families to build communities and encourage work life balance. The town residents can now dine at the recreation centre’s restaurant and alfresco café rather than dining at the regular mining camp kitchen. In addition, major sporting events can be watched from the comfort of the bar area and café. Local sporting teams can use the ovals and new tennis, netball, basketball, dual use rugby and soccer fields, baseball facilities and indoor cricket facilities. The major lighting refurbishment that occurred on the outdoor ovals has enabled year round participation in outdoors sports particularly in such a hot climate. Synthetic turf has been used for durability on the tennis and cricket courts on the outside areas. Local sporting teams are able to access the facilities using electronic key card access for security, ease and control.
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Feature walls are made from local Karratha Stone and appear as the main external feature. The stone blends well into the natural environment providing contrast with the earthy red soil of the region. Local decorative stone was also used on the exposed aggregate footpaths creating an architectural feature. The roof sheeting is from the Colorbond metallic range selected for its appearance and its hardwearing weather properties. The louvers are an architectural feature placed strategically to provide shadowing and to allow natural light by accommodating the different times of the day. They also provide an optimum amount of light and temperature. A 400m long retaining wall of red earth blocks extends around the perimeter of the site. This was added to elevate the site resulting in the wall becoming a viewing platform for local football and rugby games. Cyclone impact protection was achieved by providing 0.55 mm of sheet metal installed behind the hardies Scyon Matric (compressed fibre cement) expressed joint sheeting. Glass and frames are cyclone rated and external cyclone rated roller shutters also were installed for further protection. Internal finishes have been kept relatively simple in line with the scope: to be clean, neat, durable and suitable for the area. Perforated plywood ceilings are used in the main habitable areas including the bar, café and gym. Featured stonework has been incorporated into the bar to add an aesthetic appeal and some variety to the bar area. Corton tiles and stone have been used in the change rooms for durability.
feAtuRe pRoJeCt
The remote location of Wickham created a challenge with the availability and continuity of labour. Local contractors were carefully selected in an attempt to reduce mobilisation down-time.
The Wickham Recreation Precinct project engaged both local (30 percent) and Perth based subcontractors, which required specific coordination in terms of travel and delivery times.
The project team faced a number of difficulties including three tropical cyclones and above average rainfall during the 2010-2011 wet season which caused delays. This attributed to 22.5 days of extension of time claims.
Doric followed guidelines set out by ISO14001 in complying with environmental procedures. The site team recycled waste materials to the best of the available facilities in Wickham. Steel disposal bins were used across the site, dedicated wash out areas for painters were set up and spill kits were at hand for the event of any chemical spills.
Working within an operational area was a challenge. It was a requirement that the pool and oval be kept operational for the duration of the project. The team was able to deliver separable portions of the contract as required by the client. New lighting to the ovals was supplied early and prior to the local Australian Rules football pre-season training, which meant the facilities could be operational. Change rooms were handed over prior to the start of the football season.
erience s on” exp d n a h “ rs expert 24 yea s you get re u s n e e ip and worldwid orkmansh w y t li a u q e, knowledg prices. affordable
Surplus building materials were offered to the community and local clubs. Some of the materials recycled included light towers, fencing, play equipment and bollards. The recycling of the materials prevented excess going to landfill.
STRUCTURE The Wickham Recreation Precinct structure is an in-situ build consisting of a steel frame that is designed, fabricated and installed to meet Region D Cyclone rating. Additional welded steel and external wall framing complete the structure of the buildings. The buildings are designed to withstand the effects of category 5 cyclone uplift. A total of 123 mass concrete footings were poured and formed for the building. The largest footing is approximately 2250 mm square by 2000 mm deep. The entire precinct, including slab on ground, sporting court slabs and all sub-buildings included over 1,200 cubic metres of concrete poured. The building’s structure was developed with a BIM 3D construction model. This model was utilised by all services contractors to eliminate reworks caused by services clashes and to ensure a high level of accuracy.
Materials required included: Playmaker Sports, WA owned and operated since 1989, is pleased to have been associated with the Wickham Recreation Precinct and Doric Group.
