2015 MB VIC Journal Apr-May by arkmedia4217

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA APRIL – MAY 2015 VOLUME 70 ISSUE 02

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APRIL – MAY 2015 VOLUME 70 ISSUE 02

The Industry EBA:

Print Post Publication No. 100008007

FROM

OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

MASTER L1H1 MANUAL SHORT WHEELBASE

Expectations robust but bruised p.12 How to be “Unbeatable” p.13 Women in training for construction p.30

Images: courtesy Gold Coast Tourism

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Register Super Early and Save $300 The Master Builders biennial National Conference is heading to the Gold Coast in November, for what will undoubtedly be the industry event of the year once again. Unlike many traditional industry conferences that have a program full of just technical sessions the Building Australia conference stands out amongst the rest. The Master Builders National Conference ‘Building Australia’ focuses on leadership and assisting members to make informed decisions in continuing to grow their business whilst developing and maintaining strong leadership attributes within their business ethos. With high profile speakers that will examine the building industry outlook and topics relevant to today’s building and construction industry. The conference program and registration including partners and social program will launch in mid-May along with a Super Early Bird end of financial year special registration price. Super Early Bird $770, 20 May to 30 June, Save $300 on the Standard rate by registering super early! www.masterbuilders.com.au/Events/national-conference The Master Builders Excellence in Building and Construction Awards will be presented as part of the National Conference on the Saturday evening as the grand finale to an exciting conference on the Gold Coast…………We look forward to seeing you there!

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

A crisp season It’s autumn, and the atmosphere in Victoria has turned crisp in more ways than one. Weather-wise, our warmest days are behind us, but that means we’ve marked the beginning of Master Builders’ awards season, with apprentices in regional towns throughout Victoria Peter Sackett Editor leading the pack. By now, Master Builders has also received all of the entries for our annual Building Excellence Awards for regional building, construction and housing. We’ll hear more about that in upcoming issues. The other bit of excitement circulating right now has to do with the industry Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA), which passed its nominal expiration date on 31 March 2015, and the impending negotiations for its renewal. These discussions, of course, don’t happen every year, so there’s an extra element of excitement and interest swirling with much at stake for productivity, safety and the economic health and sustainability of our industry. CEO Radley de Silva offers his perspective on this meaty subject on page 16.

Also in this issue, Member Relations Consultant Kelly Ambrose browses the artefacts on display at our East Melbourne headquarters (p.22), and several of our regular contributors offer some helpful service content. Joe Keiper, our MBAIS Victoria State Manager, gives the low-down on contract works and liability insurance (p.24); Training’s Senior Logistics Coordinator Katie Tunnah discusses training avenues for women eager to enter building and construction on p.30, and on p.20 Financial Services Director Harry Pontikis shares excellent loan advice you can take to the bank. 2015 marks Master Builders’ 140th anniversary, and our new “unbeatable” public awareness campaign highlights what sets our members apart from all the rest in our industry. If you haven’t already seen our billboards or heard our radio spots, read about the campaign on page 13. As always, we encourage you to exercise and enjoy your membership to its fullest potential. Please do stay in touch and share your ideas for content you’d like to see. Peter Sackett, Editor psackett@mbav.com.au Correction: In the February-March issue, the article on p. 27 entitled “Don’t delay obtaining an Occupancy Permit or Final Certificate” was incorrectly attributed to Angelo Simonetto. The author was, in fact, solicitor Leigh McKee.

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contents forewords

Master Builder Victoria

CONTENTS

features

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

FROM CEO RADLEY DE SILVA

membership 16

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

BLSC 18

GUEST FOREWORD

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Hon. Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning

HISTORY 22

regulars

INSURANCE 24

NEWS ROUND UP

CASE STUDY CONSTRUCTION

Chris says “no” to the client

MEET THE STAFF

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

SOCIAL PAGES

OHS 26 LEGAL 28 TRAINING 30 CHANGES TO THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE

GREEN LIVING

DIRECTORY 63 WHAT’S NEW

MEMBER PROFILES

Peter Seccull Dahlsens Building Centres

MEMBER MILESTONES

NEW MEMBERS

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS

2015 EVENTS CALENDAR

general features STAIRCASES AND BALUSTRADES

CLADDING 56 SUSTAINABILITY 59 SOIL TESTING

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au www.mbav.com.au Master Builder is the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is one of the state’s oldest employer organisations. The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. The keynote is service: and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them. Membership of the Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience. BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: Peter Picking (President) Melanie Fasham (Deputy President) Greg Zuccala (Immediate Past President) Lou Raunik (Treasurer) David Moyle, Richard Hansen, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Darren Pye and Ian Hawkey

Council of Management: Peter Picking (President) Melanie Fasham (Deputy President) Greg Zuccala (Immediate Past President) David Moyle, Richard Hansen, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Darren Pye, Ian Hawkey Philip Robinson, Lindsay Barber, Michael Clemenger, Tom Basel, Michael Cameron, Adam Siegel, Claude Salvatore, Sandy McPherson, Nic Morgan and Paul Gardiner CEO: Radley de Silva, 9411 4501 General Manager, Commercial Services: Viviana Hood, 9411 4516 General Manager, Corporate Services: Lawrie Cross, 9411 4582 General Manager, BLSC: Marc Lyons, 9411 8001 MANAGERS: Membership: Dom Butera, 9411 4598 Legal: Angelo Simonetto, 9411 4593 Industrial Relations: Daniel Hodges, 9411 4562 OHS: John Darcy, 9411 4521 Training: Corrie Williams, 9411 4544 MBA Insurance Services: Kevin Pattison, 9411 4532 Policy & Communications: Leanne Edwards 9411 4515 Business Development: Tony Biffaro, 9411 4557 Finance & Administration: Ron Joordens, 9411 4556 Human Resources: Steven Hogan, 9411 4540 Sponsorship & Alliance: Danielle Penna, 9411 4551 Strategic Projects: Julie-Anne Sheppard, 9411 8000 Magazine Editor: Peter Sackett, 9411 4534, psackett@mbav.com.au

PUBLISHED BY

Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising Executive: Paul Baird Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: sales@crowtherblayne.com.au Production: Brooke Travers Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: production@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design Team: Andrew Crabb, Byron Bailey, Carol Taylor Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: adelaide business bureaux Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of Victoria, their employees and agents take no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the Publishers nor of the Association. No warranty is given and no liability is accepted. Products and Services appearing in Master Builder are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher or the Association. While every care has been taken during production, the publisher(s) do not accept any liability for errors or omissions that may have occurred.

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Master Builder Victoria

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

forewords

Our industry must be vocal about its interests As opportunities and challenges for Victoria present themselves, we at Master Builders respond by striving to lead our industry as the voice of our diverse membership to the broader community. The Association is financially sound, Peter Picking responsive and widely respected. We President have a professional culture, highly skilled staff, a world-class training facility, and we remain enthusiastic about continually improving our services and representation. We want our governments to stop playing politics with Victoria’s infrastructure, and to demonstrate the kind of leadership required to develop a nationally competitive construction marketplace in Victoria. Our community needs expanded road and rail networks, ports, hospitals and other facilities critical to providing support services for current and future generations. These are in Victoria’s best interest and we are ready to build them. Today, Master Builders is lobbying for practical changes to the housing sector to make homes more affordable. We also advocate for educational improvements to encourage and support apprenticeships whilst simultaneously providing support and resources via ALink. We lobby to reduce red tape, highlighting the positive impact it would have on our industry, and we continue to advocate for enforcement of the rule of law in all associated matters from industrial relations through to consumer protection.

In general, our campaigning efforts meet with great success, and those depend in large part on well-defined memberassociation interaction with the sector committees, direct member enquiries and service requests. Earlier this year, to enhance communication with our members, we held a facilitated workshop where the sector committee members and Master Builders’ staff collaborated to produce the key advocacy matters for each sector. This was a highly successful workshop with active engagement by all parties. It produced a diverse range of industry-focussed issues ranging from mental health matters, detailing of industry policies, the strengthening of relationships with other industry associations, expanding training opportunities and improving communications. The items identified at the workshop are being validated against our existing five-year Business Plan and, where appropriate, the new or modified requirements will be considered by the executive, Board and Council prior to incorporation into the Association’s 2015-2016 Business Plan. Our industry needs to be vocal about its interests, and I encourage all members of Master Builders to continue to discuss with us the matters that concern you.

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Master Builder Victoria

GUEST FOREWORD

forewords

Championing excellence in the built environment We came to government with a clear vision to get this State moving and to champion excellence in the built environment. Hon. Richard Wynne We will increase Minister for Planning certainty for the development sector by reforming the development contributions system. Development contributions are essential to delivering infrastructure, open space and community facilities to rapidly expanding areas across Melbourne and regional Victoria. The system must be fair and transparent. The development industry wants to know upfront what they need to fund and when they are required to fund it. I will continue to work with industry to deliver a contributions framework that provides certainty and works for everyone. We intend to introduce legislation on development contributions into Parliament shortly which will set out a fairer, transparent and more efficient system. We are in the midst of a residential development boom, and must act

carefully to manage this growth, continue to attract new investment, and ensure high quality built form outcomes. Victoria remains the leading state in Australia for residential dwelling approvals, outstripping every other capital city. We have also seen a sharp increase in the proportion of building approvals for apartments in inner and middle Melbourne areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from 3910 in 2008 to a record 13,789 in 2014. This represents over 30 per cent of all building approvalsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;up from a little over 10 per cent in 2008. There is a need for better oversight of the quality and design of these apartment developments, and as promised, we will be introducing design standards this year. Melbourne is the world's most liveable city - and we want to keep it that way. We are working with the State Government architect, the City of Melbourne and the MPA to restore accountability and aspiration to CBD planning. We welcome your input on these reforms, and will be consulting widely with community and stakeholders to make sure that we get it right.

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Master Builder Victoria

news

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

Save the date Join us for the 2015 Master Builders Excellence in Construction Awards at Melbourne’s premier venue, the Palladium at Crown. It’s an impressive night of celebration for the industry, with fine dining and entertainment for everyone attending. View works from some of the state’s top commercial builders as they reach for the title of 2015 Master Builder of the Year. When? From 6.15pm on Friday 14 August Where? The Palladium, Crown Please watch for further details or speak with the team at Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

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news

Master Builder Victoria

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

Industrial relations at the forefront for 2015 With 2014 having provided a continued focus on unlawful misconduct of the CFMEU on Victorian building sites, it is imperative that organisations have current and clear industrial relations policies and procedures in place to deal more effectively with disputes over enterprise agreements, occupational health and safety (OHS) concerns and other industry-related issues. As we move further into 2015, we are seeing the continuation of the Royal Commission into Trade Union Governance and Corruption, legislation before the Senate to re-establish the ABCC, and a renewed focus on code compliance, particularly as the standard Industry EBA passes its nominal expiry date. Master Builders’ “Managing Onsite Industrial Relations” (MOIR) course offers information designed for site management, forepersons and project managers interacting with union representatives. Participants attending the one-day MOIR course at Master Builders Association of Victoria will ensure their industrial relations knowledge is up-to-date, gaining the skills and knowledge to communicate and implement their organisation’s industrial relations policies and procedures. Course topics include: • Right of entry • Freedom of association • Coercion • Industrial action • Code compliance • Dispute resolution • Agreement making Contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555 for further queries or visit the MBAV Training website at www.mbavtraining.com.au for more information or to enrol now.

Disappointing evidence of commitment to “rule of law” Recent actions by Victoria’s Labor Government are heightening Master Builders’ concerns about the disappearance of protections against unlawful union obstruction on building sites. Fresh on the back of the decision to announce the immediate abolition of the Construction Code Compliance Unit (CCCU) and Victorian Construction Code of Practice (the Victorian Code) – one of its first acts has been to introduce legislation to make blockades by Victoria’s militant construction unions easier by reducing police powers to break up picket lines and protesters, even if they present a violent threat. The proposed Summary Offences Amendment (Move-On Laws) Bill 2015 (the Bill) was introduced by Victorian Attorney-General Martin Pakula on 10 February and seeks to abolish the changes made by the Summary Offences and Sentencing Amendment Act 2014. The effect of this legislation will be to prevent police officers from being able to give a move-on direction to persons picketing or blockading a place of employment, even where it is endangering safety and could cause injury to a person, damage to property or is otherwise causing a risk to public safety or a breach of the peace.

