Canberra Building News 3-2011 100th Edition by Master Builders Association of the ACT

EDITION 3-2011

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NCC COMPLIANCE

UNJUSTIFIABLE HARDSHIP AND ACCESSIBILITY WILL YOU BE READY...........

NEW OH&S LAWS

CARBON PRICE

CANBERRA HIT HARDEST, HOUSING ALREADY UNAFFORDABLE

DV 306

NEEDS FAIR AND REASONABLE GUIDELINES

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President – Ross Barrett Treasurer – Simon Butt Commercial Builders Council Chair – Valdis Luks Civil Contractors Council Chair – Andy Crompton

Unjustifiable Hardship

28 Charity House - Franklin The land is acquired, the plans have been drawn, and shortly construction will begin.

Changes to Accessibility requirements and how it affects your business.

Residential Builders Council Chair – Frank Porreca Professional Consultants Council Chair – Hans Sommer Suppliers & Subcontractors Council Chair – Graciete Ferreira MASTER BUILDERS MANAGEMENT TEAM Executive Director – John Miller

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

MASTER BUILDERS EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Deputy Executive Director – Jerry Howard Director Industrial Relations – Mike Baldwin Senior Management Accountant – Louise MacCallum

38 Molonglo Demonstration Precinct

The Land Development Agency (LDA) is planning a demonstration of sustainable living in Molonglo Valley.

National Award Winners

The National Conference was held recently on the Gold Coast. Two of our members received awards.

18 Canberra & the Carbon Tax Canberra, one of the worst off cities under a carbon tax.

34 Vale - John Ainsworth

Industry remembers one of our own.

Excellence in Building Awards Launch The Apartments, NewActon South Date: Thursday, 8 December 2011 The Launch of the 2012 Master Builders Excellence in Building Awards will be held at the very top of The Apartments in NewActon South. The evening will be an opportunity for invited guests to catch up with old friends and colleagues whilst overlooking some of Canberra’s most breathtaking views as the MBA officially launches the 2012 Awards and opens entries.

Master Builders Charity Golf Day Yowani Country Club Date: Monday, 20 February 2012 The Master Builders Annual Golf Day is the major social sporting event on our calendar.

100th Edition Feature We take a look at some of the headlines, people and recurring themes over the past 1oo issues.

Events Boral Charity Golf Day, Annual Dinner, Industry Dinner, Earth Awards.

20 Personal Property Securities

PPS Act delayed.

80 The Village Building Co. New projects that are in the pipeline.

Senior Manager – Marketing & Membership Services – David Leitch MASTER BUILDERS GROUP TRAINING General Manager – Wendy Tengstrom

Master Builders Association of the ACT 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2601 Tel: (02) 6247 2099 Fax: (02) 6249 8374 Email: canberra@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au Advertising enquires Senior Manager - Marketing & Membership Services – David Leitch Tel: (02) 6175 5970 Mob: 0437 379 391 Email: dleitch@mba.org.au ISSN: 1033-0143

Tee-off with friends and colleagues from the broad spectrum of the building and construction industry including the residential and commercial building sectors, subcontractors, suppliers, civil contractors, professional and Government sectors.

MBA Group Training Apprentice and Cadet Awards Ainslie Football Club Date: Monday, 30 January 2012 The Master Builders Group Training Apprentice and Cadet Awards is an opportunity for industry professionals and industry bodies to come together to support and recognise outstanding work by the current MBA Group Training apprentices and cadets.

Cover Image: Parliament House, Canberra. One of the major construction projects of the past 25 years and featured in early editions of the Canberra Building News. 5

President's Message

President of Master Builders Association of the ACT, Ross Barrett At the Master Builders Association of the ACT we can always find something to celebrate. Whether it’s the 122 years since the various builders groups in the colonies decided to federate and become the Master Builders Association, or the 87 years since the Master Builders ACT commenced, or even the 25 years since our ACT magazine published its first edition. Yes, this issue is the 100th edition of our Building News magazine and they have been rolling off the presses now for the last quarter of a century. It is a sobering thought that I have been contributing articles such as

in 2001 to $280,000n in 2011 *Australia has the world’s largest houses with the average new dwelling size for a detached house being around 250 sqm which is 50% larger than they were 25 years ago. What is “affordable” and how should it be measured? Should the measurement be ‘price point’ or ‘ability to pay’ or something different? The ‘price point’ method is transparent; any dwelling that costs less than $x is affordable. Very simple and easily

small dwellings. Our consideration of affordability shouldn’t be limited to small units or very small homes. This isn’t socially responsible. A one bedroom unit doesn’t help the average sized family and what is the community benefit if we do oversupply the market with this particular product? If price point is the answer, maybe there is a need to also consider how the affordable price point can reflect both the location of the housing and the various dwelling types. I cannot see the logic in having just one price

Australia has one of the least affordable housing markets in the world. this for almost half of that time. I occasionally use the expression “constant change is here to stay”. However, a review of the contents of the previous 99 issues of our magazine indicates that it’s more appropriate to suggest “the more things change the more they stay the same”. One issue that has always been a concern is “affordable” housing. NATSEM1, which is based at the University of Canberra, released a report recently which contained some interesting observations around the issue of affordability: *Australia has one of the least affordable housing markets in the world. *Australian house prices have moved from being affordable to severely unaffordable in just 10 years and it is being predicted by NATSEM that it will take at least another 10 years of flat house prices coupled with income growth for houses to regain an affordable status.

*First home buyers are the most housing stressed of any group with their mortgages more than doubling over the last 10 years from an average of $131,000

understood by everyone. The ‘ability to pay’ method is sometimes expressed as the proportion of income spent on housing costs with the costs being either the mortgage or the rent. On other occasions, ‘ability to pay’ is expressed as the house price to household income ratio. These different definitions can lead to some seriously curious statistics. Recently when Canberra had the second most expensive houses in Australia based on price point, we could also claim at the same time to have the most affordable housing in Australia based on ability to pay. The ACT government has adopted the price point measure as its definition, with any dwelling under about $336,000 being regarded as affordable. The Affordable Housing Action Plan was a great initiative and it has led to a lot more housing stock in the cheaper end of the market. But the consequence of this price point method over a long period, when combined with a requirement for a minimum 20% of this low monetary value stock in all new developments, is now leading to the construction of too many same type dwellings; namely too many

point when there are large differences in family requirements and household income levels across the suburbs of the ACT. Maybe we need several different price points to each reflect both the location and the dwelling type in that location; this is certainly the outcome from an individual’s ability to pay perspective. A one bedroom unit in the outer suburbs should cost less than a one bedroom in the city and a one bedroom unit anywhere in Canberra will obviously cost less than a free standing 4 bedroom home. A full range of dwellings should be available, all comparatively affordable, and therefore all being defined by different price points. The ACT government is to be commended for its untiring efforts to provide ‘affordable’ housing. However, we have now reached the point where the available stock is being concentrated in just one sector of the market, so it’s time for a new definition of ‘affordable’ for the compulsory 20% of new developments. I suspect we should be considering a combination of both price point and ability to pay in setting new affordability classifications. 1 – More detail on the NATSEM report can be found

MASTER BUILDERS ACT MULTI-AWARD WINNER

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Executive Director's Message

Executive Director of Master Builders Association of the ACT, John Miller

National Asbestos Awareness week has just concluded. It is a well meaning proposition to ensure that there is a full scale awareness of the risks associated with asbestos however the big concern about the campaign is that it is run at a very emotional level. Unleashing a concerted and intelligent commentary aimed at all levels of the community about the do’s and don’ts and the fact the fiction would be far more helpful. The ACT has been a hotbed of controversy in recent times about

always quite staggering. What we can’t change is the past – what we can fix is the future. That is why National Asbestos Awareness week needs to be much more than just an emotional ecumenical service here, or a my brush with asbestos story there. It must be about the sharing of responsibility to overcome what has happened in the past – conveying the facts. People need to know when asbestos is dangerous and when it is not. That is not generally case at the moment,

locally as well as external expertise to look more strategically at the whole issue of contamination and the potential impacts, positive and/or negative. Of course, the impacts run the gamut of social, environmental and, as is being discovered the hard way more recently, financial. This conversation is necessary if the Territory is to deal with these issues in a less ad-hoc way and without all the sideshows that occur when something unexpected happens. To put the extent

Very rarely do we get past the headline or the emotion involved to really understanding the full extent of the actual story. asbestos. Conditioned in the nature of our appetite for news, very rarely do we get past the headline or the emotion involved to really understanding the full extent of the actual story. Such is the level of emotion associated with asbestos, every time the topic hits the news it is as if everyone’s life is in peril. There is some who would want you to think that for their own gains but it’s just not the reality. It is becoming increasingly clear that Territory is facing more and more challenges in dealing with asbestos. Projects at Molonglo, Eastlake, Southwell Park, Kingston and Constitution Avenue have all been affected by contamination and mainly asbestos related. In circumstances where the contamination has been discovered later, the increased costs in dealing with the problems have hit bottom lines hard. The propensity to go in search of an easy target when asbestos hits the news is 8

particularly at a broader community level, and it won’t be until such time that selfinterest groups are weeded out and go to the table with their cash registers left at home. As an industry body we don’t resile from our responsibility to participate in the discussions. Long before I came to this role, Master Builders ACT played a significant role in putting in place arrangements to deal with asbestos awareness and training. I believe our industry and our membership has responded extremely well with at last count over 1,000 people having undertaken some form of asbestos training to deal with requirements imposed via legislation and regulation. This is not to say we can’t do more. Our most recent discussions with the ACT Government via the Economic Development Directorate have involved a proposal to bring together the key agencies, organizations and individuals

of contamination into perspective, a look at the Commonwealth-supported Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRCCARE) website reveals Australia as having well over 100,000 contaminated sites and Asia over five million. Australia’s clean up is costed at $5 billion. The costs are greater when the process of identification and clean up get out of whack. Asbestos is an issue that is not going away. It is just a matter of ensuring that there is a far more rational and intelligent debate about its dangers than goes on at the superficial level of a headline and a one week campaign orchestrated with other things in mind. We look forward to participating in that debate.

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Industrial Relations Message

Director Industrial Relations, Master Builders Association of the ACT, Mike Baldwin

Qantas, the Act and the implications for the construction industry As an IR practitioner one has more than a passing professional interest in the recent events involving Qantas and its unions. The events of late October which saw Qantas ‘lock out’ its employees, was the culmination of many months negotiation. Surprisingly for some the sticking point was not money, rather, the so called ‘job security’ clauses which are now part and parcel of any union agreement in our industry. This clause mandates that all contractors have the approval not of the employer,

in good faith. Amongst other things these provisions keep employers at the table long after useful and productive negotiations have ebbed away. They also mandate that employers give serious consideration to matters that under the old Act were statute barred. This is a far cry from ‘Workchoices’ days when the parties were only entitled to negotiate around issues that pertained directly to the employment relationship. Now unions may well say that they ought to be able to engage employers on matters outside the employment relationship and that view may have some substance. It is however entirely a different matter when the Act allows them to take protected industrial action

ability to leave a large economic imprint on the nation’s economy. This is one of the mandatory tests required to be satisfied before an employer can carry out industrial action, that is, lock out its employees. Whilst construction provides hundreds of thousands of jobs to Australians and contributes substantially to national income, I suggest that no single entity within it has the market power of a Qantas to achieve its industrial goals. This when combined with industry’s acceptance of the role of unions, predicates against a Qantas type scenario playing out in construction. In some regard this is disappointing, particularly given the nature of claims

Remember, this is industrial action which can have a highly damaging impact on the nation’s economy. but the union and furthermore, must be paid in accordance with the enterprise agreement, rather than any contractual agreement between employer and contractor. What the dispute has done is highlight several flaws in the bargaining provisions of the Act. Firstly, the absence of prohibitive content. Where previously this type of ‘job security’ clause was specifically prohibited, as was the recognition of trade union training leave and payment of union dues, all these matters are now fair game, with unions being entitled to take protected action to force employers to agree. In an industry which was recognised by the Cole Royal Commission as being dominated by thugs and stand-over merchants, such legislative weakness is indeed manna from heaven. 10

This leads me into the second weakness, namely the requirement to bargain

in furtherance of these same matters. Remember, this is industrial action which can have a highly damaging impact on the nation’s economy. Yet when the pressed on the need for reform of the Act, the Minister rebuts such criticism as being the voice of extremist employers. This is not good enough. The need for change has been self-evident for months. The Qantas dispute was merely the latest catalyst. What is needed is a robust and deeply intellectual debate from all parties (including the Opposition, whose lack of policy rigour in this arena is truly scandalous), aimed at systemic structural change designed to give much needed impetus to productivity improvement. Where does this leave the construction industry? Qantas has what most in our industry doesn’t have; market power and the

being made by the CFMEU in enterprise negotiations currently, including ‘job security’, income protection, trade union training, delegates rights, and last but not least, a 20% wage claim over the next four years. The more iniquitous aspect of the negotiations is that the claim makes no differential between all of the various skill sets in our industry. Thus a builder is confronted with the identical agreement to that of a painter, tiler, bricklayer or any other finishing trade. The question remains whether ACT construction employers, when faced with a union attempt to mandate who and where they employ people; the return of the payment of union dues; additional claims such as income protection, are in a position to fight against the tide. Perhaps only time will tell.

We know Canberra

National Construction Code (NCC) compliance and ‘unjustifiable hardship’ The new Access Provisions referenced in NCC 2011 have been the subject of considerable discussion and debate, especially when these rules are being applied to existing buildings and the associated complexities of achieving compliance. The following editorial provides a brief summary of how unjustifiable hardship can be applied for and guidance in assessing cases under unjustifiable hardship. Because the NCC will require the same levels of access as the Access Code, there will also be situations where full application of the NCC would be too onerous and equally impose an ‘unjustifiable hardship’. Because the NCC is an ‘up-front’ approval process, certifiers will be required to certify that a building fully complies with the Performance Requirements of the NCC through either meeting the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions or formulating an Alternative Solution. There is no general exception in the NCC to allow for different levels of access on the basis that full compliance would impose an unjustifiable hardship. Objective DO1 of the NCC, however, recognises that in exceptional situations full application of the NCC might be unreasonable. The NCC Guide states:

As far as is reasonable: There may be occasions when the application of a rule is ‘unreasonable’. Use of the phase ‘as far as is reasonable’ indicates that the NCC provisions are not absolute. This is consistent with the intent of the DDA (NCC DO1). Some, but not all, states and territories already have mechanisms in place that allow for appeals to vary or limit the full application of the NCC in exceptional situations. State and territory governments are considering ways to better deal with claims that the full application of the NCC would be too onerous (or result in unjustifiable hardship) through the establishment of Access Panels or similar.The ACT hasn’t as yet established such a panel.

Building certifiers and developers should contact their state/territory

building administration to find out what assistance or mechanisms exist.

Unjustifiable hardship Sections 21B and 29A of the DDA allow for an exception to the requirement to not discriminate in situations where avoiding discrimination would impose an unjustifiable hardship. The Premises Standards were subject to rigorous consultation processes and impact assessments to ensure they could be fully implemented in the widest possible of circumstances. The exemptions, concessions and limits built into the Premises Standards take account of the views expressed during consultation and the findings of the impact assessment. The Premises Standards, therefore, seek to describe the minimum level of access that must be achieved to meet the requirements of the DDA without causing unjustifiable hardship. Despite this there will, in exceptional circumstances, be some practical constraints on the extent to which compliance with the Premises Standards can be achieved. In some circumstances, it may create unjustifiable hardship to require full compliance with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of the Access Code, particularly when undertaking new work on existing buildings. If a developer and anyone else associated with a project (including a certifier) considers that full application of the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of the Access Code would result in unjustifiable hardship they could proceed with a different level of compliance. If they did proceed with a project without fully complying with the Access Code they may be subject to a DDA complaint. Retaining the provision for unjustifiable hardship as an exception under Section 4.1 of the Premises Standards provides a legal means of defending such a decision if subject to a complaint.