We specialise in supply and installation of high quality sporting surfaces for clubs, schools, mine camps, resorts and private residences. Contact us for synthetic turf and acrylic sports surfaces, PU gymnasium / multi-use sports flooring, sports equipment such as basketball goals, netball goals, tennis nets and posts, fencing, lighting, sports netting, cricket surfaces and much more.
• 67 tonnes of primary structure steel • 17 tonnes of secondary steel • 240 cubic metres of mass concrete footings to resist cyclone uplift • 1200 cubic metres of concrete poured throughout the precinct • Mass concrete footings each approximately 12 cubic metres around the 25m light poles (Australian Rules football field)
P: 08 9271-1902 | M: 0407 777 897 E: pmsports@westnet.com.au
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the architect’s perspective
The Wickham Recreation Precinct Master Concept Plan was prepared by Franco Carozzi Architects and was based on an assessment of reports prepared by leisure consultant ABV, feed back from users of the recreation facilities, extensive consultation with Rio Tinto and independent analysis and research. FRANCO CAROZZI Architects worked closely with Rio Tinto Project Managers to ensure optimum results for the community. FCA provided full design and contract documentation services to Rio Tinto and also assisted during the construction phase. The exterior image and materials were designed to be in context with the Pilbara Region and the interior spaces and finishes selected to create an inviting and interesting atmosphere. An experienced team of consultants was engaged to ensure services to the buildings were designed for the harsh environment.
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New Clubhouse The new elevated clubhouse is located in a central position so as to be easily accessible from the new centrally located car park, playing fields, swimming pool and new outdoor courts. The layout is designed to allow flexibility in use and to provide easy movement within and around the building. It is a pavilion style building with various roof shapes to provide visual interest and with verandahs for shade. Facilities include a gymnasium and associated change rooms, café/function room, sportsmen’s bar, commercial kitchen, change rooms for Australian Rules football, change rooms for rugby and soccer, forecourt areas and landscaping and elevated terrace areas overlooking the sporting fields.
Sporting Facilities Sporting fields have been re-arranged and comprise an Australian Rules football oval, two soccer fields, rugby field and cricket pitch and practice nets. The new lighting levels have been designed for small ball sports such as cricket, tennis and baseball. The new central location of netball, cricket, tennis, and basketball courts allows for convenient access from the car park and to the new clubhouse. A central parking area for 157 cars has been provided in front of the clubhouse, new swimming pool entry and outdoor courts and a new dual use landscaped path to cater for people walking, cycling or skating, has been incorporated around the perimeter of the recreation facility.
Landscaping Large shade trees have been selected to complement existing trees on site and allow breezes to flow through. They also will permit surveillance and eye level vision to the facilities and surrounding areas. Garden bed areas comprise ground covers and prostrate shrub species selected from local plants.
Energy and sustainability considerations The new clubhouse is a well insulated building incorporating extensive wall, ceiling and roof insulation to maximise the thermal rating and to minimise energy consumption. The walls and glazing are well shaded by verandahs and large eave overhangs. hot water is supplied using energy efficient heat pump technology. The playing fields are reticulated with recycled water from the town effluent system. All new planting has been selected from water wise plants.
Franco Carozzi Architects FCA is proud to have been selected for the design of the new Wickham Recreation Precinct Buildings FCA thank Rio Tinto Project Managers for their invaluable support and congratulate Doric Constructions on winning the Bankwest Best Commercial Building for this project. FCA ARE EXPERIENCED ARCHITECTS IN THE DESIGN OF: • Recreational Facilities • Community Buildings • Schools • Performing Arts Buildings • Group and Community Housing • Multiple and Individual Housing • Commercial Buildings
125A Royal Street, East Perth WA 6004 Telephone: 08 9221 8226 Facsimile: 08 9221 8990 Email: fca@iinet.net.au A.B.N. 28 069 710 943
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equipment hire
The business
The Equipment in Action Day at last year’s HRIA Convention on the Gold Coast provided opportunity for hands on equipment demonstrations.
of hire and rental
Whatever the application, from providing portable toilets and buildings to road works and building construction or keeping essential services running during scheduled maintenance periods, the business of the hire and rental industry in Australia is all about providing peace of mind to customers and allowing them to focus on managing their core business. Helping businesses and industries meet expected demand quickly and easily, without huge capital outlay, storage problems, maintenance overheads or knowing whether that piece of equipment will ever be needed again, is the business of the hire and rental industry in Australia. With over 700 rental company members and valued at $3.8bn in 2003 (IBIS – estimated to be $5bn in 2013), the hire and rental industry, represented by key industry body, the Hire and Rental Industry Association (HRIA), covers a range of equipment across varied industries, from general plant hire, access and portable buildings, to temporary power generation and excavation equipment.