In addition, the Bill abolishes the current ability of police to move on persons who are: • impeding (or attempting to impede) another person from lawfully entering or leaving a premises; • causing a reasonable apprehension of violence to another person; or • obstructing other persons or traffic. In a radio interview on 3AW, Mr Pakula sought to justify these changes by stating that “it’s the price you pay for living in a democracy”. More accurately, the Bill seeks to put the rights of a privileged few (e.g. militant unionists and special interest groups) ahead of the rights of the broader Victorian community to go about their business unimpeded. A chief beneficiary of the Bill is the CFMEU, who have turned to “pickets” as an effective tool for unlawful disruption. The Grocon Emporium blockade in 2012, which ultimately resulted in a criminal contempt of court finding, is but one example. These recent actions of the Andrews Government are cause for concern about its commitment to the rule of law in the construction industry. In practice, they are decisions that appear to put the interests of the unions ahead of the people of Victoria. Victorians do not support union thuggery or contempt for the rule of law. We will hold the government to its commitment of ensuring that no one is above the law.

news

Master Builder Victoria

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

Industry expectations bruised by broken East West Link promise Confidence in the industry may have been shaken up slightly by Victorian Labor’s commitment to rip up contracts for the multi-billion dollar East West Link construction project, Master Builders’ latest sentiment study found. While builder faith in industry prospects and returns remains healthy, Master Builders’ Industry Expectations Index dropped 2.6 percentage points in a quarter. “At a time when we have seen engineering construction works hit a five year low, the loss of the multi-billion dollar East West Link was a particularly heavy blow both to jobs and much needed infrastructure projects for our state,” said Master Builders Chief Executive Officer Radley de Silva.

But despite expectations falling, current work is climbing. More Victorian builders now have at least six months’ worth of work on their books than at any other time since late 2009. Some 38.6 per cent of builders advised they have work for six months or more, compared to 33.5 per cent three months earlier. In total 64.3 per cent of builders have three months or more work planned, which is also up 12.9 percentage points from what was recorded just six months ago.

“But with millions of dollars committed to infrastructure, school and hospital building projects, we hope to see plenty of work come on line for builders in the near term.”

The drop in builders’ expectations for the industry has also led to them feeling less secure about their own business prospects. For the first time in a year, the Business Expectations Index dipped below the five year average levels and is also the lowest recorded since the September 2013 quarter.

OTHER RESULTS FROM MASTER BUILDERS’ INDUSTRY SENTIMENT SURVEY: • The Apprentice Intentions Index showed that employers are less enthusiastic about hiring more apprentices than they were earlier in the year, dropping from 61.4 points to 56.7 points. • Victorian builders are finding it easier to find suitable project managers, but site managers and foremen/supervisors are now the hardest to find. • There has been a sizable jump in the difficulty for builders finding concreters, tilers and painters.

news

Master Builder Victoria

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

Big Bash raises $2300 for cancer awareness Amidst the carnival atmosphere of the 2015 Cricket World Cup, another highclass cricket match involving staff from Master Builders and MBA Insurance Services went off without a hitch on the evening of Monday 23rd February. Sixes were hit, balls bowled and sausages sizzled but, most importantly, much-needed funds were raised for cancer awareness. We offer our sincere thanks to match sponsors Chase Underwriting and DG Global who lent their names to the opposing teams, the Chase All-Stars and the Global Mavericks. Mavericks captain and Englishman Matt Loughlin was delighted to have much cooler weather this year, recalling 2014’s scorching 40-degree game day. All-Stars captain Ash Nichol won the toss and elected to bat, as per Aussie tradition. The fun and competitive match was interrupted only by the occasional rogue canine bolting for untended sausages, and progressed resolutely towards a final ball finish, at which point the Mavericks captain, with daylight fading fast, scrambled the required two runs for victory. Thanks to match fees, the sale of food and drink and, most of all, our sponsors, we raised $2305 for the McGrath Foundation. All players left the oval looking forward to raising even more money at the next Big Bash in 2016.

OFFERING AN “UNBEATABLE” RESOURCE TO OUR MEMBERS This year, Master Builders celebrates its 140th anniversary, and that is a great achievement. Late last spring, we began to search for a new message—one that calls attention to the roles we have played throughout the decades in bringing exceptional professional and educational resources to the building and construction industry. Our reputation and performance are unbeatable, but we noticed some of our competitors had become good at self-promotion, making enough noise to distract from Master Builders’ longestablished expertise. We decided it was time to raise our voice and make “unbeatable” our clear, inspiring message. You may have seen our billboards along the freeway, or heard one of our radio spots on Triple M, Gold 104.3 or SEN and wondered what exactly makes Master Builders “unbeatable”. As always, Master Builders works hard to promote your business and win you the work you’re after. Professional training is central to that, so we provide exceptional trainers from within the industry to share their expert advice. Our state-of-the-art training facility in South Melbourne, the Building Simulation Leadership Centre (BLSC), offers an unmatched environment for developing skills in a realistic and realtime learning environment.

Master Builders always keeps an ear to the ground to make sure you’re aware of new legislation that affects you and your business, and we maintain an active dialogue with our elected officials to give you a voice in government. In addition, we provide you with tools and advice to help you run your business, including hands-on assistance with the builder registration process, legal and financial advice, and help with building permits. On 29 April, our “Unbeatable” social media campaign began, encouraging followers of Master Builders’ Facebook page to share their success stories and gain eligibility to win prizes, including iPad Minis and Metabo tool sets. We encourage all of you to share your own stories. Attracting attention to what we offer will always be important, but we could not have reached 140 by just making noise. Creating a strong brand theme is a challenge because we work in support of everyone in the building industry. That, however, is also our strength and privilege. We are proud of the feedback we get from you and your colleagues about the courses we offer, and the quality of the trainers who lead them. This is information that helps us in our continual pursuit to improve our offerings and serve you better.

news

Master Builder Victoria

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

Green Card Induction launch On 25 February, Master Builders launched the Green Card Environmental Induction program at the Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC) in South Melbourne. The well-attended event was joined by Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Anthony Carbines and officers from the Environmental Protection Authority. The Green Card program represents a forward-thinking initiative designed to encourage protection of our stormwater system, waterways and the environment at large. It strengthens adherence to environmental obligations, tender requirements and ISO 14001 compliance. Master Builders CEO Radley de Silva opened the morning program, and was followed by Dr Phillip Alviano, Master Builders’ Sustainable Building Advisor, who emphasised the importance and benefits of introducing a Green Card compliance program to the building and construction industry. Master Builders Environmental Trainer Neil Jaycock demonstrated how to use spill kits, explaining that students undergoing Green Card training would learn in a hands-on, practical environment instead of in a traditional classroom setting. Peter Cranwell, Quality and Training Manager and Foundation Representative at Lend Lease, said the program’s pilot induction had been beneficial for Lend Lease employees’ understanding of environmental and regulatory implications on work sites. The formal induction consists of a threehour hands-on course with essential training for construction workers on their basic on-site environmental responsibilities, as well as the proper use of environmental management tools. The course is designed to complement the Construction Induction Training (White Card/OHS).

Dr Phillip Alviano explains the importance of Green Card training in the building and construction industry.

The training has been divided into three modules: • Basic environmental awareness, • Environmental preparedness, • Maintenance of erosion and sedimentation. Over the three-hour induction, participants will learn how to: • Enhance their environmental awareness • Understand the legal and policy obligation in response to an environmental spill • Utilise environmental preparedness • Appropriately use spill kits and absorbent products in a practical interactive session • Utilise erosion, sedimentation and dust control measures Master Builders ran pilot trials of the Green Card program throughout the first half of 2014 to refine the program. To date, there have been 75 participants through the induction, and feedback from students and companies has been very positive.

Master Builders CEO Radley de Silva (L) and Dr Phillip Alviano (R) welcomed Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Anthony Carbines as an honoured guest for the kickoff event.

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Master Builder Victoria

R A D L E Y D E S I LVA , C E O

features

Industry EBA: Seeking the strongest possible outcome Radley de Silva CEO, Master Builders Association of Victoria

features

Master Builder Victoria

R A D L E Y D E S I LVA , C E O

IT ALWAYS PRESENTS A SMALL CHALLENGE TO WRITE AN ARTICLE IN A WAY THAT ENSURES IT WILL STILL BE COMPLETELY RELEVANT WHEN IT APPEARS IN THIS MAGAZINE MANY WEEKS LATER. THAT CHALLENGE IS SLIGHTLY GREATER WHEN THE TOPIC IS THE NEGOTIATION OF THE INDUSTRY ENTERPRISE BARGAINING AGREEMENT (EBA), SINCE THERE ARE MANY CIRCUMSTANCES THAT COULD CHANGE BEFORE YOU READ THIS. BUT THE IMPORTANT ISSUES FOR MASTER BUILDERS AND ITS DIVERSE MEMBERSHIP REMAIN CONSTANT.

The current industry EBA passed its nominal expiration date on 31 March this year, and that started the clock ticking for the next round of negotiations. Master Builders’ position is that we will seek to negotiate the strongest possible outcome for those members who believe it is in their best interests to sign on to an industry EBA. Equally, we will assist members to negotiate the best possible enterprisespecific agreement for those who believe that the standard CFMEU industry EBA is no longer in either the employers’ or the employees’ best interests. As the current EBA enters its sunset phase, the last new wage allowance rates under the 2011-2015 industry EBA came into effect from 1 March, and will carry through until February 2016. This is an important and exciting time for Master Builders and its members. You should be aware of a few basic facts. As of this writing, the negotiations between industry leaders and the CFMEU could happen at virtually any time between now and February next year. Of foremost importance to Master Builders, however, is our commitment to ensuring the Victorian building and construction industry remains an attractive place to work, do business and invest.

We already face a significant challenge in coping with the fallout of the East West Link contracts being torn up, as well as the Labor Government’s decision to scrap the Victorian Code and to abolish the Construction Code Compliance Unit (CCCU). As we prepare to enter a new round of negotiations, it is crucial we pursue and achieve fair terms and conditions of employment through a wage structure that will attract and retain the very best people to our industry, while ensuring compensation is kept at a sustainable level. This is central to planning for the success of our industry and for the health of the Victorian economy not just for the next few years, but for the long term. We must make certain we have a steady supply of works in the pipeline throughout the State to help keep Victorians employed, and to retain our place as one of the most liveable cities in the world. Master Builders does not believe the continuation of a 5 per cent per annum wage increase under the current EBA is sustainable. To agree to this would have a serious and harmful effect on

the economic and competitive health of our industry. Moreover, the current EBA includes a range of provisions that compromise productivity, which further limits the capacity for wage increases. Perhaps most fundamentally, Master Builders seeks a genuine and demonstrated commitment to the rule of law, which has been neglected routinely by the CFMEU, at great cost to productivity and the industry at large. Master Builders will continue to lobby for the re-introduction of the Australian Building Construction Commissioner (ABCC). In addition, we look forward to the outcomes of the current Royal Commission. It is our privilege at Master Builders to lead our industry as advocates for your rights and business interests. We are ready and eager to address these challenges as we work hard to continue “building our future” together.

Master Builder Victoria

BLSC

features

Engaging workers EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IS THE EMOTIONAL COMMITMENT WE HAVE WITH OUR ORGANISATION AND ITS GOALS. ENGAGED WORKERS CARE ABOUT THEIR WORK AND THEIR ORGANISATION. WHEN WORKERS CARE ABOUT WHAT THEY’RE DOING – THEY’RE ENGAGED! According to a 2011-2012 Gallup study, employee engagement has dropped to alarming levels in Australia and New Alan Odgers Business Development Zealand. Research and Relationship Executive concluded only 24 per cent of employees actually feel engaged with their work whilst 16 per cent are actively disengaged and a whopping 60 per cent are not engaged at all. So how do we engage our employees? The study found that an employee’s perception of their primary manager is the single most influential factor, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of an employee’s sense of engagement. The construction industry in particular is a dynamic and challenging environment that can test a person’s management skills to the limit. A number of roles require a high degree of qualification and technical knowledge, but if they are not combined with interpersonal skills and leadership qualities, employee engagement will decline. How well are you doing? Below are some fundamental employee engagement measures that highperforming and achieving organisations execute well. How well does your organisation engage with its workers?

Clarify expectations Clearly state expectations for employee results and behaviours and hold them accountable for their achievement. Communicate Communicate openly and honestly with your employees, whether providing good news or bad. Good communication skills will help minimise conflict and also assist with problem solving.

Define engagement Understand what employee engagement means to your company.

Involve the employees When you are facing tough decisions or experiencing operational challenges, ask for their ideas and input. Allowing a workforce to actively contribute to decisions and respond to challenges will empower them and increase engagement levels.

Clarify the vision Ensure employees are aware of and understand the vision and goals of the organisation and their part in fulfilling them.

Acknowledge and recognise Let employees know their contributions are appreciated. Even a verbal “well done” or thank you in front of the team shows appreciation.