There is no mechanism in the DDA or the Premises Standards for anyone to give prior approval for non-compliance with any part of the Premises Standards on the ground of unjustifiable hardship. Unjustifiable hardship cannot be determined without reference to the particular facts of an individual case. It is only a court that can conclusively determine whether or not a defence of unjustifiable hardship is made out in the context of specific complaints. The lack of an ‘up-front’ certification mechanism to determine that a requirement might indeed result in unjustifiable hardship means that building certifiers and building developers may be called upon to make professional judgments in some situations where it is felt a specific requirement would impose an unjustifiable hardship. Section, 4.1(3), provides additional guidance on what factors should be considered when assessing whether or not a defence of unjustifiable hardship might be available. These factors are intended to assist both those responsible for buildings when considering the likelihood of success of a claim of unjustifiable hardship and courts in determining such claims. In considering the view of a developer that full application of the Access Code might involve an unjustifiable hardship, a building certifier is not making a formal legal determination on the issue but exercising a professional judgment on the likelihood of such a defence being successful. The factors for consideration in claims of unjustifiable hardship found in subsection 4.1(3) of the Premises Standards will assist those responsible for buildings in making decisions about the full application of the NCC in a way that is likely to be consistent with decisions arising from complaints under the DDA. Jerry Howard Deputy Executive Director

Draft Variation 306 to the Territory Plan a monster that continues to cause grief. Master Builders ACT in its most recent dialogue with ACTPLA has called for a serious review of the document with the intent of creating a fair and sensible set of guidelines. Having reviewed the document and consulted broadly with our members, we are still of the view that such a crucial document should have an independent review and the provisions within the document be tested against some clear objectives. The ultimate objective should be to develop a set of planning controls where the intent and the effect can be clearly defined and easily understood by the end users. The interim effect provisions that have applied from 3

It is likely that DV306, if implemented in its current form, will create an environment of uncertainty, continuing the culture of decision by appeal to ACAT. It is also quite likely that a large percentage of applications that were previously dealt with through the Exempt Development process in RZ1, will now end up in Merit Track due to the difficulty of satisfying the building envelope criteria now proposed in DV306. The end result being further resources required within ACTPLA to deal with Merit Track applications which were previously dealt with by the private sector. This has the potential to cause excessive

No real consideration has been given to the impact that DV306 will have on existing owner rights over the development of their property. Owners now planning to add to their existing residence will have to comply with a totally new set of rules proposed under DV306. We have modelled some designs using the building envelope criteria in DV306 and even on a perfectly flat block, it would not be possible to construct a single storey addition to an existing residence on the southern side of the property with current boundary setbacks. In a perfect world you could design residential suburbs to comply

Given that we are always led to believe that guidelines must be clear and unambiguous, this document certainly does not achieve the objective of being clear and concise June 2011 are totally unreasonable and are having a detrimental effect on the entire development industry, and our members have expressed extreme concerns that such provisions could be imposed without proper industry consultation.

Yet another confusing and complex document:

The industry is confronted with yet another complex document. Given that we are always led to believe that guidelines must be clear and unambiguous, this document certainly does not achieve the objective of being clear and concise; it is both confusing and complex in its intent. We, in the industry, still refer to the current planning system as the “new” planning system, given that it has only been in place for two years, yet we are called on again to comment on another set of documents. The industry was just coming to terms with the current planning system and had arrived at a position where we were generally comfortable with the fact that the system had incorporated some of the Development Assessment Form (DAF) key principles. Further refinement of the current system could have taken place without the need for wholesale changes as proposed in DV306.

delays as previously experienced, resulting in increased costs to industry and excessive holding charges. The negative impact of this is that these additional costs are passed on to the consumer, therefore further exacerbating the industry’s desire to deliver affordable housing. DV306 does not clearly define the outcomes that would achieve the government’s intentions, either in terms of the desired character of each residential zone or the presentation of a set of rules that represent an integrated approach to built form streetscapes and the public realm. A perfect example of this is the proposed rules being imposed in RZ2 zones which will, effectively, deny the opportunity to create medium density infill close to local centres. The sector of the industry that has delivered excellent outcomes in this zone, will no longer find it viable due to the rules contained in this document and the fact that the industry is also struggling with the recently introduced Lease Variation Charges. The MBA believes that real opportunities will be lost in this development zone if the proposal contained in DV306 is implemented. The MBA also believes there has been an over-reaction by the government to a minority group of objectors.

with the requirements contained in DV306, but at the same time, it must be acknowledged that such outcomes will require greater block sizes with wider frontages which will, ultimately, result in lesser block yield. We have also modelled some designs on current subdivisions where leases were issued under DV301/303 conditions. It was extremely difficult to satisfy the provisions contained within DV303 for a single storey residence without a minimum setback of 2m on the southern boundary. This has the potential to push designs towards the northern boundary, which will have a negative impact by reducing the open space on the northern side of the property. It has been suggested that garages can be built adjacent to the boundary on zero setback, but can also be cut into the site to minimise the potential over-shadowing on the adjacent block. This would, potentially, deliver a disastrous building outcome and would create major issues with surface water drainage and the potential for flooding in the garage. It would also require a pump in the garage to pump the stormwater if the tie connection was above the excavated level. Jerry Howard Deputy Executive Director

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CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

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Greens Amendments on ABCC Rejected Master Builders Australia rejected the Greens’ proposed amendments to the Bill currently before Parliament which would gut the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC). Wilhelm Harnisch, CEO of Master Builders said “The exercise of the ABCC powers in combating unlawful industrial behaviour has delivered sustained and substantial productivity gains to the industry and to the community. Everyone has benefitted. The Bill currently before Parliament to get rid of the ABCC and replace it with a hollow shell is misguided.

practice of coercion accounting for just on two thirds of the amount imposed during the year. The changes the Government wants will not add one jot to combat these unAustralian practices. “Remarkably, the focus of the Greens is about going a step further to dismantle an agency that is working efficiently. They are simply doing the bidding of the unions. Engaging in histrionics by labelling the work of the agency

“The Greens have also forgotten that the ABCC was formed following a Royal Commission and that the laws it administers are tailored to assist with the task of applying the same rules to the industry that are taken for granted in the rest of the community. “The Government has promised that there will always be a strong cop on the beat in the building and construction

“Remarkably, the focus of the Greens is about going a step further to dismantle an agency that is working efficiently.” The Greens amendments to the Bill, proposed today, add a layer of hysteria to the debate. They add nothing to the fundamental purposes of the agency – to restore the rule of law in the industry. The Greens want to railroad the real debate. “Sadly unlawful industrial behaviour still persists in the commercial building industry and cannot be condoned or accepted as normal. The recent release of the ABCC’s Annual Report showed that courts during the last financial year imposed more than $2.5 million in penalties with the unacceptable

‘current day McCarthyism’ masks the underlying problems of the industry. “The Australian Greens want the Australian Building & Construction Commission to be abolished and they are ignoring the benefits that its work brings to the community. The Greens have forgotten that the current legislation bolsters the rights of those who are compelled to give evidence by reinforcing their right against self-incrimination. Where you give evidence, it can’t be used against you unless you have lied.” Mr Harnisch said.

“Remarkably, the focus of the Greens is about going a step further to dismantle an agency that is working efficiently”

Wilhelm Harnisch - Chief Operating Officer, Master Builders Australia 16

industry. Master Builders believes that the Bill should be withdrawn and the ABCC should be permitted to get on with its vital work.”

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Bink Pavers is celebrating 50 years in the building and construction industry.

Bink Cement will this year celebrate 50 years of business in the Canberra and surrounding region. We believe in sustainable business practices which is why our raw materials are sourced locally and we manufacture locally. Bink Cement has the ability to supply all scale of projects from large commercial to smaller residential. We supply the building market, sand and soil yards as well as South-East NSW with our superiour products.

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CANBERRA

HARDEST HIT

BY CARBON PRICE Modelling by the University of Canberra’s NATSEM shows that on average Canberra households will be the worst off of any state or territory under the Government’s Carbon Price package. Modelling by NATSEM shows that Australian households will be an average of $2.50 per week better off under the Federal Government’s carbon package. This compares with Treasury modelling which shows that households would only be 0.20c better off. However the NATSEM modelling, which is unusual in that it can produce accurate results for relatively small groups of the population, estimates that households in the ACT and Northern Territory will on average be 0.6c a week worse off – the only state or territory where households are worse off. Other modelling prepared for Master Builders Australia by the Centre for International Economics shows the building and construction industry will suffer large losses as a result of the Federal Government’s carbon tax. The NATSEM modelling shows that gains from the Government’s compensation package range from an average of $3.40 a household in Queensland to $1.80 in Tasmania. Reflecting the ACT’s higher incomes, only 49 per cent of households will be eligible for Carbon Tax assistance compared to 69 per cent nationally. According to the study, the gains of the package are targeted towards low income households and those on government benefits. On average, all households except the richest 20 per cent are better off under the plan. “The assistance package is shown to be generous enough to provide an average net benefit to households from the current carbon price and the expected higher carbon prices up to 2015-16”, according to NATSEM Principal Research Fellow, Ben Phillips.

The NATSEM modelling confirmed that the Government household assistance package provides a buffer for low and middle income households to the cost impact of the carbon price during the initial fixed price phase of the plan. Wilhelm Harnisch, CEO of Master Builders Australia said the CIE modelling for Master Builders showed, “The reduction in construction output, relative to business-as-usual in 2020, would be likely to be of a similar order of magnitude to that projected for the mining industry. The loss in building and construction industry value added could be as high as $3.6 billion in 2020 or just over $24 billion in cumulative terms between 2013 and 2020 as a result of the introduction of a carbon tax. The modelling shows building and construction costs will increase by between 1.4 and 2.0 per cent by 2020 due to price increases in key emission-intensive inputs such as steel, aluminium, cement and glass. “The latest findings confirm earlier projections by Master Builders that the cost of a modest new house will increase by at least $5,000. This increase will come on top of recent increases in mandatory energy efficiency stringencies for new housing that has added another $10,000 burden on new home buyers to overcome,” Mr Harnisch said. “The increased cost impact of the carbon tax on new housing has been generally accepted by the Government’s own

“

households in the ACT and Northern Territory will on average be 0.6c a week worse off.

etaile modelling but what is not generally understood is the cost

de, The NATSEM modelling shows that households gain an e the average of $6.40 per week from tax cuts and $4.50 per week . from increased government payments. The carbon price impact is $8.50 per week on average for households. “The

te overall net gain to households is $2.50 per week compared

impact of the carbon tax on the broader community. “Community facilities and infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, medical centres, aged care facilities and roads are not immune from increases in construction costs whether as a result of large wage rises or a price on carbon.”

to just 20 cents in the Treasury modelling”, Mr Phillips said. A key difference between the NATSEM and Treasury modelling is that the NATSEM report used updated Australian Bureau of Statistics expenditure data for 2009-10 rather than the previous Treasury updated 2003-04 survey.

The lower carbon impacts in the NATSEM report are explained by the use of the new expenditure figures showing a decline in average household energy consumption and a change in the mix of expenditure towards lower carbon intensity expenditure items.

Mr Harnisch said, “The carbon tax is clearly a negative for the building industry. The escalating nature of the carbon tax combined with the industry’s long supply chain and low margins means that the resultant increased costs will be passed on to the consumer. There is nothing in it but pain for homebuyers and for small businesses in the building industry in particular.”

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PERSONAL PROPERTY SECURITY START-UP DELAYED. The commencement of the Personal Property Security legislation has been delayed to 30 January 2012 and may be further delayed. The legislation had been due to start on 30 October 2011.

A s was reported by On-Site Insight in September the PPS

legislation is expected to have significant implications for the building and construction industry, affecting a wide range of transactions in which builders or developers give guarantees which are not usually considered to be providing security. Under the legislation, security interests which have not been registered could be seized by creditors in the event of an insolvency, depriving the person to whom the benefit of the security has been granted. Under the PPS a new national register will be created allowing a check for debts owing on goods planned for purchase, and allowing searches and registration of security interests in personal property on a unified national register. The changes apply to any property used as security other than land or property, and include machinery, crops, intellectual property and contract rights. According to the Government, the aim of the PPS reform is to improve the ability of individuals and businesses, particularly small-to-medium size businesses, to use all their property in raising capital. At present, the rules for registering are different for Commonwealth, each state and territory because they each have their own personal property schemes with separate registers and laws. The Federal Government recently introduced legislation into Parliament amending the Personal Property Securities Act to allow the Attorney General to delay the commencement date of the PPSA, which is now scheduled to start on 30 January 2012.

According to lawyers Dibbs Barker the commencement date could be further delayed. “There may soon be scope for the commencement date to again be moved backwards by the Attorney General. It seems that any such movement will ultimately depend on the finalisation of testing of the electronic register over the next month or so, and an assessment of its potential stability at the intended ‘go live’ time.” The lawyers said, “Whilst this may be welcome news to SMEs who are only beginning to comprehend the impact of this important reform on their day to day operations, there may be frustration on the part of some larger market participants who are reaching the peak of their preparations and training for PPSA well in advance of the commencement date.” They said, “The commencement of the PPSA has previously been delayed a number of times, from an initial expected date of May 2011 to early October 2011, to 30 October 2011 to the currently envisaged commencement date. “Whilst the government has indicated that it is committed to getting to the commencement date as soon as possible, it appears to be mindful of the need to ensure that the electronic register - the centrepiece of the PPS reforms has full functionality once introduced, so that parties can transact with a high degree of certainty.”

A report by the University of Canberra’s NATSEM for AMP shows Australian house prices have moved from being affordable to severely unaffordable in the last 10 years and it will take at least another 10 years of flat house prices coupled with income growth for houses to regain an affordable status.

NSW, all states were affordable. NSW was only moderately unaffordable. By 2011, four states had moved to severely unaffordable while the ACT, Tasmania and Queensland moved to not affordable and the Northern Territory moved to moderately unaffordable. •

At the same time the Master Builders Australia told the Government’s Tax Forum that changes to stamp duties and infrastructure (‘developer’) charges are necessary to make housing more affordable. The NATSEM-AMP housing affordability study report found median house prices grew 147 per cent to $417,000 while median after-tax incomes only increased 50 per cent to $57,000 from 2001 to 2011, pushing the price to income ratio from an affordable 4.7 to a severely unaffordable 7.3 today. In 2001, more than 50 per cent of all suburbs in Australia’s five major capital cities were affordable but today only four per cent are affordable and not one of these affordable suburbs is in inner city areas, the study found. Sydney is the most expensive place to buy a house with a median price of $510,000. The ACT and Melbourne are not far behind at $485,000 and $475,000 respectively. The cheapest capital city is Hobart at $326,000, well below the second cheapest, Adelaide ($385,000). Sydney is also the least affordable capital city in Australia, with a typical home costing 8.4 times the average Sydney household income. The most affordable capital cities are Darwin (6.0) and the ACT (6.2), which have the two highest after-tax income levels of all the capitals. All capitals are considered unaffordable with Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide all severely unaffordable. The NATSEM study shows the collapse of housing affordability throughout Australia. In 2001, with the exception of

States showed that Australia was the second most expensive of these countries with a median price to income ratio of 6.1. Only Hong Kong was more unaffordable with a ratio of 11.4.

All non-capital city areas are now unaffordable. Regional NSW is the most unaffordable with house prices at 7.9 times the median income. NATSEM lead author of the report, Principal Research Fellow Ben Phillips said that unaffordable housing has become an Australia-wide issue. “Housing stress is most strongly felt by those buying a home, with 31 per cent stressed, or those renting, with 30 per cent stressed. Nearly one in 10 buyer households spend at least half their after-tax income on housing, which pushes them into the severely housing stressed category.” Other key report findings were: •

Houses are 50 per cent larger than they were 25 years ago. Australia’s average new dwelling size for a detached house is around 250 square metres. This is about 50 per cent larger than 25 years ago when the typical middle ring suburbs were established.