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Members include rental companies, suppliers and service providers with rental members ranging from national multi-location companies to single location, owner-manager hire shops. HRIA members nationwide all work to a self-regulated industry ‘Code of Ethics’ which focuses on safety, reliability and quality of equipment and support. HRIA members take pride in sourcing and providing the latest technology and equipment, offering reliable, well-serviced and wellmaintained equipment, which is fully supported by education and instruction on the safe and correct use of that equipment.
P
Phil Newby, Chief Executive Officer, HRIA Ltd.
Meeting demand and allowing businesses to focus on their core concerns is vital across many industries, and the HRIA covers them all. Industries utilising the services of the hire and rental industry include the building and construction industries, mining, arborist and horticultural/ landscaping, excavating and earthmoving, road construction, materials handling and working at heights as well as the broad spectrum of the events industry.
Reducing overheads Reflecting on the difficult couple of years just faced by Australian Industries, HRIA Chief Executive officer, Phil Newby said the good news is hiring, not buying, frees up scarce capital in the short term, and is good economic sense. “Hiring equipment is fully tax deductible which makes good economic sense during tough economic conditions. By hiring, contractors can offset any outlays, recoup some of their operational costs, and limit their overall capital equipment purchases, all the while enabling a wider range of jobs outside what they might normally do,” Mr Newby said. “Also, contractors can have immediate access to a huge range of modern equipment. New equipment can be trialled, via hiring, on the job for the days required without any capital outlay or the need to take on new debt. “once the job is finished, the equipment can be returned, without the worry of depreciation, repairs, maintenance and storage costs, or whether that piece of equipment will ever be needed again. “All the costs are up front for the equipment hired, and, making even better economic sense, the hire fee can be charged back to the client.
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equipment hire
“Adding to the benefits, equipment hired from an HRIA member company guarantees equipment reliability and efficiency,” Mr Newby said. “Hiring equipment can also help builders and contractors meet peak demands by offering and supplying more equipment when business is at its busiest. “The hire and rental industry in Australia professionally meets frequent and widely variable business needs with safe, up-to-date and specialist equipment for dedicated jobs,” Mr Newby said.
Operator and workplace safety makes good business sense End users have the opportunity to be instructed in the safe operation of equipment simply by hiring the equipment from an HRIA member business. Members of the HRIA work hard to make operators aware of the importance of safety. As part of the process of hiring out equipment, hire companies conform to a rigorous set of regulatory requirements plus have additional systems and services in place for operator education.
designs
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Regulatory requirements identified by the Workplace Safety and Health Act, and overseen by WorkSafe inspectors in the field, are stringently adhered to by HRIA members companies to ensure the highest standard of safety for both employees and hirers of equipment. The HRIA, as a national industry association, maintains a close eye on changes to safety legislation and works with its members and regulators to develop national codes of business management to ensure safety measures are identified, adopted and implemented into HRIA member businesses. All rental equipment is thoroughly checked and maintained prior to each hire and electrically tested and tagged as applicable. All rental equipment is hired out complete with written operating instructions, warning decals and labels, and support manuals as required. The hirer is instructed on the use of the equipment and further advice is available through brochures and videos. The hire company also checks the hirer’s qualifications to operate certain types of plant where a licence is required.
equipment hire
To increase end user accessibility, the HRIA website features a comprehensive database and search engine capable of locating specific equipment to the nearest rental supplier location. Making this location identifi er even easier, the new HRIA website also features Google maps which displays local street maps and directs users to their nearest hire location.
Not just plant and equipment - party and event too The HRIA covers all aspects of the hire and rental industry in Australia, including the party and event side of the hire market, which is a popular and growing market segment. Most businesses require event planning and catering as some time, whether for an exhibition, to celebrate business or employee milestones or for annual celebrations like Christmas parties. The party and event hire industry covers all aspects of party and event hire from marquees and furniture to BBQ or linen and crockery hire.