Understand the leaders’ roles There is a direct correlation between the leaders’ behaviours and the level of engagement within the company. Leaders must demonstrate the same traits and behaviours that are expected of employees. Leaders who are open and honest in communications, are focused on employee well-being, demonstrate positive support for the organisation and serve as a role model for engagement have a positive impact on the overall morale within the employee ranks. The BLSC specialises in helping leaders understand the techniques to engage, influence and empower their workforce through the foundation of learning programs delivered by the Building Leadership Simulation centre (BLSC). For further information on BLSC course information please call (03) 9411 8000 or visit www.blsc.com.au

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features

Master Builder Victoria

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Harry Pontikis Director, MBA Financial Services

Information to take to the bank AS TIMES CHANGE, SO TOO DO THE RULES AND GUIDELINES WE USE TO OPERATE OUR BUSINESSES. MANY OF THE OPERATIONAL “FACTS” OF THE PAST WHEN DEALING WITH BANKS MAY NO LONGER APPLY. THIS ARTICLE ATTEMPTS TO DEMYSTIFY THE BANKS’ METHODS OF OPERATION AND PROVIDE YOU WITH KNOWLEDGE THAT WILL ALLOW YOU TO MAKE BETTER DECISIONS FOR YOUR PERSONAL AND BUSINESS BANKING.

Bank information you may not know: 1. Banks’ standard variable, advertised rates are not the real rates. • These are more expensive than the rates clients can get by going via brokers. • These rates are usually reserved for “traditionalists” who go directly to the bank and don’t know any better. • Banks don’t pass on maximum discounts to existing bank clients (unless there is expert negotiation by the client or if there is no broker involvement). 2. Banks’ advertised discounts are not the best they can do. • Usually, banks offer set discounts for packages (0.7 per cent is standard) if you pay annual fees (averaging $295 to $395) which are not always to your benefit. • Clients whom banks want to attract or retain can be offered discounts up to 1.1 per cent. • Banks change the discounts they offer according to their appetite for new loans.

3. Having your loan approved or declined is not just about the numbers. • Not being able to explain or put adverse situations into context for the bank will usually lead to your application being declined. • Framing your specific situation and putting it into context often leads to banks looking beyond the black and white numbers on an application. • Proving that you can afford a loan is essential when applying for residential finance. 4. The “big four” banks don’t give the best deals if they have all of your business. • They may actually give you fewer discounts and a lower level of service, knowing they have you “locked in”. • The bank may offer you better deals and treat you better to try to induce you to bring over all of your banking. • Second tier banks, building societies and private funders often provide better deals if they want a particular transaction.

5. Clients introduced by brokers get treated better. • Banks know that if a broker-introduced client is not well looked after, the broker will make it easy for the client to move to a better bank. • Banks mistreating broker clients may lead to brokers boycotting particular banks. • Banks like broker-introduced clients and receive at least 50 per cent of their clients through broker channels. From the bank’s perspective, they are better clients for the banks due to the broker’s added level of scrutiny, as well as representing a “cost of sale” model, requiring no infrastructure, staff or capital outlays by the bank. These and many other reasons exist as to why you should not deal directly with the banks but go through experienced, licensed and expert finance brokers for all of your lending needs. The advice the broker or credit advisor provides, and the ability to best represent your situation to the banks make their contribution to your financial well-being invaluable.

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Master Builder Victoria

HISTORY

MASTER BUILDERS’ CABINET OF HISTORY

Below: In the minutes: noting the end of World War II.

An 1864 portfolio of Byzantine architecture.

lingers in these heavy tomes. The leather binding of the books is fragile, the paper dog-eared and faded, and you can inhale a keen sense of time and place as soon as you open one of them.

End-of-term Presidential teapot gifted to G.A. Towers in 1918.

Since starting with Master Builders in 2010, I have often found myself sitting in Training Room Four (you might know it as the “trophy room” at the back of the first floor) wondering about the things I saw in the glass display cabinets. I’m sure I’m not the only one. I enjoy writing historical pieces for this magazine, and over the past year I have found a considerable amount of information for them housed on these pristine shelves. All of the materials on display here have been collected over Master Builders’ 140 years; this array of trophies, heavy books and photographs are the historic evidence of our influence on the building and construction industry, and the conditions and efforts of our hardworking members and committees.

In the late 1940s the Master Builders Association was located in Batman’s Hill. Sadly, most of the archives and records at this time were ruined in a flood. Some material, however, was rescued, and found a new, drier home when the offices moved to Clarendon Street in East Melbourne. The archives found their next home here on Albert Street when a library was established on the third floor. Growing staff and subsequent renovations prompted a condensing of the archives and their transfer to their current home on the first floor in Training Room Four. After I had opened the majority of the musty, hard-bound books (for most of them, their first glimpse of daylight in decades) and started deciphering the spidery copperplate writing, I realised that Master Builders’ distant history

I have a strong interest in the history and early architecture of Australia and Melbourne, and one book in particular grabbed my attention. It is a fragilelooking volume from 1864 on the history of Byzantine architecture, many traces of which can be seen in the some of the earlier buildings of Melbourne. The hard-bound volumes were poredover extensively by member and unofficial Master Builders historian Reg Keast FAIB, FIOAA (now deceased) in his publication Building Victoria: A History of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, published in 1994. But to summarise every record in the collection would fill a book in itself. For example, many of the struggles related to commercial and domestic construction, and the push to shape the building industry into a cohesive group are well documented here, and this includes details of the procurement of labour and materials, as well as the general conditions of the day.

Master Builder Victoria

HISTORY

Above: Assorted treasures: wartime meeting minutes, dinner menus, Byzantine architecture and a brass-andcopper fire house nozzle.

Details of the menu from the 1936 annual dinner.

Instead, however, I will note just a few interesting snippets of the records I came across in our archives. • In the recorded minutes from a meeting on 6 March, 1945, our members’ involvement with WWII and the end of the European conflict is noted in the minutes with great celebration: “Before proceeding...the President said that the fact that we have just received such wonderful news respecting the war in Europe and the unconditional surrender of the Axis Powers...makes this a most momentous occasion and probably one of the greatest days in the World’s history.” • Formal acknowledgement of the completion of notable Melbourne projects such as Olympic Park, and our present headquarters on Albert Street. • The serial and in many ways timeless appearance of notes on our members’ efforts to better our industry, with

improved working conditions and vigorous representation in the community. Also of interest are notes on the investigation of new building processes and materials ( prefabricated construction in the 1940s ), visits to construction sites ( the CSR plant for manufacturing corrugated steel ) and documentation of visits to Melbourne and beyond of regional members, in order to observe the workings of other associations. Tucked into the pages of the minutes book spanning 1930-1938, I found the details of the delicacies on offer for the President’s Dinner on 27 October 1936 (“Canape Muscovite, Iced Oysters Americaine and Fillet Whiting Bonne Femme”), the standards of attire for attending the annual ball, and a list of the duties of the President’s wife during official visits (mostly providing a tour of Melbourne to visitors’ wives).

A dusty but enjoyable read: Master Builders minutes from the last century.

As for the trophies themselves, most of them were in regular circulation until a couple of decades ago, when Master Builders still held a large number of regular, heavily attended tournament events in bowling and golf in Melbourne and regional Victoria. It is interesting to note, however, that some of the winners are still active members of the association and continue to play a role in the industry to this day. The next time you find yourself in the committee room, you can enjoy knowing you’re surrounded by traces of those who have come before you, and who would be pleased to see that many of their membership interests and traditions live to this day.

Master Builder Victoria

INSURANCE

features

Contract works and liability insurance – not all policies are the same Since joining MBA Insurance Services, I’ve noticed that many of our members have been unaware that policy coverage for Construction Works insurance can vary considerably depending on your broker and the insurer. Often the different words used in policies can be very subtle but, crucially, can mean that some very costly and common incidents will be covered under some policies, covered to a lesser degree with others, or not covered at all in some circumstances. Joe Keiper

State Manager, Victoria

A common and very important variation in cover is in the exclusion for defective materials and/or faulty workmanship. This exclusion can vary from excluding just the smallest defective component or part of an individual item to a larger overall structure being deemed “defective” due to containing smaller defective components. In plain English, some insurers will exclude just the cost of replacing/repairing a bolt/bracket deemed defective (or whatever is the smallest defective component part) while others may exclude the cost of replacing/repairing an entire roof/wall held together with smaller parts deemed defective. This variation will often go unnoticed by non-construction brokers and unsuspecting builders, but in the event of a claim, the implications and cost to your business can be significant. For this reason, it is crucial for all parties holding an interest in a construction contract to fully comprehend how their policy will respond in the event of a defect in the construction or a defect in a component part that is incorporated into the construction. The period of insurance cover provided is another significant variation of coverage among insurers. The intent behind construction works insurance is to cover builders until the works are completed, at which point other forms of insurance would be required, such as home building insurance for residential builds.

Many insurers limit the cover period at the inception of the policy by only commencing cover at the later stage of site possession or works commencement – meaning you potentially have an uninsured public liability exposure once you’ve taken control of the site, as cover may not commence until works begin. Insurers also have different criteria for classifying a build as “completed” – with cover under most policies ceasing prior to practical completion if a home is partially occupied, or “put in use”. If you are going to grant the principal permission to occupy or put into use a portion or part of the contract, you should check the implications of this on your policy via your broker. In many cases you can ensure there is ongoing cover on the remaining works yet to be completed by having a separable portion as defined in your contract or by variation, but some policies will not automatically provide this cover, even with this contract variation, and your broker will need to obtain specific approval for this from the insurer.

Your insurance should cover you once you take possession of the site, right up to when the works under contract have been formally accepted by the owner as completed. It is crucial that your policy remain active until you are no longer liable under contract. Your insurance broker should be able to provide you with the necessary detail of the cover arranged to ensure you’re aware of any gaps between the coverage provided and your obligations as set out in your construction contracts. MBA Insurance Services is a specialist construction broker, and provides a free service to all MBA Victoria members to review your insurance program and provide alternate pricing and guidance on coverage. The broader cover isn’t necessarily more expensive, and in many instances can make a huge difference to you and your business when something goes wrong.

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features

Master Builder Victoria

OHS

No OHS system can equal no work Part of our mission at Master Builders is to help our members win work. John Darcy Manager, OHS There is nothing more enjoyable than to see member companies flourishing, especially when they are a small business. Few things are as disappointing, however, than seeing a builder being asked to tender for a job—sometimes even winning the tender on price—only to be told they cannot have the job because they don’t satisfy the client’s OHS expectations. One member contacted the OHS unit recently to inquire about our OHS systems. His business had fulfilled various

maintenance-type works for his client over the last 10 years, and had just been offered the opportunity to tender for a $1m contract. The only difference between this opportunity and all of the previous occasions was that this time the client had informed him they had engaged a third party prequalification service provider to assess their contractor’s OHS capabilities, and that applying for the tender would also require him to submit his OHS system for evaluation. Unfortunately, this member did not have an OHS system in place. There are around 30 major national institutions across Australia that use Greencap’s CM3 OHS prequalification

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services to evaluate contractors’ OHS systems. This list includes the likes of Wesfarmers, K-Mart, Insurance Group Australia and many more. These institutions are the parent companies of thousands of businesses across Australia, and the OHS expectations are being applied not only to the parent companies but also to all of their subsidiaries. Greencap CM3 is just one example of a third party prequalification service. Councils, government agencies and shires are also outsourcing the assessment of their contractors to a variety of external service providers. Over the last seven years, the OHS Unit has assisted numerous members with advice and resources to become eligible to perform State Government construction and maintenance work by becoming registered on the Department of Treasury and Finance Construction Supplier Register (CSR). After guiding a member through CSR registration, we often suggest to the member that they need to give themselves a minimum of three to six months to implement the advice we provide and create the material that needs to be submitted. The Department of Treasury and Finance uses the services of three independent external OHS consultants to review the OHS documents that builders and contractors submit. These consultants—CM3 or the other third party pre-qualification bodies—will not accept “off-the-shelf” systems. They will want not only to see evidence that the contractor has a system in place, but also clear evidence that the contractor applies that system to their projects. This is evidenced through examples from previous projects. The frequency of member inquiries about OHS systems has risen significantly in the last twelve months, and the incidence of third party prequalification is likely to increase. If members want to compete effectively for work, implementation of their OHS systems is imperative.

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HEALTH COVER REALLY IS THIS SIMPLE. Master Builders is pleased to provide you with a great discount^ on health insurance that’s designed to meet your needs. As a Master Builders member you get access to Medibank’s new Corporate health cover that makes it easier for you to get the most from your extras. Medibank give you a combined limit to use how you want on included extras, plus a separate amount for optical. You can also claim back at any recognised provider you like, on included extras.