•

Australia has one of the least affordable housing markets in the world. The 2011 International Housing Affordability Survey conducted in Australia, Canada, Ireland, Hong Kong, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

HOUSING HAS BECOME UNAFFORDABLE SAYS UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA STUDY.

Sydney is the most housing stressed capital city. Sydney households face the most housing stress with 28 per cent spending more than 30 per cent of after-tax income on housing expenses. Perth comes in second at 23 per cent, followed by Brisbane (19 per cent), Melbourne (18 per cent), Adelaide (16 per cent), ACT/NT (17 per cent) and Hobart (13 per cent).

Master Builders Australia CEO Wilhelm Harnisch told the Tax Forum that stamp duties are a significant burden on residential home buyers and on commercial property transactions, especially for smaller businesses. In a submission to the Forum, Master Builders called, as a first step, for the abolition of stamp duty on business conveyance of real property to be followed by the abolition of stamp duty on residential property. The Master Builders also said that infrastructure (‘developer’) charges constituted a major cost for property developers which flow through to new home buyers. Master Builders has identified a number of problems with the current approach of imposing developer charges for new infrastructure. Such charges reduce housing affordability, involve a lack of transparency, and result in ‘gold plating’ and hidden cross-subsidies.

PERSONAL AND COMPANY TAX CUTS FORESHADOWED. The Federal Government used its Tax Forum in October to foreshadow a number of personal and company tax changes and implement a review of state taxes – with the potential to impact on stamp duties. Personal Tax changes

State tax changes

Treasurer Wayne Swan foreshadowed a further increase in the personal tax-free threshold (beyond the increase to $18,200 announced as part of the Carbon Price package) to $21,000 – at an unspecified future date.

The Treasurer backed a review of inefficient state taxes but ruled out funding their replacement from Commonwealth taxes.

Mr Swan said the Government’s first priority in further personal tax reform “will be to increase the tax free threshold further to at least $21,000 and remove the Low Income Tax Offset entirely. “Lifting the tax free threshold to $18,200 will free up to 1 million tax payers from having to fill in a tax return. Lifting it further to $21,000, would push this to well over 1 million people.” However he refused to put a date on when the tax-free threshold would be increased from the already announced (but not yet implemented) $18,200 level to $21,000.

Company Tax changes Mr Swan announced he was establishing a Task Force to provide an initial report in November 2011 and Final Report in March 2012 on changes to company tax arrangements which could allow companies facing a tax loss to receive a refund (clawback) – a measure to address manufacturing industry problems and the “patchwork” economy. Mr Swan also noted there were mixed views about the Government’s plan to cut the company tax rate from 30 per cent to 29 per cent – part of the measures in its Minerals Resource Rent Tax legislation currently before parliament. Mr Swan did not reaffirm that the Government will proceed with the company tax change in the form it has announced. Mr Swan foreshadowed targeted measures for assisting businesses. He said, the government will ask Board of Taxation Chairman Chris Jordan “to chair a business tax reform working group and the purpose of that business tax reform working group is to bring together business leaders, tax experts and unions that will be supported by the Treasury and what it will do is look at business tax response to a patchwork economy and, of course, how to furnished them.”

Mr Swan said there was widespread agreement about the need to reform inefficient state taxes, but this reform would not be funded from Commonwealth taxes. “There is less agreement around the room about how we would fund reform in that area. The States want access to the Commonwealth income tax base. That is not a goer from the Commonwealth perspective”, he said. Mr Swan announced that NSW Treasurer Mike Baird and his Queensland counterpart, Andrew Fraser would lead a Working Party on state tax reform. A first draft of the implementation plan would be due by the end of 2012, including a timetable for the harmonisation of payroll and land taxes. He said “We won’t be funding tax reforms through GST or through a State income tax levy. This doesn’t mean the States themselves cannot begin work on their own bases, can’t begin work on simplifying their own State tax systems.”

Superannuation changes Mr Swan foreshadowed further superannuation changes to make deferred annuities more tax effective.

Small business red tape Responding to calls to ease the red tape burden on small business, Treasurer Wayne Swan announced a joint Treasury-Australian Taxation Office effort to cut red tape. “I’ve asked Treasury and the ATO to put their heads together with the Council for Small Business to identify the best ways to reduce complexity, in the coming months,” he said.

The Master Builders Fidelity Fund was established in 2002 to protect the interests of both consumers and builders in the ACT. For Builders, the Master Builders Fidelity Fund provides financial certainty as money held by the Fund remains in the ACT. It is securely invested and used for the betterment of the ACT builders and consumers and is therefore not subjected to the vagaries of international markets and events.

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Peace of mind.

The Fidelity Fund issues Fidelity Certificates which provide consumer protection for owners of new homes and those making significant changes to homes. The Certificates protect the owner during construction and for up to six years from the date of practical completion. Master Builders members receive reduced premium rates and we also offer special discounts for volume users of the Fidelity Fund. For more information contact the Master Builders Fidelity Fund.

Go online and find the cover that is right for you. www.mba.org.au/fidelity_fund

Master Builders Fidelity Fund 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 | PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6175 5995 Fax: (02) 6257 8349 Email: mbff@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au

MASTER BUILDERS WINS AWARD MODERNISATION CASE Fair Work Australia has rejected an application by the Construction, Forestry and Mining Employees Union (CFMEU) which would have substantially increased the coverage of one of the industry’s most inflexible modern awards, the Building and Construction General On-Site Award 2010 (On-Site Award). The CFMEU’s application sought to extend the coverage of the On-Site Award on an ‘occupational basis’ to a wide range of vaguely defined ‘construction workers’ and ‘builders labourers’. This would have led to coverage conflicts with other modern awards. The application also attempted to remove limits on payment for unproductive time caused by inclement weather, the risk of which is currently fairly spread between employers and employees.

inclement weather will remain capped at 32 hours within a four week period.

In a major win for Master Builders, both aspects of the CFMEU’s application were refused, although other aspects of the application dealing with the classification of spraypainters and sandblasters and the appropriate all-purpose allowance to be paid for refractory bricklayers were accepted by Fair Work Australia. The result is that while the classification structure of the On-Site Award has been clarified, its coverage has not been expanded. Crucially, payment for lost time caused by

In essence, the trade unions’ argument is as follows: because the awards modernisation process was not intended to reduce entitlements for employees, any omission of a pre-modern award regulation must be an ‘error’, to be ‘corrected’ by carrying-over archaic terms into modern awards.

The decision is also an important rejection of repeated attempts by trade unions to vary modern awards on the basis that they were drafted by Fair Work Australia ‘in error’. In reality, the trade unions are using this ground of review under the Fair Work Act to unnecessarily expand the safety net as expressed in modern awards.

contain the same terms as relevant premodern awards is insufficient to establish … error” breaks the unnecessary ties with history. Master Builders supports award modernisation in principle and progress to date has seen the number of awards slashed from more than 1500 to around 130. But ‘modern awards’ must also live up to their name and should not be a reformatting of old practices on new stationery. Master Builders will continue to vigorously oppose attempts by unions to return to the past by carrying over each and every aspect of old awards into modern awards, a message we will be championing during the review of modern awards to be undertaken by Fair Work Australia in 2012.

The finding by Senior Deputy President Watson that just “because a modern award did not in a particular respect

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CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

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NationalUpdate CONSTRUCTION DICHOTOMY –

Government votes to increase cost of housing and Mining-driven boom versus community facilities

building sector bust

Building and construction work done rose strongly in the September quarter, but the gulf between mining-related engineering construction and the building sector is widening, according to Master Builders Australia, the peak body for the industry. Mr Peter Jones, Master Builders Australia’s Chief Economist said, “With major parts of the industry caught in the slow lane of the two speed economy, the RBA needs to cut rates further.” He said, “Today’s figures confirm evidence from Master Builders’ latest survey showing dramatic turnaround in builder sentiment as commercial and residential buildingrelated stimulus spending programs come to an end.” “The tough business environment is not being helped by volatility in the world economy and investor caution.” “The release shows that building work yet to be done and in the pipeline fell in the September quarter, confirming Master Builders’ information that builders are suffering a downturn in sales and enquiries.” “A negative growth trend is firmly established in both the residential and commercial or non-residential building sectors, with no indication that conditions will turn around without policy change.” “There was another strong increase in engineering construction work done as mega-mining projects ramp up, particularly in Western Australia during the September quarter and in Queensland the previous quarter.” “A sectoral divide has opened up in the building and construction industry, with booming engineering construction fed by the mining boom contrasting with a weak building sector caught in the slow lane of a post GFC economy struggling to transition to a private sector led recovery.”

The Federal Government with the support of the Greens have voted to increase the cost of housing and community facilities by passing the carbon tax legislation in the Senate today, according to Master Builders Australia, the peak body for the building and construction industry. Mr. Wilhelm Harnisch, CEO of Master Builders Australia said, “The new tax could not come at a worse time – there is an serious undersupply of new housing and households and new home buyers are struggling with worsening housing affordability and increased cost of living pressures - the now legislated carbon tax will only put them under more housing and cost of living stress. “Modelling by the respected independent consultants, The Centre for International Economics, CIE, confirms the Treasury’s own modelling that the cost of new housing will increase as a consequence of the carbon tax.” The CIE’s modelling expands on Treasury analysis and shows building and construction costs will increase by between 1.4 and 2.0 per cent by 2020 due to price increases in key emission-intensive inputs such as steel, aluminium, cement and glass - all key building material inputs of a new house. This means that the cost of a modest new house will increase by at least $5,000 as a result of the carbon tax. This increase will come on top of economically reckless increases in mandatory energy efficiency stringencies for new housing that has recently added another $10,000 burden on new home buyers to overcome. The carbon tax will also increase the costs of construction for hospitals and aged care facilities, as well as libraries and other community facilities. “Community facilities and public infrastructure are also not immune from a price on carbon. “There will be a direct impact on the Governments’ capacity to deliver much needed public infrastructure. Governments will be forced to either deliver less, or make households pay increased taxes and charges in response to the increased costs. ”Overall the loss in building and construction industry value added could be as high as $3.6 billion in 2020 or just over $24 billion in cumulative terms between 2013 and 2020 as a result of the introduction of a carbon tax.”

This an extract from the ATO Small Business newsletter, you should read this information if your are either of the following: •partners in a partnership •trustees or beneficiaries of a trust. Trusts need to lodge a trust tax return each year irrespective of the amount of income derived or distributions made. A trust that was a subsidiary member of a consolidated group for the full income year does not have to lodge a trust tax return.

Partnerships need to lodge an annual partnership tax return. A partnership tax return is not necessary if one of the following applies:

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Do you need to lodge a trust or partnership return?

•the partnership was a subsidiary member of a consolidated group for the full income year •we approved an application for exemption from lodging a partnership tax return •the partnership’s only income was rent, interest or dividends derived jointly (or in common) and it was not carrying on a business (each partner shows their share of the rent, interest or dividends and the associated expenses at the appropriate items on their individual tax return).

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U E S I G N F E AT

Principal Partners

Artists Impression

R AT I N G

A DA

(AUST)

ACT Government partners with the Master Builders ACT to support the Franklin Charity House. The ACT Government is pleased to partner with the Master Builders Association of the ACT and the ACT Building Industry in supporting the 2012 Franklin Charity House. The decision by the Master Builders ACT and the Land Development Agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joint charity selection committee to focus on ACT homelessness is timely, and complements the actions of ACT Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy initiatives in this area.

I commend the participating charities who are working on behalf of the disadvantaged and homeless. Their dedication and the various projects and initiatives they coordinate help to increase public awareness of many untold stories. I thank the builders, apprentices, subcontractors, and trade suppliers for their generosity in contributing to this project, and urge others who are able to participate to do so.

Katy Gallagher Chief Minister of the ACT

Supporting Partners

The selected charities have a track record in support for the homeless and are worthy recipients of community

wide support. ACT Government collaboration with ACT industry is an innovative and valuable step in combating this serious social issue.

ARTISTIC

Media Partners

CONCRETE

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

UPPER FLOOR PLAN

The Land Development Agency (LDA) is pleased to be collaborating with the Master Builders Association of the ACT on the 2012 Franklin Charity House project. The project aims to provide a high amenity, cost competitive dwelling that is released for sale at auction. The funds raised will go to charities serving ACT homelessness. Through this partnership, the LDA seeks to demonstrate the strong relationship between MBA builders, land developers, and services and materials supply partners. The 2012 Franklin Charity House Auction project’s aim is to demonstrate that good design, and efficient materials and inclusions, can deliver a quality dwelling into a competitive, cost conscious, modern market. The project is based on: • • •

good design including solar orientation, efficient use of space and light, and adaptability; sound selection of materials which maintain a balance of amenity and low lifetime cost; and inclusions that provide high efficiency ratings for energy and water appliances.

LOWER FLOOR PLAN

The charities supported in this project address important welfare concerns including: • • • • •

supporting homeless youth; meeting the housing needs of disadvantaged elder women; assisting ‘at risk’ men to return to work in the building industry; catering to the special welfare needs of displaced migrants; and caring for unsupported indigenous and disadvantaged families.

Assisting this cross section of often unseen disadvantage is of great importance to the cohesion of the ACT community. Action by the ACT business sector demonstrates a positive commitment to social responsibility by all of those involved. The LDA looks forward to being a part of this project which will involve the construction of a highly desirable property, building better partnerships with participants, supporting local charities, and providing hope for the future for the ACT homeless.

Continues over page ➢

Franklin Charity House Site Visit - 9 September 2011 ➢ Bill Leane (LDA), David Leitch (Master Builders ACT), John Miller (Master Builders ACT), Rebecca Vassarotti (YWCA Canberra), George Tanchevski (Classic Constructions) and Rob Thorman (LDA) look over plans for the Franklin Charity House on-site. 29

Image courtesy of YWCA

Image courtesy of YouthCARE

About the charities Charities

canberra menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre

YWCA are proposing to use the funds to contribute to the purchase and fit-out of two properties to meet the housing needs of elder single retired women who have insufficient superannuation savings to enter the rental market, but too much savings to be eligible for public housing. YouthCARE Canberra offers a range of services to vulnerable young people aged 12-25 who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in need of one-on one intensive support. It is proposed that funds raised by the Charity House will be used to employ a part-time, female outreach worker to complement the existing full-time, male outreach worker. Further funds will be used to provide emergency assistance to meet immediate needs such as accommodation and medical services and to purchase basic furniture and household goods to meet accommodation needs.

Inanna is a homelessness agency specialising in crisis accommodation and support for women and children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Inanna proposes to use project funds to address the issue of education support for homeless children. Children in crisis accommodation find it difficult to access education as other children do. Toora Women propose to the Charity House funds to extend opening hours for a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shelter and associated crisis support services. Toora currently experiences a case load of 70 women per month who regularly access day refuge services, but the caseload is growing. The shelter provides shower and laundry services, free meals, food parcels, crisis clothing, and access to medical, dental, and mental health support.

Canberra Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre is a down-to-earth, men-friendly community service working with the broad-ranging interests of men living in the ACT and the region. Their objective is for their clients to regain a valued place in society, including safe housing, employment and participation in social cultural and recreation activities.

For more information on this project, or to be part of this initiative contact David Leitch.

David Leitch Master Builders Association of the ACT T (02) 6175 - 5970 F (02) 6249 -8374 dleitch@mba.org.au

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Will you be ready for the new

Harmonised Work Health and Safety Laws that apply from 1 January 2012? Seminar To ensure that you are ready, the MBA will be delivering an OH&S Harmonisation Seminar on Thursday 15th December from 7.30am-9.30am at the MBA, Fyshwick. This seminar will be presented by Mark Moir, a barrister who specialises in work, health and safety prosecutions and employment law. WorkSafe ACT will also be conducting seminars. For registration details please visit WorkSafe ACT’s website: www.worksafe.act.gov.au The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 has been developed under the Inter-Governmental Agreement for Regulatory and Operational Reform in Occupational Health and Safety (IGA) to underpin the new harmonised work health and safety (WHS) framework in Australia. The harmonisation of work health and safety laws is part of the Council of Australian Governments’ National Reform Agenda aiming to reduce regulatory burdens and create a seamless national economy. The new Work Health and Safety Act approved by the ACT Legislative Assembly on 29 September 2011 will replace the Work Safety Act 2008 with effect from 01 January 2012. It will then become the principal law which provides for the health, safety and wellbeing at work of workers in the Territory. As yet, we don’t have companion regulations as agreement has not yet been reached on finalising the regulations.