Hiring offers savings on: • labour costs by supplying the right equipment for the right job • problems with equipment/machinery registration • insurance • depreciation • storage • repairs
• maintenance For more information about the HRIA: Phone: 02 9998 2255 Email: info@hireandrental.com.au Web: www.hireandrental.com.au
30 yea
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foundations
In a highly competitive and complex industry, piling contractors and geotechnical engineers have been forced to cut costs and push points of differentiation. The piling industry is responding by developing different types of piling, piling designs and geotechnical solutions to ensure sustainability, innovation and of course remain competitive.
PRofESSoR Barry Lehane, Civil and Resource Engineering at the University of Western Australia, recently spoke to Construction IQ about the different types of piling techniques available in the industry, the strategies needed to test the reliability of pile capacity predictive approaches and how to determine which approach is best suit to a project.
What types of methods can be used to test the reliability of pile capacity predictive approaches? The only real way to test the reliability of a given approach is to perform a load test on a pile. If it’s a static capacity which is required, as it usually is, then you need to perform a static load test. All predictive techniques currently in use are empirical. I think it’s therefore essential that as many good cases as possible are well documented, so that independent checks of predictive approaches can be made.
What types of pile testing techniques are available in the industry at the moment? What strategies can companies use to determine which is the most reliable or best suited technique to use in a project? A static pile test can be formed using reaction piles, or using an osterberg cell embedded near the base of a pile. Static capacity can also be inferred from much cheaper dynamic testing of piles by simply dropping a large weight on top of a pile, or by propelling a smaller weight, in the case of statnamic testing. In both dynamic and statnamic tests, instrumentation is fixed to the top of the piles to infer a capacity using the wave equation theory. In terms of reliability, the static pile testing method is clearly the most reliable method. There aren’t really any strategies that can be used to determine which testing method is best suited to a given project. In some projects, it may be more economical to conduct a larger number of cheaper dynamic tests to improve confidence in the static capacity that is available from the piles. However, projects where the pile tension capacity is required or where an accurate estimate of pile movements at working load is required are less suited to dynamic testing. In general, I think static pile testing, if possible, should be performed.
What factors need to be considered during the design phase of a project to ensure the durability and reliability of a pile and what types of implications can arise when these factors are not considered? Probably the most important aspect to consider is whether or not a pile is constructable.
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for example, are the ground conditions suitable for pile driving, or for boring, or CfA, can you use casings, are you going to use bentonite etc. A good site investigation at the design phase is therefore important, and this would often dictate the kind of pile that will be used. The site investigation will also clearly provide the necessary parameters to allow an estimate to be made of the static capacity using the kind of predictive approaches I mentioned earlier. Implications of not conducting a thorough site investigation are well known, but could, for example, lead to a costly change in pile type if the original selection was found to be infeasible when work began on site. If estimates of the static capacity made during the predictive approach were not substantiated by the static testing or dynamic testing on the site, there may be a need to lengthen piles or increase their diameter.
What can the industry do to ensure that clients are well educated in terms of the importance of quality investigations? In theory, we should all advertise the various problems that we’ve come across as a result of poor investigations. In practice, this is less straight-forward due to the various claims, rightly or wrongly made by clients, contractors, and designers. There are nonetheless plenty of examples in literature which can be used to educate clients and on-going publication of the various lessons that we learn is clearly in the interests of the profession.
Can you tell us a little about your experience in the industry and your current role? I’ve been practising geotechnical engineering since 1984, when I started to work with Arup consulting engineers in London. Since then I’ve been involved in geotechnical engineering, both as a practitioner (via Arup Consulting) and also within universities, in Imperial College in London and Trinity College in Dublin, and now here in UWA. Throughout my career I have retained strong links with industry and enjoyed participating in and getting involved in many different projects, in particular piling projects (which is the subject of my PhD). I am currently the Technical and Research leader of Arup Geotechnics Australasia and am a core member of the American Petroleum Institute (API) piling committee. Article by Construction IQ reproduced with permission. The interview with Professor Barry Lehane was part of the Piling & Deep Foundations 2012 conference. For information about the 2013 conference please visit www.pilingtechniques.com.au, call 61 2 9229 1000 or email enquire@iqpc.com.au.