LAUNCH OFFER Join new Medibank Corporate hospital and extras covers by June 30 and get your choice of Adidas or 2XU voucher.*

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^ Discount applies to the premium of your selected cover, and will only apply where your employer has this arrangement with Medibank. * For new members on new memberships who join from 13 April to 30 June 2015. Must set up direct debit and pay first month when joining, or pay at least 6 months in advance. Only available on Corporate Hospital Basics, Corporate Hospital Mid, Corporate Hospital Established, Corporate Hospital Premier, Flexi 60, Flexi 70 and Flexi 80 covers. Vouchers claimed online as directed by Medibank no later than 30/09/15. Not available with any other offer. Medibank Private Limited ABN 47 080 890 259

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Master Builder Victoria

A DV E R T O R I A L

The importance of being earnest – the building contract Understanding a building contract, its clauses, effects and the rights and obligations of the parties, may not seem the most riveting aspect to life, but if you’re involved in a building dispute, everyone will reach for the contract to assert rights and obligations. Getting the contract terms right from the start can save builders and owners alike a lot of pain, suffering and legal fees. I am often surprised how few people who have signed multi million-dollar contracts have read the terms of the contract. It’s often assumed “the lawyers will get it right”. This is, for the most part, correct, but it’s also vital that builders understand the operation of the contracts. There are a number of standard form contracts available within the industry, most notably those produced by Master Builders. That said, each project is different and there will be, from time to time, the need for special conditions to be drafted and inserted to accommodate specific site and contractual circumstances.

These include access issues, the operation of the ‘Security of Payment’ legislation and progress payments claims, GST requirements, time related clauses, supervisory conditions, occupational health and safety requirements and the Personal Property Security register. Others may include termination provisions and alternative dispute resolution procedures including notice requirements, mediation or arbitration. The clauses often referred to during contract works generally relate to payment claims, extensions of time, variations and termination clauses. Each has their own unique application depending on circumstances. One of the key issues in contracts is time related and specifically, the requirement to respond to notices or

issues when they arise or are served under the contract. A failure to respond may be deemed to constitute an acceptance of a particular scenario. Termination of a building contract for example is not a simple exercise; Notices of Intention to Terminate and of Termination must be carefully prepared. A breach of the contract must be clearly established before a termination will be valid. It’s crucial that the procedures laid down in the contract are followed. Our tip: the terms and conditions of building contracts must be read and understood by all players. For more information contact Andrew Whitelaw.

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defect claims

contract disputes

Master Builder Victoria

TRAINING

features

Women training for careers in construction Women in construction. It’s far from being a novel Katie Tunnah Senior Logistics concept, but for Coordinator some reason the phrase still attracts special attention, in spite of significant strides toward gender equality. There is no question that women can handle any job in the construction industry, it’s just an industry that hasn’t shaken its traditional gender association. Fortunately, this is changing. More women are taking up construction jobs in roles that were, and still are, male dominated. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics and Workplace Gender Equality Agency, women made up 12 per cent of the construction workforce in 2010-11 and that rose to 16.2 percent in 2014. Slow but steady progress. Any job can be challenging, but when you add the extra hurdle of breaking through manual-labour stereotypes, getting a start in the construction industry proves to be tough. Getting ahead in this industry is even tougher, but it’s also more impressive when it happens. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) was established in part to encourage women to pursue careers in construction. It encourages training, networking, support and recognition of women already in or eager to get involved with the industry. Master Builders also fully supports women in construction, whether they are someone in the industry looking to get ahead in their career, or interested in making a change to launch a new career in the industry. We provide many training opportunities and have some strong spokespeople in our organisation who have taken similar action and can share their experiences. Catherine Larkin, a building services coordinator and cadet building inspector who works at Master Builders’ Wodonga office, sheds some light on

how she worked her way into a maledominated industry. “I used to draw house plans when I was little,” Catherine said. “From early on, I thought I wanted to be an architect. After completing year 12, the idea of going to university for seven years to complete a degree in architecture seemed a little torturous, so I completed a diploma in Building Design and Technology. “I started in the building industry as a sales representative for a volume builder while I was undergoing my studies in building design. After qualifying, I worked as a draftsperson for a few years. “When the building industry slowed down, it encouraged me to find another career pathway, and an opportunity came up to study building surveying while working in building services for Master Builders,” she said. Catherine goes out to work sites often, and says she has not noticed many other women on the job. “I thought taking on a role like this would present some difficulties on the work sites but, so far, everyone has been very supportive and encouraging,” she says. “No horrible experiences.” She previously completed a Diploma in Building Design and Technology and is currently completing the Diploma in Building Surveying. After that, she will pursue the Advanced Diploma in Building Surveying to work towards her limited Building Surveyors Licence. Currently, women represent only 3.6 per cent of CEO or head-of-business roles in construction in Australia, 13.6 per cent of key management personnel, 2.6 per cent of technician or trade roles and 10.5 per cent of labourers. These figures may be relatively tiny, but are certainly headed for growth. In 2009, Emma Dunlop left her nanny and childcare work to join Master Builders’ customer service team and moved on

Master Builders OHS crew members Emma Dunlop and James Curtin on site.

to become an integral member of the OHS team who conduct daily site visits in order to complete OHS audits. Similar to Catherine, she encounters very few other women on work sites. When she does, they are usually directing traffic and well clear of tools. Emma started her career change by enrolling in Master Builders’ Certificate III in Work Health & Safety (WHS). This gave her the base knowledge to get started in the OHS department. She excelled both in the office and on site audits, and so chose to study the Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety to further her knowledge in the field. The next step for Emma is completion of the Diploma in WHS, which will add considerably to her professional development and enhance her value to Master Builders as a topquality service provider to our members. Master Builders offers many courses in Work Health and Safety, management, builder registration and short courses to assist with professional development. We are always eager to help women with their questions about how to become active in the industry, and about the courses that will get them headed in the best direction. Contact the Training department on (03) 9411 4555 to learn more.

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Master Builder Victoria

C H A N G E S T O T H E N AT I O N A L C O N S T R U C T I O N C O D E

Changes to the National Construction Code This is the time of year for noting the Building Surveyor/Manager annual changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) which become effective as of 1 May 2015. Tony Bugeja

A big positive this year is that free copies of the NCC are available online through the Australia Building Codes Board (ABCB). Reviewing the revised code is a must for all professionals who want to be informed of all the necessary requirements for building construction. For those who prefer to work with hard copies, however, they are still available from Master Builders. Please contact our office on (03) 9411 4555 to order a copy. The main changes to Volumes One and Two of the Building Codes of Australia (BCA) are outlined below: A new method has been inserted as a means to verify the structural reliability of structural components and connections to ensure compliance with the performance requirements of the BCA. A new method has been inserted as a means to verify the suitability of an external wall system as being weatherproof to ensure compliance with the performance requirements of the BCA. Australian Standard AS 42842008 “Testing of Building Facades” has been included in the BCA to facilitate the assessment of weatherproofing for external walls. As a consequence of the new verification method, the following definitions have been inserted or amended: • “Cavity wall” – a wall that incorporates a drained cavity • “Direct fix cladding wall” – a wall with cladding attached directly to the wall framing without the use of a drained cavity • “Unique wall”—a wall which is neither a cavity wall nor a direct fix cladding wall

A number of Australian Standards have been amended or included which are self- explanatory and listed within the new BCA.

Sprinkler protection requirements have been extended to class 3 and class 9 buildings used as residential agedcare buildings.

The definition of a “swimming pool” has been changed, and is now defined as follows: “any excavation or structure containing water and principally used, or designed, manufactured or adapted to be principally used for swimming, wading, paddling, or the like, including a bathing or wading pool, or spa.”

Open spectator stands that accommodate 2000 persons or fewer are subject to the exit width provisions of D 1.6 of Volume 1 of the BCA.

Explanatory information has been included to advise that a deck is not considered an unroofed terrace and is therefore not permitted as an allowable encroachment under 3.7.1.7(b) whether combustible or not. Also, the term “pergola” is a reference to an unroofed structure. A minimum 2.0-metre ceiling height has now been applied to landings which are measured from the finished surface level. The term “balustrade” or other barrier has been simplified to be simply known as just a barrier. Some changes have been made with respect to the insulation requirements for in-screed heating and/or cooling systems, and the R values of a roof, with regard to the effect from roof solarabsorption levels, have also been altered. The termite management provisions have been amended within the BCA. Table 3.1.3.1 has been changed to identify the type of termite management system applicable to a particular type of floor construction. Chemical termite management systems must be listed on the “appropriate authority's” pesticides register. New provisions have been included for sheet material used for termite protection. Braille and tactile signage are now allowed to be descriptive rather than just numerical, so reference to a ground floor or basement can be adopted.

Additional provisions within Volume 1 of the BCA have been included to outline the performance requirements with which DP7 must be complied if lifts are used for evacuation of occupants of a building. Specification E2.2a has been amended to clarify that smoke alarms do not need to be interconnected to alarms external to the sole occupancy unit of a class 2, 3 and 4 parts of a building. The 2014 edition of the NASH Standard “Steel Framed Construction in Bushfire Areas” and Nash Standard Part 2 “Residential and Low-Rise Steel Framing – Design Solutions” have now been included in the schedule of referenced documents within the BCA. It is important to note that the introduction of slip resistance requirements for tread and nosing finishes to staircases in the 2014 version of the BCA, which had been withdrawn, will be a minimum requirement as of 1 May 2015.

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Master Builder Victoria

GREEN LIVING

Case study: Kath Fisher, Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge Pty Ltd Master Builders has been following Green Living Accredited Builder Kath Fisher of Natures Edge Pty Ltd through the Paul Graham build of her own Sustainability Project Officer city fringe home. The home was designed collaboratively by Casto Izzo of Cole and Izzo Architects and Natures Edge Pty Ltd. The home has been planned to keep you visually connected to the garden as you walk through each room. The house is positioned at the back of the block

so that the living and outdoor areas are north facing, looking toward the street with generous space left for the front garden. The garden was planted out very early on in the building process, so now the house is already sheltered from the roadside view by greenery, and offers a tranquil indoor outdoor living area. There are also courtyards for each of the bedrooms so that each room receives a garden view.

As the house is north facing, it absorbs the winter sun with a combination of internal thermal mass from the polished concrete floor with R 1.78 extruded foam insulation under the slab, rammedearth walls and recycled reverse brick veneer walls. The thermal mass then absorbs the heat from the winter sun and releases it back into the house at night when the air is cooler, keeping a constant temperature inside.

This 7.1 Star natHERS-rated home has been designed to use solar passive design principles to make the home comfortable in both winter and summer, with reduced energy costs for heating and cooling.

The building has been designed to ensure the home is protected from the summer sun with shading from the eaves and retractable awnings, means that less heat gets absorbed into the home. A raised ceiling with high clerestory windows in the living room works as a thermal chimney, and automated awning windows help to release heat from the building at night. This in conjunction with breezeways and fans throughout the building help keep the home cooler in summer.

Passive solar design: Using internal thermal mass with polished concrete floors, reverse brick veneer walls, rammed earth walls and clerestory awning windows assists in regulating room temperatures.

features

Master Builder Victoria

GREEN LIVING

Internal courtyards are used throughout the home to provide natural light and garden views to all rooms.

have been lined with a combination of pine ply with iron bark hardwood trim and pine ply with recycled iron bark hardwood batten screens.

The home is glazed with custom-made thermally efficient double-glazed pine Lunawood windows and doors. The windows have been placed strategically throughout, with the clerestory windows in the living area contributing to the solar passive design. There are also low westfacing windows in the hall and bathroom placed to reduce heat load and provide breezeways throughout the home. As well as using thermal mass and double glazing, the home has highgrade insulation levels with R2.5 Earthwool batts in the internal and external walls. The ceiling has R6.0 Earthwool batts installed with reflective foil under the Colorbond roof. Using the solar passive design principles, the house maintained a temperature range of 19 degrees to 22 degrees throughout nine months of the year. Over the summer, only ceiling fans

were used for cooling with a maximum temperature of 26.5 Celsius. The intelligent design incorporates internal courtyards with gardens to provide light in all rooms and give garden views to most of the home. The house also features a butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pantry behind the kitchen that backs onto the south-facing external wall to maintain a cool temperature. The house has a large internal drying room with a pull-out clothesline, so that clothes are dried inside in the winter and summer months without any additional heat required. The interior of the home has exposed materials such as polished concrete floors, rammed earth walls and recycled brick walls to help regulate the internal temperature. There are also natural timbers, rather than plasterboard, with recycled Australian iron bark hardwood being used on the walls. The ceilings

The exterior cladding of the home is a combination of recycled red brick to boundary walls, portions of rammed earth, Australian blackbutt hardwood, shadow-clad plywood and Australian ironbark decking with external hardwoods finished with Intergrain Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Timber oil. The house has been fitted out with a host of energy saving and energy producing products such as a two-kilowatt microinverter solar panel system, gas-boosted solar hot water by Kelvinator and energy efficient lighting and appliances. The daily average power usage for the home is 5.6kw with the solar panels producing 10-13kw per day over summer, making a considerable contribution to the power grid. As this home was designed to connect you to the garden, it was important that the landscaping process reflect that. Landscaping commenced just five weeks into the build, with the planting of an extensive range of Australian natives. There are also two pond systems in the north-facing garden which are located near doors and windows to provide

features

Master Builder Victoria

GREEN LIVING

cooling of cross ventilation. Rocks have been used to create garden and pond beds. The main front fence is constructed with recycled railway sleepers and mesh to provide an armature for the growth of vines, providing privacy. Having established landscaping early in the construction process meant that tradesmen had more respect for the building site and proved to be a more neighbor-friendly building crew. Master Builders would like to thank Kath Fisher of Nature Edge Pty Ltd for allowing us to follow this build. If you would like to learn more about energy efficient sustainable builders please visit our website www.mbavtraining/ greenliving for course information and upcoming dates.