•

a framework to establish a general scheme for authorisations such as licences, permits and registrations (eg for persons engaged in high risk work or users of certain plant or substances);

•

provision for consultation on work health and safety matters, participation and representation provisions;

•

provision for the resolution of work health and safety issues;

•

protection against discrimination for those who exercise or perform or seek to exercise or perform powers, functions or rights under the Act;

•

an entry permit scheme that allows authorised permit holders to inquire into suspected contraventions of work health and safety laws affecting workers who are members, or eligible to be members of the relevant union and whose interests the union is entitled to represent and consult and advise such workers about work health and safety matters;

•

provision for enforcement and compliance including a compliance role for work health and safety inspectors; and

•

regulation-making powers and administrative processes including mechanisms for improving cross-jurisdictional cooperation.

The objects of harmonising work health safety laws through a model framework are: • • • •

to protect the health and safety of workers; to improve safety outcomes in workplaces; to reduce compliance costs for business; and to improve efficiency for regulatory agencies.

The Act includes the following key elements: •

a primary duty of care requiring persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) to, so far as is reasonably practicable, ensure the health and safety of workers and others who may be affected by the carrying out of work;

•

duties of care for persons who influence the way work is carried out, as well as the integrity of products used for work;

• •

a requirement that ‘officers’ exercise ‘due diligence’ to ensure compliance; reporting requirements for ‘notifiable incidents’ such as the serious illness, injury or death of persons and dangerous incidents arising out of the conduct of a business or undertaking;

The new Act was based on recommendations made in the first and second reports of the National Review into Model Occupational Health and Safety Laws. Although many recommendations were accepted by the Workplace Relations Ministers’ Council, some were not adopted and others have been modified following a consultative processes. For that reason, the first and second reports should only be used as a guide to the policy underpinning the provisions in the Act. There is an expanded version of this document on the Master Builders Association of the ACT website: Expanded Document http://www.mba.org.au/files/view/?id=836 OHS Seminar Flyer http://www.mba.org.au/files/view/?id=839

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Vale JOHN AINSWORTH 1950 - 2011 A Turner Boy Through and Through the Information Centre and viewing platform from the top of Capital Hill to make way for the new works.

On the 11th August 2011 the Master Builders lost an industry colleague, MBA Commercial Sector Council member, friend and contributor. John Ainsworth of ABA Construction Managers was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident while returning to Canberra from a ride. Our deepest sympathies are extended to John’s family and close friends and to all of the staff at ABA Construction Managers. After attending Turner Infant and Primary School and then Canberra High, John left school in 1966 to take up a carpentry apprenticeship. His early work career was in cottage construction, mainly building and erecting hardwood frames and trusses in the then new suburbs of Aranda, Macquarie and Higgins. Not long after finishing his apprenticeship he and good mate Laurie Burton teamed up to formed Ainsworth & Burton concentrating mainly on house extensions and some new cottage construction. Ainsworth & Burton moved into commercial construction and by 1983 had started work on the New Parliament House site. Their very first contract there was to relocate 34

Having positioned themselves very well for future work on the Parliament House they entered into a sub-contract arrangement with French construction company CITRA to provide detailed carpentry works, door and door frame manufacture and installation. Following completion of their commitments at Parliament House, they formed Ainsworth Burton and Associates and later Ainsworth Burton and Associates Construction Managers which gave them the capacity to bid on larger projects as well as large scale maintenance and repair period contracts. John was known for his hard work and a hands approach to his business. If you were to have visited John at his office more than likely he would have a large set of plans spread out on his desk working the best building solution that would give him that competitive edge to win the contract. John had many great friends in the industry and one of those he associated with was Greg Spencer. Greg tells a funny story of how John and Ian Wark, a plumbing contractor became known as ‘Doom and Gloom’. One night at North’s Rugby Club, John and Ian were standing opposite each other and Laurie Burton asks Ian ‘What are you looking so sad for?’ Ian said ‘I just got a bill for $5,000.00 for work done on the house and can’t pay it’. Laurie turns to John to ask him why he was so grumpy, John replied ‘ I just gave a bloke a bill for $5,000.00 and he can’t pay it’ and from that day on they were known as Doom and Gloom. Just as he did in business he showed the same passion, enthusiasm and determination in his sport and hobbies. John had a passion for anything on

wheels – or anything that had an engine. This passion started at a young age. Over the years he was the proud owner of some exotic, powerful and fine machinery - BMWs, a Porsche and a Limited Edition Peter Brock Walkinshaw Holden, numerous boats and motorcycles. John’s love of sport started with Aussie Rules. At age 6 or 7 he and his mates played for the Turner Sub-Atoms who were coached by his father Les. He also played junior rugby for Norths until leaving school. Work commitments, a young family and building a new house slowed John’s rugby career until 1975, when he returned to Norths and played over 100 first grade games in a career lasting 12 years. After rugby John took up golf and played for many years at Yowani and then Royal Canberra. John always enjoyed his golf and no matter how bad he was playing, he would never give up or lose his temper. If he hit a bad shot he would just shrug his shoulders and smile. John loved boats and being near the water and he participated in many tag and release Marlin and Bream competitions. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, always a gentleman. Humble, gracious and thoughtful, reliable, supportive, unflappable, a loyal mate whether at work or play. John will be remember as a man who decided what he wanted to do in life and went out and did it with enthusiasm and determination.

Celebrating 10 years of outstanding service

Capital Veneering has steadily evolved over a 10 year period from a boutique veneer pressing and furniture making workshop to a large enterprise. The growth of the company has resulted in the refinement of systems and the purchase of more efficient, state of the art software and machinery. This allows Capital Veneering to fitout large scale commercial projects to agreed schedules while maintaining the high quality finish and personal service required to work in customers homes. Be sure to ask us about the impending release of our “Star Range” furniture line which includes media units & occasional tables. Visit our showroom @ Unit 3-4, 67-71 Bayldon Road Queanbeyan, NSW 2620

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ph: 02 6299 1557

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fax: 02 6299 1979

3D computer generated design and shop drawings Custom made furniture Residential joinery Corporate and government fitouts Shop & club fitouts Veneer pressing Clear lacquer and polyurethane paint finishes Personal gifts Colourback glass Corian & solid surface fabrication

email: info@capitalveneering.com.au

141 Flemington Road, Mitchell ACT 2911 Phone: 02 6241 5666 Email: sales@carpetonecanberra.com.au www.canberra.carpetone.com.au

Are Skill Shortages Affecting Your Business? It’s no secret that Canberra’s strong economy combined with low unemployment and high participation rates, along with many other factors, continues to contribute to a skills shortage in Canberra. Many other Australian jurisdictions are facing similar skills issues. The ACT Government has implemented a suite of initiatives to help combat this shortage in the medium to long term. Appropriate education and training is part of the solution, but in the short term the best solution is to attract international workers with the right skills. Skills attraction is the key objective of the ACT Government’s Live in Canberra and Skilled and Business Migration Programs, both run by the Business Development Branch of the Economic Development Directorate. The Master Builders Association of the ACT is a supporter of both of these initiatives.

Once DIAC has approved your business as a ‘sponsor’, the skilled worker you have identified as a potential employee may then apply to DIAC for the 457 visa. The average processing time for a 457 visa is four to six weeks. Under the 457 visa the sponsored employee is required to work for your business in the nominated occupation. If the employee wishes to change their place of employment, they must first find a new DIAC approved sponsor. It should be noted that a 457 visa holder is not classified as a permanent resident of Australia. Once the employee has commenced working for your business you may consider sponsoring them for permanent residence under the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS). There are some additional requirements associated with this process. The major requirements for you to consider include:

the skilled position must require qualifications equivalent to at least the Australian diploma level; and

More Canberra businesses are now considering international employment markets as a great source of skilled labour. Sponsoring a skilled worker from overseas on a temporary or permanent work visa may be the solution to your business’s skills shortages. The ACT Government can provide information in regard to this process.

the position must be a genuine, full-time vacancy available for at least two years from date of visa grant.

So what are your options?

Once the nomination is lodged with DIAC, the employee may then apply for their permanent residence visa.

If you are looking to recruit and place people in jobs quickly, your business can sponsor an overseas skilled worker for a temporary 457 work visa. The 457 visa enables fast and flexible options for recruiting skilled workers for up to four years with the possibility of transitioning in to long term employment. To utilise this visa you simply apply online to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to become an approved ‘sponsor’ then nominate the position in question. Your business will need to comply with some sponsorship obligations and there are some costs as part of this process.

Under the RSMS your nomination must be certified by the ACT Government (as the Regional Certifying Body) before the nomination is lodged with DIAC.

The employer sponsorship process is quite straightforward and could be the answer you are looking for. If you wish to explore your options further it is recommended you read the online resources available at DIAC (www.immi.gov.au) and the ACT Government’s Skilled and Business Migration Program (www.business.act.gov.au). Further information is also available from the ACT Government by contacting: Julianne O’Brien, Business Development tel: 6207 1957 I email: businessmigration@act.gov.au

“ 36

If you are looking to recruit and place people in jobs quickly, your business can sponsor an overseas skilled worker for a temporary 457 work visa.

Hong Kong Delegation visit Master Builders ACT What does the ACT building and construction industry have in common with the Hong Kong building and construction industry? Answer – “Just about everything”. This was just one of the findings during a recent visit to Canberra and Master Builders ACT by a delegation of contractors and vocational experts from the Hong Kong Building and Civil Engineering Training Board. The delegation was in Canberra at the invitation of the Australian Institute of Building (AIB) and the University of Canberra to look at the issue of training and education as well as broader industry issues. Master Builders Association of the ACT executive director, John Miller, AIB Overseas Chapter President, Robin Fardoulys, and AIB national Vice-President, Robert Whittaker hosted the group at Master Builders ACT along with local industry representatives in an exchange of ideas and issues. Paul Watson from the University of Canberra gave a presentation on the University’s building and construction management degree course content and prerequisites which included discussion on articulation, potential access by overseas students and general course content. During discussions the question was put to the delegation regarding the major issues they were facing. The response – “Getting young people into the industry, peaks and troughs in activity, training to keep up with new technologies in the industry, safety and building quality”. Mr. Peter Ng, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers and head of the delegation acknowledged the similarity of issues but noted the upsurge in activity occurring in Hong Kong at present and questioning why more Australian companies don’t consider working internationally.

Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann, vists MBA Group Training Master Builders Group Training (MBA Group Training) is one of the oldest group training bodies in Australia and offers an ideal and welltested career path for young people seeking a career in the building industry, associated trades and para-professions. MBA Group Training is a highly regarded Registered Training Organisation (RTO), currently training 300 young people for the building and construction industry. Trainees include MBA Group Training employed apprentices, trainees and cadets, Australian School Based Apprentices, and trainees registered for training with MBA Group Training and not employed by MBA Group Training. Training through MBA Group Training offers many benefits to potential apprentices and trainees because of its close links with building industry employers and its commitment to supporting its trainees in both their career and personal development. On Wednesday 10 August 2011, Ms Brodtmann met with apprentice bricklayers, students participating in the Kids Assist program as is pictured here with a class of first year carpenters and their trainer, David Penny.

The delegation also visited, Sydney and Brisbane during their Australian tour and had earlier met with Commonwealth officials whilst in Canberra.

MOLONGLO VALLEY DEMONSTRATION PRECINCT PROJECT SUMMARY Agency (LDA) is planning a demonstration of sustainable living in The Land Development

Molonglo Valley throughAgency a development of around 70 innovative small houses onlivcompact The Land Development (LDA) is planning a demonstration of sustainable blocks. The 1.6 ha development will provide an exemplar sustainable living community ing in Molonglo through the development of 60-70 innovative small houses focussed aroundValley a central parkland designed to provide space and facilities which on compact blocks. The 1.6 hectare development will provide an exemplar sustainable complement compact living. community parkland designed to solar hot water and • High efficiency appliances, The objectives ofliving the project are to:focussed around a central minimum 4 star water fixtures in all homes. provide space and facilities which complement compact living. •

Showcase design excellence for small compact low energy homes. PROJECT OBJECTIVES

•

Molonglo Demonstration Precinct project is a highly visible way for the LDA to Fill a gap in theThe market by offering housing at a price Water capture on site and low water use gardens in the not available elsewhere in Molonglo Valley and with realise its vision for a more affordable, • sustainable Canberra. The project will: parkland. low ongoing energy costs.

•

• Community facilities such as shared vegetable gardens, Help facilitate a change in industry practice through • fill a gap in theinnovation market by a price available elsewhere inthrough BBQatarea and anot playspace to be determined delivery of commercially feasible in offering housing market research and engagement with potential sustainable living.Molonglo Valley and with low ongoing energy costs, buyers. Provide opportunities for small to medium sized • facilitiate a change in industry practice through delivery of commercially feasible The precinct builds upon the sustainability measures builders to develop sustainable houses able to be innovation in sustainable living, already in place for Wright which include solar access and replicated elsewhere. setbacks, blockbuilders topography conditions, energy efficient • provide opportunities for small to medium sized to develop sustainable housing design and incentives for energy efficient heating Achieve EnviroDevelopment certification, an houses ablecoordinated to be replicated elsewhere, andand cooling and solar hot water. Home owners and environmental rating scheme by Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), for example builders have access to a sustainability advisor to provide • apply for Envirodevelopment accreditation. guidance on house design. in the area of materials.

•

Quality control though construction compliance checks, thermal imagery and air leakage testing.

• showcase design excellence for small compact low energy homes,

To meet the project objectives the LDA will maintain control of the design outcomes through development and approval of housing designs.

Design of Houses

A range of liveable, well designed and sustainable small house designs will Key sustainability features of the project will be developed through include: an architectural design competition. The competition • Maximised solar access to all homes with no will ensure a breadth of overshadowing by neighbours. design ideas for houses while • Minimum 7 star energy rating for all homes to optimise meeting affordability criteria. The best concept designs will both sustainable and affordable living. Example of compact and affordable house forms (Compass be selected for inclusion in the Houses) by Melinda Dodson Architects. precinct. • Low embodied energy and low toxic materials.

Selection of Builders

Materials and inclusions reviewed will include:

The selection process for builders will be based on the successful delivery model used in the LDA’s OwnPlace program but with a focus on design control to ensure demonstration of sustainability initiatives. The LDA will call for expressions of interest from builders in 2012 with a track record in delivering high quality, energy efficient homes. The LDA will then select builders through a contestable process that ensures value for money. Construction will be undertaken in packages of between 8-15 houses. While the LDA maintains design control, builders will have an opportunity to bring their own ideas and innovations, consistent with design and sustainability criteria.

•

Construction materials;

•

Insulation;

•

Fittings and fixtures;

•

Lighting;

•

Internal finishes;

•

Heating and cooling systems;

•

Hot water systems; and

•

Renewable energy options.

As with OwnPlace, the end purchaser will have split contracts, a land contract with the LDA and a build contract with the builder. Under this model the builder will not be required to finance land costs and may also receive progress payments, reducing the need for development funding and maximising affordability of housing in the precinct. The LDA will market the house and land packages to homebuyers with the aim of securing pre-sales.

Materials Selection An evaluation has commenced to determine the best value inclusions and materials to deliver on sustainability objectives and meet EnviroDevelopment certification. The evaluation will assess materials against a number of criteria including: •

Life cycle performance;

•

Embodied energy;

•

Toxicity;

•

Origin - to ensure that it is responsibly sourced; and

•

Cost.