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What’s neW
Strength of steel opens options for timber fabricators With increasing demand for steel framing in the residential market, timber fabricators are adopting new technologies and software and expanding their offering to include TRUECoRE® steel framing. Since its introduction to the market almost 50 years ago, steel framing has increased in distribution and demand and is now widely used as an alternative to the more traditional timber frames. Many of Australia’s largest and most successful builders, manufacturers and building solutions companies now supply steel framing as standard as it is widely available and made in Australia to Australian standards. AusSteel – innovators in the steel frame and truss industry – has developed a completely engineered, fully designed steel building system to meet the rapidly growing demands for steel framing in Australia. “It’s an exciting time to be involved with Light Gauge Steel (LGS),” said Simon Love, General Manager APAC at AusSteel. “We are seeing significant and rapid growth across many regions and it’s no secret that the largest residential builder in NSW now builds exclusively with steel,” “Coming solely from a timber frame and truss background initially, we noticed significant gaps in the support, services and products that were readily available to the timber frame and truss industry, but not there for LGS manufacturers. To counter this, we developed and built a complete system for our own use, before quickly realising we had something that others would value as much as we did.” The AusSteel system is based on providing a product on site that carpenters can easily understand and trades can easily work with. The designs, site plans and layouts replicate the efficiencies of timber frame and truss techniques with what AusSteel believes are advantages of LGS; it’s lightweight, dimensionally stable, structurally consistent and straight. from a fabricators perspective, the AusSteel system streamlines the process from quotation to design engineering, manufacturing, material handling and packaging for transport. A partnership with Buildex – specialists in
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industrial fasteners – has also helped AusSteel develop and refine fastener systems for quicker and easier assembly. over the past decade, many timber frame and truss plants have closed their doors. Mr Love explains how businesses are now adopting a LGS system as a method of future proofing their business; “Adopting a LGS system opens new doors for manufacturers. The skills and capabilities required to detail and manufacture LGS replicate the efficiencies of timber fabrication and are therefore already in place. The set up cost, including all equipment, is also lower than the cost of the more popular linear saws.” With greater options for builders and homeowners to build with steel, AusSteel has been successful in partnering with timber manufacturers to provide an efficient steel framing system in line with their timber business. “We have been fortunate enough to work with several major building companies across NSW, Queensland and Western Australia to supply a LGS frame and truss package that meets the growing demand from investors, home owners and builders.” said Mr Love. originally called Timber Trader Cockburn, Worldwide Timber Traders in Bibra Lake, Western Australia commenced operation in 1966 and are recognised specialists in timber engineering and manufacture. Mr. Serge Guerini, a company director and engineer identified that adding a LGS frame and truss system provided opportunity for profitable growth in their business. After assessing many
options Worldwide Timber Traders selected the AusSteel System because the product, manufacturing and engineering processes made sense with their knowledge of timber manufacturing and construction techniques. “The AusSteel system has engineering advantages that are not possible with timber wall frames. The simplicity of the system has also opened opportunities in the category “D” cyclonic regions of Western Australia,” said Mr. Guerini. “Because it closely replicates the timber set out, we essentially had the technical design and manufacturing skills in house. This also meant there was greater acceptance from our builders with a system that was very easy to understand, cost efficient and incorporates TRUECoRE® steel which carries a warranty of up to 50 years.” For more information about the Aussteel LGs steel framing system, call 02 4955 5422 or visit www.aussteel.net.au. For more information about TRueCORe® steel call 1800 022 999 or visit www.truecore.com.au.
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CAD Image Takeoff allows you to simply load a plan, whether it be PDF, BMP, PNG or a JPEG file, select the
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CONTRACTS Prepare variations, update quantities, raise purchase orders, create construction timelines, track quotes, scheduling and progress tracking. To make your work even easier Beams now offers BeamS Mobile an app for iPhone or iPad that allows you to, from site, access the plans, orders and construction time lines in real time, back in the office. How’s that for convenience. The possibilities are endless.
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