Ponds have been placed by windows and doors to provide cooling of cross ventilation and a relaxing garden setting.

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RYLOCK

Energy efficient windows: glazing types Having previously discussed air infiltration and frame conductivity, this month we will look at the role of glass in an energy efficient window. Single glazing is a poor insulator, resulting in heat loss through the largest portion of most windows. Basically, all it does is keep the rain and wind out. Clear double glazing incorporates an insulating gap between two panes of glass (hence the description as an Insulated Glass Unit, or IGU) to effectively isolate the internal pane from the external. The most efficient gap is typically 12mm, and the use of an inert gas (like argon) improves thermal performance. A low-E coating within an IGU further improves insulation, as the low emissivity coating radiates heat back towards its source. It is of vital importance to realise that rating tools use whole-window performance, not glass-only values. Unlike glass-only values, whole-window performance takes into account all aspects of the product including the frames and, consequently, differs.

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Master Builder Victoria

C A S E S T U DY C O N S T R U C T I O N

Chris says “No” to the client

Chris from Case Study Construction

Chris from Case Study Construction knew full well that it is generally not good practice to upset the customer, but when Jerry, a domestic renovation client, came to Chris suggesting that he wanted to save a few bucks by using his own subbies, Chris had to say no. Jerry wanted to engage his own subbies to install the kitchen whilst Chris’ own subbies continued to work on the rest of the project around it. Chris was deeply concerned about the safety implications of having subbies on his site over whom he had no control, and he knew that an important part of his responsibility for safety was to coordinate the trades to ensure they could work safely whilst on his site. Chris always ensured he had obtained his subbies’ certificates of currency for their public liability and workers compensation insurances. He inducted his subbies onto his sites and he always made sure that they produced a Safe Work Method Statement for their work. Chris knew that when he was appointed by the client to manage the project he became the

Principal Contractor and, therefore, bore health and safety responsibilities if an accident were to occur. “Listen, Jerry”, Chris explained politely, “when you appointed me to manage the construction project you didn’t appoint me as just the builder, but also as the Principal Contractor, which is a term that applies under OHS law.” “Where you assume management and control of the workplace, however, by engaging your own subbies, you assume being the Principal Contractor in your own right and therefore the overall health and safety responsibility for the project,” Chris said. “If an accident occurs involving your kitchen subby, you would be exposed to potential legal action. If your subby has not been properly inducted and is not aware of the safety issues relevant to the site, both you and I are potentially exposed,” Chris stated. “I would strongly recommend that you leave the contract as it is and leave the engagement of the subbies to me.”

Chris knew that as part of his domestic construction contract if he agreed to Jerry’s request to use his own subbies it would necessitate making variations in the contract. If such a variation to the contract was made, this would exclude the kitchen from the scope of renovation works as well as Chris’ legal liability in relation to those works. Jerry realised that he had made the right choice in engaging Chris to renovate his house. He had chosen a builder who understood what his legal responsibilities were and could explain to him, as the client, why it was in his best interest to leave the project in the hands of a licensed building practitioner and a Master Builder.

regulars Name: Corrie Williams Position: Training Manager Location: East Melbourne

You may not ever have wondered what Master Builders’ Training Manager does on the weekends, but we think you’d find it interesting. Long before joining the East Melbourne staff 16 months ago, Corrie Williams trained as a palaeontologist. Since old habits die hard, she likes to spend her Saturdays digging for dinosaurs. That enthusiasm for sifting through sand and broken rocks for fossils may have something to do with her need for variety, which is central to her role as Training Manager. “I’m attracted to the problem-solving that is required of me every day,” she said. “Each day is different, and I love a job with variation.” Today was Tuesday, and by lunchtime she had already attended three meetings on completely unrelated topics. Several more meetings had been arranged for the afternoon. In addition, she assists her team with all manner of training enquiries, and helps students both over the phone and in person with their own requests. Corrie first joined Master Builders as Assistant Training Manger – Operations after leaving her job in onshore recruiting at Monash University. Before much time had passed, she found herself looking after the funding side of training, and eventually transitioned into the full managerial role. “My team is absolutely fabulous despite the daily challenges they face. We all have to be very flexible while at the same time tackling and completing the everyday tasks.” Regular interruptions are a normal part of the job, and one Corrie takes in stride. “We frequently have students come in to ask questions about the courses they are undertaking, and that requires us to step away from our desks and provide them with the intensive support they need.” Looking ahead to the publication date of this article, Corrie noted a new schedule of training that would be available. “We have been working on scheduling the new courses for the June to December 2015 semester and allocating trainers, as well as putting together the new training directory – it should be out any day now so keep your eyes out for it!”

Master Builder Victoria

M E E T T H E S TA F F

Name: Jason Foote Position: Registered Building Surveyor Location: Ballarat

What Jason Foote enjoys most about his work at Master Builders is the quiet but constant flow of change. As Office Manager and Registered Building Surveyor in the Ballarat office, there is a lot of consistency to his work day—the steady ebb and flow of business in a regional city, the voices on the telephone, and the problems he’s tasked with solving. But Jason likes the subtle, important variables, such as the changes to the National Construction Code, in large part because it puts him in the role of educator for the builders of his community. “It’s an ever-changing cycle of learning,” Jason, who marks his seventh anniversary with Master Builders in August, said. “That knowledge is something I need to feed to the builders and the sub-trades. It can be a challenge to make sure everyone possesses and understands the information, but that sharing is fun. It never gets stagnant.” A big part of Jason’s job is shepherding projects through the permitting and approvals process—helping a builder get from point A to point B, and so on. There are many occasions, however, when he has to move through the alphabet in reverse. Today was one of them. “My top task this morning is a building for which we have approved the installation of footings only,” Jason said, “but the building itself has now been fully constructed, so I have to work backwards through the building permit process.” A good work-life balance helps Jason grapple with some of the uneven spots associated with a building surveyor’s responsibilities. He remembers when he was in business for himself, a time when work regularly spilled outside normal hours. Today, he can count on having more opportunities to spend with his family, though with teen-aged children he acknowledges they’re perhaps less interested in spending time with him these days. When the weather is good, he and his partner go for a cruise on their motorcycles—a recent purchase after a 20-year lapse. “It’s really nice to get back on the bike again,” he said. Jason thinks some people might have a misunderstanding of what building surveyors do, regarding it as a kind of interference instead of crucial support. “They might not grasp that we’re looking at legislation, and helping them to protect the assets they’re working on,” he said. “We try to help them comply with at least the minimum requirements, and we don’t ask for any more. The clients I enjoy working with the most are those who ask questions. That’s really good, because it gives me the chance to support them in the building process and achieve compliance.”

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Master Builder Victoria

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

Regional Round-up BENDIGO

Newly-registered building inspector Carl Krelle

The Bendigo office is buzzing with the news that Carl Krelle has received his Building Inspector Registration. Carl has been working with Glenn Harvey and Michael Boot to this end for twelve months. We are excited to add him to our list of qualified inspectors to assist you with your building requirements. Please join us in congratulating Carl when you see him out and about. New housing in Bendigo is expected to increase again in 2014/2015, meaning over the past three years the domestic building market has improved. Residential construction is one of the success stories of our domestic economy, but experts agree the market for renovations remains soft. Our office continues to serve members with all of their building needs. From contracts to building permits and everything in-between, come in, say g’day to our friendly staff and allow us to ensure your business is well looked after. The Bendigo section would like to see all members come to our monthly meetings. Bring a friend, enjoy a meal with mates and keep up to date with all things building-related. Invitations are sent out to all members, so if you are not receiving yours, contact Lyn Lowndes on (03) 9411 4541 or the Bendigo office on (03) 5410 2100. We would love to see you. We anticipate having Master Builders CEO Radley de Silva come up to chat with members in May. Stay tuned for more information closer to the date.

SHEPPARTON OFFICE The first North East Section meeting was held on Tuesday 24 February at Sebastian’s Restaurant, Wyndam Street, Shepparton. James Curtin (OHS Advisor) was in attendance discussing how we are combating the significant impact of the drug methamphetamine (“ice”) and the problems it presents in our regional communities across Australia. Michael McLinden (Building Surveyor) and Steve Donaghey (Regional Membership Manager) also covered a wide variety of topics including changes to the Home Building Act NSW and how they will affect the NSW builders and licensed contractors.

WARRNAMBOOL The Warrnambool office welcomes Steve Board to the Master Builders crew. Steve has worked in the building industry in and around Warrnambool for the past 22 years. For the last two, he focussed on getting registered as a building inspector. “I’m very excited and honoured to have gained the inspector’s position at Master Builders,” Steve says. “I look forward to working with all of our current building clients, and with our new members who are eager to take advantage of our surveying services.”

On Tuesday 10 March over 150 people attended the North East Section Apprentice of the Year Awards at Rafferty's in Benalla. Congratulations to all of the apprentices who received a certificate. Special congratulations to Travis Maxfield (Section winner), Charlie Hodge (Employer-nominated winner) and Alex McLellan (Chairman’s Award). We express our thanks to all of our members who utilise our services. We have had a dramatic increase in permits issued and this is due to a number of new subdivisions opening up in the area, with Archers Field & Westwood Run being a popular option due to the BBRC (Building Better Regional Cities Program), the $40,000 eligibility grant and a bonus $10,000 for firsttime home buyers. Kialla Lakes’ newest subdivisions, Stages 33 and 33A, will provide 320 new houses for the region. These have been a major contribution to the success of our office. Don’t forget NSW permits can be obtained through our office. If you are building across the river, give us a call or pop into our office in High Street so we can assist you.

Steven Board joins the Warrnambool office

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Master Builder Victoria

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

GIPPSLAND The 2015 Gippsland Master Builders calendar started off with the Regional Apprentice Awards held at the Premier Function Centre in Traralgon on 25 February. We had a very good attendance and the night was a great success with some very impressive winners who are sure to become leaders of our industry. We also received great media coverage with Jarrod Flanigan being interviewed by the local WIN News affiliate. Our first Section Meeting was a breakfast function held in Traralgon on 4 March with guest speakers David Muller (OHS Advisor), Renée Dunstan-Ratcliff (Government Relations and Public Policy Adviser) and Ian Needham (Regional Manager ICN Gippsland). On 12 March Rod Ware took a road trip to hold our first Luncheon Update Series in Orbost. It was great to see that nearly

all of our members from that region attended. They said they appreciated Rod driving up to meet them and wanted to thank each department that provided updated information, flyers and gifts in the goody bag.

Attending the Orbost Luncheon Update: from left, Kevin Goudge, Craig Herbert, Paul Herbert, Colin Smith, Luke Priestley

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ON LANDSCAPE

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Master Builder Victoria

President Peter Picking enjoys the presentations at East Melbourne Members’ Night.

CEO Radley de Silva addresses guests at the East Melbourne Members’ Night.

Product demonstration at the East Melbourne Members’ Night. Hedley Davis Question time at the Industry Breakfast.

Products on display at Albury Members’ Night. Chris Richardson, Partner, Deloitte Access Economics presents at the Industry Breakfast at the MCG.

Guests enjoying the Gippsland Apprentice of the Year Awards. Apprentice Nicholas Alicastro, with family and friends at the North West Apprentice of the Year Awards. Lachlan Humprhies receiving the Chairman’s Award from Geelong Section Chairman Mark Little at the Geelong Apprentice of the Year Awards.

Proud employers Tania and Wayne McDonnell and their winning apprentice Jonathon Fush at the North West Apprentice of the Year Awards.

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

Winner Luke Castagna, Gippsland Apprentice of the Year, celebrates with family at the Gippsland Apprentice of the Year Awards.