The materials review will include cost estimates to allow the LDA to maximise value for money. Materials performance criteria will be incorporated into contracts with architects and builders. Examples will be provided to assist architects, builders and purchasers in determining which products meet sustainability performance requirements. Workshops will also be run with builders and purchasers to provide information on sustainability inclusions. The LDA will develop a booklet to assist homebuyers in being 7 star occupants of their 7 star houses, ensuring long term benefits to homeowner’s finances and to the environment. Through the project the LDA will realise its vision for a more sustainable and affordable Canberra. This article was supplied by the LDA’s Lea Durie and Rob Thorman. For further information, please contact: Lea Durie on tel: 6205 0477. email: lea.durie@act.gov.au

Images courtesy of Melinda Dodson Architects

➢

WorldSkills Australia aims to develop and nurture the skills of

MBA Group Training apprentice Tim Knight at the regional carpentry competitionh held at CIT Bruce.

School Based program participants

Australia’s youth. It’s purpose is to promote and build a skills culture by inspiring young people, celebrating skills excellence and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their trade and skill talent. This is achieved through competitions held on a regional, national and international level.

Carpentry competition at Bruce CIT

The regional carpentry competition for selection into WorldSkills Australia was held at CIT in Bruce on 18 October 2011. Competitors from MBA Group Training participated, with judges said to be pleased with the skills on display. MBA Group Training’s Brendan Lampard and Steve Monkhouse were on hand to provide guidance and both were confident that all competitors were displaying a level of professionalism and skill that would position them well for the future. Results of the competition will be known in December. During October and November MBA Group Training hosted the regional bricklaying segment of the WorldSkills

Australia competition at the Master Builders Skills Centre in Fyswick, ACT. A big thank you must go to Makita Power Tools and Specialty Fasteners for their support of this competition. Without the generous support of such companies these events are just not possible.

School Based program participants

Competitiors at the regional bricklaying competition at the Master Builders Skills Centre in Fyshwick, ACT. (This photo and below)

HuB-WEst Gungahlin College

years

t e r Bu i l d e

THIRLSTON FLOOR COVERINGS

45 as

TFC

Function Rooms Thoroughbred Park (Canberra Racing Club)

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

When it comes to your floor, we have it covered.

ed M e mb

We are proud to have been members of the Master Builders Association of the ACT for 45 years.

Gungahlin College

Contact Us 5 McEacharn Place (PO Box 155) Mitchell ACT 2911 T: 02 6241 3533 F: 02 6241 7515 E: thirlston@grapevine.com.au

Is your builder a Master Builder? Whether you are building a new house, renovating an existing house, adding a pergola or that extra room, make sure you use someone you can trust. Ask the Question is My Builder a Master Builder All members of the Master Builders Association of the ACT go through a thorough application process.

Master Builders Code of Conduct Members of the Master Builders Association are bound by the National Code of Practice. For a copy of the Code please contact the Master Builders Association of the ACT or visit our website.

Master Builders Support of Consumers The Master Builders provides contracts to ensure that dealings between builders and their customers are clearly set out and both parties know what to expect. Before signing a Master Builders contract or accepting a quote from a Member of the Master Builders you can contact our association for clarification on any questions you may have. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a matter of knowing who you can trust.

Master Builders Association of the ACT 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6280 9119 Fax: (02) 6249 8374 Email: canberra@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au

100 issues and counting.

42 42

100th Feature In this section we look back at the past 25 years and 100 issues of the Canberra Building News. Some headlines still remain, as do some familiar faces in the industry.

Continues next page 43

100th Feature

Industrial turmoil and the need to improve communication are the origins of the...

The first edition of the Canberra and Region Building News was published in March, 1987 by Master Builderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life member and at that time, the Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Executive Director, Bob Winnel. We asked Bob to look back to what was a very turbulent time for building and construction and set out the considered approach taken to improve the information flow to members.

In 1987 the Master Builders Association of the ACT was in the middle of industrial mayhem relating to the deregistration of the BLF. Even the then Hawke Labor Government and the Union movement itself had run out of patience with the thuggery and industrial blackmail perpetrated by the BLF. This mayhem caused the existence of Master Builders ACT to be under threat. We had an office of nine staff, six were temporaries. The residential membership was down to a mere handful and most members were not financial. The industry was run by the five largest commercial builders and deals with the BLF undermining the deregistration process were rife. In the middle of this crisis I volunteered to move in for three months, recruit staff, reorganise the office, employ a new Executive Director and stabilise the Association. It took 21 months of intense effort, including establishing the Canberra Building News. I soon realised the enormity of lawlessness facing the industry. There

was a strike on a residential highrise in Civic, the Union wanted the installation of a colour television set and phone in the cab of a tower crane, and a full time canteen on the site of 16 men. The crane driver was reputed to have bikey gang and drug ties. There was even a push to lower the maximum weight that anyone could lift on any site to 16 kilos, supposedly on the basis that this would facilitate equal employment opportunities for women on building sites.

The level of intimidation and lawlessness was intolerable. On one residential site under attack, we served Section 45D notices under the Trade Practices Act, to force concrete truck drivers to deliver concrete between 6pm and 10pm on a Friday evening on a long weekend as a picket line had interrupted the

concrete pour during the day. The level of intimidation and lawlessness was intolerable. We also faced the issue that Government was winding down from an extraordinary construction peak and the city needed to look at ways of encouraging private investment to plug the gap, as well the industry was being strangled by extraordinary workers compensation costs of around 40% with the penalties for late payment of taxes and charges like Stamp Duty were as high as 200% a day. In this environment we needed to rapidly and dramatically improve communication with our members, hence the birth of the Canberra Building News. Thankfully today the industrial scene is vastly more civilised, though we need to be vigilant to ensure that destructive lawlessness never returns. After the industrial mayhem subsided we turned our mind to more constructive issues through the Canberra Building News, such as supporting the building of a casino in

These years also saw the tailing off of an enormous construction boom which included the new Parliament House, the Hyatt and Pavilion Hotels, Tuggeranong Town Centre, the Convention Centre and the Canberra Centre. The issue was how we replace such major projects at a time of declining Government growth in the ACT. It was also a time of expansion of the Master Builders with the creation of Sector Councils to specifically

represent sub-contractors & suppliers, professional consultants, civil contractors and residential builders, expansion of our Master Builders Group Training and a move to establish our Building Information Centre. In the early years issues in the Canberra Building News included how to achieve competition with ACTEW, how to ensure an acceleration of redevelopment housing in inner Canberra and as it is today the ongoing challenge of affordable housing. It should be noted that in an edition from 1989 standard residential lots at Calwell were advertised for $22,000 per lot. Prices have risen

tenfold in just 22 years. Later in this feature some recurring themes are covered as every issue has not seen progress. Many of the goals talked about in the early editions like private sector diversification, growth of apprenticeship training, competition for ACTEW, redevelopment within the inner areas and affordable housing, require as much ongoing debate within the Master Builders and the Canberra Building News in 2011 as occurred in those early years of 1987 to 1989. We have much left to achieve.

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Canberra. Over 1500 business people demonstrated in Civic Square for the Federal Parliament to give the OK to a casino in Canberra.

Illustration: Norm Gallagher as illustrated on the cover of the 3rd edition of the Building News. 45

picture gallery.

100th Feature

We pulled out a few photos from past issues of the Canberra Building News. ry Dinner

John Harris at an Indust

ic Class ski of mall Lot v e h Tanc ard for S ing Aw org e d d Ge ieve an aw ce in Buil n a l c n ae Mich uctions re 6 Excelle tr 99 Cons g at the 1 in s u o H

Lorrain eB membe rook assistin g rs Builders of the Maste r ACT

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an ess of Urb Mick Burg recieves rs, Contracto Civil for rd a w a n a und e r ng Works ri e e Engin 1 9 9 at the 1 $2 Million . s rd Awa Building

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It seem ss the late omebody ha d a cr y eightie stal ba s. (L) F (M) the ll durin ulton M Late R g uir (We o ss Prow Ar thur stpac), Kenyon se (JB Were), (Advan St G e o (R) ce Ban rge). k - soo n to be

Master Builders ACT President, Ross Barre tt, recieves an award for Civil Engineering Works ove r $2 Million at the 1991 Building Awards.

Mystery Photo. Do you know this man?

a grilling Rick Butt gets uiterer at Fr e th from Con ards. the Building Aw

now and then.

100th Feature

We look at some of the people who have remained with the industry over the magazine’s lifetime.

Vicki Boots ne Olds working for MBA Group Training in 1992 and 2011.

Simon Butt in 1991 at the Excellence in Building Awards and Today.

Mick Burgess, Host Employer of the Year 1994 and Winning the ‘Build the Community’ Award 2011.

Ivan Juric winning House of the Year 2001, and winning House of the Year 2011.

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Former President John Hindmarsh in 1999 and at the past President’s luncheon in 2011.

Andrew Kerec at the 2000 Excellence in Building Awards and at the 2011 Awards.

Charlie Hancock at a new members evening in 1993 and judging the Neurological suite at Canberra Hospital 2011

John Haskins, first time as President in 1995 and at the past President’s luncheon in 2011.

Ray Young winning the Professional of the Year in 2001, and Chairman of the LDA, special guest President’s Lunch 2011

Brett Lentfer in 1992 winning Host Employer of the Year, and in 2011 winning the Youth Participation and Training Award at the Building Awards.

Applying for building work with the ACT Government?

You will need an IRE Application Report from an approved Auditor

Apply by December 8 for New Year Certification

From 1st January 2012 all contractors engaged to perform building work on any ACT Government site will be required to hold a current Industrial Relations Employment (IRE) Certificate.

To apply for an IRE Certificate you will need to provide an IRE Application Report from an approved Auditor. Chamberlains Law Firm is an approved auditor that can conduct the necessary checks and provide you with a valid IRE Application Report.

For more information go to our website: www.chamberlains.com.au

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100th Feature

Since the Building News began, Canberra has seen many changes. We look at some of the major construction projects completed during that time. New Parliament House 1988, May 9. The new Parliament House is opened by Queen Elizabeth II

1987

1988

1989

â&#x17E;˘

Bruce Stadium upgrade In 1990, the stadium was upgraded and the running track removed. The Canberra Raiders moved to Bruce Stadium the same year. 1990

Civic Square redevelopment Opened as the Monaro Mall in 1963, it was the first Australian three-storey, fully enclosed and air conditioned shopping centre. It was opened by the Prime Minister Robert Menzies. In 1989 it was substantially redeveloped and renamed the Canberra Centre.

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1993

1996

MBA Headquartes built on Northbourne Ave. The Master Builders ACT headquarters began construction in 1993 and remained the ACT head office for 14 years, at which time the Skills Centre in Fyshwick was opened.

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201

ASIO’s New Central Office In 2010 construction began on one of Canberra’s largest Government office buildings, the new ASIO Central Office at Russell.

GDE Duplication begins In May 2006 construction of the Gungahlin Drive Extension begins.

2001

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

RMC Duntroon Winning Project of the Year at the 1996 Building Awards,The Royal Military College’s HQ Building, Patterson’s Hall is built.

2006

National Museum of Australia. The National Museum of Australia opened on 11 March 2001. It is home to the National Historical Collection and is one of the Nation’s major cultural institutions.

2007

2010

Canberra Centre ReDevelopment In 2007 the Canberra Centre underwent a $500 million re-development.

➢ 51

100th Feature

The more things change the more they stay the same. We

look at some recurring themes that have appeared at regular intervals during the magazine’s existence. Round and round we go! Our Governments have changed, bureaucrats come and go, but some topics seem to never go away. In the early days of the Canberra Building News the first few editions were dominated by the turmoil brought on by the industrial relations scene of the late 1980s. Thankfully, things are more civil today, however most Building News magazines will include messages, advice and what’s coming up with IR. Land supply, interest rates, skills shortage, planning, sham contracting..........also ‘Housing Affordability’ or really it should read land affordability, are always a

constant. But the recurring theme we picked to feature here is the Very Fast Train (VFT). A proposal that has been around for so long it’s getting almost as ancient as Sydney’s second airport proposal. Very Fast Trains have a number of advantages which make them particularly alluring to governments. They’re fast, they create jobs, they help to boost industry and tourism and they decrease pressures on air and road transport. On the downside, nobody wants to pick up the cost and we could, in another 25 years still be talking ‘Feasibility Studies’.

For the Canberra Building News the first article was in edition 10, March 1990, on the formation of a VFT Progress Group. ‘The VFT will finally achieve one of the earliest concepts envisaged for the National Capital by linking Canberra to Melbourne to Sydney’. Then in 1997 the VFT is featured on the cover of the November edition, and inside two feature articles push the proposed east coast rail link ‘ The High Speed rail project is also back on the rails, following an important meeting between Prime Minister John Howard, ACT Chief Minister Kate Carnell and NSW Premier Bob Carr’.

In 2000, the VFT was back on the cover of the Canberra Building News with a very sleek VFT nuzzling into an integrated Canberra Airport terminal. Jumping ahead to 2010, yet another feasibility study, where the report indicates, ‘This is the latest but

And earlier this year ‘The possibility of a major infrastructure project, a High Speed Rail network linking the major eastern state cities including Canberra is back on the Federal Government’s agenda, with the completion of the first stage of the

“The VFT will finally achieve one of the earliest concepts envisaged for the National Capital by linking Canberra to Melbourne to Sydney.”

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

In 1998 the new owners of the Canberra Airport foreshadow a High Speed Train terminal in the airport redevelopment. The VFT Concept Report was completed, with the Speed Rail Consortium’s plans to build an inland route from Sydney

March 1990

to Melbourne. Trains would run at up to 350 kilometres per hour. The system would be built and operated by private enterprise. But by August that year the consortium had folded, alleging the Federal Cabinet had rejected their tax break proposals. The next year, in October, ‘Speedrail; will it be the solution to Sydney’s air traffic problems?’ Wal King of Leighton Holdings said “the $3.7 billion VFT project linking Sydney with Canberra was potentially one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Australia. The regional development that will follow such a project is absolutely enormous.”

probably the most promising in the long-running saga to develop a fast train network on the east coast, including Canberra’. ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope has welcomed the explicit inclusion of a Canberra link in the terms of reference. “While we’ve explored high-speed rail before, I believe that factors such as climate change and population growth mean that the time may now be right to embark on an infrastructure project of such significance and such promise” Mr Stanhope said.

Government-funded study of the feasibility of the project. The firststage study estimated the cost of the rail network at between $61 billion and $108 billion’. So far the consultants are the winners! To be continued......

CIVIL CONTRACTORS Proudly Servicing the Canberra Region www.cordcivil.com.au 53

WORKFORCE

WITHOUT THE ADMINISTRATION Consider the advantages of becoming a Host Employer and the benefits to you. Master Builders Group Training invoices for the actual hours the apprentice, trainee or cadet works on the job. You are not invoiced for Public holidays, annual leave, sick leave, RDO and training days. Master Builders Group Training is responsible for all administration of wages, Workers Compensation, long service leave and superannuation. Master Builders Group Training employs field officers to assist you with hosting the apprentices, trainees or cadets. If you directly employ your own apprentice Master builders can provide the training required. There are benefits for the industry including opportunities for apprentices, trainees and cadets, on site learning opportunities and contributing to skilling the future construction industry.

MBA Group Training Ltd.

1 Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick ACT 2609 I PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6280 9119 Fax: (02) 6280 9118 Email: training@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au

Industrial Relations Master Builders Association of the ACT provides a comprehensive industrial relations support service for its full financial members.