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Master Builder Victoria

VA L U E O F M E M B E R S H I P

The value of your membership YOU MAY BE JUST STARTING OUT OR HOPING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS. NO MATTER WHAT ROLE YOU PLAY IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, YOU DON’T NEED TO GO IT ALONE. THINK OF MASTER BUILDERS AS AN IMPORTANT MEMBER OF YOUR TEAM.

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

THE ALINK APP ALink, Master Builders’ initiative to assist apprentices through their apprenticeship, is here to help. The experienced ALink team has been providing support to apprentices and answering their questions about careers, entitlements and ways to get ahead, since its establishment in 2012. Now ALink offers even more; we are proud to introduce the new ALink Toolbox Web application, at alinktoolbox.org.au, free to all apprentices.

This app has been designed to help in areas such as wage documentation, personal budgeting, job seeking and preparation for future builder registration. It even includes a Career Tracker for documenting work experience. The ALink toolbox app is not just for apprentices, however. It’s also a useful addition to members’ favourite resources. With access to the Wages Calculator, you can find information about wages and entitlements when you need it. You can also find apprentices through the Jobs Board, saving you having to advertise through local papers, and offering the advantage of connecting you with apprentices who are ALink members.

WAGES CALCULATOR Designed to be faster and easier to use than the FairWork website, the Wages Calculator includes up-to-date wage information for eight building and construction apprentice wage types for every year. This is the easiest way for you to stay up to speed with all hourly rates and travel allowances. The site is updated within 48 hours of any change to apprentice wages within the Building and Construction Award.

JOBS BOARD The Jobs Board gives you free advertising to help you find your new apprentice. Members can utilise the app to post available positions, and are eligible to receive help from ALink’s experienced staff to create advertisements that attract interest. The ALink team also offers interviewing and short-list services to help save you valuable time. If you have any other questions, please contact Master Builders Careers team on (03) 9411 4555. We are happy to assist you.

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Master Builder Victoria

MEMBER PROFILE

Peter Seccull • Housing member • Based in Inverloch • Member for 30 years Master Builders member Peter Seccull knows a lot about building, and his career is the focus of a recent five-page story in Coast magazine. With over 50 years in the industry, he has tackled just about everything from low- and highend residential dwellings to hospitals and entertainment venues, and is particularly known for the design and construction of many iconic houses in South and West Gippsland. One could say it all began with making surfboards, which he took up after leaving school at the age of 15. But most likely his career began when he started working for his relatives at JR & E Seccull three years later; that phase began with starting at the Dental Hospital, which had just been demolished, and finished up at the Alfred Hospital. When it comes to super, you can rely on

cbus

At Cbus, we make meeting your super obligations easy:

• We have a range of online contribution payment options. • Access to financial advice for Cbus members. • Regular communication with members and employers.

From there, he went on to start his own company, Lipp Seccull Developments (LSD), with Joe Lipski where they built houses for the Segals, Edlesteins, Hubays and Sangsters among others. Over the next two years they began building clubs and pubs after finishing the Chasers nightclub on Chapel Street. Their reputation preceded them and they were soon asked to build a pub in Traralgon – Ryan’s Hotel. In 1981, Peter decided it was time to move his family to the country, so they settled in Woodside where they lived for nearly 20 years.

171 Collins St, VIC, a Cbus Property Development.

Call Cbus on 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Contact 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au for a copy. Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

When work began to dry up in Traralgon, Peter set his sights on Inverloch, where he now lives with his family, designing and constructing top-range houses with his sons Adrian and Andrew. Peter Seccull and Coastal Property Developments have now been members of Master Builders Association of Victoria for the past 30 years.

membership

Master Builder Victoria

MEMBER PROFILE

Dahlsens Building Centres

Over 5000 builders in Victoria and southern New South Wales choose Dahlsens to help them build. Why? They simplify and improve the building process. • Whole-of-house materials supply • Dedicated Account Manager project management support • 17 stores and seven truss and frame manufacturing sites in Victoria and southern NSW • Own fleet of vehicles and drivers • Quality brands, competitive prices, and reliable, down-to-earth service Dahlsens is one of the largest suppliers of timber and building supplies to the trade in Australia. The business was founded in 1877 when Danish immigrant John Christian Dahlsen settled in Gippsland’s port town of Bairnsdale and opened a timber yard. Today, with 138 years of experience and expertise under its wing, Dahlsens is focused on supplying not just the timber, but materials from foundation to fit out in the house build. This wholeof-house supply is supported with a dedicated account manager who follows the build process. The builder gains time and efficiencies in streamlined ordering and administration.

From prefabricated wall frames, roof trusses and floor systems to aluminium and timber windows, steel roofs, bricks, insulation, doors and door furniture, lightweight cladding, kitchen joinery and stone bench top, most building materials for residential and commercial projects are available. Fifth-generation Dahlsen CEO Geoff Dahlsen and General Manager Jamie Dahlsen drive the long term commitment to maintain position as market leader. The Dahlsen Group (parent company of Dahlsens Building Centres) also owns Sydney-based Midcoast Timber Centres, northern Queensland-based Cairns Hardware and NT/Broome-based Nortruss. Dahlsens provides services that allow builders to save time and money, and to build their businesses as well as work in them. Convenient solutions such as Dahlsens’ Estimating Service and the 24/7 Tradedesk on-line trade portal reduce the daily pressures builders face. A longtime member of Master Builders, Dahlsens enjoys networking with member builders at various regional trade nights.

An advocate for our future builders, Dahlsens supports A-Link as well as being a proud sponsor of the Master Builders’ Apprentice of the Year Awards in regional markets. If you would like to contact Dahlsens to see how they can add value to your business, please contact one of the local stores. Locations and phone numbers are listed below. 1300 Dahlsens Albury/Wodonga (02) 6043 1733 Bairnsdale (03) 5150 1100 Ballarat (03) 5335 8111 Cranbourne (03) 5990 0800 Deniliquin (03) 5881 3500 Echuca (03) 5482 3977 Kerang (03) 5452 2188 Kilsyth (03) 8720 8500 Lakes Entrance (03) 5155 1118 Laverton (03) 9254 6700 Mildura (03) 5023 1111 Myrtleford (03) 5752 2622 Swan Hill (03) 5032 9322 Traralgon (03) 5175 6400 Wagga Wagga (02) 6925 3133 Warrnambool (03) 5562 7422

Master Builder Victoria

MEMBER MILESTONES

membership MEMBER MILESTONES

MASTER BUILDERS VALUES LOYALTY TO OUR ASSOCIATION AND AWARDS CERTIFICATES TO MEMBERS AT MILESTONES OF 10, 15, 20 AND 25 YEARS, AND PLAQUES AT 30, 40 AND 50 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP. We would like to recognise and thank the following members who have achieved these milestones between 14 January and 17 March 2015. We appreciate that many members have continuous years of service that fall between these milestones and hope you understand that we award certificates and plaques only for the milestones mentioned. If you are a long term member, we thank you for your commitment and look forward to recognising your loyalty when you receive your next milestone certificate or plaque.

10 YEAR CERTIFICATE

15 YEAR CERTIFICATE

A M & H M Dunne Constructions Pty Ltd Adam Dowling Aptco Builders Pty Ltd (S) Bello Developments Pty Ltd Berman Homes Pty Ltd Brad Andrews Landscaping Christopher Boyne Complete Renovations Pty Ltd Corey’s Complete Carpentry CSN Building Group Darren Bright Demolition Contractors Assoc Of Vic Ltd Earthline Builders Pty Ltd First Impressions Projects Gemcroft Pty Ltd Geoff King Greenfield Gazebos Pty Ltd Guven Homes Hadar Classic Homes Hakki Demir House To House Constructions Pty Ltd Infinigate Pty Ltd Installex Ireland Brown Constructions Pty Ltd J F Tonkin & Company Pty Ltd K P A Concrete Construction Group Kevin Kane Lansell Developments Pty Ltd Law Somerville Industries Pty Ltd Lekkas Constructions P/L Mark Nava Maw Building And Maintenance MOK Constructions Pty Ltd Mortar Life Quality Builders Moustapha Mouabbi Optimum Building Services Pty Ltd P Sullivan Builders Paul Chen Pingiaro Constructions Pty Ltd Plan B Architecture & Construction Plaster Mart Shacklock Builders Solution Window Replacement Pty Ltd Tasman Smith Enterprises Pty Ltd Tony Pizzichetta Tramonta Homes Venus Homes Virtue Homes Pty Ltd Wilkinson Developments Pty Ltd

A & T L Scarcella Builders & Shopfitters B & C Flooring Services Caulfield Homes Pty Ltd Danlaid Contracting Pty Ltd G & D Wills Design & Construction PL Gamcorp Pty Ltd Graeme J Collins Grove (Aust) Pty Ltd Hacer Group Pty Ltd Horne Properties Pty Ltd Hurstbridge Building Services Pty Ltd I & D Group Pty Ltd K B & R L Garner Laney Constructions Pty Ltd Peninsula Formwork Pty Ltd R & C Homes & Extensions Pty Ltd Raisin & Braden Pty Ltd Rokon Pty Ltd Roma Bros Pty Ltd Skilbeck Builders Vertitech Australia Pty Ltd Villawood Homes Pty Ltd

20 YEAR CERTIFICATE Aluminium Scaffolds (Vic) Pty Ltd Ampson Developments Andrew Jones Arden Building Maintenance Pty Ltd Bernard Opat Pty Ltd C M W Design & Construct (Vic) Pty Ltd Cincotta Constructions D Heale Reblocking & Underpin. Detailed Paving & Construction Pty Ltd Fiago Pty Ltd Gibson Master Builders Glenstock Homes Pty Ltd Greg Smith Homes Pty Ltd Horst Kloft J R Gilbert & Sons Pty Ltd L C & S E Walker Building Cont Lang Construction Pty Ltd Lenehan Homes Long Contracting Pty Ltd Luke Drummond Builders Pty Ltd Lygon Constructions Pty Ltd Macnor Pty Ltd Maine Design & Construction Pty Ltd Park Orchards Excavation & Concreting Pty Ltd

Stag Shopfittings Pty Ltd T & M Bird Builders T C C (Vic) & Co Pty Ltd VAS Constructions Pty Ltd

25 YEAR CERTIFICATE A & T Payne Bros. Constructions Amax Constructions Pty Ltd Brennan & Hemmings Const Pty Ltd Forrest Construction G J & J A Avon Building Pty Ltd H Y I Van Der Spek M & J Childs Constructions Pty Ltd Mounsey Constructions Pty Ltd P K M Constructions Southport Constructions P/Ltd

30 YEAR PLAQUE A & F Hancic Holding P/L Ausco Modular Pty Ltd Boston Group D & A Pulitano Pty Ltd D C & D A Silver Faifer-Ryan Builders Pty Ltd Haddara Constructions Pty Ltd Kenneth William Round Russell Marsh Willright Nominees Pty Ltd

40 YEAR PLAQUE Central Equity Ltd Graeme Snape Wariston Park Pty Ltd

50 YEAR PLAQUE J F Van’t Riet & Sons Pty Ltd

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Master Builder Victoria

NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS MASTER BUILDERS IS PLEASED TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS WHO JOINED THE ASSOCIATION IN JANUARY, FEBRUARY AND MARCH 2015. CONGRATULATIONS FOR JOINING MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA. ASSOCIATE Esther Weichman J Moody & Co Builders Pty Ltd Kristijan Jankoski Steven Petrovski

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Intrec Management Pty Ltd Prime Build (Vic) Pty Ltd

GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROVISIONAL Dewcape Pty Ltd Inclusive Property Services Integrated Construction Management Group (Vic) P/L Ledlin Developments Richard De Waal Sector Corporation Pty Ltd

HOUSING Adcon Constructions Pty Ltd ASEC Building Bell Building Services Pty Ltd Big Azz Building Projects Pty Ltd Boadle Living Buildnet Projects Pty Ltd Camson Homes Pty Ltd Davco Building Services David Cronin Contracting Pty Ltd Don Allen Constructions Pty Ltd Finney Construction Pty Ltd Gibney Building Pty Ltd J & S Hammertime Carpentry JGH Building Pty Ltd Lakes Construction & Development Pty Ltd Luban Build Pty Ltd MCG Constructions (Aust) Pty Ltd Melican Building Projects Nick & Allie Barker Constructions Pty Ltd Peter Quinert Regatta MAB SF. Walters Constructions Smart Domestic Building Services Smith & Sons Mornington Peninsula Pty Ltd Space Design Group Structive Building Pty Ltd TDH Constructions Two Hands Constructions Vue Property Development Yarrawonga Construction & Maintenance Pty Ltd