This highly regarded service includes: • all employment, award and statutory employment obligation advice • liaison with unions and other organisations • dispute resolution • representation at Industrial Relations Commission and other Court hearings • occupational health and safety advice • the development of and assistance in processing all forms of agreements • new award and wage rate information We are also able to act in matters relating to: • alleged unlawful terminations

KICKSTART EXTENSION

Commence an Australian Apprentice in a between 12/5/2010 to 12/11/2010 aged 19 you may be eligible for incentives up to Call us to find out if you are el

Call us 6241 2 www.rgt.asn info@rgt.asn

• requests for inspection of wage records, and associated issues We also provide the following publications: • Guide to Subcontracting • Modern Award Manual • Human Resources Manual For more information on our industrial relations services contact: Mike Baldwin Director Industrial Relations Phone 02 6175 5919 Fax 02 6249 8374 Email mbaldwin@mba.org.au

ed approv Now an ditor for IRE au rnment ve ACT Go iance. p Com l

“ONE STOP SHOP” FOR ALL YOUR APPRENTICESHIP NEEDS • Australian Apprenticeships Centre • Registered Training Organisation • Group Training Company

Call us 6241 2969 www.rgt.asn.au | info@rgt.asn.au

2011 National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards November 10-12 2011, Gold Coast Australia

The highly anticipated Master Builders National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards took place this year on Saturday 12 November, with success again for Master Builders Association of the ACT members, with two residential awards won on a National level. Winners from the 2011 Master Builders and Boral Excellence in Building Awards were automatically nominated by Master Builders ACT in their corresponding categories at the National Awards and we congratulate Chase Building Group and Rawson Homes.

Chase Building Group – National Project Home – $1 Million to $2 Million. The Award was given to Chase Building Group for the design and construction a family home in Forrest, with amazing views of Parliament House. The home delivers an uncomplicated style while still creating bold statements in design and construction through the quality of both the interior and the exterior. The generous size of the house allows the family to grow into the space; having their own privacy, while also allowing them to interact in the central, core areas of the house. The kitchen is a statement piece, sitting central to the family room and with an almost theatrical stage presence from which any master chef could present their own cooking show.The plentiful space allows the family and, when entertaining, their friends to work in

Chase Building Group’s General Manager, Tom Simmons (L) and Jim Giannakopoulos (R) – National Partnership Manager, ME Bank, with the National Project Home $1 Million - $2 Million. 56

different zones in the kitchen, and to do a variety of tasks without crossing over each other. The multiple outdoor entertaining spaces are a great extension of the indoor living areas. The double sided fireplace which services the family room inside the house can also be used when the family is entertaining outside the house. The outdoor pool leads up to a rumpus / entertaining space which is fully equipped with its own kitchen and bathroom, making hosting summer pool parties a breeze.

Rawson Homes – National Display Home $250,000 to $500,000. Rawson Homes entered their ‘The Chifley’ display home in the Master Builders ACT awards and the judges were very impressed with the projects immediate WOW factor. Now Rawson Homes can include National Display Home winner as the latest of accomplishment for The Chifley in 2011. The Chifley combines easily with the needs of function & style to provide a home equipped to cater for the most boisterous or private of moments. This unique and modern family home seamlessly combines indoor and outdoor living spaces, allowing one to live outside as much as inside with exceptional ease and comfort. Regional Manager of Rawson Homes, Troy McNally said “the win has been a real lift for the team, knowing that their hard work has been recognised. The Chifley is a great house that offers open living once you walk through the door and this continues to flow throughout the home.”

Rawson Group General Manager Martin Apap (L), Deborah Constable, Design and Development Manager Austral Bricks, and Rawson Homes Regional Manager ACT Troy McNally (R) with the National Display Home $250,000 $500,000 Award.

From all of

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Congratulations!

At Cbus, we recognise how hard work and determination help build long-lasting success. That’s why we’d like to congratulate Canberra Building News on reaching their 100th edition milestone.

A job well done.

Cbus’ Trustee is United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262

Events

KEEPING PACE WITH CHANGE. MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF THE ACT ANNUAL DINNER 27 OCTOBER, 2011 AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL Being prepared for and responsive to change is an everyday occurrence, so the ‘Keeping pace with change’ theme for the 2011 Master Builders Annual Dinner proved popular. The evening was well attended with some 250 members and guests enjoying the excellent food and the unique setting for the dinner, underneath ‘G’ for George at the iconic Australian War Memorial. Nine MLA’s attended, including Simon Corbell representing the Government, Senator Gary Humphries and Member for Canberra Gai Brodtmann also attended, as did Member for Monaro, John Barilaro. Leading business commentator Robert Gottliebsen, who has spent more than 30 years writing and commentating about business and investment in Australia delivered the key note address ‘What’s the changing future for Australia’. His very interesting presentation included forecasting of the urbanisation of China, how online purchases will affect the retail sector and how much money households with have left over in a post Carbon Tax environment. Master Builders Executive Director, John Miller looked at the challenges 2011 has brought to our industry and some we will need to be aware of in 2012. Mick Burgess from Urban Contractors received the ‘Build the Community Award’ for his outstanding contribution to the building and construction industry, for his support and development of apprentices and for his continuing charitable generosity to the community. There were also a number of long standing membership anniversary certificates presented. Thank you to our four sponsors of the 2011 Annual Dinner BMD Constructions, Village Building Co, Cbus and Master Builders Fidelity Fund.

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Robert Gottliebsen gave an educational and entertaining speech on change and how to embrace it.

Event Sponsors

John Barilaro, Member for Monaro and Diane Barilaro

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Lorraine Brook, Marie & Jerry Howard

Alistair McCallum, AMC Design + Management

Shane Rattenbury, Mike Baldwin, Ross Barrett

Bojana Simic (L) and Alex Wacheiski (R) of Meier Constructions

Simon Corbell, Attorney General of the ACT addresses the guests

John Miller with guests

Robert Gottliebsen

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change” – CHARLES DARWIN. 59 59

Build the Community Award. Mick Burgess is the recipient of the 2011 Build the Community Award – presented at the Master Builders ACT Annual Dinner. This award recognises the outstanding achievements and contribution to the community by a Master Builders member, giving the Association the opportunity to acknowledge the exceptional good deeds performed by the building and construction industry. Master Builders President, Ross Barrett made the presentation and this is part of his speech. “Tonight we can show our appreciation to a gentleman, a successful businessman, a family man and a man who takes great pleasure in mentoring young people starting in our industry. He is a generous community minded person who will do anything to help others, particularly in the area of landscaping and he is a 20 year member of the Master Builders Association. The ‘Build the Community’ plaque reads.......... For his outstanding contribution to the building and construction industry. For his support and development of apprentices and for his continuing charitable generosity to the community. Ladies and Gentlemen, to me, that only scratches the surface when you consider the lifetime contribution that Mick Burgess has given to the community personally and through Urban Contractors. Mick spends a vast amount of his time helping apprentices learn their trade and making sure they get the support needed to come out the other end. He mentors hundreds of children through his visits and presentations to many Canberra schools. The message Mick passes onto the kids is about life’s journey. Respect yourself and others, don’t be frightened to have a go, if you don’t enjoy what you do find something you do, it’s not about succeeding rather doing your best. Mick has literally changed the shape of Canberra with the many major landscapes he and his company, Urban Contractors, have built. Many were award winning projects.

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Mick was responsible for setting up the ACT branch of the Landscape Contractors Association. The LCA (now LNA – Landscape NSW & ACT) provide professional support to landscapers and their clients. The group has been operating for over 18 years and Mick still plays an active role in the association on a voluntary basis. He is the ACT President and has helped start another branch in Newcastle. Mick is also well known within NAWIC – the National Association of Women in Construction, as a supporter of women in the industry. He is a voluntary Board member of Family Business Australia and the ACT Coordinator of Green Roofs Australia and is very active in promoting this association. Then there are the community projects, Mick has been a prime mover in a number of voluntary landscaping projects in the ACT and Queanbeyan including a $120,000 project at Cranleigh Special School, a memorial garden at the Dialysis unit of the Canberra Hospital and the Vietnam Veterans garden in Holt. Mick teamed up with PBS and landscaped ‘Home’ in Queanbeyan which is a place for people with chronic mental illness. The impact of all this voluntary work is a saving of government money, the bringing together of communities (all of the projects have been joint efforts) and that deserving people are given beautiful landscapes to enjoy.”

Mick Burgess (left) of Urban Contractors Pty Ltd receives the ‘Build the Community Award’ from Ross Barrett, President of the Master Builders Association of the ACT.

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF THE ACT

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Events

POWERED POWERED BY BY

INDUSTRY DINNER

INCORPORATING THE CCF EARTH AWARDS

SUPPORTED SUPPORTED BY BY

1 SEPTEMBER 2011, GANDEL HALL, NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA

This years Master Builders Association of the ACT Industry Dinner was held at the National Galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gandel Hall. We were delighted that the guest speaker for the evening was Jake White, Rugby World Cup Winning Coach of the 2007 South African Springboks, and incoming ACT Brumbies coach for 2012. Jake White, appointed Springbok coach on Friday 13th February 2004, reached the pinnacle of his international coaching career by guiding South Africa to World Cup success in 2007. As well as winning the prestigious RWC the Springboks POWERED BY won the IRB Team of the year, White was named IRB Coach of the year and Bryan Habana was named IRB Player of the year for 2007.

BMD Constructions - Winner Project $5 - $20 Million

SUPPORTED BY

ChinCivil - Winner Project $1 - $5 Million Guideline ACT - Winner Project up to $1 Million

Incorporated into the Industry Dinner are the CCF Earth Awards. The Earth Awards have the specific aim of recognising outstanding work in construction and environmental excellence which reflects development and use of the best technologies and practices by Australian civil contractors. In their 18th year, the Earth Awards are the most prestigious awards in civil infrastructure including; roads, bridges, railways, marine structures and utilities that are the economic veins and arteries that link the Australian community.

Mr. Jake White at the Industry Dinner

A huge thank you must go to the major sponsor for this event, Hitachi. Without the support of generous companies like Hitachi, this eventwould not be possible.

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Events

INNOVATION VS CONVENTION Finding the Right Balance.

The Master Builders Association of the ACT was proud to host two full days of industry focused workshops in September. Experts were on hand to give advice from all areas of the building and construction industry. Master Builders ACT Involvement Master Builders Association of the ACT was proud to take a lead role in this event and to create a program for the building and construction industry and broader business community that demonstrated current information on sustainability, technical skills, and a range of niche interest areas. The Master Builders Association of the ACT once again partnered with the ACT Government for the 2011 Business in Focus Month by conducting two days of free professional development seminars. Held from 27 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 28 September 2011, the seminars, themed around Innovation Vs Convention, profiled a wide variety of topics including waterproofing, human resources, carbon tax, contract administration as well as showcasing innovative and sustainable products. The seminars were a great success with the Skills Centre in Fyshwick welcoming over 500 registrations. Master Builders ACT is committed to maintaining high standards of work and professionalism within the ACT and would like to gratefully acknowledge the ACT Government, and sponsors, Lennock VW and FAW Building Supplies, for all their support and contributions.

Master Builders viewed this event as an opportunity to provide a broad range of information sessions which were aligned with training opportunities to take account of international precedents in key areas as well as political mandates.

Thank you to our Sponsors for this event.

Master Builders recognises the importance of providing stewardship and training direction for our industry, particularly in economically turbulent times. This includes re-equipping the industry to meet the demands of an economy in recovery mode and addressing the underpinning and undiminished issues of skill deficiencies and shortages.

Changes to Accessibility Requirements

Commercial Vehicles

Master Builders Association of the ACT have produced a guide to the key issues that must now be considered in the design and modifications to existing buildings to comply with the Premises Standard. Gary Poole from Building Code Advisory Service explained the key changes and the impact that these changes will have on the industry. Gary also provided an overview on how you can claim unjustifiable hardship under the Premises Standard. E ST. 1986

Ten years of assisting the kids of Canberra

Thank you to the following sub-contractors for their assistance with this program. • • • • • • •

G & R Electrical Jim Taylor Plumbing Earth and Sun Landscaping AP&R Curtis Biajag Constructions Plus 3 Painting Altima Painting

• • • • •

Swan Bricklaying Capital Extreme Jon Carpentry Coastline Building & Construction Professional Plaster Linings

2011 Kids Assist Graduation 4 November 2011, Monash Green The 2011 Kids Assist Graduation Breakfast was held at Monash Green on Friday, November 4, 2011. 28 graduating students received their certificates for successfully completing the Kids Assist program. MBA Group Training’s Brendan Lampard, who has been involved with the program for the past six years had the MC honours and delivered a thoughtful presentation. Dr Chris Bourke MLA, Member for Ginninderra, was on hand to present the students with their Certificate of Achievement. MBA Group Training General Manager, Wendy Tengstrom and Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann cut the tenth anniversary cake and urged the graduates to use this opportunity as a pathway to success. Brendan Lampard spoke of the program now being in it’s tenth year, and thanked all those who have made it possible. Particular mention should go to the staff from PBS Homes and MBA Group Training who co-ordinate with builders and contractors to place the students, and to the many contractors who provide their valuable time to teach the students. 64

Graduating Students • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Lachlan Barrett Benjamin Fernandez Daniel Hafner Brady Schimke Travis Pahl Dylan King Logan Reis Lliam Prophet Nathan Leighton Dan Plohberger Luke Scrimshaw Ryan Williamson Nicholas Portelli Darren Ogden Jacob Budden Benjamin O’Neil Michael Smith Tenille Martins Connor Erwin Daniel Norton-Clement Matthew Carvolth Bradley Irvin Luke Hewitt Jade Van Belkom Liam McLucas Nathan Randall Geoffrey Fisher Simione Latu

Top: Dr Chris Bourke MLA, Gai Brodtmann MLA & the Graduating students. Middle: Gai Brodtmann at the cutting of the cake with MBA Group Training’s Wendy Tengstrom & Bendan Lampard. Bottom: Dr Chris Bourke with Tenille Martin, Michael Smith & Benjamin O’neil.

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

A PROVEN MODEL FOR

SUCCESS

BMD IS A NATIONAL GROUP OF COMPANIES ENGAGED IN CONSTRUCTION OF PROJECTS RANGING IN SIZE FROM $1 MILLION TO OVER $1.5 BILLION FOR THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT, TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AND RESOURCES AND ENERGY SECTORS. THE GROUP OFFERS ITS CLIENTS VERTICALLY INTEGRATED SERVICES IN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT, ENGINEERING DESIGN AND CIVIL, BUILDING, INDUSTRIAL AND LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION.

www.bmd.com.au 65

Long standing members were prese Annual Dinner, and the Industry Dinner

Tony Toscan - 35 Years

Marburg Management - 30 Years

Meier Constructions Pty Ltd 20 Years

Simenov Engineering (ACT) Pty Ltd - 20 Years

Munns Sly Moore Architects 20 Years

Kappelle - 20 Years

➢

W & M Bowman - 40 Years

Able Landscaping Pty Ltd 20 Years

➢

Annual Dinner

The CCF Earth Awards

At the Master Builder’s Annual Dinner eight long standing Master Builders (ACT) members received anniversary certificates, among whom were Tony Toscan for 35 years of membership, and W & M Bowman Constructions for their 40 years of continuous membership.

At the 2011 Industry Dinner, which also incorporates the Civil Contractor Federation Earth Awards, long standing members received their anniversary certificates. Of note was Modern Plaster which received their 50 year membership, Thirlston Floor Coverings received their 45 year certificates and Kell & Rigby and H J Bradley were presented with their 40 year certificates.

years

r Bu i l d e s te

te s a

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0 25 30 35

years

Modern Plaster - 50 Years

Iqon - 25 Years

Thirlston Floor Coverings - 45 Years

Guideline ACT - 20 Years

Kell & Rigby - 40 Years

Canberra Contractors - 20 Years

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

nted with certificates at both the incorporating the CCF Earth Awards.

40 45 50 years

Urban Contractors - 20 Years

te s a

r Bu i l d

years

Blackett Homes (Aust) - 30 Years

r Bu i l d e t e s

r Bu i l d

te s a

Rider Levett Bucknall - 20 Years

HJ Bradley - 40 Years

years

Events F CHARITY

-20

11-

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Major Sponsor

L F D AY

BORAL &

BORAL CHARITY GOLF DAY 2011 DR

26 September 2011 Murrumbidgee Country Club The 2011 Boral Charity Golf day in support of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) was a huge success. Murrumbidgee Country Club saw over 100 players competing for bragging rights, all in support of a very worthy cause. With some incredible prizes on offer in the raffle, plus with the generous support of various companies through their sponsorship of the event, over $11,ooo was raised for the foundation. The day was won by the team from Cord Civil, Robert Palombi (AC Contractors) picked up a closest to the pin award, and the boys from Brother Projects were this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best dressed team, although the Kennards Hire team looked pretty spiffy too! Tony Seesink from Boral did a great job manning the charity hole. Thanks Tony. At the end of the day players listened to a speech by Courtney, a young girl living with diabetes. Courtney gave an inspirational talk detailing how the disease has affected her and those close to her. It was an impressive display of maturity for such a young person, and the audience appreciated how difficult it must have been. It was a fantastic day all around, with great weather, fun had, and money raised for a worthy cause.