HOUSING PROVISIONAL Aaron Baldry Acon Homes

Adam Flood Adam Musgrave Adel Botros Adrian Mosca Andrew Glover Constructions Ann Akras Anro Wardrobes & Showerscreens Anthony Mercuri Baricon Constructions Pty Ltd Barkly Projects Base Construct Ben Field Ben Sawtell Bogani Pty Ltd Bradley James Roche Brendan Jackson Brendan Law Cale Peters Construction Pty Ltd Callum Nicholls Chiseled Carpentry Services Clarke Building Projects Clerkin Consulting Pty Ltd Complete Carpentry Group Cong Li Damien Leijer Carpentry Daniel Kulyk Dannic Carpentry Pty Ltd Delta Building Services Pty Ltd Elyte Focus Pty Ltd Energy Constructions Pty Ltd Ennis Drinjak Envisage Group Pty Ltd Erol Bilgic Eugene Sharkey Eugene Souvoroff Ferdi Gaz FinnCorp Constructions Geoffrey Thompson Glenn Woodger Glover Projects Gregory Sullivan Habitat Building Group Hateley Homes Heller Builders Pty Ltd Hoomaan Missaghi i2detail Pty Ltd Ian Maxwell Constructions Pty Ltd Inkcon Pty Ltd Ivan Mikolic James Down James E Lawes James Gray Carpentry Jason Salopayevs JD Carpentry JMW Carpentry John Hargreaves JustBuildIt KM Carpentry L & Z Pty Ltd Lachlan Thurgood

Laszlo Baranyay Lloyd Hill Logan Master Builders Luke Anderson MAB Home Constructions Mark Falzon Matthew Blencowe Maurice Spuria Megacon Interiors Pty Ltd Mehrzad Pakzamir Melville Ryan Pty Ltd Murphy Developments Pty Ltd My Happiness Pty Ltd New Image Bricklaying Orange Property Maintenance Philip Skiller PN Constructions Pro Structure Carpentry R J Hill Carpentry Richard Smith Builders RL Plumbing & Roofing Pty Ltd Robert Reginato Safe Hands Australia Pty Ltd Sawhorse Pty Ltd Scott William Dowel Shannonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pro Plumbing Shearer Building Services Pty Ltd Spraytex Plasterers Pty Ltd Stylemark Developments Subrata Biswas Sunshine Building and Developments Swat Constructions Pty Ltd Sydes Builders Tomislav Dragovic TPL Construction& Carpentry Services Village Property Services (Vic) Pty Ltd Young Gun Builders

HOUSING SUB-CONTRACTOR ABS Landscape Services Pty Ltd Aussie Handyman Melbourne Bernard Lazzaro Border Steel Construction Buildcor Building Solutions Champion Home Maintenance Chapel & Oak Christopher Kaddis Composed Creations Landscaping Pty Ltd Corymbia Landscapes CouttsBuild Damco Kitchens Daniel Maynard Delorenzo Tiling Eco Construction Australia Franco Fabris Greenwedge Landscapes Greg Guy Handy Roger Heath Nicholson Builders Pty Ltd

Master Builder Victoria

NEW MEMBERS

IMS Carpentry Services J.C.K Builders Pty Ltd Jacquelin Cure Jim’s Fencing (Brookfield) Jims Fencing (Carnegie North) Jim’s Fencing (Lara) Jims Fencing (Williams Landing) Joel Norford Karl Saunders Knuf Joinery Pty Ltd Landscape Trance-Formations LCR Painting Building Maintenance MAC Development & Construction Melbourne Restumping & Underpinning MNC Services Nicolas John Landscapes Nurcon Pty Ltd Oceanside Roofing Pjwillfixit R G Key Constructions Pty Ltd Rosier Home & Landscape Sabra Projects Pty Ltd Simply Frameless Glass Concepts Sterling Painting Tom’s Secret Garden Pty Ltd Vella’s Designer Cabinets Pty Ltd WGP Plumbing

membership MATERIALS, MANUFACTURE & SUPPLY Art Series Hotel Group Concept Aluminium Miele Australia Pty Ltd Schueco Australia Pty Ltd

MASTER TRADESMAN Conquest Pools Evolution Con Melbourne Renovations & Extensions Yards Apart Landscaping Pty Ltd

SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR A-Class Form Pty Ltd Advanced Visart Signs AJC Concrete Construction Pty Ltd B.R. Demolition Australia Pty Ltd Beton Pumping Group Pty Ltd Brinsel Industries EcoClassic Group Pty Ltd Elite Systems Australia Pty Ltd Floor Station Pty Ltd

Guy Vitali K4Constructions Nu-Lok Roofing Systems P W Johnson Constructions Pty Ltd Platinum Post Tensioning Premier Cranes & Rigging Pty Ltd Tabak Group Pty Ltd TPM Commercial Pty Ltd Vision Projects Welsh Direct Pty Ltd Zhen Zi Qi

STUDENT Andy Odisho Damian Abbott Isaac Conway Jackson Bell Joshua Childs Joshua Michael Purcell Luke Castagna Nathan Colgan Scott McDonald Sotheary Chheang Thomas Harrington William Tan Xavier Renehan

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Master Builder Victoria

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HAD A CAR ACCIDENT? For members of Master Builders, Sheen Panel Service Bulleen provides:  $200 insurance excess reduction  Free pick up and delivery of your car from any location in Melbourne  Free loan car for duration of repairs*  Management of insurance claim process on your behalf Call Michael Edwards on (03) 9852 1511 (BH) or 0418 835 025 (AH)

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• Share call and data allowances across your account

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• Private Australian-based help desk. Call 1300 88 13 72 to get connected.

Choice Hotels offers all members access to both the Corporate and Best Online Rate of the day through both the web (www.choicehotels.com.au) and reservations - 13 2400

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EVEN BIGGER BANG FOR BUCK WITH YOUR CALTEX STARCARD Master Builders can now save 3.5¢ p/ltr off unleaded fuel and 4¢ p/ltr off diesel fuel with their Caltex StarCard. Apply today, call (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au

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Master Builder Victoria

2015 MASTER BUILDERS APRIL 2015 15

Members’ Night – Caulfield

TBC

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Members’ Night - Traralgon

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

North West Section Meeting

TBC

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Inverloch

Apprentice of the Year Awards (State)

Pullman Albert Park, Melbourne

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

Members’ Night, NMIT Conference Centre

Preston

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bendigo

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

Members’ Night – Taylors Lakes

MAY 2015

Taylors Lakes Hotel, Taylors Lakes

JUNE 2015 3

Members Breakfast

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Members’ Night – Wonthaggi

Wonthaggi Workmans Club, Wonthaggi

Industry Dinner

Eureka 89, Melbourne

Regional Building Awards – North East

Commercial Club, Albury

Wimmera Section Meeting

Horsham

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Regional Building Awards – South West

The Pier, Geelong

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Sale

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

Regional Building Awards – North West

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

Regional Building Awards – South East

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

North West Section Meeting

Bendigo

Members’ Night – Shepparton

Sherbourne Terrace, Shepparton

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

Members’ Night – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

Excellence in Construction Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

Members’ Night – Geelong

Buckley’s Entertainment Centre, Breakwater

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Warragul

Green Living Conference

BLSC, South Melbourne

JULY 2015

AUGUST 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015 2

Members’ Night – Ringwood

Karralyka Centre, Ringwood

Members’ Night – South Morang

Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, Sth Morang

Wimmera Section AGM

Warracknabeal

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

North West Section Meeting AGM

Mildura

North East Section Meeting AGM

Shepparton

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Geelong Section Meeting AGM

TBC

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Master Builder Victoria

EVENTS CALENDAR OCTOBER 2015 7

Members’ Night - Moorabbin

TBC

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Excellence in Housing Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

Members’ Night – Mornington

Mornington Racing Club, Mornington

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

Gippsland Section Meeting AGM

Traralgon

Gippsland Golf Day

Traralgon

NOVEMBER 2015 11

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Phillip Island

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

Members’ Night – Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale RSL, Bairnsdale

Bendigo Section Breakfast Meeting

TBC, Bendigo

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

National Awards

TBC

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

DECEMBER 2015 2

Wimmera Section Christmas Breakup

Horsham

Mornington Race Day

Mornington Racing Club, Mornington

Mornington Group Christmas Breakup

TBC

Bendigo Section Christmas Breakup

TBC

Geelong Section Twilight Sailing

TBC

PLEASE CALL MASTER BUILDERS ASSIST FOR INFORMATION ON ALL UPCOMING EVENTS ON: (03) 9411 4555 *Please note Ballarat Section dates were not available at time of print, however will appear on our website shortly.

Master Builder Victoria

S TA I R C A S E S & B A L U S T R A D E S

general feature

WHAT 2015 HOLDS FOR THE FUTURE OF STAIRCASES & BALUSTRADES STAIRCASES HAVE COME A LONG WAY FROM JUST BEING AN ACCESS PASSAGE WAY BETWEEN TWO LEVELS. By Andrew Clements

option is a popular choice, rather than the traditional stringer. With detailed custom joinery constructed underneath, the staircase blends into the room, serving multiple functions.

Staircases have become an important architectural feature of many homes, and must be carefully designed, so they are functional, safe and aesthetically pleasing. Whether it is a grand staircase, straight, ‘L’-shaped, ‘U’-shaped, curved or spiral, a well-designed staircase needs to incorporate the choice of materials and colour combination to ensure it flows into the interior design of the home.

Material selections are important when designing a staircase, and are usually determined by the floor finishes that meet different levels of the home. Staircases can be finished in timber, carpet, metal, glass or stone and can each be designed and detailed to provide a statement to your home.

The curved design staircase has always been elegant, functional, simple yet sophisticated and admired worldwide. However in more recent times, the floating/cantilevered staircase has been a fashionable trend, whilst the circular/spiral staircase is becoming increasingly popular as it both requires minimal space and provides light and open space. The floating/cantilevered staircase has been a favourite over the past few years, and was a further development of the mono-stringer staircase. These staircases rely heavily on the balustrade system to ensure the staircase does not flex when in use. The staircase is usually braced together via glass panels connected to each tread, or via balusters supported from the level above or below. Both types of balustrades visually complement the cantilevered structure and function as required.

With smaller building blocks resulting in smaller homes, the circular/spiral staircase option ticks many boxes in the design. A central spine is usually the focal feature, coupled with open treads and risers, allowing light to penetrate from one level to the other – and creates open space that enhances the size of the room. For those wanting to keep valuable storage space under the staircase, or for a feature that instantly demands your attention and provides character to any room, the exposed treads and riser

general feature Frameless steel balustrades prove a hit A staircase is not complete without a well-designed balustrade. Over the past few years stainless steel and frameless glass balustrades have been the most popular choices. Australian Standards have been updated for safety concerns; any frameless glass balustrades located above 1000mm from adjacent floor levels must have a handrail fitted, so in the event of glass failure the rail will act as a barrier preventing a person from falling. We have seen a decline in the use of painted timber, wrought iron and stainless steel wire balustrades. In 2015, high-end luxury homes will continue to see the use of stone (marble, limestone or travertine), recycled/new/engineered timbers and possibly the increased use of glass treads and curved glass balustrades. With an abundance of material availability and imaginative designers, there are endless options available.

Master Builder Victoria

S TA I R C A S E S & B A L U S T R A D E S

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Andrew Clements is a Tradebusters Connect Premium 3 member and currently featured as a Top 3 local builder pick. Tradebusters Connect connects consumers to reputable trusted local businesses across trades, finance and property-related services. Andrew established his own company, Mirage Projects, in 2009. He has built a strong reputation in the residential building space for delivering high quality, unique and custom designed homes and renovations. The company continues to work alongside award-winning architects and designers in providing complete design and construct solutions or builds to specific client plans. Specialising in difficult-to-access, bushfire-prone sites and waterfront properties, the team prides itself on always thinking ‘outside the square’ to provide solutions to any challenges presented – with a focus on helping clients achieve their personal and lifestyle objectives, and ensuring their visions become reality. Andrew is a qualified designer and builder, and has worked in the construction industry for 25 years. For more information: Mirage Projects Phone: 02 9675 4086 Website: www.mirageprojects.com.au

Tradebusters Connect Phone: 1300TBUSTERS (1300 8287 8377) Website: www.tradebustersconnect.com.au

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For those who have a tight budget, there are other ways to transform a simple costeffective staircase through the choice of colour and adjacent finishes. For example, a large skylight above a staircase immediately creates light and open space or a wellincorporated feature wall creates character – and both can bring life to the staircase itself. A half-height wall with timber capping is stylish and can reduce significant costs associated with a modern balustrade.