Thank you to the generous support of the following companies: Urban Contractors Colliers International Hays Construction & Property Harvey Norman Commercial Division Delta Group Boral Actew AGL Seears Workwear Canberra Sand and Gravel Rent a Fence John McGrath Ford National Fixing Concrete Colour Systems Master Builders Fidelity Fund 68

MASTER BUILDERS GROUP TRAINING

Continued learning through industry training. Master Builders Group Training provides continual learning opportunities through industry training and education services. Safe work practices within the industry are a priority with the Master Builders and expert advice is available in a range of areas including occupational health and safety requirements, industry codes of practice, education and training. The Master Builders Group Training Scheme has created significant employment opportunities throughout the industry as well as providing many employer benefits. Building Industry Training Courses are conducted throughout Canberra and the region. Contact Group Training for more information on these courses.

Industry Training Courses Master Builders Group Training offers a wide range of industry training options. All training is provided by industry experienced trainers. Many of our training programs are approved for refunds by the ACT Building and Construction Industry Training Fund Authority which reimburses up to 70% of course costs for eligible course participants, upon successful completion of the course.

Green Living Course Green Living is a two-day sustainability training program designed specifically for residential builders. The program is wholly owned by the Master Builders Association. It is a gateway program that facilitates other sustainability training options such as Home Sustainability Assessment, Energy Efficiency Rating Software (BERSPro), Sustainability Management and a host of others. It is a program that Residential Builders enjoy doing because of the information and technology that it provides access to. Green Living graduates form part of an emergent national Master Builders network and are seen as being at the cutting edge of sustainability development in the building and construction industry. Each year a ‘refresher’ program will be offered to Green Living graduates so that they can keep their skills and knowledge current. Green Living Builders will be required each year to formally report back to the Master Builders Association about ways they have utilised their training in day-to-day building and construction activities to ensure their status is maintained.

Diploma & Cert IV Building & Construction Master Builders Group Training provides training for tradespeople to obtain their Certificate IV Building and Construction (Building). This program is the first step towards becoming a licenced builder. Prerequisite Qualifications for residential / commercial builders licences: • •

Certificate IV in Building & Construction Diploma & Advanced Diploma

Industry Based Short Courses Master Builders Group Training offers a variety of Industry Based short courses & qualifications plus licensing courses including: • • • • •

ACT Construction Induction Card Asbestos Awareness Traffic Control Restricted Height Scaffold Explosive Power Tools

Safenet also operate from the Master Builders Group Training offices and offer the following Industry

Master Builders Group Training Ltd Address: 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Postal Address: PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6280 9119 Fax: (02) 6280 9118 Email: training@mba.org.au

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

TRADIES TUNE UP WITH OZHELP The OzHelp Foundation is a mental health support organisation for the building and construction industry, whose focus is the prevention of suicide. This is done through early intervention support and training that instils social capabilities and life skills in people within the workplace. TRADIES TUNE UP The Tradies Tune Up program was developed by OzHelp in response to poorer than average health outcomes, increased mortality rates, disability, and serious chronic disease amongst industry members. The Tradies Tune Up program provides workers with a quick health assessment while on the worksite. These health checks or ‘Tune Ups’, are conducted inside a mobile van, and take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Each worker is provided with information on the following areas: • • • • • • • • • •

Cholesterol check Blood pressure check Blood glucose check Weight measurement Waist measurement Depression awareness Stress awareness Nutrition check Alcohol consumption Smoking dependence

Each participant receives a wallet card stating their results against ‘normal’ or ‘healthy’ levels, and is given recommendations by a Registered Nurse (RN) about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Health brochures providing more information on each check are also available to participants, as well as information on other major health issues. Recognised for its practical approach to health promotion, the Tradies Tune Up program has consistently received positive feedback from all who have participated. This has also been acknowledged through the receipt of two ACT Health Promotion Awards for Outstanding achievement to promote health and wellbeing in settings and Outstanding innovation in health promotion. HARDHAT CHATS In partnership with Manteena, through funding from the ACT Health Promotion Grants, OzHelp is currently developing a series of 10-15 minute presentations on a range of physical and mental health issues. These Hardhat Chats will soon be available for delivery during toolbox talks, team meetings and OzConnect BBQ events.

FAOZHELP (1300 694 357) or For more information about the OzHelp Foundation and the Tradies Tune Up program or to book a Tune Up event for your workplace, please call 1300 OZHELP (1300 694 357) or send an email to info@ozhelp.org.au

The recent boom in the Canberra construction industry has seen an increase in the number of local workers who are required to work outdoors for part or most of the day. Outdoor workers receive 5 to 10 times more ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure yearly than indoor workers placing them at a higher than average risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma.

It may not come as a surprise to hear that the most common cause of compensated cancer claims in Australia is skin cancer/UV exposure. Over the years there have also been several legal cases in favour of workers with occupational skin cancer. In 2010 a six- figure payout was given to a widow in Queensland after her husband died from skin cancer. This Queensland WorkCover claim is considered a landmark decision because there had been few payouts of this magnitude for melanoma in Queensland.

“Close to 70% of Australians who die from skin cancer are men” OH&S legislation has a clear objective to prevent illness and injury at work and saving lives. ACT employers must take all reasonably practicable steps to protect their workers from foreseeable harm, including over-exposure to UVR. ACT workers also have a responsibility to take care of their own health and wellbeing and must cooperate with their employer’s efforts to improve workplace health and safety standards. All ACT workers who spend time working in the sun should follow workplace sun protection policies and procedures, attend training and information sessions, follow instructions and advice provided, and use supplied personal protective equipment (PPE) in the appropriate manner. Skin cancer rates are higher in men than women, with two in three Australian men experiencing some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. And whilst effective sun protection behaviour will minimise the risk of skin cancer at any age it is applied, it is vital that younger workers entering the workforce develop and maintain healthy attitudes and behaviour around skin cancer prevention. Positive attitudes and behaviour must be reinforced and supported by senior workers and management.

The good news is that skin cancer is one of the few almost totally preventable cancers, ACT workers should be educated around not only prevention, but also the importance of knowing their skin and what to look for, including what to do if they notice a suspicious spot or have any skin cancer concerns.

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Occupational Skin Cancer. reducing the risk in your workplace!

Cancer Council Australia recommends all outdoor workplaces have a comprehensive UV protection program in place that includes: •

Periodic risk assessments

•

Introduction and maintenance of UV protective measures

•

Worker training and awareness

•

Development and implementation of a written policy

•

Monitoring process to determine the effectiveness of the program

Cancer Council ACT can provide local workplaces with resources to help keep skin cancer prevention and awareness high on its work health and safety agenda.

Exclusive summer offer for Master Builders ACT members To mark the beginning of summer Cancer Council ACT has two exclusive offers for all Master Builders ACT members. •

Complete and return a SunSmart Workplace Information Session booking before the end of 2011 and pay just $249 (normally $350)

•

Order a SunSmart Outdoor Workplace Kit before the end of 2011 and pay nothing (normally $40)

For more information, visit Cancer Council ACT at: www.actcancer.org/sun-smart/outdoor-workers.aspx phone 6257 9999 or email david.wild@actcancer.org

THE

BOTTOM LINE John Runko is the Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Property Group. He started with the company in 1986 as a salesman and has worked his way through the company structure to his current position. John’s sales results were always outstanding, but it was his strategic planning abilities that ultimately enabled him to reach the top of his profession. John has always been very heavily involved in the sales and marketing of both new homes and developments and has worked very closely over the years with many of Canberra’s most prominent builders and developers. He has been responsible for many of the developments that Independent Group has successfully marketed and taken these projects all the way from the conceptual stage through to marketing and ultimately construction. John has kindly agreed to answer this edition’s Bottom Line questions. WHAT ARE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHANGES YOU HAVE SEEN IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY DURING YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN THE CANBERRA MARKET? The real estate industry has changed significantly during my 25+ years in the Canberra market. Technology and the internet have changed the way we communicate and access information in ways that most people would never have dreamed of in the mid 1980s. This has empowered the consumer and significantly elevated the level of service and professionalism throughout the property sector. The other significant factor that has changed is the way we have embraced apartment living over that time. With urban renewal we have seen a change in aspirational lifestyles and many people swapping the dream of a quarter acre block in the suburbs for the convenience of low maintenance apartment living close to the city or town centres where they can walk or ride to work. CANBERRA HAS SEEN SOME INTERESTING NUMBERS IN RECENT TIMES. WE HAVE HAD A SITUATION WHERE POPULATION WAS AT ONE STAGE GROWING FASTER THAN THE NATIONAL AVERAGE, UNEMPLOYMENT RISING AND CONTINUED TIGHTNESS IN RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION VACANCY RATES. HOW DO YOU MAKE SENSE OF SOME OF THIS AND HOW DOES IT TRANSLATE IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET? It can be quite confusing at times trying to make sense of the ever increasing amounts of data that are published about the Canberra property market. The numbers that tell the story at the moment are these. ‘2300’, which is the number of properties being actively marketed each week. This is the highest number that I can ever recall, and to put that into perspective, we were at about 900 properties a little over 12 months ago. I would consider a ‘balanced market’ at about 1400 to 1500 properties advertised each week. The other number of interest is 0.4%. That is our current vacancy rate. This tells us that the rental market is incredibly tight and will put huge pressure on affordable accommodation. So we have an oversupply of properties for sale, and nowhere near enough 72 72

properties to rent. When you look at our continued population growth, and our strong employment numbers, it simply tells me we have a lack of confidence in the market. The underlying fundamentals are still strong, but people are uncertain about the economy and in uncertain times they simply sit on their hands and do nothing, which is not what our economy or the supply of rental housing needs in the current environment. THE INDICATIVE LAND RELEASE PROGRAM SUGGESTS 18,500 DWELLING SITES TO BE AVAILABLE TO THE MARKET OVER THE NEXT FOUR FINANCIAL YEARS FROM 2011/12 UNTIL 2014/15. DO YOU THINK THIS IS A REALISTIC NUMBER AND IS THE MIX RIGHT? Given the slowdown in demand from the current market I think these numbers are probably at the top end of what will be required over the next few years. Trying to predict the exact amount of land required for Canberra four years ahead is no easy task, but what is critical is having the land available and ready to be released if the demand is there. As for the mix, I think we need to listen to what the market is calling out for, and that is the capacity to deliver different types of accommodation in the areas people want to live, and a big chunk of that demand is not in the greenfield areas, it is in the infill areas. TWO MAJOR ACT GOVERNMENT DECISIONS ARE CAUSING SOME CONCERNS FOR INDUSTRY AND TOGETHER COULD CONSPIRE TO LARGELY KNOCK OUT THE ASPIRATIONAL AND, MANY WOULD SAY, SENSIBLE PURSUIT TO ADD GREATER DENSITY TO THE CITY. THE TWO MATTERS ARE THE LEASE VARIATION CHARGE AND THE CHANGES PROPOSED THROUGH DRAFT VARIATION 306. WHAT IMPACTS CAN YOU SEE, IF ANY, IN TERMS OF IMPACTS ON THE LOCAL MARKET AND GENERAL LEVELS OF ACTIVITY? There is a large section of the market that wants to be able to buy new properties in small to medium sized developments in infill areas. In their current format, the combined effects of DV306, and the massive increase in development costs effected within the new Lease Variation Charge will all but kill small scale residential development within the City and Town Centres and within Canberra’s inner area suburbs. I will also go one step further and say I struggle to see how the Government will ever meet their widely promoted goal of 50% of new development to be in urban renewal areas when they are increasing taxes and making that development much more expensive and the planning requirements more and more restrictive.

GLOBAL FINANCIAL MARKETS ARE AGAIN BEING SHAKEN UP BY EVENTS IN THE USA AND SPECULATION ABOUT THE FINANCIAL STABILITY OF PLACES LIKE GREECE, ITALY AND PORTUGAL. HOW MUCH IMPACT IS THIS HAVING ON THE LOCAL MARKET IN TERMS OF CONFIDENCE AT BOTH THE CONSUMER AND DEVELOPER LEVEL AND DO YOU SEE AN END IN SIGHT? The sovereign debt issue in Europe may seem like a world away, but it does have an impact on our local market. Firstly it has an impact on global economic conditions which have a direct impact on the Australian economy as a whole. Based on this, our Federal Government (who are still searching for that elusive budget surplus) are likely to make economic decisions that will effect Canberra more than other cities. This in turn drives local confidence in a big way, which is why Canberra also did so well throughout the GFC. Developers are also affected as they need a confident market to ensure they have enough buyers in place to be able to fund their developments. An end in sight ?? My crystal ball seems a little foggy today.

T H E AT R E S T Y L E

BOARDROOM STYLE

CLASSROOM STYLE

T E C H N O LO GY

TAX REVIEWS ARE GOING ON BOTH AT COMMONWEALTH AND STATE AND TERRITORY LEVELS. WHAT SUGGESTIONS WOULD YOU HAVE TO DECISIONS MAKERS AROUND CONVEYANCING AND STAMP DUTY? If you consider that rental vacancy rates in most Australian capital cities are sitting at around 1% or less, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to see that we don’t have anywhere near enough rental accommodation to meet our current population demand. What we actually need is to encourage development of more suitable rental properties, and ensure that investors have enough incentive to buy those properties so that we can actually ease rental demand. The bottom line is that any review of tax or stamp duty that discourages investors from buying property would be an absolute disaster at a time when exactly the opposite action is what is required.

When you need room for a business meeting or a training program, there is always a professional solution in the Master Builders ACT training facility located next to the DFO in Fyshwick. We offer rooms of various sizes, from comfortable one-on-one interview rooms, training and meeting rooms accommodating up to 60 people, or for that very special meeting the Master Builders ACT Boardroom is also available for hire. Your guests will not have to find or pay for parking as our site has 120 free car parking spaces. With flexible room lay-outs and seating arrangements, choose classroom, theatre or boardroom style. The dedicated Master Builders staff are trained to ensure your event is a success.

For further information contact, Master Builders Group Training - (02) 6280 9119

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

MULTI-PURPOSE TRAINING & MEETING FACILITIES, TAILORED FOR YOU… AND NEAR YOU!

MBA Group Training

Certificate III in

Waterproofing Master Builders ACT has put quiet a focus on the outcomes of failed waterproofing in a number of recent publications. As a result MBA Group Training received enquires from a number of parties interested in obtaining training at the Certificate III level in waterproofing. The MBA Group Training hosted the waterproofing course on 18 – 21 July which was presented by Kevin Donovan from the Australian Institute of Waterproofing. Kevin has had over 30 years experience in water proofing in the construction industry and is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing. 12 participants attended the course over the four day period which covered procedures and the products used for internal, external, below ground and remedial waterproofing. Kevin first started with instilling in

participants the important principal of incorporating barrier, drainage and diversion design features to prevent water ingress in the structure in regards to all three of the above mentioned areas. Participants not only received extensive training on the requirements of the referenced AS 3740 – 2010 for the water proofing of internal wet areas but also the importance of understanding and applying products in accordance with manufacturers specifications. For example applying the correct wet film thickness of a liquid membrane to achieve the correct dry film thickness required to achieve maximum performance of the product. The required thickness of wet film application differs between solvent and non-solvent based product due to a difference in evaporation rates. The maximum performance of a product also relies heavily on adhering to manufacturer’s requirements for priming of substrates prior to application and curing times of the product. The external water proofing section of the course saw participants gaining further knowledge of design principals including expansion and control joints and an introduction to the use of sheet membranes.