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Master Builder Victoria

CLADDING

general feature

NEW VERIFICATION METHOD FOR EXTERNAL WALL CLADDING SYSTEMS RELEASED THERE WILL BE A NEW VERIFICATION METHOD IN THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE 2015 FOR DETERMINING COMPLIANCE OF EXTERNAL CLADDING SYSTEMS THAT DO NOT MEET THE DEEMED-TO-SATISFY PROVISIONS, ACCORDING TO THE VICTORIAN BUILDING AUTHORITY (VBA). By Lyndon Humphrey, senior communications adviser at VBA

External cladding is a critical element in any construction project, particularly to ensure a building is weatherproof. External cladding systems must be able to resist actions they may be subjected to, such as live and dead loads, rainwater, wind, earthquake and heat and cold. The National Construction Code (NCC) volumes one and two include a number of deemed-to-satisfy (DTS) building

solutions in relation to weatherproofing of external walls. Builders using DTS solutions can be confident these meet performance requirements of the NCC. However, changing technology, materials, styles and client expectations have driven strong growth in the range of external wall cladding products and systems available for residential and commercial buildings in recent years.

Wright Forest Products Pty Ltd 375 Wests Road Werribee VIC 3030 Australia Toll Free: 1800 102 045 www.wrightforestproducts.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

CLADDING

general feature

Among these are products and systems that do not meet DTS provisions of the NCC, instead requiring an alternative solution to demonstrate compliance. VBA technical and regulation director Jarrod Edwards advises that registered draftspersons and architects need to understand the products they propose to use, and consider whether an alternative solution is required. If non-DTS cladding systems are to be used, the relevant building surveyor (RBS) will require sufficient evidence or information to show the building work will comply with performance requirements of the NCC. To assist the RBS in determining whether the non-DTS system is an acceptable alternative solution, all relevant certificates, reports and forms should be submitted at the design stage. This must include information or evidence that allows the RBS to determine the material, form of construction and design needed to meet performance requirements of the NCC. DTS provisions of the NCC allow a number of external cladding systems. These include: • Masonry • Weatherboards • Fibre-cement sheets • Metal sheets • Plywood panels “From 1 May 2015, Volumes One and Two of the NCC 2015 will provide a

From 1 May 2015, volumes one and two of the NCC 2015 will provide a way for builders to check their external wall cladding product or system complies with NCC performance requirements.

method for practitioners to verify that their external wall cladding product or system complies with the NCC performance requirements,” Edwards said. External cladding systems and DTS provisions However, many of the new external wall cladding products and systems do not meet the DTS provisions. Therefore, builders who design, approve and install the following products and systems need to consider an alternative solution to demonstrate compliance with performance requirements of the NCC: • Autoclaved aerated concrete • Aluminium composite panels External insulation and finish (rendered) systems: • Expanded polystyrene panels • Extruded polystyrene panels • Phenolic insulation panels • Polyisocyanurate panels NCC 2015 verification method Edwards says the verification method (FV1 in Volume One and V2.2.1 in

Volume Two) has been developed to help practitioners determine compliance with performance requirements FP1.4, which includes roofs as well as external walls and P2.2.2 – and to also verify the weatherproofing of external walls. It involves the following six-step test procedure: 1. Determine the risk score 2. Select the allowable wall design 3. Prepare a test specimen 4. Test the specimen 5. Assess the performance of the specimen 6. Record test outcomes “VBA worked with the Australian Building Codes Board, which is responsible for developing the NCC, as part of a working group formed to develop the verification method,” Edwards said. “Given the increasing availability of external cladding systems, this new method is an important advance for practitioners and they should ensure they familiarise themselves with it.”

ABOUT THE VICTORIAN BUILDING AUTHORITY VBA provides information to building practitioners on weatherproof construction methods for all buildings (Class 1-10), including non-DTS external wall cladding systems. “VBA is a valuable source of information and provides technical guidance to assist them to correctly deal with non-DTS building solutions, including in relation to external wall cladding systems, as well as guidance on other regulatory matters,” VBA technical and regulation director Jarrod Edwards said. “Our website has information for practitioners and consumers, including a fact sheet on non-DTS external wall cladding systems, and a polystyrene external cladding fact sheet. These and other resources are available on the VBA website.”

For more information: Phone: 1300 815 127 Website: www.vba.vic.gov.au

general feature

Master Builder Victoria

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

I'm a check-out chick I get reasonable hours and a discount on groceries," Huntley has said is a frequent response. The 2013 State of Australian Cities report argued that our cities, Melbourne in particular, are "afflicted with relentless pressure for low density urban expansion into districts that are increasingly distant from the main concentrations of employment."

Sustainable Suburbia Would Mad Men's Don Draper feel at home in one of the ever-expanding suburbs on the margins of our major cities? Green Building Council’s Romilly Madew thinks so. After all, we continue to embrace a 1950s vision of suburbia in which homes are built for the car, with men trudging off to work while women stay at home to mind the children. As the construction industry explores what building sustainability means and how we achieve it, we must look beyond the design of our buildings and begin to consider how we build communities that connect people to employment, entertainment and opportunity. Looking at the opportunities available in our urban and suburban communities, it is no coincidence that the suburbs – in which female workforce participation falls more than 20 per cent below the male average – are located on the outer fringes of our cities. Women, who carry most of the caring responsibilities in our society, often need to be within short journeys of their homes. This makes them unable or unwilling to take up jobs that require a longer commute. Barbara Pocock,

director of the University of South Australia's Centre for Work and Life, has dubbed this the "spatial leash". While female graduates now outnumber their male counterparts in professions outside of building, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that male labour force participation is around 14 per cent higher. Once women hit their mid-20s, their workforce participation rates decline for the next two decades. This spatial leash has an impact at both the individual and national level. Women who put their careers on hold for even a few years risk lower salaries, fewer leadership opportunities and smaller retirement nest eggs than their male colleagues. It's also costing Australia billions of dollars in unrealised productivity and higher government benefit payments. Ipsos executive director Dr Rebecca Huntley, who routinely interviews groups of women in Australia's outer urban areas for her Mind & Mood Report has said that many women find the idea of employment impossible. A dream job in some parts of outer Melbourne or Sydney, even for women with university educations and impressive work histories, was being a 'check-out chick'. "He leaves at 6am and gets home at seven pm. He's never going to be able to pick and drop off the kids. At least if

The truth is that services and employment opportunities decrease the further you travel from the city's heart. It's a long drive to work and the dominant mode of transport – the car – means hours of being stuck in traffic each day. Many outer urban areas have no access to trains, and bus services are sporadic. This is the daily grind at its worst – and impossible to comprehend doing it everyday while juggling small children. Perhaps it's no surprise, then, that Canberra – where work is a maximum of 20 minutes away – has the highest workforce participation rate of women in the country (a gap of just 8.6 per cent). Sustainability, as defined by the Sustainable Australia report, is about ensuring that the wellbeing of current and future generations of Australians is maintained or improved over time. If a large percentage of our citizens do not have opportunities to contribute their talents and abilities through meaningful employment, the divide between the 'haves' and 'have nots' will continue to grow. The Grattan Institute's cities program director, JaneFrances Kelly, has noted that Australian cities have become increasingly polarised as "high-income residents with university level qualifications cluster[ing] in suburbs close to city centres, while residents on lower incomes, and residents with vocational qualifications, are more likely to live around the city fringe." This is something that is our collective responsibility to change. If we want to foster a society that is fair, inclusive

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S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

and truly sustainable, we must ensure everyone has opportunities to flourish. Women often lead more sustainable lives, being more likely to recycle, buy organic food and eco-labelled products, consider issues such as child labour and fair trade, and place a higher value on energy-efficient transport. Even in households with cars, women are more likely to use public transport than men. How we build our cities has deep ramifications for our lives, our long-term sustainability, and has a major impact upon Australian women. Despite wanting to make sustainable choices, the housing options presented to most families make this harder for women to achieve. An argument about housing choice is not about whether greenfield or brownfield development is better; or whether it's better to 'go up' or 'go out'.

As our population grows, we will need to develop new greenfield suburbs while, at the same time, maximising the use of space within our existing cities. What we must do is provide people with more choice. The Grattan Institute's report, The Housing We'd Choose, found that people want a much more varied mix of housing than what is currently on offer. This means ensuring people who do want to live closer to the city have affordable, livable and diverse housing options.

orientation of the building, size of the solar panels or choice of materials. Sustainable living is about creating connected communities that inspire and delight that support work/life balance; that enhance people's well-being; and that enable both sexes to make a valuable and enduring contribution. For more information: Phone: (02) 8239 6200 Website: www.gbca.org.au

For people who do choose a suburban lifestyle, generous backyards can be oases of self-sufficient food, energy and water production. This lifestyle can be sustainable and satisfying, but good transport connections are essential to help people access jobs and services. Sustainable living – whether it's in a highrise inner city crash pad or a rambling family home – is about more than the

by Romilly Madew, chief executive officer, Green Building Council of Australia

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Apply today, call (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au Caltex StarCard. Perhaps the best trade tool you can own!

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SOIL TESTING

SOILS

FOR LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT By Elke Haege

Increasing toxicity in soil mixes can be costly and sometimes require whole of landscape replacement, a new book published by CSIRO reveals. Builders and landscape contractors will have noticed changes in purchasing soil over the last decade. Of concern is the increased supply of soil mixes that are toxic and/ or detrimental to plant health and growth requiring whole of landscape replacement – even after 12 months and sometimes two to three years. Simon Leake, soil scientist and director of the Sydney Soil & Environmental Laboratory (SESL), who together with Elke Haege, an award-winning landscape architect and consulting arborist, have worked for several years consulting soil suppliers, purchasers and architects and published ‘Soils for Landscape Development: Selection, Specification and Validation’ through CSIRO Publishing, which tackles these issues.

As a builder or landscape contractor, expect to see these specifications in your next projects and start stockpiling site soil as this book is designed so that each specification can be either referenced in design documentation or can be copied or scanned to be used in a specification (an editable PDF version of the specifications is available). Pre-compliant soil suppliers As soil suppliers are obtaining precompliance for their mixes, builders purchasing these soils need to ask their soil supplier for the certificate that the soil delivered to you is compliant with the mix you ordered. Reducing project cost and time and improving environmental credentials. Two main drivers behind Simon and Elke’s work is to elevate the benchmark and longevity of landscape installations as well as to increase the awareness of site soil as an asset, reducing project costs of exporting fill, importing new

soil and the environmental footprint associated with transporting soil and increased longevity of landscapes. Communicate with project team and purchase compliant soil mixes Replacing and replanting soil and plants is not fun; it’s bad for the environment and your project costs. Get the soil mix right in the beginning to avoid replacement costs 12 months down the track – even two to three years in some instances. Soils for Landscape Development: Selection, Specification and Validation is available from the CSIRO website: www.publish.csiro.au/pid/7081.htm The book clearly and practically outlines: • ‘The Soil Design and Approach Method’ - Six steps in working out if site soil can be used or if new imported soil mixes need to be bought. - Project costs can be reduced by using site soil or ameliorating it - Fertile soil is a finite resource and often a site asset.

Master Builder Victoria

SOIL TESTING

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PERCHED SOIL A clod with two distinct soil horizons creates an unintentional perched system due to former construction contamination and poor soil preparation or investigation. The waterlogged layer (dark/fine/high clay content horizon) is very high in the profile inhibiting root growth below, as there are not enough air spaces, having been compacted due to construction methods. Gravels and other foreign fragments can also be seen in the clod. A Prunus tree suffered severe fungal attack brought on by this soil situation and finally lost the battle after three years. After costly soil rectification of the layers and drainage improvements, a new tree will be planted. Three years of time, effort, considerable cost and a great reduction in potential environmental benefits could have been avoided if the correct soil conditions had been provided in the first place.

• Thirteen example specifications - These are applicable for the most project types (e.g. soil mixes for turf, native garden beds, advanced trees or lightweight rooftop soil mixes) - Example specifications are typically two pages and include not only the properties of the soil mix, but suggested components that will make up each typical mix – and a short description of the soil mix and its application, which is helpful for the soil supplier, soil testing laboratory, purchaser and the specifier - This means that to select the soil type, you don’t need a soil science degree or complete understanding of the chemistry behind the mix • ‘The Soil Volume Estimator for Trees in Limited Spaces’ with a free downloadable Excel file. This assists the builder, designer, approval authority and developer in working out how much soil volume is needed for trees such as in a street, paved area or small court garden.

For your chance to win a free copy, email richard.szabo@crowtherblayne.com.au with Soils For Landscape Development as the subject.

CSIRO PUBLISHING CSIRO Publishing operates as an independent science and technology publisher with a global reputation for quality products and services. Their internationally recognised publishing program covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, including agriculture, the plant and animal sciences, and environmental management. Their product range includes journals, books and magazines. They publish content in print and online, and their editorial standards and production methods are at the forefront of e-publishing standards. Co-author Elke Haege runs her own business called ELKE Landscape Architect. For more information: Phone: 1300 788 000 Email: publishing.sales@csiro.au Website: www.publish.csiro.au

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