They were also advised of the requirements of AS 4654.2 Part 2 for design and application of water proofing above ground level. AS 4654.2 Water proofing membrane systems for exterior use – Above ground Part 2 Design and installation, will be a referenced Australian Standard under the 2012 edition of the National Construction Code and will be required reading in relation to balconies and parapet details. The below ground and remedial sections of the course was most informative with participants being exposed to a range of issues associated with theses areas and again focus was on choosing the correct product for the application. All participants were exposed and tested on the application of liquid and bitumen sheet products supplied by Parchem. The participants were also treated to instruction on the application of these products from Parchem representatives Geoff Owen and Brett Laudess. Whilst there is currently no requirement to hold a water proofing license in the ACT the qualification obtained at this level satisfies the requirement to obtain a license in the NSW jurisdiction. If you hold a trade certificate or have had experience in the application of waterproofing membranes and are interested in attending this course please contact: Norma Inglis at MBA Group Training Tel: (02) 6175 5960 for further details.

Alistair McCallum

In the Picture

DIRECTOR AMC DESIGN + MANAGEMENT

People we’re watching today.

Chris Cairns

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL

Colliers International has appointed former NZ cricket captain Chris Cairns to its residential team in Canberra. After 17 years as an international cricketer Chris held the position of corporate brand ambassador as well as prominent media positions within international broadcasters and print publications, and most recently marketing and public relations roles. “The opportunity arose for me to secure a position with Colliers International and I am delighted to be involved with such a great company. Throughout my sporting and post sporting careers I have had an association with people and I feel within this industry it is a transfer of these skills that will equip me well,” said Chris.

Tony Holland CEO, OZHELP

Tony Holland has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer at The OzHelp Foundation. Tony has previously worked as CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, in addition to accounting roles within local government and the independent schools system. Together with his expertise in financial management, Tony also has strengths in organisational development and expansion, and is passionate about working for a company that has a positive influence on people and their wellbeing

David Papps DIRECTOR GENERAL. ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTORATE David has worked for the ACT Government since his appointment as inaugural Chief Executive of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water in 2009. Following the review of the ACT Public Service, David was appointed as the Director-General of the Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate and subsequently the ACT Chief Planning Executive.

2011 has been a rewarding year for Alastair MacCallum, founding Director of AMC Design + Management with the company receiving awards for Commercial, Residential, Heritage and Affordable Housing design at the Master Builders awards, and RAIA as well as winning the prestigious ACT PCA Property Business Of The Year Award. After completing his architecture degree at the University of NSW in 1991, Alastair moved to Canberra seeking career opportunities and has never looked back. AMC was established in 2000 by Alastair, and his business partner David Cook, and a decade on has blossomed into one of Canberra’s most successful locally grown architectural practices delivering a broad range of significant commercial, residential, institutional and government projects in Canberra and across Australia.

Bob Neill THE ACT COMMISSIONER FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT Mr Robert Neil was appointed to the position of Commissioner for the Environment for six months commencing 7 September 2011. He has been a leader and advocate in the areas of environment protection, water resource management, heritage and tree protection. The Master Builders has called on Mr Neil on numerous occasions to help resolve complex onsite environmental issues for our members.

Robson Environmental OPEN NEW OFFICE IN FYSHWICK

Having outgrown their Lyell Street office Robson Environmental has relocated to a larger space at 140 Gladstone Street Fyshwick. On 3 November Anne & John Robson held a cocktail function to show industry colleagues their new facilities. In the picture – Anne Robson shows ACT Work Safety Commissioner Mark McCabe the new Laboratory facilities where the Robson assessors test potentially hazardous materials. 75

Landscaping - Before Building - Part 2 Now the building is finished and you have saved what trees, plants, rocks and soil you can it is time to re-make the landscape. In the past this has been a matter of just leveling the clay, planting a few diosma, nandina and agapanthus and throwing a bit of mulch on top. However, by spending a little extra time and money now you will make the landscape much more successful, will be able to charge more and will enhance your ‘green’ reputation in the Canberra community.

The websites below will help you select plants suitable for use in Canberra and surrounding regions. The first has been developed by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects with the help of a grant from the ACT Government and the second was developed by a group of qualified and dedicated volunteers with the guidance and help of ACTSmart.

By spending a little extra time and money now, you will make the landscape much more successful. An attractive and thoughtful landscape can increase the value of a house by 10% to 15% so put that into your sale price and see the difference it can make! A Landscape Architect or Designer can make a real difference here and a sketch plan is cheap compared to the value they will add to the final sale price of the house. Once you have the plan it is easy to use a sub-contractor to do the work as you won’t have to be checking what they are doing – they can just follow the plan. After you have cleaned the site and established the final levels, get the bobcat driver to rip the ground (this is very important for planting ease and success), spread the top soil and place the rocks before they go. If there are large plants they could also dig the holes and place them.

Great new plants to use are:

7676

•

Westringia ‘Aussie Box’ is a drought and frost tolerant replacement for Japanese box. It grows fast, forms a tidy, ball shape and has light mauve flowers

•

Poa poiformis ‘Kingsdale’ is a clump forming perennial with fine, blue green grass-like leaves requiring pruning once a year. It is drought and frost tolerant and will handle exposed, windy positions

•

Callistemon viminalis ‘Slim’ is a tough, screening plant or hedge for narrow spaces. It tolerates, frost, drought and takes full sun to part shade

www.aila.org.au/canberragarden/creating/inspiration.htm http://plantselector.thinkwater.act.gov.au

Contact Easycare Landscapes on ph: 6257 8122 or email: info@easycare.com.au Our qualified and experienced Horticulturists, Landscapers and Landscape Architects can advise, build, design and/or maintain your landscapes for you so you can focus on what you do best! The finished product will be completed on time, will be good for the environment, within budget and will enhance your building and reputation.

huMan resources Manual The Building and Construction industry is extremely complex. Not only do employers need to contend with the complicated process of building and its numerous laws and regulations, but they are responsible for the day to day management of their employees. People management is a job in itself, and no employer can be fully prepared for every workplace relations issue that may arise. That’s why Master Builders Association of the ACT has created this Human Resources Manual. The manual has been designed to arm members with the resources and required knowledge to deal with everyday situations that may arise in the workplace. • Federal Government’s Industrial Relations Changes • Recruitment • Induction • Record keeping • Discrimination and Bullying in the Workplace • Dealing with Unions • Performance Management • Discipline and Termination of Employment • Drug and Alcohol Policy

Master Builders Association of the ACT

HUMAN RESOURCES MANUAL For employers in the building and construction industry

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CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Master Builders association of the act

Ky - SolvemPres tor Ho D Rireecgal

Master Builders Association of the ACT 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 PO Box 1211, Fyswick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6247 2099 Fax: (02) 6249 8374 Email: canberra@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au

MASTER BUILDERS

2012 CORPORATE DIARY ONLY

$55.00 ORDER YOURS TODAY

size for The perfect iPad holding an

Master Builders Association of the ACT 1 Iron Knob St, Fyshwick ACT 2609 PO Box 1211, Fyshwick ACT 2609 Tel: (02) 6247 2099 Fax: (02) 6249 8374 Email: canberra@mba.org.au Web: www.mba.org.au

MEMBERS DON’T PAY FULL PRICE As a member of Master Builders Association of the ACT you are entitled to a range of trade discounts associated with some of our Corporate Partners. These discounts can save your business a fortune, adding even more value to your membership.

Master Builders Group Training

Health Insurance

Group Training provides training in a range of courses from the OH&S Induction card to Builders Licence and Asbestos Removal. These courses are offered to members at a discounted price.

Join Master Builders/nib corporate health plan and avoid the usual two and six month waiting periods to claim* on:

Master Builders Group Training 02 6280 9119

• General • Physio • Remedial Massage

• Optical • Chiro • Acupuncture

nib – 1800 816 692 *Conditions apply Workwear & Safety Equipment

Recruitment Services

10% discount to Master Builders members on standard terms of business

10% off most products in store. Seears Workwear 02 6280 4111

Hays Construction and Property 02 6230 5142

Telecommunications

Fleet Discounts

Save 20–30% on mobile phone calls and 5% on home or office phone calls, with the Master Builders/Telstra phone deal. Telstra – 1300 881 372

John McGrath Ford Phillip - 02 6122 2222 Belconnen - 02 6256 2300 Mitchell - 02 6201 1800 Isuzu Ute - 02 6166 1111 Electrical, Bathroom and Plumbing Supplies Harvey Norman Commercial Division 02 6202 2000

Car Detailing Service

10% off on Extreme or Full Valet carwash for Master Builders Members. Find your voucher at www.mba.org.au to use at Braddon or Gungahlin. Waves Carwash -

Braddon 02 6247 0443 Gungahlin 02 6262 3955

Safety and Environmental Support

10% discount on systems, training, auditing and compliance. Matrix National Group - 02 6239 7322

nib When using services of our Corporate Partners please identify yourself as a member of Master Builders Association of the ACT and quote your membership number. 78

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Volkswagen Driver Experience Volkswagen puts on a day of skids, spins and screeching tyres on the Gold Coast. www.volkswagenaustralia.com.au/drivingexperience August 2011, Volkswagen Driver Training Centre, Norwell, Queensland

A few lucky Lennock VW clients, including Master Builders member Damien O’Halloran (pictured above left with George Mikalis from Lennock VW) flew to exclusive opportunity to discover the unique features and benefits of the Volkswagen range in one exciting setting. Available for the experience are the new BlueMotion vehicles, the impressive new Touareg, and the Passat CC, plus one or two new model previews. The People Mover & Commercial range including the Amarok will be on hand plus many more from the Volkswagen collection. This is one of the Region’s premier performance driving centres, equipped with facilities regarded as being second to none, including: •

2km training circuit

•

Skid pan

•

Reverse driving obstacle course

•

Mini Rally track

•

An off-road, four wheel drive training course

•

Mechanical Turntable (used to simulate oversteer)

While it provides an ideal and safe environment for guests to develop their driving ability, it can offer so much more than just Driver Training.

VILLAGE BUILDING AS BUSY AS EVER! Village Building has been providing homes for the people of ACT, NSW and Queensland for over 23 years. Our aim is to be the leader in affordable housing, putting more people into their homes at a price they can afford whilst developing innovative housing products and sustainable communities. Village Building’s commitment to both affordability and environmental sustainability has been recognised by industry groups, most recently, as the winner of the 2011 Affordable Home of the Year at the HIA – CSR ACT/Southern NSW Housing Awards. This is the fourth consecutive year Village has received this award.

Since work first started on “Brindabella at Macgregor” in early 2007, the estate has proven popular with first home buyers, with over 1100 homes sold to date. Brindabella estate continues to attract young families, who are enticed by the affordable nature of the development and the appeal of a master-planned estate with maturing public open spaces, walking trails and playgrounds. Located close to schools, shopping centres and public transport, the estate has been developed along environmentally sustainable design principles.

Each Village Building community offers a range of living options to accommodate various lifestyle choices and needs. From apartments and townhouses to seniors living

Nexus in Franklin – The Centre of Everything Nexus is located on Flemington Road in Franklin and is being developed as a vibrant urban environment. Nexus will provide 110 new homes to the increasing population of Gungahlin, which has been identified by Australian Property Investor (May 2011) as one of the top 10 suburbs for investment potential in Australia. The Nexus development comprises 1 and 2 bedroom apartments some with ensuites, while others will include a study. The project consists of 4 buildings with open community space throughout the development and underground parking. Close to shops, restaurants and with easy access to public transport, Nexus is centred on living. The Fair at Watson – Live in the City’s backyard

and family sized homes, we provide a myriad of choices. Our master-planned communities include green open spaces incorporating parks, playgrounds walking trails and bike paths. We aim to create living environments that provide opportunities for our residents to interact socially resulting in strong, vibrant communities. We target sites located in close proximity to public transport, providing easy access to shopping and employment centres for our residents and helping reduce the carbon footprint. Affordable living doesn’t stop with the initial purchase price of a home. Typical inclusions are native, low-maintenance and water wise landscaping, passive solar orientation, energy and water efficient fixtures and fittings, solar hot water services, and photovoltaic arrays in apartment buildings which ease the ongoing costs of owning a home. Project by project, predominantly but not always, in the affordable market segment, Village Building is providing housing that better meets people’s needs and contributes to a more sustainable urban and social form. Village Building currently has four ongoing projects in Canberra that offer a range of housing and investment options. Brindabella at Macgregor, Village Building’s flagship for first home buyers Nestled at the foot of the Brindabella’s is one of Canberra’s fastest selling award winning communities and Village Building’s flagship development. 80

Located in Canberra’s popular Inner North, The Fair is a unique master planned community which has proven popular with Canberra’s first home buyers and investors alike. The development, consisting of a range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments is just 7km from the heart of Civic. Adjacent to the beautiful Mount Majura Nature Reserve and minutes from shops and restaurants, The Fair offers an active and social lifestyle. The development will ultimately provide 316 affordable houses in the highly desirable urban location in the inner North of Canberra, consistent with the ACT Government’s housing affordability and sustainability objectives for the site. There are still some great apartments available for sale at this unique location Broadview at Ngunnawal – Elevate your lifestyle Broadview is Gungahlin’s newest masterplanned community, located in Ngunnawal, just 4kms from the thriving Gungahlin town centre with shops, restaurants, cafes and community amenities close by. On completion, the community will consist of a diverse range of housing products including a variety of custom homes, courtyard homes, villas and duplexes. As with all Village Building communities, Broadview will include green open spaces, parklands, cycle ways and walking trails.

Building Better Communities Village Building is one of the leaders in providing affordable housing for the people of the ACT with a strong focus on developing sustainable communities. New homes for sale NOW in Watson, Franklin, Macgregor and Ngunnawal!

Artist Impression

CANBERRA BUILDING NEWS EDITION 3 - 2011

Village Building

Artist Impression

6242 5999

VillageBuilding.com.au

Tuesday 12 July Sponsored by Independent Property Group

Valdis Luks Meredith Hunter MLA John Runko

Acting President, Master Builders Association of the ACT The ACT Greens Chief Executive Officer, Independent Property Group

Tuesday 6 September Sponsored by CIC Australia

Ross Barrett Simon Corbell Col Alexander

Thursday 11August Sponsored by The Village Building Co.

Ross Barrett David Dawes Bob Winnel

President, Master Builders Association of the ACT Director General, Economic Development Directorate Managing Director, Village Building Co.

Thursday13 September Sponsored by The Village Building Co.

Bob Winnel Katy Gallagher Ross Barrett

Tuesday 16 August Sponsored by Colliers International

Ross Barrett Stephen Byron Paul Powderly

President, Master Builders Association of the ACT Managing Director, Canberra Airport State Chief Executive, Colliers International

Thursday 25 August Sponsored by Meyer Vandenberg Lawyers

Ross Barrett Ray Young Greg Brackenreg

President, Master Builders Association of the ACT Chairman, Land Development Agency Partner, Meyer Vandenberg Lawyers

President, Master Builders Association of the ACT Minister for the Environment & Sustainable Development Chief Executive Oficer, CIC Australia

Managing Director, Village Building Co. Chief Minister of the ACT President, Master Builders Association of the ACT

Tuesday 20 September Sponsored by CRD

Drago Novakovic Ross Barrett Mark Sullivan Robert Cobanov

Nova Building Design Projects President, Master Builders Association of the ACT Managing Director, ACTEW Corporation Coba Constructions Tuesday 25October Sponsored by Master Builders ACT Past Presidents, Executive Directors, Life Members and Honourary Members Luncheon

Left to Right: Paul Murphy, Trevor Rodgers, Rod Mitton, Jerry Howard, John Miller, Peter Middleton, John Hindmarsh, Ross Barrett, Peter Fairburn, Bob Winnel, Peter Berents, Tony Holland, John Haskins, Wilhelm Harnisch, David Dawes, Mike Raffety, Charlie Hancock, Fred Marr, Tony Toscan

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